Abstract:
A food services accessories and consumable user products dispensing system that includes a number of interchangeable modules that selectively cooperate with interchangeable and connectable mount devices. In a preferred embodiment, one or more of the material containers and/or mounting structures include an aesthetic overlay for manipulating the appearance of the dispensing system and/or configuring the dispensing system to better correlate to the aesthetic appearance of the environment.

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/117,792 filed on Feb. 18, 2015 titled “COUNTER SERVICES DISPENSING SYSTEM” and the disclosure of which is incorporated herein. 
     
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0002]    The present application relates generally to a method and system for use in dispensing consumer products proximate a point of use, and more particularly, to a system configured to allow the user, facility, or establishment to individualize the dispensing system to a desired or particular application or environment. The system is further configured to allow the user to select the aesthetic appearance of the dispensing system and the discrete components to correlate to an appearance more closely related to a user&#39;s preference or a particular environment associated with implementation of the individually configured dispensing system. 
         [0003]    Foodstuffs and drinks are provided to consumers and patrons via many different types of commercial and banquet-type establishments, facilities, restaurants, institutions, cafeterias, and venues. Regardless of the specific vending or distribution methodology, a number of accessories, garnishes, condiments, etc. are commonly supplied by the facility and distributed and/or acquired directly by consumers to satisfy their preferences and/or desires associated with consumption of acquired drinks and foodstuffs. 
         [0004]    Accessories common to such environments, depending on the nature of the foodstuffs and/or drinks provided, can include silverware, plastic ware, drinking straws, cup lids, or other eating/drinking utensils/accessories associated with consumption of the foodstuffs. Paper or web material product accessories, such as napkins, wet-wipes, or the like, are also commonly provided. Many facilities also provide garnishes such as cherries, olives, lemons, limes, oranges, pickles, peppers, etc. and/or condiments such as dressings, ketchup, and/or mustard. Some such condiments, such as dressing, dipping sources, ketchup, and mustard, can also be provided as discrete containers or packets or acquired directly from bulk sources. The appearance and presentation of the various accessories, garnishes, condiments, etc. can affect the consumer&#39;s opinion of the establishment as well as the efficiency and expediency with which discrete consumers can be served and/or acquire the desired accoutrements during any given interaction with a respective facility and/or vendor. 
         [0005]    The various accessories, garnishes, condiments, etc. are commonly contained in discrete dispensing appliances that are positioned in close proximity to one another or dispersed throughout the environment to facilitate dissemination or dispensing of the desired accessories, garnishes, condiments, etc. Whether associated with a vendor side or a consumer side of the product exchange, the dispensers associated with use or distribution of the various accessories, garnishes, condiments, etc. are not without their respective drawbacks. 
         [0006]    Regardless of the status of the person intended to directly interact with the dispensing appliance, whether staff or employees of an establishment or the discrete consumers, such dispensing appliances are commonly uniquely configured to dispense only one or a few selected accessories, garnishes, condiments, etc. That is, many such dispensing appliances are commonly provided in a fixed size and/or shape that render the discrete dispensing appliances ill-suited if not wholly incapable of being reconfigured for use in dispensing another of the accessories, garnishes, condiments, etc. should the need or desire to do so arise. 
         [0007]    The generally rigid and fixed construction associated with such dispensers also detracts from shipment and/or storage associated with maintaining a desired number of dispensers. That is, many vending and/or distribution methodologies, such as catering enterprises or the like, frequently do not have a conventional brick and mortar establishment and customarily do not have a static venue presentation and/or product platform such that various different dispensers may be desired or required to dispense different accessories, garnishes, condiments, etc. during different events and/or at different locations and/or to the preferences of different users. Maintaining and/or acquiring a plurality of dispensers associated with dispensing a variety of accessories, garnishes, condiments, etc. and that can satisfy the transportability and aesthetic preferences of a variety of users or consumers can be prohibitively costly. 
         [0008]    Still further, many such dispensing appliances are provided in form factors that are selected to provide a generally compact dispenser for providing a desired discrete one of accessories, garnishes, condiments, etc. The form factor associated with one discrete dispenser frequently does not lend visual continuity to the presentation of the multiple dispensers configured to dispense more than one of the accessories, garnishes, condiments, etc. When positioned adjacent one another, the multiple dispensers are commonly provided in various heights, depths, widths, and inclinations that can detract from an aesthetically pleasing presentation of multiple dispensers. The presentation of a plurality of dispensers that have different sizes, shapes, and contours can also detract from the visual continuity associated with a particular environment. 
         [0009]    Further still, although adjacent dispensers can be configured to dispense a variety of the accessories, garnishes, condiments, etc. associated with a given environment or application, the various dispensers are commonly simply positioned adjacent one another. User interaction with any one dispenser can result in translation of the discrete dispenser relative to support surfaces as well as adjacent dispensers. The discrete translation of a given dispenser relative to adjacent dispensers and/or the supporting surface can detract from the visual continuity associated with the dispenser arrangement and can adversely affect the stability of the discrete dispenser as well as any adjacent dispensers via undesired physical interaction between adjacent discrete dispensers. 
         [0010]    Therefore, there is a need for a food and drink services dispensing system that can be individually configured to dispense one or a group of various accessories, garnishes, condiments, etc. There is a further need for food services dispensing systems that include dispensers that can selectively physically connected to one another. There is also a need for food services dispensing system having a selectable, adjustable, or variable aesthetic appearance to satisfy the unique demands or expectations of a variety of users and suitable for use in a variety of environments. It is also preferably desired to provide a food services dispensing system that includes a plurality of components that are one or more of nestable and/or collapsible to facilitate efficient transport, storage, and deployment of the discrete dispensers. Preferably, each dispenser associated with the dispensing system is configured to dispense a plurality of various discrete accessories, garnishes, condiments, etc. in a sanitary and efficient manner. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0011]    The present application discloses a food services dispensing system that addresses one or more of the shortcomings disclosed above. One aspect of the present invention discloses a food services accessories and consumable user products dispensing system that includes a number of interchangeable modules that selectively cooperate with interchangeable and connectable mount devices. In a preferred embodiment, one or more of the material containers and/or mounting structures include an aesthetic overlay for manipulating the appearance of the dispensing system and/or configuring the dispensing system to better correlate to the aesthetic appearance of the environment. 
         [0012]    Another aspect of the present invention that is useable or combinable with one or more of the above features or aspects discloses a food services accessory dispensing system that includes a first base portion and a plurality of dispensing containers that are each configured to dispense a different food service accessory. Each of the plurality of dispensing containers is constructed to removably cooperate with the first base portion. The system includes a second base portion that is constructed to removably cooperate with the first base portion and constructed to cooperate with at least one of the plurality of dispensing containers such that the dispensing system can be individualized by discrete users. 
         [0013]    Another aspect of the present application that is useable or combinable with one or more of the above features or aspects discloses a method of presenting food service consumer materials. A plurality of connectable base modules and a plurality of dispensing modules are provided. Each of the dispensing modules is configured to contain and dispense consumer food service materials and constructed to cooperate with at least one of the plurality of connectable base modules. 
         [0014]    Another aspect of the invention that is useable or combinable with one or more of the above aspects and features discloses a modular food services dispensing system that includes a base and a space frame that is constructed to removably cooperate with the base such that, when engaged with the base, the space frame is oriented at an inclined orientation relative to a rearward direction and relative to the base. The system includes at least one dispensing container that is constructed to removably cooperate with the space frame. A brace is engaged with the base and extends in a generally upward direction between the base and the space frame. 
         [0015]    These and various other aspects, features, and advantages of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description and accompanying drawings. It should be understood, however, that the detailed description and specific examples, while indicating preferred embodiments of the present invention, are given by way of illustration and not of limitation. Many changes and modifications may be made within the scope of the present invention without departing from the spirit thereof, and the invention includes all such modifications. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0016]    Preferred exemplary embodiments of the invention are illustrated in the accompanying drawings in which like reference numerals represent like parts throughout and in which: 
           [0017]      FIG. 1  is a perspective view of various dispensers according to the present invention oriented relative to one another to define a dispensing station or location; 
           [0018]      FIG. 2  is a side elevation view of a base of one of the dispensers shown in  FIG. 1 ; 
           [0019]      FIG. 3  is a rear perspective view of a pair of bases associated with the dispensing system shown in  FIG. 1  and separated from one another; 
           [0020]      FIG. 4  is a forward perspective view of another dispenser assembly according to the present invention; 
           [0021]      FIG. 5  is a rear perspective view of the dispenser assembly shown in  FIG. 4 ; 
           [0022]      FIG. 6  is a perspective view of a frame portion of the dispenser assembly shown in  FIG. 4  with a pan associated with the base and a plurality of dispenser containers removed therefrom; 
           [0023]      FIG. 7  includes various perspective views of a bulk material dispenser assembly that can be associated with the dispenser system shown in  FIG. 1 ; 
           [0024]      FIG. 8  are various additional perspective views of the bulk material dispenser shown in  FIG. 7 ; 
           [0025]      FIGS. 9-11  are various perspective views of a paper product dispenser usable with the dispenser system shown in  FIG. 1 ; 
           [0026]      FIGS. 12-15  are various perspective views of the dispenser shown in  FIGS. 9 and 11  and alternate external aesthetics that can be associated therewith; 
           [0027]      FIG. 16  is a perspective view of another embodiment of a dispenser assembly associated with the dispenser system shown in  FIG. 1 ; 
           [0028]      FIG. 17  is a perspective view of a corner assembly associated with the dispenser assembly shown in  FIG. 16 ; 
           [0029]      FIG. 18  is a perspective view of another dispenser assembly usable with the dispenser system shown in  FIG. 1 ; 
           [0030]      FIG. 19  is a perspective view of another dispenser assembly usable with the dispenser system shown in  FIG. 1 ; 
           [0031]      FIG. 20  is a perspective view of another dispenser assembly usable with the dispenser system shown in  FIG. 1 ; 
           [0032]      FIG. 21  is an exploded view of the dispenser assembly shown in  FIG. 20 ; 
           [0033]      FIG. 22  is a rear perspective exploded view of the dispenser assembly shown in  FIG. 20  with the discrete dispenser containers removed therefrom; 
           [0034]      FIG. 23  is a top plan view of a base portion assembly of the dispenser shown in  FIG. 20 ; 
           [0035]      FIG. 24  is a view similar to  FIG. 20  of another dispenser assembly useable with the dispenser system shown in  FIG. 1 ; 
           [0036]      FIG. 25  is a rear perspective view of the dispenser assembly shown in  FIG. 24 ; 
           [0037]      FIG. 26  is a view similar to  FIG. 20  of another dispenser assembly useable with the dispenser system shown in  FIG. 1 ; 
           [0038]      FIG. 27  is a view similar to  FIG. 26  with one of the discrete dispenser containers exploded therefrom; 
           [0039]      FIG. 28  is a perspective view of a dispenser assembly according to another embodiment of the invention that is useable with the dispenser system shown in  FIG. 1 ; 
           [0040]      FIG. 29  is an exploded view of the dispenser assembly shown in  FIG. 28 ; 
           [0041]      FIG. 30  is an exploded view of a dispenser assembly according to another embodiment of the invention and usable with the dispensing system shown in  FIG. 1 ; and 
           [0042]      FIG. 31  is a partially exploded view of a dispenser system that includes various dispenser containers and which is useable with the dispenser system shown in  FIG. 1 . 
       
    
    
       [0043]    Before explaining embodiments of the invention in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of the components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments or being practiced or carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as nor is it intended to be limiting. 
       DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
       [0044]      FIGS. 1-31  show various features, aspects, embodiments, and configurations of a service environment dispensing system  50  according to the present invention. It is appreciated that service environment dispensing system  50  can be deployed to be accessible to service personnel such as wait staff, bartenders, or the like, and/or directly accessible to consumers to provide various service related accessories—such as paper products like napkins or the like; liquid and solid food stuff condiments; such as ketchup, mustard, pickles, onions, tomatoes, etc.; silver and/or plastic ware, cups, cup lids, straws, etc. Understandably, the list above is merely exemplary and is in no way intended to be all inclusive of service industry accessories, garnishes, condiments, etc. provided during consumption and dispersion of food and drink stuffs in any number of environments. 
         [0045]      FIG. 1  shows deployment of various discrete dispensing assemblies, devices, or appliances to form a multiple accessory, condiment, garnish, etc., dispensing system  50  according to the present invention. Each dispensing device includes at least one respective base or base portion  52 ,  54  that is constructed to accommodate one or more dispensing containers  56 ,  58 ,  60 ,  62 . Referring to  FIGS. 1 and 2 , each base portion  52 ,  54  is defined by a body  64  that is shaped to slidably or removably cooperate with a one or more dispensing containers or accessories  68 . 
         [0046]    As shown in  FIG. 1 , each base portion  52 ,  54  is constructed to cooperate with one or more respective dispensing containers  56 ,  58 ,  60 ,  62  wherein each dispensing container  56 ,  58 ,  60 ,  62  can be configured to accommodate dispensing of different items. For instance, dispensing container  56  includes a plurality of cavities  72 ,  74 ,  76  configured to accommodate alternate generally elongated food service accessories such as straws, silverware, or plastic ware. Dispensing containers  58  are constructed to include a plurality of cavities  78 ,  80  and to support a dispensing appliance such as a tongs  82 . Cavities  78 ,  80 , and the association of tongs  82  therewith, are configured for dispensing foodstuffs, such as pickles, onions, or other solid food and drink stuff condiments and garnishes, in a substantially sanitary manner. 
         [0047]    Still referring to  FIG. 1 , base portion  54  includes an opening  84  that is shaped to cooperate with an opening defined by a dispensing container  60  associated with containing paper products or the like or other products configured to be dispensed in a pass-through manner. It is further appreciated that container  62  need not include a distinct pass through opening and can alternatively be constructed to cooperate with base portion  54  wherein the base portion, and the opening  84  associated therewith, defines the faceplate associated with dispensing of pass through products. 
         [0048]    Dispensing container  62  defines cavities  86  shaped to accommodate dispensing of other foodstuffs related accessories, such as cup lids  88 ,  90  and/or straws  92 . As explained further below, each base portions  52 ,  54  is constructed to cooperate with another adjacent base portion  52 ,  54  and configured to be secured to one another so as to generate a generally uniform and continuous presentation of plurality of base portions and the various dispensing containers associated therewith. 
         [0049]    As shown in  FIG. 3 , base portions  52 ,  54  include one or more openings  94 ,  95  that are each constructed to cooperate with a fastener or connector  96  to accommodate side-by-side securing of multiple base portions  52 ,  54  relative to one another. Although shown as being associated with only a generally rearward portion of the respective base portions  52 ,  54 , it is further appreciated, as disclosed further below with respect to  FIGS. 20-27 , that base portions  52 ,  54  can be provided with additional securing structures associated with connecting adjacent base portions. 
         [0050]    It is further appreciated that, base portions  52 ,  54  can be provided in any number of shapes and/or configurations and/or shaped to accommodate or support only one or a plurality of respective dispensing containers. It is further appreciated that the respective containers can be configured to dispense only one commodity or accessory or a number of related accessories—such as knives, spoons, and forks; and/or only those commodities or accessories common or desired to be dispensed in a particular environment. 
         [0051]    Still referring to  FIG. 3 , it is further appreciated that one or more of connectors  96  can be removable from one or both of respective adjacent base portions  52 ,  54  so as to accommodate the use of connectors  96  at alternate lateral ends of respective base portions  52 ,  54  intended to be connected to one another. It is further appreciated that the respective base portions could include cooperating structures for securing adjacent base portions to one another to satisfy a given presentation requirements. In a preferred embodiment, the respective connectors are provided in form factor wherein the respective connectors provide a finished appearance to the respective base portions with which they are engaged whether the respective base portion is deployed as a single unit configuration or engaged with one or more laterally adjacent base portions. 
         [0052]    Preferably openings  94 ,  95  and connectors  96  cooperate with one another so as to generally align the forward oriented edge associated with the respective connected base portions  52 ,  54 . Providing multiple base portions  52 ,  54  having alternate constructions and multiple dispensing containers  56 ,  58 ,  60 ,  62  that are each constructed to cooperate with alternate base portions  52 ,  54  provides a degree of modularity with respect to service system  50  which allows the user or facility associated with implementation of system  50  to configure system  50  for use in their intended environment and/or necessary application and further allows system  50  to provide a plurality of components that can be uniquely configured to satisfy the demands of different user desires. That is, the user need not invest in dispensing arrangement features that may not be germane to their particular needs or desires. 
         [0053]      FIGS. 4-6  show an elevated dispensing arrangement  100  associated with an alternate embodiment of the present invention. Arrangement  100  includes an interconnected base, base portion, or support assembly  102  that includes a plurality of interconnected links  104  ( FIG. 6 ) that, when secured to one another, define an elevated presentation platform  106  configured to support a plurality of accessory dispensing containers  108 . The modularity associated with support assembly allows arrangement  100  to achieve a substantially compact orientation when not in use, during, transport, and/or shipping. It is further appreciated that each accessory dispensing container  108  can be partitioned so as to accommodate dispensing and the intended sanitary presentation of a plurality of accessories with a single or multiple accessory containers. It is further appreciated that containers  108 , and any partitions associated therewith, can also be provided in a collapsible or nestable configuration so as to further facilitate the compact nature of arrangement  100  when not in use. 
         [0054]    Referring to  FIG. 5 , each container  108  is constructed to slideably cooperate with a respective member or link  104  associated with support assembly  102 . A lower portion  110  of support assembly  102  is constructed to cooperate with base portion or platform  112 . Platform  112  is preferably configured to accommodate presentation of one or more accessories and/or presentation of one or more additional accessory dispensing containers associated with support system or arrangement  100 . It should be further noted that arrangement  100  includes a number of partition walls  114  that have a similar aesthetic appearance and finish with respect to platform  112  such that, although provided in a module paradigm, the dispensing system or arrangement  100  is provided in a methodology that lends continuity between the respective features of the system and can be configured to accommodate or compliment the aesthetics of the environment. 
         [0055]      FIGS. 7-8  show various views of an additional dispensing accessory  120  that can be selectively associated with one or more of the components of system  50 . As should be readily appreciable, dispensing accessory  120  is commonly understood as a pump dispenser configured for dispensing generally fluid food condiments—such as ketchup, mustard, dressings, sauces, etc. Pump dispenser accessory  120  includes a spout  124  configured to dispense a food product upon actuation of a handle  126 . Reservoir  128  holds a volume of a particular fluid food condiment such that actuation of handle  126  delivers the product to spout  124  for subsequent delivery of the food product to other food stuffs or a portable container disposed generally under spout  124 . It is appreciated that dispensing accessory can be configured for both manual and/or automatic operation. It is further appreciated that accessory  120  can include one or more indicia or indicators  129  associated with identifying the contents of reservoir  128 . 
         [0056]    Reservoir  128  slidably cooperates with a base portion  130  that can include respective cavities  132  for dispensing optional disposable product cups. As should be appreciated from a comparison of  FIGS. 4-8 , base, base portion, or platform  112 , partition walls  114 , handle  126 , and base portion  130  have finishes that generally correlate to one another so as to provide an indication as to the relatedness of respective portions of system  50 . 
         [0057]      FIGS. 9-15  show various views of an additional dispenser assembly, arrangement or component  150  associated and usable with system  50  and constructed according to the present invention. The multiple dispenser component  150  includes a base or base portion  152  that is constructed to accommodate a first dispenser  154  and a second dispenser and/or a product contained therein  156 . In an alternate configuration, a base portion or base  160  is constructed to include alternate faceplates  162 ,  164  that each define an opening  166 ,  168  associated with dispensing pull through products, such as napkins or the like, from a container and associated cover  170  associated with base  160 . 
         [0058]    It is further appreciated that base portion or base  160  can be provided in alternate configurations such as that shown in  FIG. 11  wherein a faceplate  172  is oriented in a generally forward facing orientation such that an opening  174  presents paper product disposed behind cover  176  associated with the container defined by base portion or base  160  and in a generally vertical orientation. It is further appreciated that base portions or bases  152 ,  160  can be configured to interchangeably cooperate with one another and/or be securable to one another while maintaining generally the same or a complimentary aesthetic appearance associated with the wood grained finish between the alternate accessories. 
