DISPENSER ASSEMBLY FOR SELECTIVELY DISPENSING SHEET MATERIAL

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE

The present application is a Continuation-in-part of co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18/222,062 filed Jul. 14, 2023, which claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Ser. No. 63/389,467, filed Jul. 15, 2022, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/412,090, filed on Sep. 30, 2022.

INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

The disclosures of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18/222,062 filed Jul. 14, 2023, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/389,467, filed Jul. 15, 2022, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/412,090, filed on Sep. 30, 2022, are specifically incorporated by reference herein as if set forth in their entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

In one aspect, the present disclosure is directed to dispenser assemblies for rolled sheet materials or other suitable materials, and more particularly, is directed to dispenser assemblies for selectively dispensing from a plurality of supplies of rolled sheet material. Other aspects are also described.

BACKGROUND

Dispensers for sheet materials, such as for dispensing tissue paper, paper towels, or other paper products, or other suitable materials are commonly used in hospitals, restrooms, and other facilities. Some dispensers have more than one supply of sheet material, e.g., multiple rolls of sheet material, for dispensing/feeding. When a supply of sheet material in such dispensers is running low or has been fully dispensed, a transfer of the feeding of sheet material to a new supply generally must be performed, which often must be done manually. Accordingly, it can be seen that a need exists for a dispenser assembly that can selectively switch/transfer the feeding/dispensing of sheet material between a plurality of supplies of sheet material between a plurality of supplies of sheet material, e.g., when a supply of sheet material is running low or has been fully dispensed. In addition, dispensers for sheet materials, such as those that hold multiple supplies of sheet material, can be difficult to reload with sheet material when supplies run out. Further, unwanted dispensing of material by dispensers for sheet materials, liquids, and/or other materials can waste energy and materials. Accordingly, it can be seen that a need exists for a dispenser assembly that is easier to load with supply and/or that avoids unwanted dispensing of materials. The present disclosure addresses these and other related and unrelated problems/issues in the relevant art.

SUMMARY

In one aspect, the present disclosure is directed to a dispenser assembly for dispensing sheet materials such as rolls of tissue, paper towels, and/or other rolled sheet material products. The dispenser assembly generally includes a dispenser housing having a plurality of supplies of rolled sheet material supported therein.

Each supply of rolled sheet material is supported by a corresponding support assembly within the dispenser housing. In one construction, the plurality of supplies of sheet material can include a first supply of sheet material supported by a corresponding first support assembly, and a second supply of sheet material supported by a corresponding second support assembly. The first and second support assemblies can be arranged to hold the supplies of sheet material in a side-by-side configuration (e.g., with ends of the rolls of sheet material facing one another). In embodiments, the axes of the supplies of sheet material can be collinear (e.g., substantially, generally, approximately collinear).

The dispenser assembly further can include a dispensing system or mechanism for controlling the dispensing of selected, predetermined amounts of sheet material from at least one of the plurality of supplies of sheet material. The dispensing system or mechanism can include a plurality of driven roller assemblies for engaging and driving the sheet material from the supplies of rolled sheet material. Each driven roller assembly generally will be associated with at least one supply of the plurality of supplies of sheet material for dispensing sheet material therefrom. For example, the first supply of rolled sheet material can be dispensed by a first driven roller assembly and the second supply of rolled sheet material can be dispensed by a second driven roller assembly.

Each driven roller assembly can have at least one driven roller driven by a drive mechanism (e.g., a motor or other suitable drive mechanism) in communication therewith. In one variation, the drive mechanism can be operatively connected to the driven roller(s) by a belt or series of belts (e.g., one or more belts engaging a belt pulley or belt gear connected to each of the driven rollers).

The dispenser assembly further can include at least one guide roller that engages the sheet material and is rotatable with the rotation of the driven roller to help facilitate feeding and dispensing of the sheet material. The dispenser assembly further can include additional guide or pressing rollers positioned adjacent each of the driven rollers to help guide the sheet material during dispensing thereof.

Each of the driven rollers can be configured to rotate in a desired or selected direction, and typically can be rotated by the drive mechanism for a selected number of rotations as needed to dispense the selected amounts of sheet material from their corresponding supply of rolled sheet material, but generally will remain stationary when the drive mechanism is reversed or driven in the opposite direction. For example, each driven roller can include or can be coupled to a clutch mechanism (e.g., a hybrid or one-way clutch mechanism) or other disengagable drive connection that engages the driven roller and causes it to rotate when driven/rotated in one direction and disengages the driven roller and allows it to stay substantially stationary when driven in the opposite direction.

For example, the first driven roller can be rotated when the drive mechanism is driven in a first direction to dispense sheet material from the first supply of rolled sheet material, while the second driven roller can remain generally stationary such that sheet material is not dispensed from the second supply of rolled sheet material. When the drive mechanism is driven in a second direction, the second driven roller can be rotated to dispense selected predetermined amounts of sheet material from the second supply of rolled sheet material, while the first driven roller can be disengaged and remain generally stationary such that sheet material is not dispensed therefrom.

Accordingly, the dispenser assembly of the present disclosure provides for selective dispensing of sheet material from the plurality of supplies of sheet material as needed. For example, upon a change or reversing of the driving direction of the drive mechanism, the dispenser can switch the dispensing of sheet material from the one supply of sheet material to the other. This change or switch/transfer of feeding from one supply to another can be substantially automatic, i.e., in response to a signal from a sensor or monitoring system, by a command from a control system for the dispenser, manually by a switch upon receipt of one or more signals from a device external to the dispenser assembly, etc.

An activation system can be incorporated into the dispenser assembly or into another dispenser for cooperating with a control system of the dispenser assembly to selectively activate or deactivate aspects of the dispenser assembly as needed. The activation system can include a front sensor assembly configured to detect a potential user in close proximity to the dispenser assembly. In embodiments, the front sensor assembly can include an IR emitter and an IR detector configured to indicate to the control system when the IR rays emitted by the emitter are reflected toward the IR detector so that the control system activates a dispenser activation sensor assembly.

In addition, in some embodiments, the dispenser can further include a light positioned within the pocket. In embodiments, the light can be positioned along a back portion of the pocket, while in some embodiments, the light can be positioned along a top portion of the pocket; and in still other embodiments, a light can be positioned along both the top and back portions of the pocket, and/or along one or more of the side portions. In embodiments, the light can be selectively activated so as to provide a visible light indicator within the recessed area defined by the pocket of the dispenser assembly so as to illuminate the recessed area for a user.

In embodiments, the dispenser activation sensor assembly can include an opposing beam sensor, including an IR launcher positioned opposite to an IR receiver and oriented so that the IR launcher directs IR rays toward the IR receiver. When the IR beam is broken (e.g., by a user's hand), the dispenser activation sensor assembly can send a signal to the control system to run a dispensing operation to dispense material.

In embodiments, the visible light indicator can illuminate at least a portion of the front recess of the dispenser assembly with visible light (e.g., proximate to and/or along the dispenser activation sensor assembly). Accordingly, the visible light indicator can guide a user with respect to where the user should gesture in order to activate a dispensing operation. The visible light indicator can be configured to illuminate in one or more colors of light in order to provide information about the state and/or status of aspects of the dispenser assembly (e.g., supply levels, battery life, etc.).

The dispenser assembly further can include a monitoring system configured to determine if sheet material extending from one or more of the supplies of sheet material is engaged with a respective driven roller assembly. The monitoring system can include a sheet material detection sensor including an emitter and a detector oriented so that IR rays from the emitter are reflected toward the detector by the sheet material when it is present. In the case that the IR rays are not detected by the detector, the monitoring system can send a signal to the control system that the respective supply of sheet material is depleted. The control system can then switch to dispense from a different supply of sheet material and/or send a signal to an operator that additional supply is needed.

In embodiments, the dispenser assembly further can include a supply support apparatus mounted within a housing of the dispenser assembly. For example, the supply support apparatus can be mounted to an interior of a front cover of the housing, which front cover can be pivoted away from a backing portion of the housing (e.g., along a hinge). As the front cover is pivoted away from the remainder of the housing, the supply support apparatus can move with the front cover, which can provide space and easy access to the supply support apparatus for loading supply material into the dispenser assembly. In embodiments, the supply support apparatus can include one or more assemblies that can pivot with respect to the front cover for easier loading of the supply materials.

According to various aspects of the present disclosure, a sheet material dispenser can comprise: a dispenser housing including a pocket defined along a front surface, the pocket comprising a top portion and opposite side portions; a dispensing system configured to dispense a selected amount of a sheet material; an activation system configured for sensing at least one activation gesture performed by a user for initiating operation of the dispensing system to dispense the selected amount of the sheet material; wherein the activation system comprises a dispenser activation sensor assembly at least partially recessed within the pocket defined in a front portion of the dispenser housing; and wherein the dispenser sensor activation assembly comprises at least one sensor positioned within the pocket and configured to generate a sensing area defined substantially within the pocket.

In embodiments, the at least one sensor of the dispenser activation sensor assembly comprises an infrared (IR) sensor assembly including one or more IR emitters and one or more IR receivers positioned within the pocket, and wherein each IR emitter is configured to emit an IR beam and each IR receiver is configured to detect IR beams emitted from the one or more IR emitters and reflected as a result of the at least one activation gesture by the user.

In embodiments, the at least one sensor comprises at least one IR emitter and at least one IR receiver positioned along the top portion of the pocket.

In embodiments, the at least one sensor comprises one or more IR assemblies positioned along one or more of the side portions of the pocket.

