Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
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RECESSED UNIT FOR DISPENSERS
TECHNICAL FIELD
This invention relates to a recessed frame for one or more washroom
fixtures, in particular for dispensers, which frame will hold the fixture or
fixtures in a secure manner in a recessed opening in a wall. More
particularly,
this invention relates to a recessed frame for a dispenser or a dispenser and
a waste bin wherein two telescoping members allow at least the dispenser to
be positioned in a desired position relative to an outer surface of a
surrounding wall.
BACKGROUND ART
Washroom fixtures, such as dispensers for paper and waste receptacles,
may be of the surface-mounted type in which the fixture is mounted on the
outer surface of a wall, the partially recessed type, or the fully recessed,
flush-mounted type where the fixture is received within a wall recess
sufficiently deep to allow mounting of the front of a dispenser and/or a waste
receptacle substantially flush with the wall surface.
Dispensers of the surface-mounted type are characterized by having a rear
attachment for mounting the dispenser on a wall and a cover enclosing the
material to be dispensed. Consequently it may sometimes be undesirable to
mount fixtures such as dispensers and waste receptacles on the surface of
the wall because they may project an undesirably great distance outward
from the wall surface. Projecting fixtures can become obstacles for disabled
persons and the positioning of such fixtures is regulated by law in a number
of countries, including USA (see the Americans with Disabilities Act, "ADA").
A problem for many dispenser manufacturers is that regulations such as ADA
preclude the use of certain types of dispensers in public washrooms.
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A number of dispensers are intended for products requiring a predetermined
amount of space or a particular dispensing direction. In such cases it is
often
preferred to recess the dispenser and waste receptacle as much as possible.
An example of a partially recessed unit containing a dispenser for paper and
a waste receptacle is shown in US-D 342 175. This unit comprises a frame to
be recessed into a wall opening and an upper section provided with a
dispenser for paper covered by a door attached to the frame. A problem with
a unit of this type is that the entire unit has to be replaced if it is
desired to
change the type or capacity of the dispenser. It is, for example, not possible
to replace the manual dispenser shown, having a dispensing opening at the
lower end of the dispenser, with an automatic dispenser with a dispensing
opening on the front surface of the dispenser. In addition, to replace the
dispenser shown with a dispenser of a different model requires a substantial
modification of the new dispenser. The above problems also apply to
dispensers of the fully recessed, flush-mounted type.
It is an object of the present invention to solve the above problems by
providing an improved arrangement for mounting washroom fixtures, in
particular dispensers.
DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION
The above objects are achieved by means of a recessed frame for at least
one fixture as described herein.
According to a preferred embodiment, the invention relates to a recessed
frame for supporting at least one fixture in a wall opening. One such fixture
may be a dispenser for paper or towels. Non-limiting examples of fixtures that
may be used within the scope of the invention are normally wall mounted
manual or automatic dispensers intended for discrete hand towels, coreless
web rolls or a continuous towel loop. Other fixtures may include different
types of dispensers for toilet paper and/or soap dispensers. The invention
allows for replacing or interchanging a wide range of dispensers of this type.
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The frame may comprise a first sub frame having spaced apart wall members
defining an opening. The first sub frame may have first flange members
extending from an outer periphery of the frame. When mounting the first sub
frame substantially flush with a wall surface surrounding the wall opening the
first flange members are arranged to cover any gaps between the opening
and the outer edges of the frame. When mounted, the first flange members
will be in contact with an outer surface of the wall opening. The frame
further
comprises a second sub frame having substantially the same geometric
configuration as said first sub frame. At least one section of said second sub
frame being arranged to telescope with respect to said first sub frame. In
this
way the second sub frame may be arranged for adjustable positioning
relative to the first sub frame by means of said telescoping relationship and
with respect to the wall surface surrounding the said wall opening. The
relative size of the respective first and second sub frame is selected so that
one may slide inside the other with a loose fit to allow the said adjustable
positioning. In addition, releasable securing means may be provided for
locking the first and second sub frames relative to each other in a
predetermined position. The maximum relative telescopic displacement
between the first and the second sub frame may be in the range 50-150 mm,
or preferably 70-120 mm. For instance, a recessed frame that will only be
required to accommodate paper dispensers having a relatively limited depth
may only need an allowable displacement of up to 50 mm from an inner to an
outer position of the displaceable sub frame. On the other hand, a recessed
frame that is required to accommodate different types of dispensers having a
variety of depths may need an allowable displacement of up to 150 mm from
the inner to the outer position.
The said sub frames may preferably, but not necessarily, have a rectangular
configuration. The horizontal and/or vertical spacing between opposing side
walls of the frame may be selected depending on a particular type or a
limited range of dispensers or other fixtures to be mounted in the frame.