         [0059]    Referring to  FIGS. 12 and 15 , it is further appreciated that base  152  that can be provided in various alternate finishes as well so as to manipulate the aesthetic appearance associated with various components of system  50 . That is, it is appreciated that the various components of system  50  can be provided in various finishes and/or complimentary colors or arrangements so as to coordinate with the environment in which the system is deployed. It is further appreciated that each of bases  152 ,  160  can include a connector and/or be configured to cooperate with respective connectors  96  to facilitate the relative connection of a respective paper product dispensing component  150  and a laterally adjacent accessory dispenser. 
         [0060]      FIGS. 16-19  show various additional dispensing accessories  200 ,  250 ,  300  that can be selectively included in any respective deployment of system  50 . Accessory  200  includes a generally panelized construction consisting of a number of panels  202  that can selectively be secured to one another via discrete corner elements  206  so as to define a multiple cavity  208  dispensing tower wherein the plurality of cavities are vertically oriented relative to one another. It is further appreciated that faceplates  210  could be shaped and/or manipulated so as to accommodate horizontal deployment of accessory  200  and provide a respective designation as to such deployment or the intended deployment associated therewith. It is further appreciated that accessory  200 , like accessories  250  and  300  also be constructed to be interchangeably selectably securable to adjacent bases of related and or similarly appearing products. 
         [0061]      FIG. 18  shows yet another alternate dispenser accessory generally defined by a base portion, base, or body  252  that cooperates with one or more partitions  254 ,  256  associated with segregating respective portions of body  252  into respective dispensing receptacles or cavities  258 ,  260 ,  262 . Respective portions of body  252  are connected to one another via a rib  264  engaged with alternate longitudinal ends of the body portions. It is envisioned that the shape and/or respective size as well as the presentation of cavities  258 ,  260 ,  262  be presented in a manner that is indicative or intuitive as to the accessories dispensed therefrom and/or a respective association with adjoining dispensing accessories. 
         [0062]      FIG. 19  shows yet another dispensing accessory  300  that is configured to cooperate with one or more of the discrete respective dispensing accessories associated with system  50  as described above. Accessory  300  includes a base portion or base  302  that can include one or more dispense cavities  306 ,  308 ,  310  associated with presenting discrete food or other customer service related accessories from dispensing accessory  300 . It is further envisioned that accessory  300  can include one or more indicia  312 ,  314 ,  316  associated with respective portions thereof so as to provide a written or graphic indication as to the accessories that can be retrieved therefrom. It is appreciated that indicia  312 ,  314 ,  316  may be any of a graphical and/or three-dimensional representation indicative of the respective accessories being dispensed therefrom. It is further appreciated that dispensing accessory  300  can include one or more face panels  318 ,  320 ,  322  that have an aesthetic appearance that generally correlates to the aesthetic appearance associated with other accessories configured to cooperate with a respective portion of system  50 . 
         [0063]      FIGS. 20-27  show various views of a dispenser accessory or assembly  350  that is selectively usable with one or more of the dispensing accessories disclosed above or multiple dispensing assemblies  350  for forming a desired food or counter services accessory dispensing system  50 . Dispenser assembly  350  includes a base  352  that is defined by a faceplate  354  that extends generally in an upward direction relative to a bottom portion  356 . Faceplate  354  and bottom portion  356  can be formed integrally with one another or constructed with a selectively severable connection therebetween. An optional support or brace  358  is attached to a rearward portion  360  of bottom portion  356  of base  352  and extends in a generally upward direction between bottom portion  356  and a dispensing container support arrangement as disclosed further below. 
         [0064]    Dispenser assembly  350  includes a first bezel  362  that removably cooperates with a rearward facing cavity  365  ( FIG. 22 ) defined by faceplate  354 . Referring to  FIG. 20-22 , dispenser assembly  350  includes a second optional bezel  364  that removably cooperates with an opening  366  defined by first bezel  362 . Second bezel  364  includes one or more openings  368  that are shaped to slideably cooperate with respective dispenser containers  370 . It is appreciated that first bezel  362  could be constructed to directly cooperate with the respective dispensing containers  370 . 
         [0065]    Bezel  364  can include one or more fingers or slots  372  associated with effectuating removal of discrete respective containers  370  from bezel  364 . Bezel  364  includes a rearward extending flange  374  and a laterally extending flange  376  that slideably cooperate with opening  366  of bezel  362  so as the positionally index bezel  364  relative thereto. 
         [0066]    As shown in  FIGS. 21-22 , bezel  362  includes a forward facing end portion  380  that slideably cooperates with a top portion  382  of cavity  365  defined by faceplate  354 . Top portion  382  of cavity  365  includes one or more projections  390 ,  392 ,  396  that accommodate the slidable, and preferably a snap-fit, interaction between bezel  362  and faceplate  354 . Projections  392  include a barb  400  that is configured to engage a lower edge  402  of end portion  380  of bezel  362 . Such a construction ensures a generally planar association of the top surfaces of faceplate  354  and bezel  362  when engaged with one another. As shown in  FIG. 21 , forward facing end portion  380  of bezel  362  includes one or more cavities or recesses  404  that are preferably constructed to snap fittingly engage respective projections  396  ( FIG. 22 ) associated with the rearward facing side of faceplate  354 . 