In embodiments, the one or more IR assemblies comprise a first IR assembly positioned along a first side portion of the pocket, and a second IR assembly positioned along a second side portion of the pocket is a substantially opposing relationship to the first IR assembly.

In embodiments, the at least one sensor comprises a plurality of IR sensor arrays configured to generate overlapping IR coverage zones within the pocket, and wherein the IR coverage zones define the sensing area.

In embodiments of the sheet material dispenser, at least a portion of the sensing area projects forwardly from a front portion of the pocket and does not make contact with a back portion of the pocket.

In embodiments of the sheet material dispenser, the at least one sensor of the dispenser activation sensor assembly comprises a series of IR emitters and an opposing series of IR receivers, wherein each IR emitter is configured to emit an IR beam toward a corresponding IR receiver so that the corresponding IR receiver will detect the IR beam from the IR emitter, and wherein if one or more of the IR beams emitted by the IR emitters are not received by the IR receivers an activation signal is provided to initiate a dispensing cycle.

In embodiments, the series of IR emitters comprises a plurality of IR launching tubes positioned along a first side portion of the pocket and the series of IR receivers comprises a plurality of IR receiving tubes positioned along a second side portion of the pocket.

In embodiments, the at least one sensor comprises a series of IR sensor arrays, each comprising an IR emitter and an IR receiver, wherein each of the IR sensor arrays is configured to generate the sensing area, and wherein the sensing areas of the sensor arrays overlap.

In embodiments, a bottom portion of the pocket defines an opening through which the sensing area at least partially extends, and wherein the at least one activation gesture performed by the user comprises placing a hand within the sensing area at least partially within or below the pocket.

In embodiments, the sheet material dispenser further comprises a control system in communication with the dispensing system and the activation system, the control system configured to activate the dispensing system to dispense the selected amount of the sheet material upon receipt of one or more activation signals from the at least one sensor generated upon detection of the presence of a user within the sensing area.

In some embodiments of the sheet material dispenser, the dispensing system comprises: a feed roller mounted within the dispenser housing and configured to feed the sheet material from at least one supply of sheet material; and a drive mechanism operably coupled to the feed roller and to the control system, the drive mechanism being operable to selectively drive rotation of the feed roller upon receipt of an activation signal by the control system.

According to other aspects, a dispenser can comprise: a dispenser housing including a pocket having a top portion, a first side portion, and a second side portion defining a recessed area accessible from a front side and a bottom side of the dispenser housing; at least one supply of a fluid or sheet material positioned within the dispenser housing; a dispensing system in communication with the at least one supply of the fluid or the sheet material and operable to dispense a selected amount of the fluid or sheet material; an activation system configured for sensing activation gestures and in response, generating an activation signal for initiating operation of the dispensing system for dispensing the selected amount of the fluid or sheet material; wherein the activation system comprises a dispenser activation sensor assembly at least partially recessed within the pocket of the dispenser housing; and wherein the dispenser activation sensor assembly comprises one or more IR sensor arrays configured to generate a sensing area located substantially within the recessed area defined by the pocket.

In embodiments, each of the one or more IR sensor arrays comprise an IR emitter and IR receiver mounted along the top portion, the first side portion, the second side portion, or combinations thereof, wherein each of the sensor arrays is configured to generate overlapping IR detection zones that define the sensing area, and wherein the sensing is oriented at an angle directed outwardly from the recessed area of the pocket.

In embodiments, the dispenser activation sensor assembly is in electronic communication with a control unit, which is operable to selectively supply power to the IR emitters and the IR receivers.

In embodiments, the sheet material dispenser further comprises: a roller assembly mounted within the dispenser housing, the roller assembly having a driven roller configured to drive sheet material from a respective supply of rolled sheet material; and a drive mechanism operably coupled to a select one of the driven rollers to selectively drive rotation of the select one driven roller when activated by the dispenser activation sensor assembly.

In embodiments, the one or more IR sensor arrays of the dispenser activation sensor assembly each comprise an infrared (IR) sensor assembly including one or more IR emitters and one or more IR receivers positioned within the pocket, and wherein each IR emitter is configured to emit an IR beam and each IR receiver is configured to detect IR beams emitted from the one or more IR emitters and reflected as a result of the at least one activation gesture by the user.

In embodiments, the one or more IR sensor arrays each comprise at least one IR emitter and at least one IR receiver positioned along the top portion of the pocket.

In embodiments, the one or more sensor arrays each comprise one or more IR assemblies positioned along one or more of the side portions of the pocket.

In embodiments, the one or more IR assemblies comprise a first IR assembly positioned along a first side portion of the pocket, and a second IR assembly positioned along a second side portion of the pocket is a substantially opposing relationship to the first IR assembly.

In embodiments, the one or more IR sensor arrays each comprise a plurality of IR sensor arrays configured to generate overlapping IR coverage zones within the pocket, and wherein the IR coverage zones define the sensing area.

In embodiments, wherein the pocket includes a back portion, top portion, and first and second side portions. In some embodiments, the pocket includes a front portion. In embodiments, the front portion defines a front opening of the pocket or recess.

In embodiments, at least a portion of the sensing area projects forwardly from the front portion of the pocket and does not make contact with a back portion of the front recess.

In embodiments, the one or more IR sensor arrays of the dispenser activation sensor assembly each comprise a series of IR emitters and an opposing series of IR receivers, wherein each IR emitter is configured to emit an IR beam toward a corresponding IR receiver so that the corresponding IR receiver will detect the IR beam from the IR emitter, and wherein if one or more of the IR beams emitted by the IR emitters are not received by the IR receivers an activation signal is provided to initiate a dispensing cycle.

In embodiments, the series of IR emitters comprises a plurality of IR launching tubes positioned along a first side portion of the pocket and the series of IR receivers comprises a plurality of IR receiving tubes positioned along a second side portion of the pocket.

In embodiments, the one or more IR sensor arrays each comprise an IR emitter and an IR receiver, wherein each of the sensor arrays is configured to generate a sensing zone, which together define the sensing area, and wherein the sensing zones of the sensor arrays overlap.

In embodiments, the bottom portion of the pocket defines an opening through which the sensing area at least partially extends, and wherein the at least one actuation gesture performed by the user comprises placing a hand within the sensing area at least partially within or below the pocket.

Still other aspects, embodiments, and advantages of these exemplary aspects and embodiments, are discussed in detail below. Moreover, it is to be understood that both the foregoing information and the following detailed description are merely illustrative examples of various aspects and embodiments and are intended to provide an overview or framework for understanding the nature and character of the claimed aspects and embodiments. Accordingly, these and other objects, along with advantages and features of the present invention herein disclosed, will become apparent through reference to the following description and the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, it is to be understood that the features of the various embodiments described herein are not mutually exclusive and can exist in various combinations and permutations.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a further understanding of the embodiments of the present disclosure, are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the present disclosure, and together with the detailed description, serve to explain the principles of the embodiments discussed herein. No attempt is made to show structural details of this disclosure in more detail than can be necessary for a fundamental understanding of the exemplary embodiments discussed herein and the various ways in which they can be practiced. According to common practice, the various features of the drawings discussed below are not necessarily drawn to scale. Dimensions of various features and elements in the drawings can be expanded or reduced to more clearly illustrate the embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 1 provides a schematic illustration of a dispenser assembly for selectively dispensing a predetermined amount of sheet material from a plurality of supplies of sheet material according to principles of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 2 and 3 are views of interior portions of the dispenser assembly of FIG. 1.

FIGS. 4A-4E are views of a supply support apparatus associated with a housing of the dispenser assembly of FIG. 1.

FIGS. 5A-7B are views of a dispensing mechanism of the dispenser apparatus of FIG. 1.

FIG. 8 is a view of a drive mechanism and roller assemblies of the dispensing mechanism of FIGS. 5A-7B in engagement with respective supplies of sheet material according to principles of the present disclosure.

FIG. 9 is a view of the drive mechanism of the dispensing mechanism of FIGS. 5A-7B.

FIGS. 10A-12C are views of portions of the drive mechanism of FIG. 9.

FIGS. 13A and 13B are views of the drive mechanism and roller assemblies of FIG. 8.

FIGS. 14A and 14B are views of a material detection module of the dispenser assembly of FIG. 1.

FIGS. 15-17B are views of a dispenser activation sensor assembly and a visible light indicator according to principles of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 18A-18C are views of a front sensor assembly according to principles of the present disclosure.

FIG. 19 provides a schematic illustration of a dispenser assembly for selectively dispensing a predetermined amount of sheet material from a plurality of supplies of sheet material according to principles of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 20A-20G are schematic illustrations of a drive mechanism and roller assemblies of the dispensing mechanism of FIG. 19.

FIGS. 21A and 21B are views of a material detection module of the dispenser assembly of FIG. 19.

FIGS. 22A-22G are views of a front sensor assembly of the dispenser assembly of FIG. 19 according to principles of the present disclosure.

