EP1673235B1

EP1673235B1 - A dispenser for folders

Info

Publication number: EP1673235B1
Application number: EP04817143A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Hans-Werner Groch; Steffen Seiffarth
Original assignee: Esselte Leitz GmbH and Co KG
Current assignee: Esselte Leitz GmbH and Co KG
Priority date: 2003-10-15
Filing date: 2004-10-13
Publication date: 2009-06-17
Anticipated expiration: 2024-10-13
Also published as: WO2005035264A2; EP1673235A2; WO2005035264A3

Description

The present invention relates to a dispenser for folders.
Folders or pockets made of a plastic material or the like are known. For example, these plastic folders are made of a relatively flexible material and the user can put papers in the folder.
Typically, a supply of folders, is provided to a customer in a stack contained in a cardboard box or bag. The size of the cardboard box reflects the size of the folders. For example, for A4 sized folders, an A4 sized box is provided. However, these boxes take up a considerable amount of room, thus causing inconvenience to the user. Additionally, removing folders out of the box requires the user either to remove a lid or to put his hand in one end of the box. This is not particularly convenient.
GB-A-2205277 discloses an apparatus for dispensing document holders. The document holders are provided on a roll which is contained in a box.
US-B1-6309750 discloses a notepad holder which is provided with a roller weight. Pulling off a note from the notepad holder under the roller weight creates friction and provides static electricity to the note.
Each DE-A-2320190 and FR-A-1379931 discloses a box which can be folded about a centre line, thus forming an opening for access to its interior.
Folders are a simple and safe way of storing paper documents, which are well protected from moisture and dirt by being inserted into the document pocket. As similar storage folders with different contents can only be distinguished if the content is studied and inspected more closely, in the case of known storage folders an insertion pocket is provided, into which a label is inserted. The insertion pocket is formed by a film strip, which is fixed to the plastic film by means of weld seams, wherein an insertion slot for the label remains free at one side of the strip. However it is expensive to manufacture such folders. After folding and welding the plastic film to form the document pocket, the film strip has to be positioned and connected with the plastic film in a further operation.
It is an aim of embodiments of the present invention to address these described problems.
According to the present invention, there is provided an apparatus for dispensing flexible folders according to claim 1.
For a better understanding of the present invention and as to how the same may be carried into effect, reference will now be made by way of example to the accompanying drawings, whereby the embodiments represented in figures 1-12 are not part of the present invention;

Figure 1a shows a box containing a supply of folders;
Figure 1b shows the box of figure 1a in a different orientation to provide a dispenser;
Figure 1c shows a plan view of a cardboard blank used to form the box and dispenser of figure 1a and 1b;
Figures 1d shows a U shaped supply of folders;
Figure 2a shows a further embodiment of the present invention housing a U shaped folder supply;
Figure 2b shows the arrangement in figure 2a in use;
Figure 3a shows schematically an elliptical dispenser embodying the present invention, in a flat configuration;
Figure 3b shows the dispenser of figure 3a as used;
Figure 3c shows a modified elliptical dispenser embodying the present invention;
Figure 4a shows folders to be received in a circular dispenser;
Figure 4b shows the circular dispenser for the folders of figure 4a;
Figure 4c shows schematically the composition of part of the side wall of the dispenser of figure 4b;
Figure 5a shows a further circular dispenser with a cover;
Figure 5b shows the dispenser of figure 5a with the cover removed;
Figure 6a shows two triangular dispensers;
Figure 6b shows the triangular dispensers of Figure 6a arranged for transport;
Figure 6c shows a triangular transportation box divided into two dispensers;
Figure 7a shows a roll of folders;
Figure 7b shows a two part dispenser for receiving a roll of folders;
Figure 7c shows the lid of the arrangement of figure 7b in more detail;
Figure 7d shows the base of the arrangement of figure 7b in more detail;
Figure 7e shows a detailed view of the arrangement shown in figure 7b in use;
Figure 8 shows a further embodiment for dispensing folders provided on a roll;
Figure 9 shows a first tubular dispenser for dispensing folders from a roll;
Figure 10a and show a second tubular dispenser for dispensing folders on a roll;
Figure 10c shows a modification to the arrangement of Figures 10a and b;
Figure 11a shows a storage folder embodying the invention in top view;
Figure 11b shows a portion of a double-layered film web, consisting of storage folders embodying the invention;
Figure 11c shows a schematic partial view of an unrolling device for the web shown in Figure 11b;
Figures 12a to 12h show a blank being assembled into a box for receiving a roll of folders;
Figure 12i shows the box of figures 12a to 12h in use;
Figure 13a shows a dispenser for a supply of folders arranged in a Z shaped configuration;
Figure 13b shows the supply of folders for the dispenser of figure 13a;
Figure 14a shows a dispenser for a supply of folders in an S shaped configuration;
Figure 14b shows a supply of folders arranged in an s shaped configuration;
Figure 15a shows a second dispenser for dispensing folders forming an S shaped supply;
Figures 15b to 15k show a blank for the dispenser of figure 15a and how the dispenser is constructed and put into the dispensing orientation.

It should be appreciated that in the context of this document, the term "folder" covers folders open on one, two, or three sides. The folders may be open along a topside, a bottom side or a long side where only one side is open. Where two sides are open, the two sides may be adjacent or opposite. The folders may thus form pockets.
The folders may have pre-punched holes for example for use with files. The pre-punched holes may be provided along any suitable edge of the product.
The folders may be sized so as to receive different sizes of paper, for example A4, A5, A3 or US standard sizes. In some embodiments of the present invention, the folders may be much smaller and for example may be sized so as receive business card sized products. Alternatively the folders may be much bigger.
The folders may be made of any suitable material such as paper, plastics, polypropylene, polyethylene, textiles, metal films, any combination of these materials or any other suitable material.
The folders may be embossed. The files may have a welding seam along the, some or each edges which are joined. A pocket may be provided for a label or an insert.
Reference will now be made to figures 1a to 1d which illustrate first embodiments.
Figure 1a shows a box 2 containing a supply of folders. The supply of folders may take one of two forms.
In a first embodiment, the folders when contained in the box 2 are arranged in a stack.
