Patent ID: 8616411
Filing Date: 2013-12-31
Classification: B65D

Abstract:
1. A device for use in dispensing the contents of a collapsible tube, the device comprising: a hollow cylindrical member containing surfaces defining an elongated slot for receiving a tail portion of the collapsible tube; surfaces defining a plurality of spaced-apart notches positioned along a periphery of a first end of the cylindrical member; an elastic flexible tether having a proximal end thereof anchored to a second end of the cylindrical member, the tether being positionable within at least one of the plurality of notches contained within the first end of the cylindrical member, whereupon positioning the tail portion of the collapsible tube within the elongated slot and winding the cylindrical member relative to the tube, the tube partially collapses urging the contents toward an open end thereof, whereafter stretching and positioning the flexible tether, positioning a terminal portion of the tether over the tube and within a selected notch, the terminal portion of the tether engages the selected notch, thereby securing the tether to the first end of the cylindrical member and retaining the thusly wound tube in a selected position; a first cap member having surfaces defining an aperture therethrough, the first cap member attachable to the second end of the cylindrical member, the tether anchored to an outer surface of the first cap member; and a dispensing mechanism positionable within the hollow cylindrical member, the dispensing mechanism capable of dispensing dental floss, the dispensing mechanism comprising: