Abstract:
A sheet product package comprising a lid comprising four side surfaces and a top surface forming a first volume, the first and third side surfaces being parallel to each other, the second and fourth side surfaces being parallel with each other, and the first side surface, the third side surface, and the top surface collectively comprising an hourglass indent; a base comprising: four side surfaces and a bottom surface forming a second volume, the first and third side surfaces being substantially parallel to each other, the second and fourth side surfaces being substantially parallel to each other. The first side surface, the third side surface, and the bottom surface collectively comprise an hourglass indent; and, a cutting edge disposed along the first side of the base proximate to the second volume; and, a hinge, coupling the third surface of the lid and the third surface of the base.

Description:
[0001]     This application claims priority from Provisional U.S. Patent Application Ser. No. 60/821,794, filed Aug. 8, 2006, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. 
     
    
       [0002]     This application includes material which is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent disclosure, as it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office files or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever.  
       FIELD  
       [0003]     The instant disclosure relates to the field of packaging for sheet products, and more specifically provides a new package for sheet material, including, e.g., aluminum foil.  
       BACKGROUND  
       [0004]     Sheet products are used in a variety of industries. Perhaps the most well known sheet products are those used by consumers, including, without limitation, aluminum foil, plastic wrap, waxed paper, and parchment paper. These sheet products are typically sold to consumers or other end-users as elongate sheets which are rolled around a core, thereby allowing sheet products capable of covering a large area to be stored in a relatively small container.  
         [0005]     Sheet products have been on the market for many years, and sheet product manufacturers spend a great deal of time and effort to create new forms of sheet products. Although manufacturers have focused on the composition and performance of the sheet products themselves, sheet product manufacturers have not significantly advanced sheet product packaging in many years. Sheet product packaging typically consists of a paperboard box into which a roll of sheet product is placed. In most cases, the user opens the box lid, pulls out a desired length of sheet product, and then closes the lid. Typically, either the lid or the base of the box includes serrated metal or plastic teeth that are then used to cut the sheet product to the desired length.  
         [0006]     While such packaging is functional, it has proven to have disadvantages for consumers. For example, the end of the sheet product may fall back into the box after the cutting process, thereby necessitating that the user open the box and find the end before a new sheet product piece can be cut. For some sheet products, such as plastic wrap, this can be a difficult process. Some in the art have addressed this through the use of adhesive strips or other attachment means on the box which help hold the sheet product in place, but such strips can also attract foreign particles.  
         [0007]     The packaging is frequently handled while a user is cooking or otherwise preparing or putting away foods, and the user&#39;s hands are typically wet or may have flour, grease, or other material on them. The rectangular shape of traditional sheet good packages makes it awkward and uncomfortable for the user to hold during the dispensing process due to the squared edges which do not conform well to the user&#39;s hand. This can result in stress on the user&#39;s hand and improperly dispensed, and thus wasted, sheet goods. Still further, because the packages are typically made of opaque paperboard, it is difficult for users to judge the amount of sheet goods remaining on the roll without removing the roll from the box.  
       SUMMARY  
       [0008]     The instant disclosure is directed to a sheet product package that substantially obviates one or more of the problems due to limitations and disadvantages of the related art. An embodiment is directed to a sheet product package comprising a box, wherein at least a portion of the box is clear or translucent, whereby the user can see the amount of sheet product remaining on the roll. An embodiment is directed to a sheet product package having an hourglass-like shape whereby the user can more easily and comfortably grip the container. An embodiment is directed to a sheet product package comprising a flange, whereby the end of the sheet product is made available to the user after the desired amount of sheet product has been dispensed and cut. An embodiment is directed to a sheet product package having a lid closure means, wherein the lid closure means secures the sheet product when the lid is closed, thereby making it easier to tear off the sheet product.  
         [0009]     Additional features and advantages of the invention will be set forth in the description which follows, and in part will be apparent from the description, or may be learned by practice of disclosure. The objectives and other advantages will be realized and attained by the structure pointed out in the written description hereof as well as the appended drawings.  
         [0010]     It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory and are intended to provide further explanation of claims. 
     
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS  
       [0011]     The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a further understanding of the invention and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and together with the description serve to explain the principles of at least one embodiment of the invention.  
         [0012]     In the drawings:  
         [0013]      FIG. 1  is a front view of a sheet product package embodiment.  
         [0014]      FIG. 2  is a top perspective view of a sheet product package embodiment.  
         [0015]      FIG. 3  is a front perspective view of a sheet product package embodiment.  
         [0016]      FIG. 4  is a rear perspective view of a sheet product package embodiment.  
         [0017]      FIG. 5  is a bottom perspective view of a sheet product package embodiment.  