FIG. 23 provides a view of an infrared assembly according to principles of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 24A-24C are views of a front sensor assembly of a dispenser assembly for selectively dispensing a predetermined amount of sheet material from a plurality of supplies of sheet material according to principles of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 25A-25D are views of a front sensor assembly of a dispenser assembly for selectively dispensing a predetermined amount of sheet material from a plurality of supplies of sheet material according to principles of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 26A-26D are views of a front sensor assembly of a dispenser assembly for selectively dispensing a predetermined amount of sheet material from a plurality of supplies of sheet material according to principles of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 27A-27C are views of a front sensor assembly of a dispenser assembly for selectively dispensing a predetermined amount of sheet material from a plurality of supplies of sheet material according to principles of the present disclosure

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present invention can be understood more readily by reference to the following detailed description, examples, drawings, and claims, and their previous and following description. However, before the present devices, systems, and/or methods are disclosed and described, it is to be understood that this invention is not limited to the specific devices, systems, and/or methods disclosed unless otherwise specified, and, as such, can, of course, vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular aspects only and is not intended to be limiting.

The following description of the invention is provided as an enabling teaching of the invention in its best, currently known embodiment. To this end, those skilled in the relevant art will recognize and appreciate that many changes can be made to the various aspects of the invention described herein, while still obtaining the beneficial results of the present invention. It will also be apparent that some of the desired benefits of the present invention can be obtained by selecting some of the features of the present invention without utilizing other features. Accordingly, those who work in the art will recognize that many modifications and adaptations to the present invention are possible and can even be desirable in certain circumstances and are a part of the present invention. Thus, the following description is provided as illustrative of the principles of the present invention and not in limitation thereof.

As used throughout, the singular forms “a,” “an” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to “a chamber” can include two or more such chambers unless the context indicates otherwise.

Ranges can be expressed herein as from “about” one particular value, and/or to “about” another particular value. When such a range is expressed, another aspect includes from the one particular value and/or to the other particular value. Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations, by use of the antecedent “about,” it will be understood that the particular value forms another aspect. It will be further understood that the endpoints of each of the ranges are significant both in relation to the other endpoint, and independently of the other endpoint.

As used herein, the terms “optional” or “optionally” mean that the subsequently described event or circumstance can or cannot occur, and that the description includes instances where said event or circumstance occurs and instances where it does not.

The word “or” as used herein means any one member of a particular list and also includes any combination of members of that list. Further, one should note that conditional language, such as, among others, “can,” “could,” “might,” or “can,” unless specifically stated otherwise, or otherwise understood within the context as used, is generally intended to convey that certain aspects include, while other aspects do not include, certain features, elements and/or steps. Thus, such conditional language is not generally intended to imply that features, elements and/or steps are in any way required for one or more particular aspects or that one or more particular aspects necessarily include logic for deciding, with or without user input or prompting, whether these features, elements and/or steps are included or are to be performed in any particular embodiment.

The phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. As used herein, the term “plurality” refers to two or more items or components. The terms “comprising,” “including,” “carrying,” “having,” “containing,” and “involving,” whether in the written description or the claims and the like, are open-ended terms, i.e., to mean “including but not limited to.” Thus, the use of such terms is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter, and equivalents thereof, as well as additional items. Only the transitional phrases “consisting of” and “consisting essentially of,” are closed or semi-closed transitional phrases, respectively, with respect to any claims. Use of ordinal terms such as “first,” “second,” “third,” and the like in the claims to modify a claim element does not by itself connote any priority, precedence, or order of one claim element over another or the temporal order in which acts of a method are performed but are used merely as labels to distinguish one claim element having a certain name from another element having a same name (but for use of the ordinal term) to distinguish claim elements.

Disclosed are components that can be used to perform the disclosed methods and systems. These and other components are disclosed herein, and it is understood that when combinations, subsets, interactions, groups, etc. of these components are disclosed that while specific reference to each various individual and collective combinations and permutation of these cannot be explicitly disclosed, each is specifically contemplated and described herein, for all methods and systems. This applies to all aspects of this application including, but not limited to, steps in disclosed methods. Thus, if there are a variety of additional steps that can be performed it is understood that each of these additional steps can be performed with any specific embodiment or combination of embodiments of the disclosed methods.

The present methods and systems can be understood more readily by reference to the following detailed description of preferred embodiments and the examples included therein and to the Figures and their previous and following description. In embodiments, the present disclosure relates to dispenser assemblies that can include dispensers for dispensing sheet materials, such as paper towels, tissues, and other, similar sheet materials; as well as dispensers for dispensing fluid materials such as soap, sanitizer, and other liquids. The present disclosure further provides example, non-limiting embodiments of activation assemblies for use with such sheet material and/or fluid dispensers for controlling the initiation or triggering of a dispensing operation for dispensing a selected amount of sheet material or fluid, for example, a length of about 7″-10″ of sheet material (though lesser and greater amounts also can be dispensed) or a selected amount of fluid per dispensing cycle.

FIG. 1 shows an example non-limiting embodiment of dispenser assembly 10, illustrated as a sheet material dispenser for dispensing a rolled sheet material 11, such as tissue rolls, paper towel rolls, or other suitable rolled sheet material products. As shown in FIG. 1, the dispenser assembly 10 can include a dispenser housing 12, which can have a front shell or cover 12A that is movable/removable to allow access to the components of the dispenser assembly 10, and a back shell or backing portion 12B that is configured to mount or otherwise connect (e.g., via fasteners, adhesive, etc.) to the dispenser assembly 10 to a wall, partition, or other suitable support within a facility, such as a restroom, hospital room, etc. The dispenser housing 12 can be formed from plastic materials, metallic materials, other suitable synthetic or composite materials, or combinations thereof. The dispenser housing 12 further includes one or more chambers or compartments 13 defined therein and sized, dimensioned, and/or configured to receive and house a plurality of supplies 14 of sheet material 11 therein (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 2 and 4A-4C). As shown in FIGS. 1, 4A, and 4C, the dispenser housing 12 also can include a discharge 15, e.g., including one or more apertures or openings, that facilitates dispensing of the sheet material 11 of the supplies of sheet material 14 from the dispenser assembly 10.

As generally shown in FIGS. 4A-4C, each supply 14 of sheet material typically includes a mandrel or roll or spindle 14A with sheet material 11 wrapped or spun thereabout. The dispenser assembly 10 further includes a plurality of support assemblies 16 rotatably supporting a plurality of supplies 14 within the dispenser housing 12. That is, each supply of sheet material 14 is configured to be supported by a corresponding support assembly 16 positioned with the chamber(s) 13 of the dispenser housing 12. The plurality of supplies 14 of sheet material can include a first supply 18 of sheet material that is supported by a corresponding first support assembly 20, and a second supply 22 of sheet material that is supported by a second support assembly 24.

As shown in FIGS. 4A-4E, each of the support assemblies 20/24 includes one of the spindles 14A extending from a respective paper hanging bracket 14B, which is mounted on the cover 12A by a hinge (e.g., FIG. 4D) so that the support assemblies 20/24 are pivotably mounted to the cover 12A, and a central support structure 30 is mounted to the cover 12A between the support assemblies 20/24. In embodiments, respective inner ends of the spindles 14A of the first and second support assemblies 20/24 can be detachably supported on the central support structure 30 (e.g., FIG. 4E). Accordingly, when one or both of the supplies 18/22 is depleted and cover 12A can be pivoted open relative to the backing portion 12B along a hinge and/or could be removed from the backing portion 12B to provide access to the support assemblies 20/24. In embodiments, moving the support assemblies 20/24 away from the backing portion 12B and the wall it's mounted on can provide sufficient space around the support assemblies 20/24 for easily installing the supplies 18/22 on the support assemblies 20/24. To further facilitate resupplying the dispenser assembly 10, the support assemblies 20/24 can be pivoted as shown in FIG. 4C to move the inner ends of the spindles 14A upwardly and away from the central support structure 30 so that a new supply 18 or 22 can be loaded onto the respective spindle 14A. In some embodiments, only one of the supplies 18/22 will need to be replaced at a time so that only the empty support assembly 20/24 would be pivoted upwardly, leaving the undepleted supply in place. Once the supply 18 or 22 is loaded on the respective spindle 14A, the respective support assembly 20/24 can be pivoted downwardly so that the inner end of the spindle 14A connects with the central support structure 30 (e.g., FIG. 4E). The supplies 18/22 of sheet material could be otherwise supported at least partially within the dispenser housing 12 without departing from the disclosure.

FIGS. 1-3 further show that the dispenser assembly 10 includes a dispensing system or mechanism 50 for selectively dispensing predetermined amounts (i.e., particular, selected lengths) of sheet material 11 from the plurality of supplies 18/22 of sheet material. In embodiments, the dispensing system 50 can include two roller assemblies 52/54 (e.g., FIGS. 5A-8) mounted side-by-side in a framework or enclosure 51 (e.g., FIGS. 5A-7B). As shown in FIGS. 6 and 9-13B, the dispensing system can include a drive mechanism 60 mounted in the enclosure 51 with at least a portion of the drive mechanism 60 extending between the roller assemblies 52/54. As shown in FIGS. 5A, 5C, 7A, and 7B, the enclosure 51 can include two intake openings 35A/36A aligned with the respective roller assemblies 52/54 and receiving sheet material 11 from the respective supplies 18/22 of sheet material (FIGS. 2 and 3). As shown in FIGS. 5B, 7A, and 7B, the enclosure 51 further can include two output openings 35B/36B for dispensing the sheet material 11 from the respective roller assemblies 52/54 out of the enclosure 51. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the dispensing system 50 can be positioned in chamber 13 of the dispenser housing 12 such that at least a portion of the enclosure 51 of the dispensing system 50 extends in the opening of the discharge 15. In embodiments, the output openings 35B/36B of the enclosure 51 of the dispensing system 50 can be aligned with the discharge 15 for dispensing the sheet material 11 from the dispenser assembly 10.