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Alternatively the spacing may be determined by the largest dispenser or
other fixture, in a range of possible fixtures, to be mounted in the frame.
According to the invention, one of said sub frames is provided with securing
means adapted to fasten said sub frame in said wall opening. As stated
above, one of said sub frames is of a larger cross section than the other sub
frame, allowing an inner surface of the larger sub frame to slide against an
outer surface of the other sub frame. Preferably, the sub frame having the
larger cross section is provided with securing means adapted to fasten said
sub frame in said wall opening. The securing means may be arranged for
mounting the sub frame having the larger cross section in said wall opening
independently of the other sub frame and prior to the installation of said
fixture.
In the subsequent text the term "depth" refers to a dimension taken at right
angles to the outer surface of the wall surrounding the wall opening. Hence,
the depth of a fixture such as a dispenser represents the distance between
the rear and front surface thereof.
The securing means are preferably provided on the second sub frame, this
larger sub frame is first positioned in the wall opening. The position is
determined by the size, or depth, of the fixture and in particular by the
desired or allowed projected distance outward from the wall surface. The
fixture is preferably, but not necessarily, attached to a rear surface on the
second sub frame using suitable attachment means. The rear attachment
means may comprise the existing attachment means provided on the fixture.
The rear wall may be a metal sheet covering the entire second sub frame or
at least the portion of the sub frame between a lower end of an upper fixture,
such as a paper dispenser and the upper end of a lower fixture, such as a
waste receptacle. A predetermined number of crossbars may be positioned
at suitable locations between at least the vertical sides of the second sub
frame to allow for mounting of a dispenser for hand towels, toilet paper, soap
or similar fixtures. Additional fixtures, such as a waste receptacle may be
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attached to a rear attachment means the second sub frame at the same time.
Subsequently the second sub frame is fixed to the sides of the wall opening
by means of the securing means. The first sub frame may be temporarily
attached to the second sub frame during the positioning procedure, or be
5 inserted into the second sub frame once it is fixed in position. Finally,
the first
sub frame is slid into the second sub frame until the flange members come
into contact with the outer wall surface. The releasable securing means are
then used for locking the first and second sub frames relative to each other
in
the desired position.
When the securing means are provided on the first sub frame the mounting
procedure is reversed. Hence the first sub frame is slid into the wall opening
until the flange members come into contact with the outer wall surface. The
first sub frame is then fixed to the sides of the wall opening by means of the
securing means. Subsequently the second sub frame, preferably with the
fixtures mounted, is slid into the first sub frame until the second sub frame
reaches a desired position. The position may be determined by the size, or
depth, of a first fixture and in particular by the desired or allowed
projected
distance outward from the wall surface. When the first fixture is a dispenser
for paper, the dispenser is often mounted at the upper part of the second sub
frame. Such dispensers may vary greatly in depth and the position of the
second sub frame is preferably selected so that the front surface of the
dispenser is at least flush with the wall surface, or extends a predetermined
distance out from the wall surface. The releasable securing means are then
used for locking the first and second sub frames relative to each other in the
desired position.
In order to allow the first fixture, such as a paper dispenser, to be replaced
the fixture is releasably attached to the second sub frame. A stated above the
first fixture, may be mounted to the second sub frame prior to the assembly
of the first and second sub frames, or be mounted after the frames have
been positioned and assembled. The first fixture may be secured to the
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second sub frame by means of any suitable means such as a nut and bolt
connection, threaded screws or a quick clamp arrangement.
The fixture may be releasably attached to a second sub frame intended for a
stand-alone fixture, such as a manual or automatic dispenser for discrete
hand towels, coreless web rolls or a continuous towel loop. Other single
fixtures may include a dispenser for toilet paper or a soap dispenser.
According to a further example, a first fixture may be releasably attached to
an upper section of a second sub frame intended for an upper fixture and at
least one further fixture may be releasably attached to a lower section of the
second sub frame. When the upper fixture is a dispenser for paper towels or
a coreless paper roll, the at least one further fixture may comprise a waste
receptacle attached to a lower section of the second sub frame.
According to a further example, a first and a second fixture may be
releasably attached side by side to a second sub frame. For instance, one
such fixture could comprise a soap dispenser and the second dispenser
could comprise a dispenser for paper towels or toilet paper. The combination
of fixtures may be determined by the location of the frame relative to other
washroom fixtures, such as a wash-hand-basin or a toilet. A side-by-side
arrangement of this type may also be provided for an upper and/or a lower
section of a second sub frame. For instance, fixtures such as a soap
dispenser and a dispenser for paper towels could be provided in the upper
section of a second sub frame, while a single waste receptacle may be
attached to a lower section of the second sub frame. The lower section of the
second sub frame could also be provided with multiple waste receptacles of
the same or of different sizes, in order to allow for sorting of recyclable
waste.