In a second embodiment , the box may contain two separate supplies of folders. The two separate supplies of folders may take the form of the supplies 4 shown in figure 1d. Thus, in this second embodiment, the folders are arranged in a U shaped configuration. Effectively, a stack of folders arranged one on top of the other is folded in half. The folder supplies 4 are arranged in box 2 such that the two folder supplies are side by side and the bottom 6 of the generally U shape extend across the width 8 of the box 2. The two bottoms 6 of the U of the two supplies 4 are arranged side by side along a middle of the box 2. To illustrate this embodiment, the supplies 4 are shown in the box 2 in dotted lines.
The box 2 has a line 12 down the centre of a long side 14. A corresponding line 12 is provided on the opposing long side 14. This line 12 can comprise a cut, a line of weakness such as a line of perforation or the like. The lines 12 are provided on the two longest sides 14 of the box.
The top 13 of the box has an area 16 in the middle thereof which is defined by perforations or by lines of weakness. The area 16 can easily be removed when the box 2 is to be converted from a supply box 2 to a dispenser. The area 16 can have any suitable shape. In the illustrated embodiment, the area 16 comprises a first generally rectangular portion 18 adjacent the line 12 of one long side 14, followed by a substantially oval area 20 followed by a second substantially rectangular area 21 adjacent to the line 12 on the opposite long side 14.
To open the box 2, the area 16 is easily removed as the area is defined by perforations or lines of weakness. As the edges of area 16 adjacent the lines 12 are free already, one of these edges 10 can be grasped by the user so that the area 16 can be removed.
When the area 16 has been removed, the box 2 is folded in half along a central line of the back surface 22 of the box to adopt the dispenser configuration 24 shown in figure 1b. The central line extends parallel to the centre line of area 16. A tab, which will be described further in relation to figure 1c is used to ensure that the box remains in the dispenser orientation shown in figure 1b.
The dispenser 24 has a divider 26, defined by the underside of the box, dividing the dispenser into two compartments 28. Each compartment may have its own folder supply 4 such as shown in figure 1d. Where two separate folder supplies are provided each folder supply may have a sheet of card or the like inside the U shape folder supply.
In an alternative embodiment, a single supply of folders is received and when the box 2 is folded in half, with a folder supply present, the folder supply adopts the U shaped configuration. The U shaped supply is arranged so that the bottom 6 of the U shape is at the opening 30 of the dispenser. The divider 26 will be in the middle of the folder supply.
The substantially oval area 20 of area 16 results in the curved cutaway parts 32 of the sides of the opening, illustrated in figure 1b. These curved cutaway parts 32 are such that the user will able to grip the sides of a folder to easily remove them from the dispenser. In other words the sides of the folder grasped by the user are exposed by the cutaway parts 32.
It should however be appreciated that in certain embodiments , the cut away parts 32 can be omitted. In such an embodiment, a single line of perforations would extend across the middle of the box 2.
Of course, other shapes of area 16 can be provided to facilitate removal of folders.
It should be appreciated whilst the dispenser of figure 1b is shown with the opening from which the folders removed in a vertical plane, in alternative embodiments , the opening may be provided by the top surface of the dispenser with the dispenser being orientated correspondingly.
Reference is now made to figure 1c which shows the blank 40 The part of the blank forming the underside or base of the box 2 comprises a first area 42 adjacent to a second area 44. The two areas are separated by a fold line 43 about which the blank can be folded to allow the box to adopt the configuration shown in Figure 1b. The first area 42 is separated by a fold line 45 from area 46a which forms part of one of the long sides 14 of the box. Likewise, the second area 44 is separated by a fold line 45b from area 46b which forms the other part of the long side 14 of the box. Areas 46a and 46b are separated by the line 12.
Similarly, area 48a is adjacent to the first area 42 on a side opposite to that adjacent area 46a. Area 48a is separated from the first area 42 by fold line 50a. Similarly, area 48b is adjacent to the second area 44 and is separated there from by fold line 50b. Fold lines 50a and 50b are contiguous. Areas 48a and 48b form the other long side 14 of the box. Areas 48a and 48b are separated by line 12.
On the side of area 46a opposite to that adjacent the first area 42 is area 52a. Likewise, area 52b is adjacent to area 46b on the side of that area opposite to the second area 44. Area 52a is separated from area 46a by fold line 54a whilst area 46b is separated from area 52b by fold line 54b. Fold lines 54a and 54b are contiguous. Areas 52a and 52b form the top of the box. In the blank shown in figure 1c, the perforated area 16. has been removed but is shown in dotted lines.
Adjacent the long side of area 52a, opposite the side connected to area 16, is area 56a. Likewise, area 56b is adjacent to area 52b. Area 56a is separated from area 52a by fold line 58a whilst area 52b is separated from area 56b by fold line 58b. Areas 56a and 56b are flaps which tuck into the base of the box when formed to close it. Areas 56a and 56b extend along the short sides 23 of the box shown in figure 1a.
Area 52a has a tab 60a whilst area 52b has a tab 60b. The tabs are provided on the edge of areas 52a and 52b opposite areas 46a and 46b respectively. These tabs tuck into the base of the box to close it. Area 52a is separated from tab 60a by fold line 62a whilst area 52b is separated from tab 62b by fold line 62b.
The long sides of the first and second areas 42 and 44 (opposite the side where areas 42 and 44 are adjacent) are respectively connected to areas 64a and 64b respectively. Between areas 42 and 64a is a fold line 66a whilst there is a corresponding fold line 66b between areas 44 and 64b. Areas 64a and 64b provide sides 23 of the box 2. Each of areas 42 and 44 has a pair of cut out areas 68. The cut out areas 68 provide elongate slots, one edge of each slot being contiguous with the respective fold line 66a and 66b.
Between the slots 68 of area 42 is a line 70 which is cut or perforated forming a tab 74. This cooperates with a slot 72 provided at a corresponding location on the fold 66b. In use, when the box is folded into the dispenser configuration, the tab 74 defined by line 70 is popped out and inserted in slot 72. This thus retains the dispenser in the folded configuration.
Adjacent each of areas 64a and 64b are respective sides 76. Sides 76 each have a pair of tabs 78 on the side opposite to the side adjacent to areas 64a and b respectively. Areas 64a and 76 are separated by fold line 80 whilst areas 64b and 76 are separated by fold line 82. When area 76 is folded along fold line 80 or 82 so that the surfaces of areas 64a and 76 and the surfaces of areas 64b and 76 are in contact, the tabs 78 are received in the respective slots 68.