         [0067]    Bezel  362  includes an outer flange  408  and an inner flange  410  that are disposed along at least the opposite lateral sides thereof. A channel  412  is defined between flanges  408 ,  410  and faces in a generally downward direction toward bottom portion  356  of base  352 . A cavity  414  is associated with the respective alternate lateral side inner flanges  410  of bezel  362 . Cavity  414  and channel  412  are constructed to cooperate with a projection  416  and an upward extending end portion  418 , respectively, associated with the opposite lateral sides of brace  358 . 
         [0068]    Projections  416  preferably snap-fittingly cooperate with cavity  414 , such that end portions  418  of brace  358  are disposed in channel  412 . Brace  358  includes a lateral member  420  that extends between opposite vertical portions  422 ,  424  of brace  358  and which is offset from the respective end portions  418 . One or more respective bosses  430  are formed proximate a lower end  426  of brace  358 . Bosses  430  are constructed to snap-fittingly cooperate with a rearward facing portion  360  of bottom portion  356  of base  352  such that end portions  418  of brace  358  are offset in a rearward direction relative to faceplate  354  when brace  358  is secured to base  352 . When brace  358  is secured to base  352 , lateral member  420  of brace  358  is disposed generally below a partition  436  defined by bezel  364  and oriented so as to not interfere with the removable slideable interaction of respective dispensing containers  370  with the bezels associated therewith. 
         [0069]    Referring to  FIGS. 20 and 23 , like bases  52 ,  54 , one or more connectors  438  cooperate with respective openings  440  defined by base  352 . Connectors  438  can be configured to cooperate with a pair of adjacent openings  440  associated with a single base  352  and/or have one end thereof disengaged from a respective base so as to engage a respective opening associated with an adjacent base such that various combinations of bases  52 ,  54 ,  352  can be secured relative to one another during formation of a desired configuration of dispensing system  50 . 
         [0070]    Referring to  FIG. 23 , bottom portion  356  of base  352  includes one or more contoured sections  446  that are each defined by an elevated portion  448 , opposite facing sidewall portions  450 , and a respective intermediary or valley portion  452  formed between adjacent contoured sections  446 . Respective contour sections  446  are shaped to facilitate drainage of base  352  should any liquid material be impinged thereupon during use, placement, and/or removal of the respective dispensing containers relative to assembly  350 . 
         [0071]    Referring to  FIGS. 24-27 , it should be appreciated that base  352  and bezel  362  are constructed to accommodate various dispenser appliances or devices, aside from containers  370 , and that such devices can be provided in various shapes, sizes, and configurations. Referring to  FIGS. 24-25 , dispenser assembly  350  is shown configured to accommodate alternate commodity containers  460 ,  462 ,  464  that are slideably associated with the top surface  468  of bezel  362 . One or more of containers  460 ,  462 ,  464  can also include one or more channels  470  configured to accommodate slidable interaction with a partition wall  472  so as to segregate the respective volumes  474 ,  476 ,  478  associated associated with containers  460 ,  462 ,  464 . It should be appreciated that each of containers  460 ,  462 ,  464  can be configured to provide generally elongated volumes for acceptance of silverware, plastic ware, cup lids or the like and/or be partitioned to accommodate less elongate accessories, condiments, garnishes, etc. 
         [0072]    Referring to  FIGS. 24-25 , each of dispensing containers  460 ,  462 ,  464  extend a respective depth, indicated by arrows  480 ,  482 , between a respective top surface  484  and a respective bottom surface  486  to define a respective cavity  488  associated with each dispensing container  460 ,  462 ,  464 . As shown in  FIG. 25 , depth  480  associated with dispensing containers  460 ,  462  is configured such that a bottom surface  486  associated with dispensing containers  460 ,  462  traverses the lateral member  420  associated with brace  358  without interfering therewith. In a preferred configuration, lateral member  420  of brace  358  can be configured to support an intermediary portion of respective containers  460 ,  462 . 
         [0073]    Unlike containers  460 ,  462 , dispensing container  464  includes a generally downward opening channel  490  that slideably cooperates with a respective section of lateral member  420  of brace  358 . Channel  490  partially segregates cavity  478  associated with dispensing container  464  along the longitudinal axis thereof. Channels  470  associated with dispensing container  464  are generally aligned with a partition  492  associated with the formation of cavity  478  such that the entire depth  482  of dispensing container  464  can be segregated into discrete longitudinal portions via the introduction of a partition wall  472  with container  464 . 
         [0074]      FIGS. 26 and 27  shown another alternate dispensing container arrangement or assembly  500  that is configured to removably cooperate with bezel  362  associated with dispensing assembly  350 . Assembly  500  includes a faceplate  502  that includes one or more cavities  504 ,  506  that are constructed to removably cooperate with dispensing containers  508  and that each include a cover  510  that movably cooperates with a respective dispensing container  508 . 