The principle of the telescoping first and second sub frames can be applied
to the above examples by a suitable horizontal and/or vertical scaling of the
sub frames.
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For a recessed frame comprising a single fixture, such as a dispenser for
toilet paper or soap, the fixture may be releasably attached to the second sub
frame. Similarly, for a recessed frame comprising an upper and a lower
fixture, for example a dispenser and a waste receptacle, both fixtures may be
releasably attached to the second sub frame. In this way is possible to
replace one or both fixtures if necessary. For instance, if a larger capacity
dispenser is to be fitted to the recessed frame it may be necessary to adjust
the relative position between the first and second sub frames, in order to
maintain or adjust the projected distance of a front surface of the dispenser
relative to the wall surface. Such an adjustment may also require the waste
receptacle to be reattached to the second sub frame using distance elements
to maintain the position of the front surface of the waste receptacle relative
to
the wall surface. Alternatively, the waste receptacle may be replaced to
compensate for an added volume of discarded paper from the larger capacity
dispenser. When fixtures are arranged in a side-by-side relationship,
adjustment may be performed to place the fixture having the smallest depth
flush with the wall surface. Alternatively, the fixture having the largest
depth
may be placed to project a desired and/or a maximum allowable distance
from the wall surface. Hence, the positioning of the second sub frame may be
determined by the relative dimensions of the smallest and the largest fixtures
mounted to the said sub frame.
According to a further example, the upper and lower sections of the second
sub frame are arranged as individual sections mounted in the first sub frame.
Such an arrangement would allow for separate telescopic adjustment of
fixtures such as a dispenser and a waste receptacle. For instance, an upper
and a lower second sub frame may be arranged to telescope individually with
respect to the first sub frame. The relative movements of the sub frames are
guided partially by the telescoping relationship between the first sub frame
and the respective upper and lower second sub frames, and partially by
interconnecting means between the opposing side edges of the two second
sub frames. According to one example, the interconnecting means may be a
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pair of dovetail connections. The vertical location of the horizontal dividing
line between the upper and lower second sub frames may be chosen so that
the rear wall covers the gap between an upper and a lower fixture. At the
same time the there should be no gap between the rear wall and the rear,
upper portion of the fixture mounted in the lower sub frame.
According to the above, the recessed frame allows the relative position of the
first and the second sub frame to be selected dependent on the dimension of
the fixture, such as a dispenser, at right angles to the wall surface of the
surrounding wall. In particular, the relative position of the first and the
second
sub frame is selected dependent on a desired position of the fixture relative
to the said wall surface. Consequently, the relative position of the first and
the second sub frame may either be selected so that the fixture is located
substantially flush with the flange members of the first sub frame or so that
the dispenser is arranged to project a distance past the said flange members.
As stated above, when fixtures are arranged in a side-by-side relationship,
adjustment may be performed to place the fixture having the smallest depth
flush with the wall surface. Alternatively, the fixture having the largest
depth
may be placed to project a desired and/or a maximum allowable distance
from the wall surface.
Because the second sub frame is arranged to accommodate dispensers of
different sizes, there may be a gap between at least the upper and side walls
of the dispenser and the inner sides of the adjacent sub frame. It is
desirable
to cover this gap, in order to prevent accumulation of dust or to prevent
users
from accessing the sides of the dispenser. To close the gap one of the sub
frames is provided with second flange members extending between this sub
frame and at least three sides of the dispenser. For instance, if the above
mentioned securing means are provided on the second sub frame, then the
second flange members are attached to the first sub frame, and vice
versa.When the recessed frame is intended for a stand-alone dispenser the
second flange members may be provided around all four sides of the
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dispenser. Alternatively, the recessed frame is intended for a second sub
frame having an upper section for a dispenser and a lower section for a
waste receptacle. For such an arrangement the second flange members may
be provided around three sides of the dispenser (top and side edges).
Depending on the design of the waste receptacle, a set of second flange
members may also be provided around three sides of a waste receptacle
(bottom and side edges). The second flange members may be arranged flush
with the first flange members or be angled relative to the plane of the first
flange members in direction of the outer periphery of the dispenser and/or the
waste receptacle. The second flange members may comprise individual
extruded profiles or a single moulded unit fitted over and around the
dispenser or other fixture. The flange members may be made of aluminium,
stainless steel or a suitable plastic material and can be screwed or snapped
into place. The above second flange members may also be given a desired
colour, surface texture or other property to achieve a desired aesthetic
effect.