As shown in at least FIGS. 5C and 7A-8, each of the roller assemblies 52/54 can include a respective driven roller 56/58 for engaging and driving the sheet material 11 from the respective supplies 18/22 of sheet material. For example, the first supply 18 of sheet material can be dispensed by a corresponding first driven roller 56 and the second supply of rolled sheet material 22 can be dispensed by a corresponding second driven roller 58. The first driven roller 56 will engage and draw or urge sheet material from the first supply 18 of sheet material along a first discharge path 65A toward and out of the output opening 35B of the enclosure 51 and out of the discharge 15 of the dispenser housing 12, while the second driven roller 58 will engage and draw or urge sheet material 11 from the second supply 22 of sheet material along a second discharge path 65B toward and out of the output opening 36B of the enclosure 51 and out of the discharge 15 of the dispenser housing 12. The driven rollers 56/58 can be formed from a plastic material, though other materials, such as wood, elastomeric materials, such as rubber, or other composite or synthetic materials or combinations thereof, can be used without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. As shown in FIGS. 5C and 6, the first driven roller 56 can be mounted between a first end wall 51A and a first inner wall 51B of the enclosure 51 such as by bearing assemblies (e.g., including roller bearings, ball bearings, etc. or other suitable bearing mechanisms that facilitate rotation of the driven roller) or other suitable features, and the second driven roller 58 can be mounted between a second end wall 51C and second inner wall 51D of the enclosure 51 such as by bearing assemblies (e.g., including roller bearings, ball bearings, etc. or other suitable bearing mechanisms that facilitate rotation of the driven roller) or other suitable features.

As generally shown in FIGS. 5C and 7A-8, the dispensing system 50 can include a plurality of guide rollers 42A/42B and 44A/44B positioned along or substantially proximate, adjacent, etc., and engaging the supplies 14 of sheet material, with the first guide rollers 42A/42B positioned to extend along the first driven roller 56 for engaging sheet material 11 from the first supply 18 of sheet material and the second guide rollers 44A/44B positioned to extend along the second driven roller 58 for engaging sheet material 11 from the second supply 22 of sheet material. Each of the guide rollers 42A/42B and 44A/44B can be configured to engage the sheet material from the supplies of sheet material, e.g., against the respective driven rollers 56/58 and to facilitate dispensing of the sheet material 11 from the dispenser assembly 10. The guide rollers 42A/42B and 44A/44B can be formed from a plastic material, though other materials, such as wood, elastomeric materials, such as rubber, or other composite or synthetic materials or combinations thereof, can be used without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

As shown in FIG. 5C, the guide rollers 42A/42B and 44A/44B can be rotatably mounted to the respective walls 51A/51B and 51C/51D in respective slots 53 such as by bearing assemblies or other suitable features mounted in the slots 53. In embodiments, the bearings can be movable along the slots 53 so that the guide rollers 42A/42B and 44A/44B can be biased toward and/or against the respective driven rollers 56/58 such as by springs or other suitable biasing members urging the bearings in the slots 53 toward the driven rollers 56/58. Accordingly, the guide rollers 42A/42B and 44A/44B can press or otherwise engage the sheet material 11 against the respective driven rollers 56/58 as it passes between the driven rollers 56/58 and guide rollers 42A/42B and 44A/44B. The dispensing system 50 can include any suitable number of guide or pressing rollers positioned adjacent the driven rollers 56/58 and/or guide rollers 42A/42B and 44A/44B to guide and/or engage the sheet material without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. As shown in FIGS. 5C-7B, curved guide plates 55 can be mounted in the enclosure 51 for guiding the sheet material 11 through the output openings 35B/36B.

As generally shown in FIGS. 5C-8, the roller assemblies 52/54 can be oppositely arranged in the enclosure 51 (e.g., so that the driven roller 56 is closer to the front of the enclosure 51 and the driven roller 58 is closer to the rear of the enclosure 51). Accordingly, the first roller assembly 52 can be configured for turning the first driven roller 56 in a first direction D1 (FIGS. 7A, 10A, and 13A) to engage and pull the sheet material 11 from the first supply of sheet material 18 to move the sheet material along the first discharge path 65A, and the second roller assembly 54 can be configured for turning the second driven roller 58 in an opposing second direction D2 (FIGS. 7B, 10B, 13B) to engage and pull the sheet material 11 from the second supply of sheet material 22 to move the sheet material along the second discharge path 65B.

As shown in at least FIGS. 8 and 9, the dispenser assembly 10 includes the drive mechanism 60 operatively connected or coupled to the plurality of driven rollers 56/58 to drive rotation thereof. In one variation, the drive mechanism 60 can include a motor 60A (e.g., a brushless servo or stepper motor, or other, similar type of variable speed, reversible electric motor), though or other suitable drive mechanisms, drive systems, actuators, etc. can be used without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The driven rollers 56/58 positioned substantially adjacent and along the guide rollers 42/44 rotate under the power of the drive mechanism 60 to pull the sheet material 11 from the respective supplies 18/22 and along the discharge paths 65A/65B at least partially defined between the driven rollers 56/58 and associated guide rollers 42A/42B and 44A/44B and through the output openings 35B/36B in the enclosure 51 and through the discharge 15 defined in the dispenser housing 12. Each driven roller 56/58 further is selectively driven/rotated by the drive mechanism 60 linked to or otherwise in communication with the driven rollers 56/58.

The drive mechanism 60 communicates with a control system of the dispenser assembly 10. In embodiments, the control system can include control circuitry and/or at least one processor including programming or instructions configured to enable the control system to monitor and communicate with the operative components of the dispenser assembly. For example, the control system can communicate with an activation system 120, including being configured to receive activations signals from one or more sensors of a dispenser activation sensor assembly 124 (e.g., one or more hand sensors), one or more material detection modules or sensors 101, the motor, power supply, and other operative components.

In embodiments, the motor can communicate with the control system to receive instructions and power for selectively activating and driving the driven rollers 56/58 of each roller assembly through a dispensing cycle (e.g., a determined time, number of revolutions, etc.), to feed the selected or desired amount/length of the sheet material through the discharge 15 of the dispenser housing 12. In some embodiments, the motor can also provide feedback corresponding to a position of the motor and/or from which remaining material supply amounts can be determined. In addition, the drive mechanism 60 can be driven in the first direction D1 (FIGS. 7A, 10A, and 13A) to drive the first driven roller 56 and move the sheet material from the corresponding first supply 18 of sheet material along the first discharge path 65A toward and out from the discharge 15 of the dispenser housing 12. The drive mechanism 60 also can be reversed and driven in the second direction D2 (FIGS. 7B, 10B, and 13B) to drive the second driven roller 58 and move the sheet material from the corresponding second supply 22 of sheet material along the second discharge path 65B toward and out from the discharge 15 of the dispenser housing 12.

As shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, the drive mechanism 60 can include a belt driven transmission assembly 62, which can be mounted in the enclosure 51 between the inner walls 51B/51D (FIGS. 5C and 6) and between the roller assemblies 52/54 and can include the two drive belts 64A/64B operatively connecting or engaging the motor 60A and the driven rollers 56/58 to transfer power therebetween for selectively driving rotation of the first driven roller 56 and/or the second driven roller 58. In embodiments, a gear clutch assembly 71 can be mounted on a drive shaft 60B of the motor 60A and can be connected to the driven rollers 56/58 by the respective drive belts 64A/64B, which can engage corresponding belt pulleys or belt gears 67A/67B connected to the respective driven rollers 56/58.

As shown in FIGS. 11B and 12A, the drive shaft 60B can include a proximal section 8lA spaced from a distal section 8lB by a recess 81C or other suitable dividing feature. Each of the proximal section 81A and the distal section 8lB can be configured to engage respective portions of the gear clutch assembly 71, as described in more detail below. In some embodiments, a C clip 84A can engage the recess 81C and can extend between the portions of the gear clutch assembly 71 to help keep the portions of the gear clutch assembly 71 separate from one another. In embodiments, the drive shaft 60B can include a distal recess 81D, which can be engaged by a C clip 84B to help retain the gear clutch assembly 71 on the drive shaft 60B. The drive shaft 60B could be otherwise configured without departing from the disclosure. For example, the recess 81C and the C clip 84A could be omitted and/or the drive shaft 60B can be stepped so that the distal section 81B has a different diameter than the proximal section 81A (e.g., the diameter of the distal section 8lB could be stepped up from the diameter of the proximal section 81A or the diameter of the distal section 81B could be stepped down from the diameter of the proximal section 81A) to help keep the portions of the gear clutch assembly 71 separate.

As shown in FIGS. 11A-12C, the gear clutch assembly 71 can include a first or proximal drive pulley or drive gear 71A (e.g., a synchronous wheel) engaging or mounted on the proximal section 81A of the drive shaft 60B and a second or distal drive pulley or drive gear 71B (e.g., a synchronous wheel) engaging or mounted on the distal section 81B of the drive shaft 60B. As shown in FIGS. 9-10B, the first drive belt 64A engages the proximal drive gear 71A and the first belt gear 67A so that they are rotatably coupled together by the first drive belt, and the second drive belt 64B engages the distal drive gear 71B and the second belt gear 67B so that they are rotatably coupled together by the second drive belt. In embodiments, the C clip 84A can be positioned between the drive gears 71A/71B in the recess 81C of the drive shaft 60B so that the drive gears 71A/71B are spaced from one another by at least the C clip 84.