         [0018]      FIG. 6  is a top perspective view of a sheet product package embodiment.  
         [0019]      FIG. 7  is a right perspective view of a sheet product package embodiment.  
         [0020]      FIG. 8  is a right perspective view of a sheet product package embodiment wherein the lid has been opened.  
         [0021]      FIG. 9  is a front perspective view of a sheet product package embodiment illustrating an alternative lid and cutting edge arrangement.  
         [0022]      FIG. 10  is a side view of a sheet product package embodiment.  
         [0023]      FIG. 11  is an alternative side view of a sheet product package embodiment.  
         [0024]      FIG. 12  is a front perspective view of a sheet product package embodiment.  
         [0025]      FIG. 13  is a bottom perspective view of a sheet product package embodiment.  
         [0026]      FIG. 14  is a front perspective view of a sheet product package embodiment with the lid in the open position.  
         [0027]      FIG. 15  is a detailed top perspective view of an exemplary cutting edge as incorporated in a sheet product package embodiment.  
         [0028]      FIG. 16  is a detailed front perspective view of an exemplary cutting edge ad incorporated in a sheet product package embodiment.  
         [0029]      FIG. 17  is a detailed top perspective view of a sheet product package embodiment with the lid open, after sheet product has been dispensed.  
         [0030]      FIG. 18  is a top view of a sheet product package embodiment with the lid open.  
         [0031]      FIG. 19  is a right side view of a sheet product package embodiment.  
         [0032]      FIG. 20  is a left view of a sheet product package embodiment.  
         [0033]      FIG. 21  is a left perspective view of a sheet product package embodiment.  
         [0034]      FIG. 22  is an alternative left perspective view of a sheet product package embodiment.  
         [0035]      FIG. 23  is an right perspective view of a sheet product package embodiment.  
         [0036]      FIG. 24  is an alternative right perspective view of a sheet product package embodiment, after sheet product has been dispensed.  
         [0037]      FIG. 25  is an alternative right perspective view of a sheet product package embodiment, after sheet product has been dispensed.  
         [0038]      FIG. 26  is a right perspective view of an alternative sheet product package embodiment.  
         [0039]      FIG. 27  is an alternative top perspective view of a sheet product package embodiment.  
         [0040]      FIG. 28  is an alternative front perspective view of a sheet product package embodiment.  
         [0041]      FIG. 29  is a front and front perspective view of a core engagement system for use in a sheet product package.  
         [0042]      FIG. 30  is a front perspective and front view of an alternative core engagement system for use in a sheet product package.  
         [0043]      FIG. 31  is a front view of a sheet product refill dispenser.  
         [0044]      FIG. 32  is a top view of a sheet product package dispenser in a drawer.  
         [0045]      FIG. 33  is a front view illustrating alternative orientations during use of an exemplary sheet product package.  
         [0046]      FIG. 34  is a front view illustrating loading a refill into a sheet product package embodiment.  
         [0047]      FIG. 35  is a front view illustrating the activation of a sheet product package embodiment and the initiation of dispensing thereby.  
         [0048]      FIG. 36  illustrates the dispensing of a sheet product by a sheet product package embodiment and the activation of an cutting means therein.  
         [0049]      FIG. 37  illustrates an alternative cutting means activation method.  
         [0050]      FIG. 38  illustrates an end of roll warning indicator employed in a sheet product package embodiment.  
         [0051]      FIG. 39  illustrates a front perspective view of a sheet product package embodiment.  
         [0052]      FIG. 40  illustrates a top view of a sheet product package embodiment.  
         [0053]      FIG. 41  illustrates a front view of a sheet product package embodiment.  
         [0054]      FIG. 42  illustrates alternative orientations during use of an exemplary sheet product package.  
         [0055]      FIG. 43  illustrates the opening of a sheet product package embodiment prior to loading of a refill therein.  
         [0056]      FIG. 44  illustrates the loading of a sheet product into a sheet product package embodiment.  
         [0057]      FIG. 45  illustrates dispensing of a sheet product using an exemplary sheet product package.  
         [0058]      FIG. 46  is a side perspective view of an exemplary sheet product package.  
         [0059]      FIG. 47  is a front perspective view of an exemplary sheet product package.  
         [0060]      FIG. 48  is a top view of an exemplary sheet product package.  
         [0061]      FIG. 49  is a top view illustrating a sheet product package dispenser embodiment in a drawer.  
         [0062]      FIG. 50  illustrates loading a refill into an exemplary sheet product package embodiment.  
         [0063]      FIG. 51  is a top perspective view illustrating the initiation of sheet product dispensing by squeezing a sheet product package embodiment.  