The improved arrangement is intended to allow the replacement of and/or
mounting of any type of dispenser that can be fitted within the fixed
horizontal
and vertical dimensions and adjustable depth of the second sub frame.
However, when the dispenser has been mounted it must also be possible to
access the dispenser for service and re-filling. A number of existing
dispensers are provided with a locking device located at the top of the front
cover and/or adjacent a join between the front cover and a rear wall arranged
for attachment to a wall or similar.
In order to allow a dispenser with a locking device located in or adjacent an
upper region of the front cover to be mounted in a recessed frame according
to the invention, an actuating mechanism may be provided adjacent a lower
section of the dispenser. The actuating mechanism may allow opening of a
locked upper, first locking device, for locking the front cover. The first
locking
device may comprise a key operated lock connected to a rotatable latch
means cooperating with a retaining means that will be described below. If
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required the actuating mechanism be provided with a separate second
locking device, for locking the actuating mechanism itself.
According to a preferred embodiment, the actuating mechanism may be
arranged in a recess or guide in the front or rear surface of the rear wall
5 section
of the dispenser. A lower end of the actuating mechanism may be
arranged flush with or protruding a short distance from the lower surface of
the dispenser adjacent the dispensing opening. The lower end of the
actuating mechanism may be an actuator in the form of a button having a
rectangular, rounded or any other suitable shape. The outer surface of the
10 actuator
may be provided with a suitable marking, colour or texture in order
to facilitate for the user to locate it.
The lower end of the actuating mechanism may be fixed to a central section
extending from the actuator to an upper end adjacent to the upper, first
locking device. The central section may be arranged to extend in a
substantially vertical direction between the upper and lower ends of the
dispenser. Depending on available space, the upper end of the central
section may be located below or to either side of the first locking device. An
upper surface of the central section is arranged adjacent, but not necessarily
in contact with, a corresponding lower surface on an upper section of the
actuating mechanism. The upper section of the actuating mechanism may
comprise a displaceable component arranged slidable in the vertical direction
relative to the rear wall section of the dispenser. The upper section may
comprise a tongue or a similar device arranged for retaining a latch in the
upper, first locking device in a locked position.
When the actuator is depressed by a user, the actuating mechanism is
displaced vertically upwards from first, inactive position to a second, active
position. After a predetermined vertical displacement, the upper surface of
the central section will contact with the lower surface of the upper section.
The upper section is then displaced in the vertical direction wherein the
tongue is moved from a locking position into an unlocked position, where it is
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out of contact with the latch of the upper, first locking device. Once the
first
locking device has been released, the front cover of the dispenser may be
removed, for instance by tilting the front cover outwards and downwards. If
the dispenser is mounted in a recessed frame as described above, the front
cover may be surrounded by at least three flange members, arranged to
close the gap between the frame and the dispenser. In such cases the front
cover may be required to perform a first, horizontal and outwards movement
to clear the surrounding flange members. The first movement is then followed
by a second, outwards and downwards movement to open the front cover. A
type of hinge that can perform such a movement is disclosed in the
international patent application PCT/SE2005/001376. The actuating
mechanism may be spring loaded by a suitable spring means in order to
ensure that the mechanism is returned to its first, inactive position. The
upper
section of the actuating mechanism may be returned to its locking position by
a suitable spring means or under the influence of gravity.
According to a further embodiment, the central section may be provided with
an extension, extending parallel to and past the upper section of the
actuating mechanism. The extension is terminated a predetermined distance
below an inner surface of the top of the front cover. When the actuating
mechanism is actuated, the upper section is displaced in the vertical
direction
to release the upper, first locking device. Once the first locking device has
been released, the extension will contact and apply a force onto the inner
surface of the cover in order to assist the opening of the front cover.
The actuating mechanism may be provided with a separate second locking
device located in or adjacent the actuator or button used for releasing the
first
locking device. In order to make the dispenser more vandal resistant, the
visible part of the first locking device at the top of the dispenser may be a
decoy lock. This can be achieved by providing a locking device with no
mechanical connection between the outer visible part of the lock and the lock
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mechanism that hold the front cover in position inside the cover.
Consequently, the only way to access the dispenser is to unlock the lower,
second locking device for the actuator and use the actuating mechanism for
releasing the upper, first locking device.
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BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
In the following text, the invention will be described in detail with
reference to
the attached drawings. These schematic drawings are used for illustration
only and do not in any way limit the scope of the invention. In the drawings:
Figure 1 shows a recessed frame according to a first embodiment of the
invention;
Figure 2 shows a side view of the frame in Figure 1;
Figure 3 shows a recessed frame according to a second embodiment of
the invention;
Figure 4 shows a side view of the frame in Figure 3;
Figure 5A shows a recessed frame arranged for simultaneous positioning
of an upper and a lower fixture;
Figure 5B shows a recessed frame arranged for individual positioning of
an upper and a lower fixture;
Figure 6 shows a front view of a second sub frame from a recessed
frame according to Figure 5A;
Figure 7 shows a dispenser for use in a sub frame according to the
invention;
Figure 8 shows a rear wall of the dispenser in Figure 7 comprising an
actuating mechanism according to the invention;
Figure 9 shows a perspective view of a first part of the actuating
mechanism; and
Figure 10 shows a perspective view of a second part of the actuating
mechanism.
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EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION
Figure 1 shows a recessed frame 11 according a first embodiment of the
invention. The recessed frame 11 is arranged for supporting a dispenser 12
for paper towels and a waste receptacle 13 for used towels. The dispenser is
a manual feed dispenser for discrete paper towels through a dispensing
opening in a lower surface. The frame 11 comprises a first sub frame 14
having spaced apart wall members 14a, 14b, 14c, 14d defining a rectangular
opening. The first sub frame 14 has first flange members 15a, 15b, 15c, 15d
extending outwards at right angles from an outer periphery of the frame 11.
When mounting the first sub frame 14 substantially flush with a wall surface
surrounding a wall opening (not shown) the first flange members 15a, 15b,
15c, 15d are arranged to cover any gaps between the wall opening and the
outer surfaces of the recessed frame 11. When mounted, the first flange
members 15a, 15b, 15c, 15d will be in contact with an outer surface of the
wall opening. The frame 11 further comprises a second sub frame 16 having
the same rectangular configuration as the first sub frame 14. The second sub
frame 16 is arranged to telescope with respect to said first sub frame 14. In
this way the second sub frame 16 can be arranged for adjustable positioning
relative to the first sub frame 14 with respect to the wall surface
surrounding
the said wall opening. The relative size of the respective first and second
sub
frame 14, 16 is selected so that the first sub frame 14 may slide inside the
second sub frame 16 with a loose fit to allow the said adjustable positioning.
Releasable securing means 17a, 17b, 17c, 17d in the form of threaded
screws are provided for locking the first and second sub frames 14, 16
relative to each other in a predetermined position. The second sub frame 16
is provided with securing means 18a, 18b, 18c, 18d adapted to fasten the
sub frame 16 and the recessed frame 11 itself in said wall opening (see
Figure 2).
Because the second sub frame 16 is arranged to accommodate dispensers
of different sizes, there may be a gap between at least the upper and side
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walls of the dispenser 12 and the inner sides of the first sub frame 14. To
close the gap the first sub frame is provided with second flange members
19a, 19b, 19c extending between this sub frame and three sides of the
dispenser. The second flange members comprise an L-shaped profile
5 attached to the inner surface of the first sub frame 14 by means of
screws. In
order to allow replacement of the second flange members, the first sub frame
is provided with a number of threaded holes at predetermined intervals (not
shown). When a dispenser is replaced, a set of second flange members
adapted for that particular dispenser can be fitted.
10 The dispenser 12 and waste receptacle 13 are both releasably attached to
the second sub frame 16. In this way it is possible to replace one or both
units if necessary. For instance, if a larger capacity dispenser is to be
fitted to
the recessed frame it may be necessary to adjust the relative position
between the first and second sub frames 14, 16, in order to maintain or
15 adjust the projected distance of a front surface of the dispenser
relative to the
wall surface. Such an arrangement is shown in Figure 3.
Figure 2 shows a side view of the recessed frame 11 in Figure 1, wherein a
recess R in the wall where the frame 11 is mounted is indicated with dash-
dotted lines. The recessed frame 11 in Figures 1 and 2 is provided with a
manual feed dispenser 12 having a relatively limited depth. The dispenser 12
of Figure 2 only requires a limited displacement X1 of the second sub frame
16 relative to the first sub frame 14 in order to achieve a desired projection
of
the front surface of the dispenser 12 relative to the surrounding wall surface
S. The dispenser 12 is attached to a rear wall 20 of the second sub frame 16
using the existing attachment means for the dispenser.
Figure 3 shows a recessed frame 21 according a second embodiment of the
invention. The recessed frame 21 is arranged for supporting a dispenser 22
for paper towels and a waste receptacle 23 for used towels. In this
embodiment, the recessed frame 21 and the waste receptacle 23 are
identical to those of Figure 1, while the dispenser 22 is an automatic
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dispenser for a different type of hand towel. As opposed to the dispenser of
Figure 1, this dispenser is provided with an infra-red sensor for actuating an
automatic feed mechanism for single paper sheets through a front opening.
The frame 21 comprises a first sub frame 24 having spaced apart wall
members 24a, 24b, 24c, 24d defining a rectangular opening. The first sub
frame 24 has first flange members 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d extending outwards at
right angles from an outer periphery of the frame 21. When mounting the first
sub frame 24 substantially flush with a wall surface surrounding a wall
opening (not shown) the first flange members 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d are
arranged to cover any gaps between the wall opening and the outer surfaces
of the recessed frame 21. When mounted, the first flange members 25a, 25b,
25c, 25d will be in contact with an outer surface of the wall opening. The
frame 21 further comprises a second sub frame 26 having the same
rectangular configuration as the first sub frame 24. The second sub frame 26
is arranged to telescope with respect to said first sub frame 24. In this way
the second sub frame 26 can be arranged for adjustable positioning relative
to the first sub frame 24 with respect to the wall surface surrounding the
said
wall opening. The relative size of the respective first and second sub frame
24, 26 is selected so that the first sub frame 24 may slide inside the second
sub frame 26 with a loose fit to allow the said adjustable positioning.
Releasable securing means 27a, 27b, 27c, 27d in the form of threaded
screws are provided for locking the first and second sub frames 24, 26
relative to each other in a predetermined position. The second sub frame 26
is provided with securing means 28a, 28h, 28c, 28d adapted to fasten the
sub frame 26 and the recessed frame 21 itself in said wall opening (see
Figure 4).
The second sub frame 26 is arranged to accommodate dispensers of
different sizes. In order to close a gap between at least the upper and side
walls of the dispenser 22 and the inner sides of the first sub frame 24, the
first sub frame is provided with second flange members 29a, 29b, 29c
extending between this sub frame and the said three sides of the dispenser.
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The dispenser 22 and waste receptacle 23 are both releasably attached to
the second sub frame 26, in order to allow replacement of one or both units if
necessary. In this case, as a larger capacity dispenser has been fitted to the
recessed frame it is necessary to adjust the relative position between the
first
Figure 4 shows a side view of the recessed frame 21 in Figure 3, wherein a
recess R in the wall where the frame 21 is mounted is indicated with dash-
dotted lines. The recessed frame 21 in Figures 3 and 4 is provided with an
automatic dispenser 22 having a relatively large depth. The dispenser 22 of
Figure 5A shows the recessed frame of Figure 3, with the fixtures removed.
The frame 21 comprises a first sub frame 24 having spaced apart wall
members 24a, 24b, 24c, 24d defining a rectangular opening. The first sub
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size of the respective first and second sub frame 24, 26 is selected so that
the first sub frame 24 may slide inside the second sub frame 26 with a loose
fit to allow the said adjustable positioning. Adjustment of the relative
position
between the sub frames 24, 26 is achieved by first mounting the second sub
frame in the wall opening and attaching it thereto. The second sub frame 26
is provided with securing means 28a, 28b, 28c, 28d adapted to fasten the
sub frame 26 in said wall opening. The position of the second sub frame is
determined by the particular dispenser to be used. The first sub frame 24 is
then pushed into the second sub frame and is fixed using releasable securing
means 27a, 27b, 27c, 27d in the form of threaded screws. This arrangement
allows for simultaneous positioning of an upper and a lower fixture, such as a
dispenser and a waste receptacle, attached to the rear wall 20 of the second
sub frame 26.
Figure 5B shows a recessed frame 31 allowing for independent positioning of
an upper and a lower fixture, such as a dispenser and a waste receptacle.
The first sub frame 32 of this embodiment is identical to the first sub frame
24
of Figure 5A, and has been described in detail above. However, in this
embodiment, an upper and a lower second sub frame 33, 34 are arranged to
telescope individually with respect to the first sub frame 24. The relative
movements of the sub frames are guided partially by the telescoping
relationship between the first sub frame and the respective upper and lower
second sub frames, and partially by interconnecting means between the
opposing side edges of the two second sub frames 33, 34. In this example,
the interconnecting means is a pair of dovetail connections 35, 36. These
dovetail connections 35, 36 allows the second sub frames 33, 34 to be
adjusted relative to each other in a direction at right angles to the
surrounding
wall, as shown by arrows A1 and A2. At the same time the dovetail
connections 35, 36 provide sufficient rigidity to the assembled second sub
frame 33, 34 to allow the same securing means 38a, 38b, 38c, 38d to be
used for fastening the sub frames 33, 34 in a wall opening. Each second sub
frame 33, 34 is provided with an individual rear wall 37, 39. This arrangement
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allows for individual positioning of an upper and a lower fixture, such as a
dispenser and a waste receptacle, attached to their respective rear wall
37,38 of the respective second sub frames 33, 34.