Extending from the side of area 46a opposite to cut 12 is a tab portion 84. A similar tab portion 84 extends from the side of area 46b opposite to cut 12. Likewise, similar tabs 86 are provided extending from areas 48a and 48b. When the box is folded, one tab portion 84 and one tab portion 86 is provided between areas 76 and 64a. Likewise, one tab portion 84 and one tab portion 86 is provided between areas 64b and 76.
Extending from the side of area 48a opposite that connected to area 42b is a flap 90. A similar flap 90 is provided in a similar location with respect to area 48b. Fold lines 92 are provided between the flaps 90 and the areas 48a and 48b. Along each fold line 92 in the middle area thereof is a slot 94. These slots 94 in use receive tabs 60a and 60b respectively to hold the box closed.
It should be appreciated that in embodiments , where two folder supplies in the two compartments may be different i.e. have a different configuration, made of different materials, have different qualities or be of different colours.
It should be appreciated that any other arrangement may be used to hold the box in the dispenser configuration. For example a plurality of tabs and slots may be provided. The location of the arrangement to hold the box in the dispenser configuration may be along sides 23 and/or sides 14. In one embodiment adhesive material such as glue, tape, a label or a sticker may be used to hold the box in the dispenser configuration.
The orientation of the dispenser with respect to the box can be selected as desired taking into account the size of the folders.
Reference is made to figures 2a and 2b which show further embodiments.
In figure 2a, folder supply 100 has a plurality of folders arranged in an U shaped configuration in the box shaped dispenser 102. The supply 100 of folders is orientated so that the base 104 of the folder supply 100, about which the folders are folded, extends along the opening. A sheet of card or the like is arranged inside the U of the folder supply, in one alternative embodiment.
Figure 2a shows the box shaped dispenser in the configuration in which it will be sold to a customer. A perforated line 106 is provided along two opposite sides 108 of the box shaped dispenser. Using the perforations 106 the user is able to remove end wall 110 of the box shaped dispenser 102 and portions 114 of the respective side walls 108, as defined by the respective perforations 106.
Figure 2b shows the box shaped dispenser (without the folders for clarity) with the end wall 110 and portions 114 of the side wall 108 removed. As can be seen, the box shaped dispenser 102 as shown in figure 2b has a similar configuration to that shown in figure 1b but without the dividing wall. The folder supply 100 is received in the box shaped dispenser 102 with the base 104 of the U extending along the opening 112.
The cut away portions 115 as with the embodiments shown in figure 1b facilitate the removal of the folders. The cut away portions 115 have a similar shape to that discussed in relation to figure 1b. However, in alternative embodiments the cut away portions can of course have any suitable shape.
In one modification to the invention, the customer is sold the box shaped dispenser as shown in figure 2b, that is with the opening for removal of the folders already defined. The folders will be contained in the box shaped dispenser and may be protected by shrink wrapping or the like.
It should be appreciated that the arrangement shown in figure 2b is by way of example only and other suitable shapes can be provided. For example, the box shaped dispenser may also have a top surface 116 thereof partially or completely removed. The folders may, in that example, extend above the plane defined by the upper edges 118 of the box shaped dispenser.
The cut away portions 114 may be omitted or have a different shape. In one embodiment, the upper edges 118 of sides 108 of the box shaped dispenser may be arranged so that they are angled with respect to the longitudinal axis (e.g. the axis which is parallel to the base 104 of the supply of folders). The angling may be such that the walls are shorter near the base 104 and taller at the ends of the folders remote from the base 104 of the U of the folder supply.
In one modification, the box shaped dispenser is open on two sides and the contour of the edge of the open part of the side walls may be curved in a substantially arc like fashion or have any other suitable shape.
The dispenser may be orientated with the opening arranged along a vertical axis, as shown in the figures, or with the opening arranged at the top of the dispenser parallel to the base on which the dispenser is supported.
In one modification to this embodiment, the user may be provided with a box shaped dispenser either having the configuration shown in figure 2a or the configuration shown in 2b in a flat pack manner. The folder supply would also be flat and the user would assemble the box shaped dispenser themselves.
Reference is now made to figures 3a, 3b and 3c. These figures illustrate an elliptical dispenser. The dispenser, as shown in figure 3a, can be provided as a flat unit 200. The packaging would be in the form of a flattened tube having two edges 202 and 204 extending along the length of the unit. There can be one or two joins for the material as appropriate.
Fold line 205 is provided, one on each side of the tube. The fold line 205 is curved as is the bottom 207 of the tube 200. Fold line 205 curves inwardly of the tube and the bottom 207 of the tube is curved outwardly.
In use, the packaging is opened out by pushing edges 202 and 204 together. When.the bottoms 207 of the unit are folded, about the respective fold line 205, an elliptical base is formed for the tube. The bottom formed will not be flat but will curve inwardly of the elliptically shaped tube. An elliptically shaped tube 210 is provided in which a U shaped supply of supply 206 of folders can be inserted. This is shown in figure 3b.
In figure 3b, a base 208 is provided for the elliptically shaped tube 210. This base may comprise a slit into which the bottom of the elliptically shaped tube 210 is inserted. To insert the bottom of the tube into the base 208, the bottom of the tube is pushed together to adopt the orientation show in Figure 3a. The fold lines 205 may be omitted in this embodiment. Because of the presence of the folders, the upper end of the tube remains elliptical. The folders would then be supported in the dispenser 210 at a point above the upper end 212 of the base 208. The position of the folders in the dispenser 210 is illustrated in dotted lines.
Figure 3c shows an elliptical dispenser 210 with a different base 214. In this case, the base 214 comprises an elliptical opening 216 in which the dispenser 210 is inserted.
In one embodiment, the elliptical dispenser may be made of flexible plastic or cardboard. The bases shown in figure 3b and 3c may be made of a more substantive material such as solid plastic or metal. In one embodiment, the dispenser as shown in figure 3b or figure 3c, may be provided as a single unit i.e. with the dispenser 210 permanently attached to the respective base. In some embodiments the base may not be provided.
Reference is now made to figures 4a, 4b and 4c which show a circular cross-section dispenser 250. The dispenser comprises a base 252 and a tube section 254 having a circular cross section.