In exemplary embodiments, the gear clutch assembly 71 can include or incorporate one or more clutch assemblies or mechanisms 70 (FIGS. 12A-12C), such as hybrid or one-way clutch mechanisms, that allow for selective transfer of power between the drive mechanism 60 and the driven rollers 56/58. For example, as shown in FIGS. 11B-12C, the clutch assemblies 70 can be incorporated or integrated with the respective drive gears 71A/71B. Accordingly, when the drive mechanism 60 is driven in the first direction D1 (FIGS. 7A, 9, 10A, and 13A), the clutch assembly 70 of the proximal drive gear 71A will lock/engage for transfer of power/torque to the first driven roller 56 (e.g., via the first drive belt 64A and the first belt gear 67A) so that the first driven roller 56 is driven by the drive mechanism 60 and rotated to dispense its corresponding supply of sheet material (while the clutch assembly 70 of the distal drive gear 71B remains generally disengaged). In addition, when the drive mechanism 60 is driven in the opposite direction D2 (FIGS. 7B, 9, 10B, and 13B), the clutch assembly 70 of the proximal drive gear 71A will unlock or disengage such that there is no transfer of power/torque between the drive mechanism 60 and the first driven roller 56 (while the clutch assembly 70 for the distal drive gear 71B engages or locks for transfer of power/torque to the second driven roller 58, e.g., via the second drive belt 64B and the second belt gear 67B, so that the second driven roller 58 is rotated to dispense its corresponding supply of sheet material).

In one example construction, as generally indicated in FIGS. 11B-12C, each clutch assembly 70 can include one or more tracks/races, such as an inner race 72 and an outer race 74, that rotate together (when engaged) or independently of one another (when disengaged). Alternatively, one or both of the clutch assemblies 70 could be otherwise configured without departing from the scope of the application. In an exemplary embodiment, both of the inner races 72 of the drive gears 71A/71B are turned by the drive shaft 60B when the motor 60A turns the drive shaft in either direction D1, D2. However, the clutch assemblies 70 are configured so that, when the drive shaft 60B is turned in the direction D1, only the clutch assembly 70 of the proximal drive gear 71A engages to cause the outer race 74 to turn with the inner race 72, thereby moving the first drive belt 64A, which turns the first belt gear 67A and the first driven roller 56. The clutch assembly 70 of the distal drive gear 71B is disengaged so that the inner race 72 and the outer race 74 are able to rotate independently when the drive shaft 60B is rotated in the first direction D1 and the outer race 74 does not rotate with the inner race 72 so that the second drive belt 64B, the second belt gear 67B, and the second driven roller 58 are not turned. Similarly, when the drive shaft 60B is turned in the direction D2, only the clutch assembly 70 of the distal drive gear 71B engages to cause the outer race 74 to turn with the inner race 72, thereby moving the second drive belt 64B, which turns the second belt gear 67B and the second driven roller 58. The clutch assembly 70 of the proximal drive gear 71A is disengaged so that the inner race 72 and the outer race 74 are able to rotate independently when the drive shaft 60B is rotated in the second direction D2 and the outer race 74 does not rotate with the inner race 72 so that the first drive belt 64A, the first belt gear 67A, and the first driven roller 56 are not turned.

In the illustrated embodiments, the proximal and distal drive gears 71A, 71B can be similar or identical to one another and can be mounted on the drive shaft 60B in opposite orientations (FIGS. 11B-12C). Alternatively, in other embodiments, the drive gears 71A, 71B could be differently configured.

As shown in FIGS. 9-10B, 13A, and 13B, the belt gears 67A/67B are mounted to respective drive shafts or roller extensions 68 of the respective driven rollers 56/58. As shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B, the roller extensions 68 extend through the respective inner walls 51B/51D, and each can be supported in respective openings in the inner walls by a bearing and/or a bushing. In embodiments, a distal section of each of the roller extension 68 can be configured to mate with or otherwise engage a central bore 87 of the respective belt gear 67A/67B. For example, the roller extensions 68 can have one or more flat surfaces, which can engage respective flat surfaces on the interior surface of the belt gear extending along the central bore 87. Accordingly, rotation of the belt gears 67A/67B can cause the respective roller extension 68 to turn, thereby turning the respective driven roller 56/58.

The drive mechanism 60 could be otherwise configured without departing from the disclosure. For example, the drive belts 64A/64B could be omitted and the drive pulleys 71A/71B could be configured to drive the belt gears 67A/67B via a geared connection or any other suitable engagement.

As shown in FIGS. 3, 5A, 7A, 7B, 10A, 10B, 14A, and 14B, one or more material detection modules 101 can be mounted in the enclosure 51 adjacent each of the roller assemblies 52/54 for determining whether sheet material 11 is being fed from the supplies 18/22 to the roller assemblies 52/54. In embodiments, each of the material detection modules 101 can include an infrared (IR) launch tube 103A and an IR receiver tube 103B mounted beneath a protecting mask 105 in the top portion of the enclosure 51. As shown in FIGS. 14A and 14B, the IR launch tube 103A and the IR receiver tube 103B are oriented so that IR rays emitted from the IR launch tube 103A can reflect off the sheet material 11, which is passing along a sheet path between the respective intake opening and the respective roller assembly. toward the IR receiver tube 103B, which senses the reflected IR rays. In the case that the sheet material 11 has run out, the IR rays emitted by the IR launch tube 103A are not reflected back to the IR receiver tube 103B. The material detection modules 101 can be in electronic communication with the control system or unit or the dispenser, which can be operable to supply power to one or both of the material detection modules 101 as needed, send a command to determine if sheet material 11 is present in the sensor area (e.g., for the IR launch tube 103A to emit IR rays and the IR receiver tube 103B to monitor for reflected IR rays), and to receive a signal from the material detection module regarding whether the IR receiver tube 103B detected IR rays reflected from the sheet material 11. In embodiments, the material detection module 101 can be configured to test for the presence of paper in the sensor area according to one or more rules (e.g., after a dispensing operation and/or at a predetermined time interval).

In an example, after a dispensing operation of sheet material 11 by the first roller assembly 52, the control system can supply power to the material detection module 101 mounted adjacent the first roller assembly and can send a command to determine if sheet material 11 is in the associated sensor area (e.g., directly above the first roller assembly 52 in FIG. 14A). In the case that the material detection module 101 returns a signal that sheet material 11 is detected (e.g., the IR rays emitted by the IR launch tube 103A are reflected and detected by the IR receiver tube 103B), the control system can be configured to continue to dispense sheet material 11 from the first supply 18 of sheet material with the first roller assembly 52 in subsequent dispensing operations. In the case that the material detection module 101 returns a signal that sheet material 11 is not detected or does not return a signal (e.g., the IR rays emitted by the IR launch tube 103A are not reflected and are not detected by the IR receiver tube 103B), the control system can be configured to reverse the direction of the motor 60A in subsequent dispensing operations to dispense sheet material 11 from the second supply 22 of sheet material with the second roller assembly 54 as described above.

Optionally, and as shown in FIGS. 21A and 21B, a pair of material detection modules 101 can be mounted in the enclosure 51 for determining whether sheet material 11 is being fed from the supplies 18/22 to the roller assemblies 152/154. In embodiments, each of the roller assemblies 152/154 can define a plurality of spaced grooves 153 extending therein the exterior surface of the respective roller assemblies. Similarly, each of the driven rollers 156/158 can define a plurality of spaced grooves 157 extending therein the exterior surface of the respective driven rollers. As illustrated, it is contemplated that the respective spaced grooves 153 in the roller assemblies can sized and shaped to be positioned in opposition to the respective spaced grooves 157 in the driven rollers. In embodiments, the enclosure can have opposing side walls 170/172 that extend longitudinally and substantially parallel to the longitudinal axes of the respective roller assemblies 152/154 and the driven rollers 156/158.

As shown in FIGS. 21A and 21B, each of the pair of material detection modules 101 can include an infrared (IR) launch tube 160A that is mounted to side wall 170 and an opposed IR receiver tube 160B that is mounted to opposed side wall 172. In embodiments, for each of the pair of material detection modules 101, the infrared (IR) launch tube 160A and opposed IR receiver tube 160B are positioned and oriented in along a common axis such that an IR beam projecting between the respective infrared (IR) launch tube 160A and opposed (IR) receiver tube 160B extends over a respective cooperating roller assembly and driven roller. In various embodiments, the formed IR beam can extend substantially transverse to the longitudinal axes of the respective roller assemblies 152/154 and the driven rollers 156/158. In embodiments, for each of the pair of material detection modules 101, the infrared (IR) launch tube 160A can be mounted to side wall 170 in opposition to the (IR) receiver tube 160B that is mounted to the opposed side wall 172 such that the formed IR beam extending therebetween the infrared (IR) launch tube 160A and the (IR) receiver tube 160B passes through a trough 159 formed by the opposed pair of grooves 153/157 of the opposed roller assemblies 152/154 and the driven rollers 156/158. In embodiments, the formed IR beams of the pair of material detection modules can be positioned in a common plane p that is parallel to a common plane P that is tangent to the exterior surfaces of the respective roller assemblies 152/154.