         [0064]      FIG. 52  illustrates dispensing a sheet product from a sheet product package embodiment.  
         [0065]      FIG. 53  illustrates an exemplary orientation of a sheet product package during use.  
         [0066]      FIG. 54  illustrates an exemplary end of roll indicator imprinted or embossed on an exemplary sheet product.  
         [0067]      FIG. 55  illustrates an exemplary advertising method employing advertisements embossed in or otherwise associated with a sheet product core.  
         [0068]      FIG. 56  illustrates an exemplary merchandising method for sheet product refills.  
         [0069]      FIG. 57  illustrates the use of an exemplary plastic overwrap to protect a sheet product.  
         [0070]      FIG. 58  illustrates an exemplary sheet product package capable of supporting a non-round sheet product roll.  
         [0071]      FIG. 59  illustrates an exemplary sheet product dispensing business method.  
         [0072]      FIG. 60  illustrates an exemplary hinged loading mechanism for expanding a non-round sheet product roll.  
         [0073]      FIG. 61  illustrates an exemplary, spring-loaded tensioning means for controlling the dispensing of sheet products from a non-round sheet product roll.  
         [0074]      FIGS. 62, 62A  and  62 B illustrate exemplary, cammed dispensing means for controlling the dispensing of sheet products from a non-round sheet product refill.  
         [0075]      FIG. 63  illustrates an exemplary keyed rotational hinge. 
     
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS  
       [0076]     Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments of the present invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings.  
         [0077]      FIGS. 1 and 12  are front views of sheet product package embodiments, wherein package  10  is made of a transparent or translucent plastic, such as, without limitation, Polyethylene Terephthalate (“PET”), reprocessed PET (“RPET”), Polyvinyl Chloride (“PVC”), polystyrene, polypropylene, Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol (“PETG”), polyethylene, multilayered sheets which combine several different plastics, or combinations thereof. In one embodiment, package  10  may be recycled after sheet product  5  has been dispensed from package  10 . The transparent or translucent plastic comprising package  10  may be clear or colored depending on specific needs. Package  10  may also include labels affixed or embedded into to any of the surfaces thereof. By way of example, without limitation, such embedded labels may include reverse printed film which has been laminated to a plastic structure and incorporated into package  10 . Such an arrangement can allow the label to resist scuffing, peeling, and the like. Labels may also be shrink wrapped around package  10 , affixed thereto with adhesive, or information may be printed directly onto package  10 . Package  10  may be treated with or coated with a material that facilitates printing or labeling, as is known in the art.  
         [0078]      FIG. 2  is a top view of a sheet product package embodiment.  FIGS. 2 and 21 - 25  illustrate the “hourglass” shape of a package embodiment, the hourglass shape being created in both lid  12  and base  14 . The hourglass shape  20  makes package  10  easier and more comfortable to hold (i.e. more ergonomic) and gives the user a better grip on package  10 , especially when package  10  is closed. In an embodiment, the front edge of lid  12  may not include an hourglass indent  20 , or hourglass indent  20  may be reduced in scale in this region, thereby giving the user a larger surface area with which to apply pressure to lid  12  proximate to cutting edge  90 . An example of such an embodiment is illustrated in more detail in  FIG. 8 . In addition, one or more thumb ridge(s)  22  may be incorporated into lid  12  to facilitate opening lid  12  or other operation of package  10 .  
         [0079]     Despite the generally hourglass shape of package  10 , at least portions of the left-hand and right-hand edges of the top and/or bottom surfaces of package  10  may be flat, thereby allowing multiple packages to be stacked, such as on a grocery store shelf or in a pantry. In an embodiment (not illustrated), top surface  16  and bottom surface  18  may comprise corresponding male and female detents. Such detents can permit one package to be more securely stacked on top of another. The detents may be designed such that they do not form a positive mate between the packages, thereby permitting the uppermost package to be more easily removed from the stack. In an embodiment, top surface  16  and/or bottom surface  18  may be coated with or otherwise comprise a non-slip material or texture, thereby permitting packages  10  to be easily stacked. Such non-slip material or texture may be achieved through means known in the art, including, without limitation the use of various coatings, additives to the plastic, inks, labels, or surface conditioning techniques.  
         [0080]      FIGS. 3 and 23  are front perspective views of an embodiment of package  10 . In this embodiment, sheet product  5  can be seen more clearly through package  10 .  