The upper end 256 of the tube section 254 may be in the horizontal plane, parallel to the plane on which the holder is standing. However, in the embodiment shown in figure 4b, the top 204 of the tube is generally contained in a plane angled with respect to the horizontal plane. The top of the tube section 254 may be additionally or alternatively arranged to define a curve or the like. The top of the tube can take any other suitable form.
In use, the folder supply 249 shown in figure 4a are inserted in the dispenser 250 shown in figure 4b. The folder supply 249 adopts a substantially C or O shaped configuration.
The folders are arranged to be inserted into the dispenser. In preferred embodiments , the middle 258 of the C is arranged to be supported at the highest part of the tube. In alternative embodiments, the middle of 258 of the C shape folder supply may be arranged to be supported at the lowest part of the tube.
It is preferred that in use, the folders protrude from the tubular dispenser 250 to such an extent that they can easily be removed.
Figure 4c shows in cross-section a part of the wall of the dispenser 250. As it can be seen, the wall comprises a first inner wall 260 and a second outer wall 262. The first and second walls 260 and 262 are separated by an air gap 264. The two walls 260 and 262 are joined at the top of the dispenser by a top wall 266. A similar wall may be provided at the bottom of the dispenser. The inner wall 260 may be shorter, the same size or taller than the outer wall 262.
In alternative embodiments the walls may be solid and comprise a single wall.
One embodiment, this dispenser may be made out of a polypropylene material. The tube section 254 may be provided joined to or be integral with the base. However, in alternative embodiments, the base may be provided separately from the tube. The base may be non disposable while the tubular dispenser may be disposable.
Reference is now made to figures 5a and 5b which show a second circular dispenser 270.
As shown in figure 5A, the dispenser 270 comprises a tube 272 having a circular cross section in which a supply of folders 274 is inserted. A lid 276 is provided on top of the tube 272 covering the folders. Figures 5a shows the dispenser with the lid in place and figure 5b shows the dispenser with the lid removed.
It should be appreciated that the top edge 278 of the tube 272 may be contained in a horizontal plane parallel to the plane on which the dispenser stands, or as shown in figure 5a and 5b be arranged to be contained in a plane angled thereto. In the arrangement shown in figure 5b, the middle point of the folders 280 are provided at the location where the height h of the tube is at its lowest. This provides easier access to the folders. The folders may of course be provided in different orientations with respect to the dispenser.
The lid may be used just for transport and packaging and may be discarded. Alternatively, the lid may be retained to protect the supplies. If the top edge of the tube 272 is angled, the lower edge of the lid may be correspondingly angled.
The dispenser shown in figure 5a or b may be made of any suitable material, such as cardboard, plastic etc.
Figure 6a and 6b show a dispenser 300 similar to that shown in figures 5a and 5b. However, the dispensers have a triangular cross section. The dispensers comprise a first tubular part 302 which receives the folders and a lid 304 which covers the folders. The folder supply 306 in this embodiment would be encouraged to adopt a V shape configuration.
Figure 6b shows how the dispenser 300 of figure 6a can be arranged for packaging. As can be seen, the triangles are arranged in an apex down, apex up, apex down, apex up configuration. In this way, the amount of space required for transportation can be minimised.
Figure 6c shows a variation of the arrangement shown in figure 6a. In this embodiment, the package for transport 310 has a line of perforations 312 about the middle thereof. The package can then be divided into two dispensers 314 about the line of perforations. Thus, two different supplies of folders may be provided one in each dispenser. The two different supplies may both be incorporated in the package 310 for transportation.
In preferred embodiments the arrangement provided in figure 6c is made of a cardboard material. Other materials such as plastics, or the like may alternatively or additionally be used. The two dispensers may be separate, and held together using tape, labels or packaging during transportation.
Reference is made first to figures 7a to 7d which show a first dispenser for dispensing a supply of folders on a roll. As shown in figure 7, a supply 400 of folders comprises a core 402 around which a number of folders are wound. The folders are connected together by a area of weakness such as a line of perforations or the like.
The roll of folders is dispensed from the dispenser 404 shown in figure 7b. The dispenser 404 shown in figure 7b comprises a base part 406 and a lid 408.
The lid 408 is shown in more detail in figure 7c. As can be seen, the lid comprises a base 410 which is surrounding by four up standing walls. A first wall 412 along one long edge has a height A. The wall 414 opposite wall 412 has a height B. A is less than B. The side walls 416 and 418, opposite one another and between side walls 412 and 414 have a height A along the edge connected to wall 412 and a height B at the edge connected to wall 414. The upper edge of walls 416 and 408 thus are angled relative to the plane containing base 410.
Figure 7d shows the base part 406 in more detail. The base part 406 has an open side 420 into which the folder supply 400 can be inserted. In one of the long sides 422 adjacent the opening 420, an elongate slot 424 is provided. The elongate slot 424 has a length generally corresponding to the width W of the folders provided on the supply 400. In practice, this slot will be a little bigger than the width W. Also provided is a cut away portion 426 defined by perforations or the like which extends in the middle of side 422 from the slot 424 and down partially into side 428 which is opposite opening 420. Also provided on side 428 is a partially cut away portion 430.
When the product is initially provided to the end user, the supply of folders 400 is accommodated in the base portion 406.
The lid 408 is arranged so that the long side 410 extends over the slot 424.
To use the dispenser, the user places the lid on the base part in the configuration shown in figure 7e. The short side 412 is thus arranged to cover part of side 422. However, slot 424 is not covered by side 412. The cut away portion 426 is removed with the assistance of the partially cut away portion 430 (which may remain). The portion which is removed allows the user to make sure that the folders exit the slot. Additionally in use, the folder will be torn against edge 432 of the lid, this is the edge of the short side 412. The user is able to insert his thumb into the cut away portion 426 and hold the roll down with his thumb. The user pulls the folders until an area of weakness or perforations is against wall 412 of the lid and more particularly the edge 432 thereof. Whilst the user holds the roller folders down in the box with his thumb, using the cut away portion, the folder can be torn off the roll.
In this way, the lid is able to provide two functions, firstly, the lid protects the product during transportation and secondly, the lid is able to provide extra strength for helping with the tearing of a folder off the supply.
The orientation of the lid may be changed and tearing can take place against the edges 432 or 429 of respective sides 412 or 414 depending on the orientation of the lid relative to the base.