In operation, if the case that the sheet material 11 has run out or has broken, the IR beams emitted by the IR launch tube 160A will be received by the IR receiver tube 160B. The pair of material detection modules 101 can be in electronic communication with the control system, which can be operable to supply power to one or both of the material detection modules 101 as needed, send a command to determine if sheet material 11 is present in the sensor area (e.g., for the IR launch tube 160A to emit IR beams and the IR receiver tube 160B to monitor for received IR beams), and to receive a signal from the material detection module regarding whether the IR receiver tube 160B detected the IR beam generated by the IR launch tube 160A without being blocked by sheet material 11. In embodiments, each of the pair of the material detection modules 101 can be configured to test for the presence of paper in the sensor area according to one or more rules (e.g., after a dispensing operation and/or at a predetermined time interval).

In an example, after a dispensing operation of sheet material 11 by the first roller assembly 52, the control system can supply power to the material detection module 101 mounted adjacent the first roller assembly and can send a command to determine if sheet material 11 is in the associated sensor area (e.g., in a space upstream of the opposed roller assemblies 152/154 and the driven rollers 156/158). In the case that the material detection module 101 returns a signal that sheet material 11 is detected or does not return a signal (e.g., the IR beam emitted by the IR launch tube 160A are reflected and is not detected by the IR receiver tube 160B), the control system can be configured to continue to dispense sheet material 11 from the first supply 18 of sheet material with the first roller assembly 52 in subsequent dispensing operations. In the case that the material detection module 101 returns a signal that sheet material 11 is not detected (e.g., the IR beams emitted by the IR launch tube 160A are not reflected and are detected by the IR receiver tube 160B), the control system can be configured to reverse the direction of the motor 60A in subsequent dispensing operations to dispense sheet material 11 from the second supply 22 of sheet material with the second roller assembly 54 as described above. This optional embodiment allows for the detection and determination of the absence of sheet material, either due to breakage or completed use of the sheet material supply, upstream of the paper engagement area of the respective roller assemblies 152/154 and the driven rollers 156/158.

In embodiments, the IR detection utilized by the material detection modules 101 can be more accurate and more reliable than other sensing systems. For example, mechanical systems (e.g., where a lever rests against the outer surface of the supply of sheet material and pivots as the diameter decreases, and other systems) can vary in accuracy due to deviation in production of the systems. In alternative embodiments, either or both of the material detection modules 101 could be omitted or could be replaced with any suitable supply sensing system.

As shown in FIGS. 5A, 15, 16, and 22-22G, an activation system 120 can be located within a pocket or front recess 122 formed along at least a portion of a front surface of the enclosure 51, and which can define a recessed area. In embodiments, the activation system 120 will include features for sensing proximity of a user and further con be configured for sensing activation gestures by a user for initiating a dispensing operation of the dispenser assembly 10. For example, in embodiments, such activation gestures can include the user placing their hand at least partially within the pocket and thus within a sensing area defined within or, in some embodiments, below and/or directly in front of the pocket or front recess. It will be understood that the terms “pocket” and “front recess” may be used interchangeably to refer to a recessed opening or area defined along the front of the dispenser housing and in which the activation system can be located.

As shown in FIGS. 5A, 15, 16, and 22-22G, the activation system 120 can be accessible via the discharge opening 15 in the housing 12 (e.g., the portion of the enclosure 51 including the activation system 120 can at least partially extend through the discharge opening 15). In embodiments, the activation system can include a pocket 122 forming a recess defined in the front portion of the enclosure 51 (e.g., sometimes referred to herein as a front recess 122) and a dispenser activation sensor assembly 124 at least partially disposed in the front recess 122. In embodiments, the front recess 122 con be formed as a pocket having a top portion, back portion, first and second side portions and a front portion. In embodiments, the front portion of the front recess or pocket can define a front opening that can be configured to facilitate access to and activation of the dispenser activation assembly 124. In some embodiments, such as shown in, for example, FIGS. 27A-27C, the front recess or pocket can be formed without a bottom portion, while in other embodiments, such as shown in FIGS. 5A, 15, and 15, the pocket or front recess can include a bottom portion.

In embodiments, the dispenser activation sensor assembly can comprise hand sensors, which can include infrared, proximity, or other, similar types of sensors configured to detect the presence of a user (e.g., by body heat, movement, etc . . . ) within a selected/defines sensing area. In embodiments, the sensing area can further be focused so as to extend outwardly and downwardly to cover a selected area that enables substantially consistent activation of the dispenser assembly, but which also substantially reduces the incidence of inadvertent activations of a dispensing cycle, thus enabling a conservation of power and/or the fluids or sheet materials being dispensed.

As shown in at least FIGS. 16, 18B, 18C, and 22-22G, the dispenser activation sensor assembly 124 can comprise one or more IR sensors/sensor arrays, for example, including opposing IR sensor that can include one or more IR emitters 126A, which, in embodiments such as shown in FIGS. 18B, 18C, and 22-22G, can comprise or be configured as an IR launching tube, and one or more IR receivers 126B, which, in embodiments, can comprise or be configured as an IR receiving tube and which can be disposed directly opposite to a corresponding IR launching tube. It will be understood that while reference is made to the IR emitters 126A and IR receivers 126B as IR launching tubes and IR receiving tubes in some embodiments, other types of IR emitters and receivers also can be used.

In embodiments such as illustrated in FIGS. 16, 18B, 18C, and 22-22G, when activated, each IR launching tube 126A will emit IR rays or beams directly toward a corresponding IR receiving tube 126B so that the IR receiving tube 126B will detect the IR rays beams from the IR launching tube 126A unless the IR beam is broken, such as by a user's hand. In embodiments, the dispenser activation sensor assembly 124 can be configured to send a signal to the control system to initiate a dispensing operation to dispense a predetermined amount of sheet material 11 when the IR beam is broken and the IR receiving tube 126B stops detecting the IR rays from the opposing IR launching tube 126A. As shown, the tubes 126A/126B can be mounted to the enclosure 51 along opposing portions of the front recess 122.

The dispenser activation sensor assembly 124 could be otherwise configured without departing from the disclosure. For example, the positions of the tubes 126A/126B could be reversed. In another example, while the tubes 126A/126B are shown with a vertical orientation in the figures, the opposing tubes 126A/126B could be arranged horizontally, diagonally, etc. in the front recess 122.

In embodiments, the activation system 120 can include a light or a series of lights positioned within the pocket. The light(s) can be selectively activated so as to function as a visible light indicator 128, which can help guide the user in the use of the dispenser. As shown in FIG. 17B and FIG. 22C, in one example embodiment, the visible light indicator 128 can include a LED module 130 configured to emit one or more colors of visible light. In the illustrated embodiments, the LED module 130 is mounted in the enclosure 51 along the front recess 122 adjacent the IR launching tube 126A. However, the LED module 130 could be otherwise located along the front recess 122; and other selectively actuatable light sources also can be provided. When the dispenser activation sensor assembly 124 is active (e.g., the IR launching tube 126A is emitting an IR beam and the dispenser activation sensor assembly 124 is ready to respond to a break in the IR beam), the LED module 130 can emit visible light 130A into the front recess 122.

In the illustrated embodiments, the visible light 130A can be green to indicate that the system is ready and to invite the user to insert a hand into the front recess 122 to break the IR beam of the dispenser activation sensor assembly 124 and cause the dispensing system 50 to dispense sheet material 11. The LED module 130 can be configured to emit visible light in other colors to indicate different states of the dispenser assembly 10. For example, the LED module 130 can emit red light if the dispenser assembly 10 is out of sheet material 11 (e.g., both supplies 18/22 are depleted as detected by the material detection modules 101). In another example, the LED module 130 can emit a different color of visible light (e.g., yellow light) to indicate a different status or operational state of the dispenser assembly 10. The visible light indicator 128 could be otherwise configured without departing from the disclosure. For example, the LED module 130 could be otherwise located and/or can direct visible light in any suitable direction.

As shown in FIGS. 18A-18C, the activation system 120 further can include a front sensor assembly 140 including an IR launching tube 142A and an IR receiving tube 142B mounted in the enclosure 51 adjacent the front recess 122 and oriented at an angle directed outwardly from the front recess 122 (e.g., forwardly from the front recess) to form a sensing area 144 (FIG. 18C). In embodiments, it can be desirable to deactivate (e.g., disconnect from power) certain portions of the dispenser assembly 10 when not needed to save power (e.g., extend battery life). For example, the visible light indicator 128 and/or the dispenser activation sensor assembly 124 could be deactivated until they are activated by the control system upon receiving a signal from the front sensor assembly 140. In embodiments, with the visible light indicator 128 deactivated, a user approaching the dispenser assembly 10 may not know where to wave their hand to activate the dispensing operation. However, if the user moves into the forward sensing area 144 and/or moves their hand into the sensing area 144, the IR rays emitted by the IR launching tube 142A will reflect off the user's hand and be detected by the IR receiving tube 142B. The IR receiving tube 142B can send a signal to the control system to activate the visible light indicator 128 and the dispenser activation sensor assembly 124, if necessary. With the visible light indicator 128 activated, the user is guided to move a hand into the front recess 122 to break the IR beam in the dispenser activation sensor assembly 124 and initiate a dispensing operation as discussed above.