         [0081]      FIGS. 4, 21 , and  22  are rear perspective views of a sheet product package embodiment which illustrate hinge  11 . In an embodiment, hinge  11  extends along at least a portion of the joint between lid  12  and base  14  at the back of package  10 . In an embodiment, hinge  11  permits lid  12  to be opened and closed without necessitating the removal of lid  12  from package  10 . A portion of hinge  11  may be removed proximate to hourglass indent  20 , thereby improving the ergonomics of package  10 . In an embodiment, at least a portion of hinge  11  may comprise a thin, flexible film that is adhered to at least one of lid  12  and/or base  14 , thereby permitting hinge  11  to be relatively flat when package  10  is closed. In another embodiment, the package is molded in one piece with a “living hinge”, as is known in the art. In another embodiment, the package is molded such that a multiple piece, snap hinge is formed. Alternative hinge designs may also be substituted therefor without departing from the spirit or the scope of the disclosure.  
         [0082]     In an embodiment, lid  12  is designed to return to the closed position when not in use. This can be accomplished through a variety of means, including, without limitation, by providing additional weight to lid  12  near the front, by manufacturing hinge  11  such that it has a “memory”, by attaching lid  12  to base  14  with one or more disengagable elastic bands, as well as by combinations thereof.  
         [0083]     In some embodiments, lid  12  and base  14  positively engage, thereby reducing the likelihood of lid  12  accidentally opening. Such positive engagement can be accomplished through a variety of means, including, without limitation, providing lid  12  and base  14  with one or more mating detents, and embedding one or more rare earth magnets in lid  12  and base  14 .  
         [0084]      FIGS. 5 and 13  are bottom perspective views of sheet product package embodiments. As illustrated in additional detail in  FIGS. 9 and 15 - 17 , embodiments of package  10  include cutting edge  90  which is aligned with the cutting teeth in a substantially horizontal arrangement, and wherein a small flange  92  is provided between cutting edge  90  and the bottom of base  14 . Flange  92  may comprise one or more reinforcing ribs  94 , which add additional strength to flange  92 .  
         [0085]     Although cutting edge  90  is described herein as substantially horizontal, alternative cutting edge embodiments, including, without limitation, a substantially vertical cutting edge, can be substituted therefor without departing from the spirit or the scope of this disclosure. Cutting edge  90  can be manufactured as part of base  14 , or may be a separately manufactured part that is attached to base  14  during the manufacturing process. Cutting edge  90  may extend along the length of base  16 , or may be comprised of a plurality of components with at least one gap. Although cutting edge  90  is described herein as incorporated into base  14 , it should be apparent to one skilled in the art that cutting edge  14  can be incorporated into lid  12  without departing from the spirit or the scope of the disclosure.  
         [0086]     Cutting edge cover  100  may cover at least a portion of cutting edge  90  when lid  12  is closed, thereby protecting the integrity of the cutting edge. By way of example, without limitation, cutting edge cover  100  may comprise a single, flat piece of material that extends beyond cutting edge  90 , or cutting edge cover  100  may comprise a piece of material that is cantilevered over cutting edge  90 .  
         [0087]     When lid  12  is closed and positively engaged with base  14 , cutting edge cover  100  can exert enough force on the portion of sheet product  5  in that is in contact with the flange that sheet product  5  is less likely to slip back into base  14  after sheet product  5  has been cut. Cutting edge cover  100  may also include at least one recess  96 , whereby the user can easily grasp sheet product  5  as sheet product  5  rests on the flange. In an embodiment employing at least one gap in cutting edge  90 , the gap may be aligned with cutting edge cover recess  96 .  
         [0088]     As  FIGS. 6 and 7  illustrate, embodiments of sheet product package  10  can be manufactured to accommodate a wide variety of sheet product widths and lengths.  
         [0089]     As illustrated in  FIGS. 8, 14 , and  18 , lid  12  can be opened, thereby permitting easy access to the entirety of sheet product  5 . Where sheet product  5  is provided in roll form, the roll can be easily handled, thereby permitting the sheet product to be easily “rewound” onto the roll and permitting replacements or “refills” therefor to be easily inserted therein.  
         [0090]     As  FIGS. 10, 11 ,  19 , and  20  illustrate, embodiments of package  10  can allow sheet product  5  to rest along at least a portion of the bottom of base  14 . This permits sheet product  5  to be easy to reach for the next use. Although described herein as predominantly distributed in roll form, it should be apparent to one skilled in the art that alternative sheet product distribution arrangements may be substituted therefor without departing from the spirit or the scope of the invention.  
         [0091]     A means for engaging and holding the core on which the sheet product is rolled may also be incorporated into the package such that the roll of sheet product will not fall out of the package during dispensing, or if the package is inadvertently turned upside down while open.  