Reference is now made to figure 8 which shows a second dispenser for receiving a supply of supply 400 of folders on a roll, such as shown in figure 7a.
In the arrangement shown in figure 8, a slot 440 is provided along the length of a side 442 of the arrangement 444. The side 442 is a long side of the dispenser and extends perpendicular to the horizontal plane of the top surface 446. The slot 440 may be defined by two lines of parallel perforations extending along side 444. To use the product, the user would remove the strip of cardboard defined by the two lines of perforations in order to provide the slot 440. Alternatively, the slot may be predefined and already open, thus avoiding the need to remove the strip of cardboard.
The area around the slot may be reinforced or have a tearing strip to facilitate tearing. Alternatively, a reinforced part for tearing or tearing strip may be provided elsewhere on the dispenser.
A hanger or handle 448 may be defined. The handle or hanger 448 is defined by the surface 450 opposite to the surface defining the slot. In particular, the area 448 is defined by a line of perforations on surface 450. In user, the user will break the perforations and move the handle or hanger 448 up to the position shown in figure 8.
Depending on whether or not the portion is to be a hanger or a handle, the configuration of the portion shown may alter.
There may be an elongate.slot sized so as to allow the user to put his fingers there through and to carry the product. Additionally or alternatively, holes by which the dispenser can be hung may be provided. The slots and holes may be defined by lines of weakness and may be removed as appropriate by the user.
In alternative embodiment the hanger or handle may be defined on any other suitable surface or surfaces of the dispenser.
Reference is now made to figure 9 which shows a further embodiment in which the roll of folders 400 are received in a plastic extruded tube 460. The tube has an elongate slot 462 formed along the length thereof in order to allow the folders to be removed. There may be a relatively sharp edge 464 provided along the edge of the slot 462 against which the folders can be torn off the roll.
The dispenser shown in figure 9 is designed to be refillable. Accordingly, at least one of the ends 466 is removable so that a new roll of folders can be inserted and old cores can be removed. At least one and preferable both end portions' comprise an inward cylindrical projection 468. The longitudinal axis of the cylindrical projection 468 extends and coincides with the longitudinal axis of the dispenser. The cylindrical projection 468 is arranged to be received inside the core 402 of the supply. In this way, the core is able to rotate about the projections on each end portion.
The or each end portion 466 which is removable can be attached to the tubular part 460 of the dispenser by any suitable way such as by a push fit mechanism, a snap fit mechanism, a screw thread, or any other suitable method.
The inward projection in some embodiments may be conical.
Figures 10a and b shows a similar dispenser to that shown in figure 9. The dispenser 490 shown in figure 10a and b is moulded plastic whilst the arrangement shown in figure 9 is extruded plastic.
Reference is now made to figures 10a and 10b which show a further embodiment. In particular, the dispenser 490 has two parts 491 and 492. Each part 491 and 492 comprises a substantially cylindrical part. Thus, to access a roll or to insert a new roll of folders, the two parts 491 and 492 are separated. The two parts 491 and 492 together define a slot 497 through which folders 493 can exit. The two parts have an arrangement 496 for facilitating the separation of one folder from the next. This is described in more detail with reference to figure 11.
The roll of folders 493 can be retained in position in the dispenser in any suitable way, such as that described in relation to figure 9.
In cross section, the dispenser has first substantially circular part which is where the roll of folders is accommodated. A straight part extends outwardly from the slot 497 defining the facilitating part 496. For aesthetic purposes, this is matched by a parallel straight part extending from the opposite side of the dispenser. The two straight parts are joined together by a curve.
As can be seen in figure 10a, which shows one part 491, a slot 495 is provided. A similar slot can be provided on the other half. This can be used to mount the dispenser on the wall. The slot has an opening 494 which is generally T shaped. Thus, the T shaped slot allows a wider portion of a hanging member to be inserted in to the slot 495 with a narrower part of the mounting portion being accommodated in the slot 495. This slot arrangement can be used for example to receive the head of a screw, a nail or for example a suction pad having a suitable head.
In the arrangements of figure 9 or figure 10, the dispenser may have two parts with each part having a length corresponding to the roll, thus provide a clam shell type arrangement, The two halves may be hinged together.
Reference is now made to Figure 10c which shows a modification to the dispenser shown in Figures 10a and b. The dispenser 362 comprises a tubular part 350 arranged to contain a roll of folders 360. The tube is closed at one end by closure member 354. The closure member 354 has a cylindrical projection 356. The cylindrical projection is arranged to be received in a cylindrical projection 358 of a positioning member 352. The cylindrical projection 358 with the cylindrical projection 356 received therein is itself received in the core of the roll of folders. The positioning member may be generally circular. Its projection 358 may extend on both sides of the positioning member or just one side. Where it extends on both sides, the extent of projection is greater on the side which engages with the core.
The closure member may be rotatable to cause folders to be wound out from the roll of folders.
A closure member may be provided at each end of the dispenser.
The dispensers of Figures 9 and 10 may be used with their longitudinal axis horizontal or vertical.
Reference is now to figures 11a to 11c which illustrate a further dispenser for dispensing files from a roll.
A storage folder 801 as shown in Figure 11a is produced in one piece from a transparent plastic film. The plastic film is folded along a folded edge 804 so that it comprises a front cover 806 and a rear cover 808 which is connected in one piece thereto by the folded edge 804 and overlaps the front cover 6. Front and rear covers 806, 808 are connected to one another by a first interrupted decorative weld seam 812 along a lower edge 810 of the storage folder 801 running transversely to the folded edge 804. Parallel to the first weld seam 812 and spaced therefrom runs a second interrupted decorative weld seam 814, which forms a lower boundary edge of a document pocket serving to store documents and limited by the front and the rear covers 806, 808. The front cover 806, the rear cover 808, the folded edge 804 and the first and the second seams 812, 814 delimit an insertion pocket 816, into which a label 818 is inserted. The insertion pocket 816 is open at a fourth side 820 so that the label 818 can be inserted via the fourth side 820 into the insertion pocket 816 and can be removed from it again. So that the label 818 can be inserted more easily into the insertion pocket 816 and removed from it again, the front cover 806 and the rear cover 808 each comprise grasping notch 822, 823 open at the edge. As a result one end of the label 818 protrudes from the insertion pocket 816 and can be grasped for its withdrawal. The grasping notches 822, 823 are shaped as segments of circles, with the radius of the grasping notch 822 of the front cover 806 being less than the radius of the grasping notch 823 of the rear cover 808. To insert the label 818 into the insertion pocket 816, it is placed on the front cover 806, which at this position protrudes slightly over the rear cover 808.