Optionally, and as shown in FIGS. 22A-22G, the activation system 120 can include a front sensor assembly 140 including an IR launching tube 142A and an IR receiving tube 142B mounted in the enclosure 51 adjacent the front recess 122 and oriented at an angle directed outwardly from the front recess 122 to form a sensing area 144 (FIG. 18D). In embodiments, it can be desirable to deactivate (e.g., disconnect from power) certain portions of the dispenser assembly 10 when not needed to save power (e.g., extend battery life). For example, the visible light indicator 128 and/or the dispenser activation sensor assembly 124 could be deactivated until they are activated by the control system upon receiving a signal from the front sensor assembly 140. For example, with the visible light indicator 128 deactivated, a user approaching the dispenser assembly 10 may not know where to wave their hand to activate the dispensing operation. However, if the user moves into the sensing area 144 and/or moves a hand into the sensing arear 144, the IR rays emitted by the IR launching tube 142A will reflect off the user's hand and be detected by the IR receiving tube 142B. The IR receiving tube 142B can send a signal to the control system to activate the visible light indicator 128 and the dispenser activation sensor assembly 124, if necessary. With the visible light indicator 128 activated, the user is guided to move a hand into the front recess 122 to break the IR beam in the dispenser activation sensor assembly 124 and initiate a dispensing operation as discussed above.

FIGS. 23-27C illustrate further example embodiments of a sensor assembly of a dispenser, including a dispenser activation sensor assembly 124. For example, FIG. 23 shows an example embodiment of infrared (IR) assembly or module 145 that can be used as part of a sensor array of the dispenser activation sensor assembly 124, including as part of a various embodiments of a dispenser activation sensor assembly 124 as disclosed herein. As indicated in FIG. 23, in some embodiments, the IR assembly 145 may include both an IR emitter 126A and an IR receiver 126B. In embodiments, the IR receivers can comprise intermediate range monitoring (IRM) devices configured to detect IR radiation within a focused or defined sensing area. In some embodiments, the IR assemblies 145 can be configured as having one IR emitter and one IRM, which further can be assembled or packaged together, for example, for forming a replaceable IR sensor unit or module.

As further indicated in FIGS. 23-26D, in embodiments, each IR assembly can generate a sensing area, zone or region 147 that can be substantially located within the pocket or front recess defined along the front portion of the dispenser housing as indicated in FIGS. 24A-27C. In embodiments, each sensing zone or region can be configured as a substantially oval, cone-shaped or elliptical shaped, and can be formed by overlapping transmission and detection zones of the IR emitter and IRM of each IR assembly. Where multiple IR assemblies are provided, such as indicated in FIGS. 24A-26D, the combination of the sensing zones or regions of each IR assembly can be configured with a selected width or maximum diameter and length, can be emitted a selected angle or angles, and in embodiments, also can be configured as overlapping, and will define the sensing area 147 of the dispenser assembly.

In addition, in some embodiments, the sensing area 147 can be substantially contained within the recessed area defined by pocket or front recess such that a user may be directed to perform or make an activation gesture such as placing their hand within the recessed area to cause an activation signal to be generated for initiating a dispensing operation. In some further embodiments, the sensing area 147 can extend for a selected distance and/or cover a selected area projecting outside a front boundary of the pocket or front recess, and/or project through the open bottom portion of the pocket or front recess sufficient to enable an activation gesture made by the user to initiate a dispensing operation, while substantially avoiding inadvertent actuations, such as resulting from a user passing close by the dispenser assembly or some inadvertent movement below the dispenser assembly. Still further, the open area defined in/by the bottom portion of the pocket or front recess allows the user to reach into the pocket without contacting the top, back and opposite first and second sides, and further can substantially avoid collection of water and contaminants within the pocket or front recess.

The IR rays emitted by the IR emitter 126A will reflect off the user's hand and be detected by the IR receiver 126B. For example, if the user moves into a sensing area 147, the IR rays emitted by the IR emitter 126A will reflect off the user's hand and be detected by the IR receiver 126B. The IR receiver 126B can send a signal to the control system to activate the visible light indicator 128 and the dispenser activation sensor assembly 124, if necessary.

In an embodiment and as shown in FIGS. 24A-26D, the pocket or front recess 122 defined along the dispenser housing, in addition to having an open front, further may not include a bottom portion so as to define an open area below the pocket or front recess. The pocket 122 may be defined by top portion 149, a first side portion 151A, a second side portion 151B, and a back portion 161. Without the bottom portion, water from users'wet hands cannot build up in the pocket 122, and, thus, prevent malfunctioning of the activation system 120 through water contact, mold or mildew buildup, and false sensor input. FIGS. 24A-27C show using various infrared sensor arrangements to direct (e.g., narrow or focus) the sensing area 147 to be partly or substantially contained within the pocket 122, with the sensing area in some instances projecting through the open bottom of the pocket by a selected amount sufficient to enable the user to place or move their hand (or perform some other activation gesture) within/through bottomless portion/opening, while substantially limiting accidental activation of the system.

In some examples, the dispensers shown in FIGS. 24A-27C may include a front facing sensor assembly 140 for activation of the activation system 120 through the control system. In some other embodiments, the sensor assembly can be positioned at other locations, such as along a lower portion of the dispenser.

FIGS. 24A-24C show an example embodiment of a dispenser with an enclosure 51 and pocket 122 without a bottom portion. The activation system 120 includes a dispenser activation sensor assembly 124. The sensory assembly may include the IR assembly 145. As shown in FIG. 24B, the pocket 122 may include the top portion 149, the first side portion 151A and the second side portion 151B, and the back portion 161. The IR assembly 145 may be oriented at the top of the pocket and include more than one IR assembly 145 to cover the space of the pocket 122. FIG. 24C further shows the visible light indicator 128.

In an example, the enclosure 51 of FIGS. 24A-24C can include various selected measurements and angles to maintain the sensing area 147 partly within the pocket 122 when the IR assembly 145 is oriented within the top portion 149 of the pocket 122. FIG. 24C shows a cross section of the enclosure 51 to show these measurements. In embodiments, a depth 146 of the pocket 122 may be between about 10 mm to about 50 mm, although greater or lesser depths also can be provided. By way of example, in various embodiments, the depth 146 of the pocket 122 may be about 15 mm to about 40 mm. In still other embodiments, the depth 146 can be between about 10 mm to about 15 mm, about 10 mm to about 20 mm, about 10 mm to about 25 mm, about 10 mm to about 30 mm, about 10 mm to about 35 mm, about 10 mm to about 40 mm, about 10 mm to about 45 mm, about 15 mm to about 20 mm, about 15 mm to about 25 mm, about 15 mm to about 30 mm, about 15 mm to about 35 mm, about 15 mm to about 45 mm, about 15 mm to about 50 mm, about 20 mm to about 25 mm, about 20 mm to about 30 mm, about 20 mm to about 35 mm, about 20 mm to about 40 mm, about 20 mm to about 45 mm, about 20 mm to about 50 mm, about 25 mm to about 30 mm, about 25 mm to about 35 mm, about 25 mm to about 40 mm, about 25 mm to about 45 mm, about 25 mm to about 50 mm, about 30 mm to about 35 mm, about 30 mm to about 40 mm, about 30 mm to about 45 mm, about 30 mm to about 50 mm, about 35 mm to about 40 mm, about 35 mm to about 45 mm, about 35 mm to about 50 mm, about 40 mm to about 45 mm, about 40 mm to about 50 mm, or about 45 mm to about 50 mm.

In addition, in embodiments such as shown in FIG. 24C, the IR assembly or assemblies 145 of the activation system 120 may be oriented an angle 155 relative to a plane defined along the front surface of the dispenser housing 51 and indicated in the Figs. by 148, wherein the plane extends along the front surface of the dispenser housing and along the front opening of the pocket 122. By way of example, in embodiments, the IR assembly or assemblies may be oriented at an angle 155 of about 0° to about 15° with respect to the plane 148, while in other embodiments the angle 155 can be from about 0° to about 40°, about 0° to about 35°, about 0° to about 30°, about 0° to about 25°, about 0° to about 20°, about 0° to about 15°, about 0° to about 10°, about 0° to about 5°, about 5° to about 40°, about 5° to about 35°, about 5° to about 30°, about 5° to about 25°, about 5° to about 20°, about 5° to about 15°, about 5° to about 10°, about 10° to about 40°, about 10° to about 35°, about 10° to about 30°, about 10° to about 25°, about 10° to about 20°, about 10° to about 15°, about 15° to about 40°, about 15° to about 35°, about 15° to about 30°, about 15° to about 25°, about 15° to about 20°, about 20° to about 40°, about 20° to about 35°, about 20° to about 30°, about 20° to about 25°, about 25° to about 40°, about 25° to about 35°, about 25° to about 30°, about 30° to about 40°, about 30° to about 35°, or about 30° to about 40°. In still other embodiments, the IR assembly or assemblies 145 can be oriented at a wider range of angles.

In embodiments, the sensing area 147 may extend outside the front opening of the pocket 122 and past the plane 148 extending along the front surface of the dispenser housing by a selected forward sensing distance 173. By way of example, in embodiments, the sensing forward distance 173 may be about 0 mm to about 30 mm, and in other embodiments the sensing forward distance 173 may be about 0 mm to about 25 mm, about 0 mm to about 20 mm, about 0 mm to about 15 mm, about 0 mm to about 10 mm, about 0 mm to about 5 mm, about 5 mm to about 30 mm, about 5 mm to about 25 mm, about 5 mm to about 20 mm, about 5 mm to about 15 mm, about 5 mm to about 10 mm, about 10 mm to about 30 mm, about 10 mm to about 25 mm, about 10 mm to 20 mm, about 10 mm to 15 mm, about 15 mm to 30 mm about 15 mm to about 25 mm, about 15 mm to about 20 mm, about 20 mm to about 30 mm, about 20 mm to about 25 mm, or about 25 mm to about 30 mm. Other selected forward sensing distances also can be provided. In general, in embodiments, the sensing distance can be selected to detect a user, for example when the user performs an activation gesture such as placing their hand at least partially within the pocket or close to the bottom opening thereof, for dispensing as needed, while reducing the incidence of inadvertent activations.