         [0092]      FIGS. 26-28  illustrate alternative sheet product package embodiments which are capable of accepting sheet product package refills. That is, unlike traditional sheet product packaging which incorporates the sheet product therein and which is discarded after the supply of sheet product has been depleted, in the package illustrated in  FIGS. 26-28 , any remaining sheet product and/or any core around which the sheet product is wound can be readily removed therefrom and a new sheet product roll or other sheet product refill can be inserted therein. Distribution of sheet products as refills can be advantageous as it reduces the amount of packaging waste associated with the distribution and use of sheet products.  
         [0093]     In the embodiments illustrated in  FIGS. 26-28 , sheet product  2640  is dispensed from sheet product package  2600  by way of a motor  2630 . In the illustrated embodiments, sheet product package  2600  further comprises a motion sensor  2670 , such as, without limitation, an ultrasonic motion sensor or other motion sensors known in the art. When a hand or other object is waived in front of motion sensor  2670 , the sensor detects the motion and activates motor  2630 . In some embodiments, when a user activates motor  2630 , motor  2630  causes a predetermined length of sheet product  2640  to be dispensed. By way of example, without limitation, two inches of sheet product  2640  may be dispensed by sheet product package  2600 , such that there is sufficient surface area to permit the user to grasp the dispensed sheet product. At the end of the dispensing cycle, in some embodiments motor  2630  allows sheet product  2640  to spin relatively freely, such that the user can easily dispense the desired amount. In some embodiments, motor  2630  may continue to dispense sheet product  2640  until the user activates one of motion sensor  2670  or buttons  2660  and  2620 .  
         [0094]     In some embodiments, once the desired amount of sheet product has been dispensed, the user can activate cutter button  2620 , which causes a cutter to sever the dispensed portion of sheet product  2640  from the remainder thereof. Such a cutter may be mechanically coupled to cutter button  2620 , or may be electronically operated.  
         [0095]     In some embodiments, motor  2630  and other functions of sheet product package  2600  may be electronically activated. Such electronic activation can be powered by a variety of means, including via standard household current, as is known in the art for kitchen appliances, as well as battery and solar power. In embodiments employing battery and/or solar power, it may be advantageous to locate the batteries in base  2650 , thereby providing additional weight to the base. Such additional weighting can allow sheet product package  2600  to work in both a horizontal and vertical orientation, as described below. Additional weight may also be added to further stabilize sheet product package  2600 .  
         [0096]     In some embodiments, sheet product package  2600  may further comprise an end of roll indicator  2610 . To facilitate the operation of such an end of roll indicator, product package  2600  may include electronic circuitry capable of reading a barcode, radio frequency identification tag, ferromagnetic strip, or other indicator to determine the length of sheet product contained in a refill when new, and monitor the amount of sheet product dispensed. In alternative embodiments, mechanical means, such as an arm that maintains enough pressure on the refill to sense the diameter of the refill, may be substituted for the electronic circuitry. When sheet product package  2600  determines that a limited supply of sheet product  2360  remains, sheet product package  2600  can cause end of roll indicator  2610  to be constantly illuminated, flash, or otherwise provide visual, audio, tactile, or other sensory feedback to the user, as illustrated in  FIG. 38 .  
         [0097]     In some embodiments, buttons  2620  and  2660  may also facilitate other functionality, such as turning sheet product package  2600  on and off. By way of example, without limitation, prolonged activation of button  2620  may turn off sheet product package  2600 , such that objects in a drawer in which sheet product package  2600  is stored cannot cause sheet product package  2600  to dispense unwanted sheet products.  
         [0098]      FIGS. 29 and 30  illustrate alternative core engagement systems for use in a sheet product package. In some embodiments, sheet product  2630  can be dispensed on a core  2900  which incorporates one or more protrusions and/or detents  2905 . Such detents and/or protrusions may mate with corresponding detents and/or protrusions  2920  in hinge  2910 . Hinge  2920  can allow sheet product  2630  to easily rotate within sheet product package  2630 , thereby facilitating the dispensing thereof.  
         [0099]     In some embodiments, the detents and/or protrusions  2905  may be incorporated into one or more endcaps that are placed in or attached to the refill. Such embodiments can allow coreless sheet product refills to be used in sheet product packages.  