At the side edge situated opposite the folded edge 804, the front and the rear covers 806, 808 are connected to one another via a side weld seam 826 which extends upwards from the second weld seam 814. The side weld seam 826 extends to just below the centre of the document pocket and is constructed as an interrupted decorative weld seam. At its upper end 828, it comprises a welding zone extending in its longitudinal direction to increase the stability of the connection. Connected to the upper end 828 of the side weld seam 826, the front and the rear covers 806, 808 each have a relieving notch 830 open at the edge. The relieving notches 830 open at the edge absorb forces when the document pocket is opened and thereby relieve the side weld seam.
Documents are inserted into the document pocket via the open upper edge 832 opposite the lower edge 810 and the open portion of the side edge 824 above the side weld seam 826. At these points the front cover 806 and the rear cover 808 are not welded together. To insert documents into the document pocket, the rear cover 806 at the open portion of the side edge 824 has a grasping notch 834 open at the edge, so that the front cover 6 can be better grasped at this point to open the document pocket.
To identify the storage folder 801, the plastic film has a strip-shaped colour impression 836 along the folded edge 804. Furthermore, the storage folder 801 can be folded over along the second weld seam 814, so that when there are several storage folders lying in a pile the labels 818 inserted into the insertion pockets 816 can be turned over without the storage folders having to be lifted from the pile.
The plastic film is produced from two sub-films connected to one another by laminating. The first sub-film has a smooth surface and forms the inner side and the second sub-film forms the outer side of the storage folder. The latter has a slip-resistant surface.
In accordance with a further embodiment (Figure 11b), several storage folders 801 are connected to one another in one piece and form a double-layer film web 840. In this case the lower edge 810 of one storage folder 801 is connected in one piece to the upper edge of an adjacent storage folder 801 via a perforation 842. Each storage folder 801 has between the first and the second weld seams 812, 814 several retaining holes 844 spaced apart, which extend through the front cover 806 and the rear cover 808. As shown in Figure 11c, the film web 840 is wound onto a roller 852, which is rotatably mounted on a mount. The thus formed unrolling device 850 for the film web 840 additionally has a housing 854 surrounding the roller 852 with a delivery slot 856 for the film web 840. On one outer side of the housing 854, a bar 858 is fixed along the delivery slot 856 and has spaced apart retaining pins 860. In this case the distance between adjacent retaining pins 860 is the same as the distance between adjacent retaining holes 844 on the film web 840. To separate individual storage folders 801 from the film web 840, this is done placing the retaining holes 844 on the retaining pins 860 and held fast by them. The adjacent storage folder hanging down from the fixed storage folder is separated along the perforation 842 by a simple movement of the hand. After separation a label 818 can be inserted between the first and the second weld seams 812, 814.
The bar 858 has an inwardly directed part 859 between the pins 860 and the roll. This inwardly directed part guides the folders from the roll to the pins.
The label part can be omitted.
Embodiments of the invention provide a storage folder for documents with a plastic film, which to form a document pocket is folded along a folded edge 804 so that it comprises a front cover 806 and a rear cover 808 connected thereto in one piece by the folded edge 804, wherein the front and rear covers 806, 808 are connected to one another by a first seam 8012 at a lower edge 810 running transversely to the folded edge 804. A second seam 814 which connects the front cover 806 to the rear cover 808 and forms a lower boundary edge of the document pocket is disposed transversely to the folded edge 804 and spaced from the first seam 812.
Reference is made to figures 12a to 12i which show the blank for a dispenser and the steps to assembly the blank.
Figure 12a shows the various parts of the blank. The various parts of the blank will be described as the stages of the assembly of the blank are explained.
As shown in figure 12b, the base of the dispenser is formed by area 506. Area 504 which extends adjacent to and along a long edge of area 506 is moved to be perpendicular to the plane of area 506 to form the side wall. Areas 518 which are provided at each of the short ends of area 504 are folded inwardly so as to be in a plane perpendicular to areas 504 and 506 and to form part of the side wall.
Areas 520 are adjacent to each of the short sides of area 506. Areas 520 are adjacent to area 522 which are on the side of area 520 opposite to that occupied to areas 518 when in the blank form. Thus, areas 520 and 522 are moved so as to adopt a position parallel to area 518, which is in contact with area 520.
Areas 526 are provided adjacent to each area 520 on the side opposite to that occupied by area 506. Area 524 is adjacent on one side to area 526 and area 522 on the other side. However, a cut is provided between areas 522 and 524. Areas 526 and 524 are folded over to sandwich area 518 between areas 520 and 526 on the one hand and bring areas 522 and 524 into contact on the other hand.
A slot 530 is provided between each area 520 and 506. The areas 526 each have a tab 540 which when in the folded position shown in figure 12c is received in the respective slot 530. There is also a slot 532 between areas 520 and 526. These slots can be seen clearly from figure 12b on the right hand side thereof. Figure 12c shows the box of figure 12b with both sides formed.
Reference is now made to figure 12d. The side portions made up of sides 524 and 522 in contact are folded about fold line 534 so that they lie parallel to back wall 504.
The next step is illustrated in figure 12e. Next, area 508 which is on the side of region 506 opposite region 504 is moved into a position in which it is in contact with portions 522 and extending parallel to area 504. The area 510 adjacent to the long side of area 508, opposite to area 506 is then folded over so that it is parallel to area 504 but in contact with portions 524.
A tab 538 on the long side of area 510, opposite to area 508 is received in a slot 533 defined between regions 506 and 508.
It should be appreciated that areas 508 and 510 are separated by a relatively thin area 536. Area 536 is separated from areas 508 and 510 by fold lines for lines of weakness. This area 536 is typically of the order of a few millimetres and may for example be 5 to 10mm in width, depending on the material used. This feature provides additional strength for the front wall which is useful in that the folders are torn against this front wall. The area 536 also provides an increased for the folders which improves the tearing off function.
As shown in figure 12f a supply 400 of folders on a roll is inserted into the box.