In addition, as illustrated in FIGS. 24C, 25B and 26B, the sensing area 147 may be configured such that a rear edge or portion of the sensing area can extend to the back portion of the pocket or can be spaced from the back portion 161 of the pocket 122 by a rear sensing distance 175. In some example embodiments, such a rear sensing distance by which the sensing area is spaced from the back portion can be about 0 mm to about 25 mm, and in other embodiments the rear sensing distance 175 may be about 0 mm to about 20 mm about 0 mm to about 15 mm, about 0 mm to about 10 mm, about 0 mm to about 5 mm, about 5 mm to about 25 mm about 5 mm to about 20 mm, about 5 mm to about 15 mm, about 5 mm to about 10 mm, about 10 mm to about 25 mm, about 10 mm to about 20 mm, about 10 mm to about 15 mm, about 15 mm to about 25 mm, about 15 mm to about 20 mm, or about 20 mm to about 25 mm. Other spacing distances (e.g., less than about 10 mm) also can be provided.

FIGS. 24A-27C show various example embodiments of an enclosure 51 of a dispenser including a pocket 122 without a bottom portion. An activation system 120 is located within the pocket and includes a dispenser activation sensor assembly 124, which, in embodiments, may include an IR assembly 145 such as shown in FIG. 23. In embodiments, the IR assembly may be oriented at the side portions 151A and 151B of the pocket 122 and include more than one IR assembly 145 to cover the space of the pocket 122. FIGS. 24A-25A and 25C further show an example position of a visible light indicator 128 within the pocket, it being understood that such a visible light indictor 128 (if provided) can be positioned at other locations within the pocket. In addition, in embodiments such as shown in FIGS. 25C and 26D, the IR assemblies 145 may be located along the sides of the pocket and can be oriented in opposing positions to each other to provide generally overlapping sensing area coverage 147 within the pocket 122.

In an example, as shown in the enclosure 51 of FIGS. 25B and 26B, the IR assembly or IR assemblies 145 can be oriented as varying angles and can be configured for project an IR beam or coverage to substantially maintain the sensing area 147 within the pocket 122. For example, in embodiments in which one or more IR assemblies 145 are provided along the side portions 151A and 151B of the pocket 122, and with the pocket having a depth within a range of about 20 mm to about 50 mm (for example, in the illustrated embodiment, the depth 146 of the pocket could be about 25 mm to about 30mm), the IR assemblies 145 may be arranged to direct an IR beam along a path substantially parallel to an axis shown by line 150, where the line 150 extends from side to side along a front portion/opening of the pocket 122. In embodiments, the sensing area 147 may stop at of extend outside the line 150 and pocket 122, for example, about 0 mm to about 20 mm past the line 150, about 0 mm to about 15 mm past the line 150, about 0 mm to about 10 mm past the line 150, about 0 mm to about 5 mm past the line 150, about 5 mm to about 20 mm past the line 150, about 5 mm to about 15 mm past the line 150, about 5 mm to about 10 mm past the line 150, about 10 mm to about 20 mm past the line 150, or about 10 mm to about 15 mm past the line 150. Other distances also can be provided. The sensing area further may stop at or before the back of the pocket 122, such as discussed above.

FIGS. 26A-26D show a similar enclosure 51 to FIGS. 25A-25D, in which the IR assemblies 145 are mounted along side portions of the pocket 122. In the embodiment of FIGS. 26A-26D, an angle at which the IR assemblies 145 are oriented with respect to one another relative the line 150 can be different from that illustrated in FIGS. 25A-25D, and thus the region of zone encompassed by the sensing area 147 within the pocket 122 can differ from that of FIGS. 25A-25D, for example, extending further outward from the front of the pocket relative to the line 150 than the sensing area shown in FIGS. 25A-25D.

In embodiments of a dispenser, such as shown in FIGS. 26A-26D, the activation system 120 can include IR assemblies 145 that may be arranged within the pocket so as to emit IR beams in a direction extending at an angle 171 relative to the line 150. In addition, as noted, in embodiments, the sensing area 147 may extend outside the line 150 and pocket 122 by a selected distance, and the sensing area may stop extending before the back portion of the pocket 122.

FIGS. 27A-27C show and embodiment of the enclosure 51 and pocket 122 without a bottom portion. In embodiments, the activation system 120 can include a dispenser activation sensor assembly 124 as shown. In the present embodiment, the IR sensors of the dispenser activation sensor assembly are illustrated as including multiple IR launching tubes 126A as the IR emitters and multiple opposing an IR receiving tubes 126B as the IR receivers. In the illustrated embodiments, the IR launching tubes 126A and IR receiving tubes 126B are shown as positioned in the side portions 151A and 151B of the pocket 122, for example in three pairs. Other arrangements and numbers of IR launching tubes 126A and IR receiving tubes 126B also can be used.

In some embodiments, the dimensions of the pocket/recessed are therein and/or the ranges and configurations of the IR beams can be defined so as to keep the sensing area 147 within the pocket. If contact is broken between an IR launching tube 126A and an IR receiving tube 126B pair, the system may dispense the material. In embodiments, each IR launching tube 126A and an IR receiving tube 126B pair may be within the pocket behind the line 150 by, for example, and without limitation, about 5 mm to about 15 mm. In other examples, FIGS. 27A-27C includes the IR assembly 145 placed in the same locations as the IR launching tube 126A and an IR receiving tube 126B pairs.

In some embodiments, the activation systems 120 of FIGS. 24A-27C may be combined with each other in any combination of two or more designs, thus IR assembly 145 may be placed on both the top portion 149 and the side portions 151A and 151B.

In embodiments, the front sensor assembly 140 can be configured to activate and/or deactivate additional portions of the dispenser assembly 10 and/or can cooperate with a passive infrared sensor or other suitable sensor to deactivate systems and save power when potential users are not detected in proximity.

While the activation system 120 is shown and described in conjunction with the sheet material dispenser in the illustrated embodiments, it is noted that the activation system 120 could be incorporated into any suitable dispensing system for various types of dispenser assemblies (e.g., a liquid dispenser, etc.).

In embodiments, opposing beam configuration of the dispenser activation sensor assembly 124 of the activation system 120 can help avoid unwanted dispensing of sheet material 11 from the dispenser assembly 10. For example, the embodiments of the dispensers and dispenser activation sensor assemblies such as disclosed herein can focus/narrow the activation of a dispensing operation such that inadvertent/unintentional triggering of the dispenser operation, such as when a user moves near the dispenser where the material is dispensed and passes a beam being reflected off a nearby surface (e.g., near a counter or floor over which the dispenser is positioned). Such inadvertent and unwanted dispensing activations can waste power and sheet material, and in some cases, such as when such the activation system is near the output of the sheet material, the dispensed sheet material itself could reflect IR rays to the sensor and cause continuous dispensing of the material.

While some dispensers have features to detect when the sheet material has been torn (e.g., a tear bar) designed to prevent continuous dispensing (e.g., by deactivating the dispensing sensor until the material has been torn), such systems add complexity and cost to the dispenser and may require the use of additional power, lowering the efficiency of the dispenser. Further, dispensers that rely on reflected IR beams to activate dispensing can require extensive calibration since it will not work properly if the beam is too strong or too weak and/or the sensor is too sensitive or not sensitive enough. Also, such dispensers can require calibration to account for environmental factors (e.g., nearby surfaces) during or subsequent to installation.

The dispenser activation sensor assembly 124 is configured to help avoid these and other potential issues by locating the emitters/receivers 126A/126B in the front recess 122, spaced from the output openings 35B/36B. It is unlikely that the IR beam of the dispenser activation sensor assembly 124 in the front recess 122 would be mistakenly broken by passersby. Rather, a dispensing operation will only be triggered when the IR beam in the front recess 122 is broken, which usually will occur in response to an activation gesture or other initiation action by a user (e.g., the user moving a hand into the pocket/front recess 122). In addition, the sheet material generally can be dispensed at a location spaced below the front recess 122 so as to substantially avoid triggering an unwanted dispensing operation, and a tear bar and/or other complications are not needed.

In embodiments, the operation of the visible light indicator 128 of the activation system 120 can help provide visual guidance for a user to know where to place a hand to activate a dispensing operation. Further, in some embodiments, by blocking the visible light emitted by the LED module 130, a user can be given feedback that they are in the proper place for triggering a dispensing operation (e.g., that they are placing their hand in the area so that the IR beam emitted by the IR emitter 126A has been blocked from the IR receiver 126B).

Any of the features of the various embodiments of the disclosure can be combined with, replaced by, or otherwise configured with other features of other embodiments of the disclosure without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

The foregoing description generally illustrates and describes various embodiments of the present invention. It will, however, be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications can be made to the above-discussed construction of the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as disclosed herein, and that it is intended that all matter contained in the above description or shown in the accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as being illustrative, and not to be taken in a limiting sense. Furthermore, the scope of the present disclosure shall be construed to cover various modifications, combinations, additions, alterations, etc., above and to the above-described embodiments, which shall be considered to be within the scope of the present invention. Accordingly, various features and characteristics of the present invention as discussed herein may be selectively interchanged and applied to other illustrated and non-illustrated embodiments of the invention, and numerous variations, modifications, and additions further can be made thereto without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention as set forth in the appended claims.