         [0100]     In some embodiments, hinge  2910  may incorporate a locking means, such that hinge  2910  does not rotate unless detents and/or protrusions  2920  are appropriately activated. By way of example, in  FIG. 63 , hinge  6300  comprises cap  6320  and stem  6330 . Stem  6330  may comprise one or more slots  6335  and fingers such that an end of stem  6630  can be inserted into and positively mated with cap  6320 . Stem  6330  may further comprise one or more springs which positively biases cap  6320  against stem  6330  when in a fully extended position. When in the fully extended position, teeth  6325  inside cap  6320  mate with corresponding teeth  6332  of fingers  6337 , thereby restricting the rotation of cap  6320 . When a standard sheet product refill is inserted into a sheet product package employing cap  6320  and stem  6630 , the refill adds pressure to the spring, thereby causing cap  6320  to slide along stem  6630 . Due to the shape of cap  6320 , the standard refill causes cap  6320  to overextend and teeth  6327  engage teeth  6339  of fingers  6337 . By contrast, when a refill according to an embodiment of the instant key-and-lock mechanism is employed, the detents inside the core around which the sheet product is wound, or a similarly shaped endcap fitted into the core or directly into the sheet product, engage fingers  6337  and cause them to be retracted sufficiently to allow free rotation of cap  6320 . It should be apparent that alternative key and lock mechanisms may be substituted for the key and lock mechanism illustrated in  FIG. 63  without departing from the spirit or the scope of the invention. Embodiments employing such a key-and-lock configuration can limit the refills that can be used with sheet product package  2600 , thereby ensuring only high-quality and appropriately designed sheet products are dispensed therefrom.  
         [0101]      FIG. 31  is a front view of a sheet product refill dispenser according to an embodiment. In  FIG. 31 , the refills are contained in a gravity-fed dispenser, which allows consumers to easily grasp the refill. The dispenser also provides significant surface area over which to present various marketing materials.  
         [0102]      FIG. 32  is a top view of the sheet product package dispenser of  FIGS. 27 and 28  in a drawer. In some embodiments, sheet product package dispenser  2600  is sufficiently small to be placed in a traditional drawer, thereby freeing counter space for other purposes. In some embodiments, sheet product package dispenser  2600  may comprise stainless steel, aluminum, or other metallic accents, thereby giving sheet product package dispenser an appealing appearance, such that sheet product package dispenser  2600  is suitable for display on a counter like other appliances.  
         [0103]      FIG. 33  is a front view illustrating alternative orientations during use of an exemplary sheet product package. In some embodiments, sheet product package  2600  may be weighted and shaped such that it remains stable whether in a horizontal or vertical orientation.  
         [0104]      FIG. 34  is a front view illustrating loading a refill into a sheet product package embodiment. In the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 34 , the refill is simply slid into the sheet product package, and the lid is closed. Electronics within the sheet product package automatically advances the roll until it is capable of being dispensed. An indicator light may flash rapidly, glow an alternative color, or provide other indicia in the even that dispensing of the sheet product cannot be properly initiated.  
         [0105]      FIG. 35  is a front view illustrating the activation of a sheet package dispenser embodiment and the initiation of dispensing thereby. As described above, in some embodiments the sheet product package may comprise one or more buttons. When appropriately activated, the sheet product package can advance the sheet product, such that the user can easily grasp the sheet product for dispensing. In some embodiments, the sheet product package continues to dispense the sheet product until one or more buttons is depressed, or until a motion sensor or other such device is activated, thereby indicating that the desired length of sheet product has been dispensed. Once the desired length of sheet product has been dispensed, the user can press another button to activate a cutting mechanism, which severs the dispensed sheet product. This cutting mechanism activation is illustrated in  FIGS. 36 and 37 .  
         [0106]      FIGS. 39 through 41  illustrate an alternative sheet product package embodiment. In the illustrated embodiments, sheet product package  3900  comprises two sections, lid  3920  and base  3930 , which are joined by a hinge  3950 . At least one detent and a mating protrusion are also incorporated into lid  3920  and base  3930 , such that lid  3920  remains closed regardless of the orientation of sheet product package  3900 . Although detents and protrusions are described herein as closing sheet product package  3900 , it should be apparent to one skilled in the art that alternative closure means, such as, without limitation, magnetic, adhesive, or friction based closures may be substituted therefor without departing from the spirit or the scope of the disclosed sheet product package.  
         [0107]     Lid  3920  and base  3950  further comprise corresponding indentations  2935  and  2935 , respectively, which allow a user to grasp the sheet product contained within sheet product package  3900  when the user wishes to initiate dispensing thereof through dispensing slot  3940 . Lid  3910  further comprises a sheet product viewing window  3910 , which allows the user to see which type of sheet product is contained within package  3900  and to determine the amount of sheet product remaining in the package. Sheet product package  3900  further comprises a cutting surface conveniently hidden within the package.  
         [0108]     Sheet product package  3900  further comprises an adhesive, magnetic, or other mounting means  3960  on at least one surface. As illustrated in  FIG. 42 , this allows sheet product package  3900  to be mounted in a convenient location such that it is readily accessible any time the user needs it, although in at least some embodiments sheet product package  3900  is sized to fit in a standard kitchen drawer.  