         [0075]    Referring to  FIG. 27 , dispensing assembly  500  includes a housing or a bezel  512  that preferably removably cooperates with bezel  362  associated with base  352 . Bezel  512  defines a plurality of cavities  514  that are shaped to removably cooperate with a receptacle  516  constructed to removably receive a dispensing container  518 . It is further appreciated that cavities  514  could be provided in a generally closed configuration relative to the other cavities  514  defined by bezel  362  thereby facilitating the omission of discrete containers  518  and such that the respective cavities  514  define the discrete accessory containers. When provided in the configuration shown, receptacles  516  and bezel  512  include one or more bosses  520 ,  522  that are oriented at opposite lateral sides of the respective receptacle  516  or cavity  514  and facilitate the discrete removal of selected containers  518 . 
         [0076]    An operator  524  is associated with the opposite lateral sides of receptacle  516  and cooperates with a post  526  proximate the respective boss  520 ,  522 . Operators  524  cooperate with cover  510  so as to preferably bias cover  510  toward a closed position wherein the respective cover  510  generally overlies an opening  527  defined by dispensing container  518 . Each cover  510  includes a pair of openings  528  that are associated with the opposite lateral sides thereof and configured to cooperate with a respective boss  520 ,  522  to facilitate rotation of cover  510  relative to container  518  and/or a respective receptacle  516  defined by bezel  512 . Cover  510  is rotatable about an axis defined by respective bosses  520 ,  522  and cooperates with operators  524  so as to allow the selective exposure of opening  526  defined by dispensing container  518 . 
         [0077]    Referring to  FIGS. 20, 26, 27 , it should be appreciated that bezels  364  and  512 , interchangeably cooperate with bezel  362 , such that dispensing assembly  350  can be configured to provide a plurality of dispensing containers such as dispensing containers  370 , or dispensing containers having selectively operable covers such as dispensing assembly  500 . 
         [0078]    Referring to  FIGS. 20-27 , it is further appreciated that dispensing assembly  350  can be configured to provide various numbers of discrete dispensing containers as well as dispensing containers having different sized cavities associated therewith. That is, although dispensing container  476  ( FIG. 24 ) can be configured to cooperate with generally elongated, accessories, such as silverware, plastic ware, etc., the cavity associated with dispensing container  476 , can be quickly and conveniently configured, and/or partitioned to provide alternate sized receptacle cavities such that a plurality of generally similarly shaped cavities associated with dispensing container  474  ( FIG. 24 ) can be provided. 
         [0079]    It is further appreciated that dispensing assembly  350  can be configured to include one or more of the respective dispensing containers  474 ,  476 ,  478  in any discrete association with respect to base  352  and faceplate  354 . Such considerations allows dispensing assembly  350  to be individually configured to satisfy the respective desires and/or demands of discrete users. It is further appreciated that one or more of bezels  362 ,  364  could be provided in widths wherein generally more square shaped dispenser containers  370 ,  518  cooperate with a generally more elongate configuration associated with dispensing containers  474 ,  476 ,  478  associated with a singular or discrete base  352  and/or corresponding faceplate  354 . 
         [0080]      FIGS. 28 through 31  show various alternate configurations associated with providing collapsible and/or discreetly configurable dispensing appliances. Referring to  FIGS. 28 and 29 , dispensing system  550  includes a base portion or a base  552  that is constructed to removably cooperate with a space frame or bezel  554  that removably cooperates with one or more dispensing containers  556 ,  558 ,  560 . Bezel  554  includes one or more tabs  562  that preferably snap-fittingly cooperate with a rearward facing portion  564  associated with faceplate  566  of base  552 . Bezel  554  defines an upward facing lip  568  that is shaped to accommodate resting or nesting of discrete dispensing containers  556 ,  558 ,  560 , relative to bezel  554 . 
         [0081]    As shown in  FIG. 28 , when fully assembled, dispensing containers  556 ,  558 ,  560  are oriented in a generally rearward upwardly inclined orientation relative to faceplate  566 . Preferably, dispensing system  550 , and the discrete dispensing containers  556 ,  558 ,  560  associated therewith, are oriented at the same inclination relative to dispensing assembly  350 . It is further appreciated that dispensing system  550  can include alternate laterally oriented connectors, such as connectors  438  associated with dispensing system  350 , so as to allow lateral connection of multiple bases  552  relative to one another and/or bases having other constructions and/or dispensing accessories associated therewith. 
         [0082]      FIG. 30  shows a dispensing system  600  according to yet a further embodiment of the invention. Dispensing system  600  includes a base  602  generally similar to base  552  although base  602  is constructed with a rearward facing cavity  604  associated with faceplate portion  606  of base  602 . Cavity  604  is shaped to slideably cooperate with a forward facing portion  608  of a space frame or bezel  610  a system  600 . Generally upward facing surface  612  of bezel  610  defines a cavity  614  that is bounded by a channel  616 . Channel  616  of bezel  610  is shaped to removably cooperate with a plurality of discrete dispensing containers  618 ,  620 ,  622  in a manner similar to the dispensing systems described above. 