Area 502, which is on the side of area 504 opposite to area 506, is folded so as to be parallel to area 506 and cover the opening. Tabs 537 on the short sides of area 502 are tucked in the box but are not received in slots 532. However, in alternative embodiments they may be received in these slots. In figure 12g the dispenser is lying on area 504.
In figure 12h, the area 500 adjacent to area 502, opposite to area 504, is moved so as to be parallel to and in contact with area 508. Two tabs 516, on area 500 on the side opposite to that in contact with area 502 are received in respective slots 540 which lie along the line between areas 506 and 508.
Figure 12h shows the package in the dispenser in its enclosed state with area 502 upper most. Area 502 has a first curved area 512 defined by perforations. The perforations extend along the length between areas 502 and 500. A second area 533 is provided. Area 533 is defined by a first curve and a second curve defining in a moon shaped portion. The area 533 has a line of weakness. Accordingly, when the user wants to use the product, he can push his finger or thumb into area 533. The area 533 is pushed inwardly and is broken along the edge in contact with area 512. The area 533 may or may not be removed. The user is then able to grab hold of area 512. By pulling area 512, the user removes portion 512 and tears along the line of perforations 542 to thereby remove side 500.
The user is thus able to get hold of the first folder from the roll. In order to tear off the roll, the user pulls the folder until an area of weakness is reached. The user is able to hold the roll by putting his thumb in through the opening defined by the removal of area 512 and hold the roll down. The user tears the folders off against the edge of area 536. The double layer construction of the front wall provides extra strength and ensures that it is strong enough for the user to be able to get a clean tear along of the edge of the folders.
Figure 12h shows the side 502 with the cut away portion 512 removed with a folder coming out of the opening defined between side 502 and side 508. It should be appreciated that when side 500 is removed, side 502 may pop up as tabs 537 are not received in the corresponding slots 532. This is to allow the user to easily obtain the first folder. Once the user has obtained the first folder, the area 502 may be held in position by inserting tabs 537 into the respective slots 532.
Reference is made to figure 13a which shows a dispenser 600 for dispensing a supply of folders as shown in figure 13b. The supply 602 of folders comprise folders separated by lines of perforations 604. The folders are arranged in a Z shaped configuration. In other words, a strip of folders separated by lines of perforations are folded so that each individual folder adopts a Z shaped configuration. The Z shaped folding can take any suitable form so for example, a folder may provide one side of a Z or a single folder may be formed into an entire Z shape and part or all of a succeeding Z shape. This will be determined based on the size of the folders and the dispensers.
The supply 602 of folders are housed in the dispenser which is a box like shape. The box has an opening 606 on its top surface. When the dispenser is packaged, the opening 606 is closed. A piece of card is removed to define opening 606. In order to easily remove the piece of card covering opening 606, perforations 608 are defined on either side of the card to be removed to define the opening. The opening can take any suitable shape. In the embodiment shown in figure 13a, the opening has one straight side extending across the length of the dispenser. The other side has a curved portion arching in a direction away from the straight line extending across the box. This is to allow the user to get his hand into the dispenser and remove the first folder. The folders are fed out of the opening 606.
To tear off a folder, an edge 610 of the upper surface of the box is used. This edge is parallel to the general length of the opening 606. The edge may be reinforced with an additional part for example of plastic, metal, or the like to provide a clean tear.
In one modification to the invention, the dispenser may be provided with the opening already defined.
Reference is now made to figures 14a and 14b. The dispenser 650 shown in figure 14a is arranged to receive a supply 652 of folders arranged in an S shaped configuration. The folders are stacked one on top of another and the stack of folders is folded into an S shaped configuration. The folders are not connected to each other. The dispenser 650 is substantially rectangular.
One side wall portion 655 extends only partially across the side. This creates an area 654 which is open and allows the user to access the contents of the dispenser. This area is adjacent a further open area 656 on an adjacent perpendicular side wall. Thus, open areas 654 and 656 join at a corner.
Area 656 is adjacent a partial wall portion 658 which extends along the height of the dispenser. The area 658 is joined to a further portion 659 which extends parallel to the plane containing wall 655 but spaced there from. Portion 659 is between the front and back walls of the dispenser.
The s shaped supplies 652 of folders is inserted in the dispenser such that the first curve 660 of the S is exposed in the opening. The portion 659 is provided between this first curve 660 and the end of the folder, that is in the second curve 661 of the S.
In use, the user grabs hold of a folder and pulls it out. The wall portion 659 thus acts as a guide.
Reference will now be made to figure 15 which shows a second dispenser embodying the present invention for receiving an s shaped supply of folders such as shown in figure 14b.
Figure 15a shows the dispenser 701 as assembled and in use. The embodiment shown in figure 15 is similar to that shown in figure 14a. However, an internal spring arrangement is provided to facilitate removal of the folders.
Reference is made to figure 15b which shows the spring blank. The structure of the cardboard blank will be discussed in relation to Figures 15c to k which show how the dispenser is assembled and then subsequently used.
As shown in figure 15c, area 700 is placed on a surface. The area 702 adjacent the first long side thereof and area 704 adjacent the other long side thereof are folded so as to be perpendicular to areas 700 and thereby form the two long sides. Both areas 702 and 704 are connected to respective areas 706 and 708. Areas 706 are provided on each of the short sides of area 702 and are cut out on three sides thereof. Areas 708 are similarly positioned with respect to area 704. These areas are folded inwardly so as to be perpendicular to areas 702 and 704 respectively and form part of the side walls.
An area 710 is provided adjacent to the short edges of area 700. This area is moved so that it is perpendicular to area 700 and is in contact with 706 and 708. Adjacent the side of area 710 opposite area 700 is provided area 712. Area 712 is again moved so as to be perpendicular to area 700 and contacts the side of flaps 706 and 708 opposite to that contacted by side 710. Thus, as shown in figure 15d, the side walls are thus formed.
Reference is now made to figure 15e which shows that the spring 750 is folded as to adopt a zig-zag shaped configuration. In particular, the spring comprises a first area 752 which is separated from a second area 754 by a narrow strip 756. Similarly area 754 is separated from a third area 758 by a second strip 760. The strips 760 and 756 may be defined by fold lines, lines of weakness or the like. The length of area 752 is arranged to correspond to the length L of the box. Area 754 is arranged to be narrower that area 752. Area 758 may have substantially the same or slightly less length than area 752.