         [0109]      FIGS. 43-45  illustrate the insertion of a new sheet product refill and the dispensing of sheet product. In  FIG. 43 , to open sheet product package, the user simply lifts the lid with sufficient force to cause the lid to open. Once open, as illustrated in  FIG. 44 , the refill can be readily inserted in the sheet product package. The sheet product is advanced past the cutting blade or the corresponding anvil therefor, and the lid is closed. In  FIG. 45 , the user grasps an exposed section of the sheet product and dispenses a desired quantity of the sheet product. The user then simply depresses the lid, causing the cutting blade to perforate or sever the sheet product before or as it strikes the anvil. In  FIG. 46 , the user has dispensed the desired quantity of sheet product and has placed the sheet product package on the counter.  
         [0110]      FIGS. 47, 48 , and  53  illustrate an exemplary sheet product package. In this embodiment, sheet product package  4700  comprises a lid  4710  and base  4730 , as well as two ends  4750 . Lid  4710  and  4730  are joined by a hinge running substantially longitudinally along the length of sheet product package  4700 , or at least a portion thereof. The ends comprise one or more rotating hinge means for facilitating the rotation of the sheet product within sheet product package  4700 . Lid  4710  comprises one or more cut-out regions  4720  through which the user can grasp the sheet product when the user wishes to initiate dispensing thereof. In the illustrated embodiment, Lid  4710  can be weighted such that it naturally remains in a substantially closed orientation. In alternative embodiments, one or more closure means, such as those described above, may be employed to positively lock lid  4710  in the closed state.  
         [0111]     Base  4730  comprises a soft-touch cutting edge  4740  made from a flexible rubber. Cutting edge  4740  may be integrated into or otherwise attached to base  4730 . A flexible cutting edge can be advantageous in some embodiments as it allows the user to flex the front wall of base  4730 , thereby further exposing the sheet product and making it easier for the user to grasp and to dispense the sheet product. This is illustrated in more detail in  FIGS. 51 and 52 .  
         [0112]     As  FIG. 49  illustrates, the sheet product package may be of a size to easily fit in a kitchen drawer or other common storage area. As  FIG. 50  illustrates, to install a refill the user simply opens the sheet product package and inserts the refill.  
         [0113]     In some embodiments, such as that illustrated in  FIG. 54 , an end of roll indicia may be embossed in or imprinted on the sheet product such that the user can easily determine when a new sheet product refill is needed. Some embodiments further comprise coupons, recipes, or other marketing or promotional information removably attached to or imprinted on a core, or otherwise associated with a sheet product.  
         [0114]      FIGS. 56 and 57  illustrate an exemplary sheet product refill merchandising system. In the illustrated system, the refills are individually packaged in a plastic overwrap or similar material which is attached to a hang tag made from plastic, cardboard, paperboard, or other such material. The hang tags allow the refills to be hung from one or more pegs on a grocery store shelf, thereby facilitating a visually unusual presentation of the refills.  
         [0115]     In some embodiments, the sheet product package may be designed to fit non-round sheet product refills. By way of example, without limitation, non-round sheet product refills may have square, oval, triangular, or substantially flat geometries.  FIG. 58  illustrates an exemplary sheet product package capable of supporting a non-round sheet product roll  5850 . In the illustrated embodiment, sheet product package  5800  comprises lid  5820  which is hingedly attached to base  5840 . A serrated or other cutting edge is also attached to base  5830  to facilitate cutting of the sheet product once a desired quantity has been dispensed. Sheet product package  5800  further comprises a transparent or translucent end  5810  which allows a user to easily determine the amount of sheet product remaining.  
         [0116]      FIG. 60  illustrates an exemplary hinged mandrel  6000  capable of expanding a non-round refill into a substantially round shape. In the fully engaged position, hinged loading system comprises two rigid walls  6005  separated by a fixed distance. However, when the refill is to be loaded into the sheet product dispenser, a first end of hinged mandrel  6000  is disengaged from mating protrusion  6010 . As the first end is raised, hinges  6020  articulate, and although walls  6005  remain substantially coplanar, they become more proximate than when in the fully engaged position. This new orientation allows walls  6005  to slide into the sheet product. The sheet product and walls are then returned to the fully engaged position. As walls  6005  expand, they exert pressure on the refill, causing the refill to become more rounded. An advantage of a more rounded refill is that it dispenses more smoothly than refills having more severe angles, such as, without limitation, square, triangular, and substantially flat refills.  