         [0083]    It is further appreciated that dispensing system  600  can be configured to cooperate with a plurality of generally elongate dispensing containers  618 ,  620 ,  622  or discrete dispenser containers having other shapes as described heretofore and in a manner that allows dispensing system  600  to be individually configured to provide a desired number, and/or orientation of discrete dispensing containers. It is further appreciated that base  602  of dispensing system  600  can include alternate laterally oriented connectors such as connectors  438  to accommodate the lateral securing of adjacent bases  602 , and the corresponding dispensing containers, relative to one another during implementation in a food services environment. 
         [0084]      FIG. 31  shows a dispensing system  650 , according to a further embodiment of the invention. Dispensing system  650  includes a base  652  that is constructed to removably cooperate with a space frame or bezel  654  that is constructed to removably cooperate with one or more discrete dispensing containers  656 ,  658 ,  660 , and/or one or more discrete space frames or bezels  662  that are shaped to cooperate with alternate dispensing containers. 
         [0085]    Bezel  654  includes one or more recesses or cavities  664  that are oriented at opposite lateral or longitudinal orthogonal ends or sides of base  652 . Dispensing containers  656 ,  658 ,  660  include respective projections  670  that are oriented at opposite orthogonal sides thereof and shaped to slideably cooperate with the respective cavities  664  defined by bezel  654 . It is appreciated that the interfering engagement associated with cavities  664  and projections  670  could be provided in any number of shapes, and/or configurations such as interfering rails and cavities, mortise and tenon type joints, dovetail type joints. It is further appreciated that dispensing system  650  can include a second bezel  662  includes one or more cavities or recesses that are shaped to slideably accommodate alternate dispensing containers. It is further appreciated that second bezel  662  can be provided as a partitionable dispenser container as disclosed above by including a bottom or floor associated therewith. Whether provided as a second bezel or an additional dispenser container, bezel  662  can include one or more projections  670  that can slideably cooperate with a respective pair of cavities  664  defined by bezel  654  associated with base  652 . 
         [0086]    Projections  670  associated with dispensing container  660 , which includes one or more translatable cover(s)  674 , can be slideably associated with recesses  672  oriented at the opposite longitudinal ends associated with bezel  654  or bezel  662  such that dispensing system  650  can be configured to include a selectively openable dispensing container, such as dispensing container  660 , and a plurality of generally more fixed shape dispensing containers such as dispensing containers  656 ,  658 . It is further appreciated that the laterally oriented recesses  672  associated with bezel  662 , can be constructed to slideably cooperate with a corresponding boss of a plurality of discrete dispensing containers and/or dispensing container containers, such as receptacle  516  associated with dispensing system  350  ( FIG. 27 ). The generally elongated shape of dispensing container  656 ,  658  renders such containers particularly suitable for storage of elongated, accessories, such as silverware, plastic ware, straws, cup lids, or the like, whereas dispensing container  660  is more particularly configured to dispense discrete condiments and/or garnishes. 
         [0087]    It is further appreciated that one or more of dispensing containers  656 ,  658 ,  660  can be provided in various desired widths, as indicated by arrow  680 , and lengths, as indicated by arrow  682 , to facilitate the selectively removable cooperation of the discrete dispenser containers with the cavity  684  defined by bezel  654  of dispensing system  650 . Preferably, the respective dispensing containers that define a generally elongated volume associated therewith are provided in widths of approximately 6 inches and lengths of approximately 18 inches relative to the exterior dimensions thereof. Such a consideration allows various sized respective dispensing container accessories to be associated with the bezel  654  of dispensing system  650  and to be oriented in lateral or longitudinal orientations relative to forward facing surface  686  associated with faceplate  688  of base  652 . Preferably, each of dispensing systems  50 ,  350   550 ,  600 ,  650  are provided in a length  700  relative to a rearward extending direction that satisfies American&#39;s with Disability Act (ADA) reach requirements so as to facilitate efficient and convenient utilization of the respective dispensing systems by all classes of users and/or consumers. 
         [0088]    Understandably, it is appreciated that each of the bases and the dispensing accessories of system  50  can be provided in various aesthetic appearances, configurations, and/or paradigms such as wood grained, bamboo, stainless steel, other materials, complementary color and material schemes, etc. such that the corresponding accessory dispensing system, when deployed with the desired dispensing accessories, generally correlates or compliments the objectives and design tastes of those deploying system  50  and/or the environment associated with the deployment of the respective accessory dispensing system. 
         [0089]    It is further appreciated that the dispensing accessories described heretofore are merely exemplary of some of the more commonly deployed food service related accessories and that it is envisioned that system  50  can be readily configured for use in various environments, with other accessories, and/or accessories constructed for dispensing of other food stuff or food consumption accessories, sanitation products, condiments, garnishes, etc. It is further envisioned and appreciated that the modularity associated with the plurality of bases and the corresponding accessory dispensing systems can be configured to generate a plethora of food service dispensing arrangements or systems to satisfy the various demands associated with any given environment. These and other aspects of the present invention will be further appreciated from the appending claims. 
         [0090]    It is also to be understood that, although the foregoing description and drawings describe and illustrate in detail one or more embodiments of the present invention, to those skilled in the art to which the present invention relates, the present disclosure will suggest many modifications and constructions as well as widely differing embodiments and applications without thereby departing from the sprit and scope of the invention. The present invention, therefore, is intended to be limited only by the scope of the appended claims and the applicable prior art.