Figure 6 shows a front view of a second sub frame 26 according to Figure 5A
arranged in a wall opening W. As can be seen from the figure, the second
sub frame 26 is arranged with a relatively small spacing between the outer
periphery of the sub frame and the adjacent edges of the wall opening W.
Securing means are arranged adjacent the corners of the upper and lower
wall members 26a, 26b of the sub frame 26. The securing means 28a, 28b,
28c, 28d comprise threaded screws with an enlarged end section mounted in
corresponding threaded recesses in upper and lower members of the second
sub frame 16. When the second sub frame 16 has been positioned in the
opening, the securing means 18a, 18b, 18c, 18d are rotated and brought into
contact with the inner surfaces of the wall opening. The wall members of the
second sub frame 26 must have sufficient rigidity to allow the sub frame to be
clamped in the wall opening W without causing deflection of the wall
members or distortion of the sub frame.When a dispenser has been mounted
in a recessed frame according to the invention it must also be possible to
access the dispenser for service and re-filling. Figure 7 shows a dispenser 41
for use in a sub frame according to the invention. The dispenser 41 is
provided with a lock 42 located at the top of the front cover 43 adjacent a
join
between the front cover 43 and a rear wall 44 of the dispenser. The rear wall
44 is in turn arranged for attachment to a rear wall of a recessed frame (not
shown). Hinges (not shown) are attached to the lower ends of each side wall
45, 46, allowing the front cover 43 to be folded outwards and downwards
when the lock 42 is released. This particular dispenser 41 is an automatic
dispenser provided with an infra red sensor 47 and is arranged for dispensing
individual paper towels from a dispensing opening 48 at the lower end of the
dispenser.
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Figure 8 shows a rear wall 44 of the dispenser in Figure 7. The dispenser 41
is provided with the above mentioned lock 42 located in or adjacent an upper
region of the front cover 43. In order to allow the dispenser 41 to be opened
when mounted in a recessed frame as shown in Figure 5A, it is provided with
5 an
actuating mechanism. The actuating mechanism comprises an actuator in
the form of a button 51 provided adjacent a lower section 57 of the dispenser
41. The actuator, or button 51 is arranged for opening of a locked upper,
first
locking device 53, in order to release the front cover 43. The first locking
device 53 comprises a key operated lock 42 connected to a rotatable latch 54
10
cooperating with a retaining means 55 of the actuating mechanism. The
retaining means will be described in detail below.
If required the actuating mechanism can be provided with a separate second
locking device (not shown), for locking the actuating mechanism itself. For
instance, the second locking device could comprise a key operated lock in
15 the
actuator, which lock can comprise a pair of locking pins which engage
with recesses in guide surfaces in the rear wall on either side of the
actuating
mechanism.
According to the embodiment shown in Figure 8, the actuator 51 is arranged
in a guide 56a in a rear surface of the rear wall 44 of the dispenser 41. A
20 lower
surface 57 of the actuating mechanism is arranged flush with the lower
surface 52 of the dispenser adjacent the dispensing opening 48. In this
example the lower end of the actuator has the form of a button having a
rectangular shape (not shown).
The actuator, or button 51 is fixed to an extended central section 58
extending from the button 51 to an upper end 59 of the said central section
adjacent and below the first locking device 53. The central section 58
extends in a substantially vertical direction in the guide 56a in the rear
wall 44
between the upper and lower ends of the dispenser 41. The guide 56a
comprises parallel, vertical guide surfaces located on both sides of, and
partially enclosing the central section 58. An upper surface 60 of the central
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section 58 is arranged adjacent a corresponding lower surface 61 on an
upper section 62 of the actuating mechanism. The upper section 62 of the
actuating mechanism comprises a displaceable component arranged slidable
in a second guide vertical extension of the guide 56a in the rear wall 44 of
the
dispenser 41. The second guide 56b comprises parallel, vertical guide
surfaces located on either side of, and partially enclosing the upper section
62. The retaining means 55 is arranged on the upper section 62 of the
actuating mechanism and holds the rotatable latch 54 in its locked position.
When the actuator 51 is depressed by a user, the actuating mechanism is
displaced vertically upwards from first, inactive position to a second, active
position. After a predetermined vertical displacement of the central section
58
the upper surface 60 of the central section 58 will contact with the lower
surface 61 of the upper section 62 of the actuating mechanism. The upper
section 62 is then displaced in the vertical direction wherein a tongue (see
Figure 10) on the retaining means 55 is moved from a locking position into an
unlocked position out of contact with the latch of the first locking device.