         [0117]      FIG. 61  illustrates a set of spring loaded tensioners  6140  and  6145  which help to dampen out the rougher feel associated with dispensing from non-round refills. Such tensioners may be used in addition to or in place of the other damping means disclosed herein. Such tensioners may comprise a roller over which sheet product  6110  can pass prior to dispensing from sheet product package  6100 . In  FIG. 61 , as the non-round sheet product refill  6120  rotates around a central hinge, the sheet product  6110  can pass over tensioner  6140  which, in the illustrated embodiment, exerts upward force on the sheet product. As sheet product  6110  continues along the dispensing path, it may encounter one or more additional tensioners, such as tensioner  6145  which, in the illustrated embodiment, provides downward tension on sheet product  6110 . The combined force from the tensioners can be sufficient to overcome the uneven dispensing feel.  
         [0118]      FIGS. 62, 62   a , and  62   b  illustrate cam designs which are employed to dampen and regularize the feel of the sheet product as it is dispensed. In  FIG. 62 , sheet product refill  6210  is connected to sheet product package  6200  by way of a fixed hinge point  6230 . Hinge point  6230  comprises a protrusion which extends into a corresponding slot  6220  in the refill or an end cap inserted therein. As sheet product  6240  is dispensed, sheet product refill  6210  follows a path which allows the refill to move in a geometry having a substantially constant radius, such as the oval paths illustrated in  FIGS. 62, 62A , and  62 B. To implement this concept, end caps inscribed with this path could be attached to both ends of the refill. Assuming a horizontal orientation, when the user is pulling the sheet product along the straight track they must pull hard enough to overcome the sliding friction between the track and the hinge point. This can be characterized by the equation: Min User Force=Weight of Refill×Friction Experienced in Path. When the user hits the end of the track and the sheet product is rotating, the user must pull hard enough to overcome the torque due to the rotating sliding friction between the hinge point and the path, which is helped by the oblong side of the sheet product falling. This can be characterized by the equation: Min User Force=[Weight of Refill×Hinge-Path Friction×Hinge Radius−Weight greater on one side of Hinge than Other Side×Mean Radius]/Radius of Sheet Product at Tangent Point. When the user rounds to the other side of that end of the track and the sheet product is rotating, the user must pull hard enough to overcome the torque due to the rotating sliding friction between the hinge and the path and lift the oblong weight of the foil. This can be characterized by the formula: Min User Force=[Weight of Sheet Product Assembly×Hinge-Path Friction×Hinge Radius+Weight greater on one side of Hinge than Other Side×Mean Radius]/Radius of Sheet Product at Tangent Point. If the user applies substantially uniform force throughout the dispensing process, the sheet product will exit at varying velocities at different points along the track.  
         [0119]     Still another damping concept is to attach a central pivot to a non-round core. Then attach this pivot peg to a variable damping device that slows the roll when it is going too fast and makes the rotation require more force when the force naturally drops.  
         [0120]      FIG. 59  illustrates an exemplary sheet product delivery business method. Although described herein as being used to distribute refills having a substantially flat geometry, it should be apparent to those skilled in the art that refills of alternative geometries can be distributed in a like manner without departing from the spirit or the scope of the distribution method. In block  5905 , a sheet product package starter kit is delivered to the user. The starter kit can comprise a sheet product package, roll of sheet product, and a subscription sign-up card (block  5910 ). The user opens the sheet product package (block  5915 ), inserts the sheet product refill onto a mandrel or otherwise loads the refill (block  5920 ) and locks the refill into the sheet product package (block  5925 ). Any pre-positioning of the sheet product prior to dispensing is performed in block  5930 , and then the lid of the sheet product package is closed (block  5935 ). The user then dispenses any desired sheet product (block  5940 ), and can store for later use any cut-offs in a drawer of the sheet product dispenser (block  5945 ). In block  5950 , the user can sign up for a sheet product subscription. Such subscription allows selected sheet products to be regularly shipped to the user, without the user having to remember to request such shipments. Although the sign-up is illustrated using a paper-based card, alternative sigh-up methods, including on-line sign ups, are also contemplated and within the scope of the business method. In some embodiments, the user can elect different replenishment periods for different types of sheet products via a single sign-up process. In block  5955 , the sheet products are delivered to the user at the chosen intervals. In block  5960 , should the user have extra sheet product refills or should be sheet product refills arrive early, the sheet product refills can be stored in a drawer, pantry, or the like. Refills having a substantially flat orientation may be especially suitable for such a business method, as this shape facilitates easy shipping and storage.  
         [0121]     While a detailed description has been provided with reference to specific embodiments, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications can be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope thereof. Thus, it is intended that the instant disclosure cover the modifications and variations of this invention provided they come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents. By way of example, without limitation, concepts described in conjunction with one sheet product package may be added to or substituted for components and/or concepts of other sheet product packages without departing from the spirit or the scope of the disclosure.