It should be appreciated that area 758 is roughly the same size as areas 754 and 752 combined. However, this will depend on the dimensions and shape of the dispenser. The spring 750 is folded as shown in figure 15e to adopt an zig-zag like configuration.
As shown in figure 15f (and figure 15k which shows a cross-section through the dispenser which the spring and a supply of folders in place), the supply of folders in the form of a stack is inserted into the box. The ends of the folders are arranged against side 702. The spring is inserted into the box with the free end of area 752 being inserted against side 702. Area 754 is then pushed against area 752 with area 752 lying parallel to and in contact with wall 702. Strips 756 and 760 in use are generally parallel to the base 700 of the dispenser. Area 758 is placed over the part of the supply of folders on the base of the dispenser.
The supply of folders is folded over area 758. Area 720 which is adjacent the long side of area 704, on the side opposite to that of area 700 is then placed on top of the next part of the supply. Area 720 has tabs 722 on the short sides thereof which engage in slots 724 defined in sides 712. The folders are then folded to rest on top of area 720. Thus, the folders are received in the dispenser with each curve of the S having a separating member. The first separating member is provided by the spring and the second separating member is provided by the area 720. This is illustrated in figure 15h and figure 15k.
The spring in combination with area 720 provides some resistance to the removal of folders. In this way, when a user grasps hold of one folder and pulls, only one folder is pulled out of the box. The flexibility of the spring means that the folders can still easily be removed regardless of whether the dispenser is full or the supply is nearly exhausted.
Area 754 tends to move towards area 720 when a folder is being removed. In figure 15k, area 754 is shown as being generally vertical. In practice, this wall may be angled away from area 752. This will tend to increase the resistant to removal of the folders between area 720 and area 754. The area 752 is arranged against the back wall of the dispenser. This provides a surface against which the spring can act. Strip 760 may be in a horizontal plane. This tends to act downwardly on any folders underneath that point. Area 758 is angled into the second curve of the S shape of the folders and tends to resist the removal of the folders. The position of area 758 shown in Figure 15k is when a folder is being removed.
When the next folder is pulled, the edge of area 758 tends to go backwards towards area 752. Area 754 can not go upwards (only backwards) because area 756 is fixed with top of the box. As a result area 760 will be pushed down and keep the underneath folders down.
Thus, in summary, the spring resists the movement of the folders which means that only one folder is removed at a time. The spring in combination with area 720 also defines a path for the folders.
Next, as can be seen in combination of figures 15h and 15i, the area 728, adjacent the long side of area 702 opposite to that adjacent to area 700 is folded down to cover the upper surface of the box. Area 728 has tabs 730. The tabs 730 are provided on the shorter sides of areas 728 and are received in corresponding slots 732 (seen in figure 15c) defined between the area 710 and 712 respectively. Thus, the lid is held in place. The area 728 has a cut out portion 734 similar to area 533 and a removable portion 736 similar to area 512.
Adjacent to the long side of area 728, opposite area 702 is a closing flap area 738 which has tabs 740. Area 738 and tabs 740 correspond and function similarly to areas 500 and 516 of the embodiment shown in figure 12 and thus will not be described in more detail.
As with the embodiment shown in figure 12, the areas 736 and 738 can be removed and discarded, thus creating the dispenser shown in figure 15a. Figure 15, illustrates the areas 738 and 736 along with tabs 760 being separated and removed from the box.
It should be appreciated that the dispensers embodying the present invention may be made of any suitable material. For example, the dispensers may be made of papers, cardboard, corrugated cardboard, plastic material moulded material moulded plastic polypropylene, metal, wood or the like.
The dispensers embodying the present invention may be disposable or refillable. Where the dispensers are disposable the dispensers are preferably made of cardboard of plastic. Where the dispensers are refillable they are preferable made of plastics, or metal. However, it should be appreciated that some cardboard dispensers can be made to be refillable.
It should be appreciated that features of the different embodiments can be combined to create further embodiments.
In another embodiment of the invention, the folders may be interleaved so that when one is pulled of the dispenser, the next folder is partially pulled out by the user.
The dispensers of the invention have been used for dispensing folders. However, the dispensers described can be used for other types of product such as bags (whether of paper, plastics or of any suitable material), stationery products such as paper, slides for over head projectors, sheets of labels, foodstuffs such as chocolates, biscuits, beauty products such as soaps, make-up, perfume, cleansing products or the like hygiene products such as gloves or wipes. The dispensers may not be used as dispensers and instead be used just for the packaging of products. The boxes shown in figures 12 and 15 may be particularly suitable for this alternative usage although other embodiments of the invention can also be used.

Claims

Apparatus for dispensing flexible folders, comprising a box for a supply of a plurality of folders and a stack of folders, said stack of folders being arranged in the box in an S or Z shaped configuration, said box comprising an opening along one side thereof through which said folders are removable, wherein a resistance member (750) is positioned in the box which is arranged to act in conjunction with said box to provide resistance to the removal of folders.
Apparatus as claimed in claim 1, characterised in that at least a portion (758) of said resistance member (750) is arranged to be received between a first curve of said S or Z.
Apparatus as claimed in claim 1 or 2, characterised in that said resistance member (750) has a portion (752) which is arranged to act against a wall of said box.
Apparatus as claimed in claim 3, characterised in that the wall against which the portion (752) of the resistance member acts is a side wall positioned opposite the opening.
Apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, characterised in that a portion (720) of said box is received between a second curve of said S or Z.
Apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, characterised in that the resistance member (750) has a portion (760) positioned on the top of a section of the stack of folders.
Apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, characterised in that the resistance member (750) has a zigzag like configuration.
Apparatus as claimed in claim 7, characterised in that said resistance member comprises a first, a second and a third area (752, 754, 758), a first strip (756) positioned between the first und the second area (752, 754) and a second strip (760) positioned between the second and the third area (754, 758).
Apparatus as claimed in claim 8, characterised in that said resistance member (750) is a cardboard blank folded along lines between the strips (756, 760) and the areas (752, 754, 758).
Apparatus as claimed in claim 9, characterised in that the lines are lines of weakness.
Apparatus as claimed in any of claims 8 to 10, characterised in that a section of the stack of folders is positioned between the first strip (760) and the bottom of the box and that the third area (758) is received between the first curve of said S or Z.