Once the first locking device has been released, the front cover of the
dispenser can be removed by tilting the front cover outwards and
downwards.
The actuating mechanism is spring loaded by a spring means 63 in order to
ensure that the mechanism is returned to its first, inactive position. The
spring means 63 comprises a pair of resilient tongues 64, 65 attached to and
extending to either side of the central section 58. When the actuating
mechanism is displaced, each tongue 64, 65 come into contact with and are
resiliently deformed by a respective stop 66, 67. When the mechanism is
released, the spring means 63 will return it to its first, inactive position.
In a
similar way, the upper section 62 of the actuating mechanism is returned to
its locking position by a spring means 68.
The central section 58 is provided with an extension 69, extending parallel to
and past the upper section 62 of the actuating mechanism. The extension 69
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is terminated a predetermined distance below an inner surface of the top of
the front cover 43. When the actuating mechanism is actuated, the upper
section 62 is displaced in the vertical direction to release the upper, first
locking device 53. Once the first locking device 53 has been released, the
extension 69 will contact and apply a force onto the inner surface 70 of the
front cover 43 in order to assist the opening of the front cover.
Figure 9 shows a perspective view of a first part of the actuating mechanism
in the dispenser of Figure 8. The actuating mechanism comprises the said
actuator, or button 51 fixed to the central section 58 extending from the
button 51 to the upper end 59 of the said central section adjacent and below
the first locking device 53 (see Figure 8). The central section 58 extends in
a
substantially vertical direction in the guide 56a in the rear wall 44 of the
dispenser 41. An upper surface 60 of the central section 58 is arranged
adjacent a corresponding lower surface 61 on an upper section 62 (see
Figure 10) of a second part of the actuating mechanism.
The actuating mechanism is spring loaded by a spring means 63 in order to
ensure that the mechanism is returned to its first, inactive position. The
spring means 63 comprises a pair of resilient tongues 64, 65 attached to and
extending to either side of the central section 58. When the actuating
mechanism is displaced, each tongue 64, 65 come into contact with and are
resiliently deformed by a stop arranged on the rear wall of the dispenser.
When the mechanism is released, the spring means 63 will return the
actuating mechanism to its inactive position.
The central section 58 is provided with an extension 69, extending parallel to
and past the upper section 62 of the actuating mechanism. The extension 69
is terminated a predetermined distance below an inner surface of the top of
the front cover 43.
The central section 58 is provided with an extension 69, extending to one
side of and past the upper surface 60 of the actuating mechanism. The
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extension 69 is terminated a predetermined distance below an inner surface
of the top of the front cover 43, as shown in Figure 8. When the actuating
mechanism is actuated, the upper section 59 of the actuating mechanism is
displaced in the vertical direction to release the upper, first locking device
53.
Once the first locking device 53 has been released, the extension 69 is
arranged to contact and apply a force onto the inner surface of the front
cover in order to assist the opening of the front cover.
Figure 10 shows a perspective view of a second part of the actuating
mechanism in the dispenser of Figure 8. The upper section 62 of the
actuating mechanism comprises a displaceable component arranged slidable
in the second guide 56b on both sides of and partially enclosing the upper
section 62. The retaining means 55 is a tongue extending at right angles from
the main plane of the upper section 62 of the actuating mechanism. A catch
71 is arranged to extend at right angles from the tongue on the retaining
means 55, and at right angles to the direction of displacement of the
actuating means. A portion of the catch 71 in contact with the rotatable latch
54 has substantially the same width as said rotatable catch. The catch 71
retains the rotatable latch 54 in its locked position. When the actuating
mechanism is actuated, the upper section 62 is displaced upwards until the
catch 71 is lifted clear of the rotatable latch 54 to release the first
locking
device 53.
The upper section 62 of the actuating mechanism is provided with a resilient
spring 72. When the upper section 62 of the actuating mechanism is
displaced to release the locking device, the spring 72 is compressed. When
the actuating mechanism is released, the spring causes the upper section 62
to be returned to its initial locking position.
The invention is not limited to the above embodiments, but may be varied
freely within the scope of the appended claims. For instance, the outer
visible
part of the lock on the upper part of the front cover can be a decoy lock,
having no mechanical connection with the locking device inside the front
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cover. In addition, the actuating mechanism may be provided with a separate
second locking device located in or adjacent the actuator or button used for
releasing the first locking device. Consequently, the only way to access the
dispenser is to unlock the lower locking device for the actuator and use the
actuating mechanism for releasing the upper locking device.
