Patent Description:
Different types of devices for dispensing selected quantities of paper and other flexible sheet products, such as for use in restrooms, hospitals and/or other environments, have been developed in recent years. Some of these dispensers have incorporated mechanical cutting mechanisms that cut or perforate a portion of the paper as it is dispensed, without requiring a user to pull and tear the paper against a tearing mechanism. A drawback with some of these mechanical cutting mechanisms is that their blades or other devices can cause bunching, ripping, or inconsistent cutting of the paper while it is being dispensed, particularly when different grades of paper (i.e., heavier towel type or thinner, tissue type paper). Additionally, such dispensers and cutting systems may produce a significant amount of noise during operation, which noise may be undesirable or disruptive in hospitals, offices, or other environments. Furthermore, a user's pull force may not be sufficient to reset the dispensers and/or the cutting mechanisms. Accordingly, it can be seen that a need exists for a dispenser with a cutting mechanism that provides for reliable cutting or perforation of the sheet material/paper product without bunching or tearing, reduces noise generated as the sheet material is dispensed, provides a biasing force to facilitate resetting of the cutting mechanism, and which addresses the foregoing and other related and unrelated problems in the art.

<CIT> discloses a dispenser having a feed roller that at least partially engages sheet material to facilitate dispensing thereof, and a cutting mechanism disposed within a chamber defined by a body of the feed roller. The cutting mechanism comprising a cutting blade and at least one movable support connected thereto. <CIT> shows a film dispenser comprises a holder for a roll of packaging material. The holder is carried by a support, which includes a handle. A brake roller is carried by the support and engages the peripheral surface of the roll. <CIT> discloses an apparatus for dispensing sheet material from a sheet material dispenser wherein the dispenser includes drive and tension rollers supported within a housing forming a nip therebetween. Pulling of sheet material through the nip and against the drive roller rotates the drive roller.

The present invention is directed to sheet material dispenser with the features of claim <NUM>.

Briefly described, the present disclosure includes a dispenser for dispensing a flexible, rolled sheet material. The dispenser typically includes a dispenser housing with a supply of the sheet material supported therewithin, and a drive or feed mechanism. During a dispensing operation, a length or portion of the sheet material will be along a dispensing or feed path/path of travel defined through the housing and to a discharge.

The feed mechanism of the dispenser can include a manual drive or, alternatively, can include a motor driven drive.

The feed roll assembly includes a feed roller rotatably mounted within the housing and arranged along the path of travel of the sheet material. The feed roller comprises a body having a chamber defined therein, and an exterior surface that at least partially engages the sheet material for feeding or dispensing thereof.

The feed roller includes a biasing assembly with one or more biasing members coupled thereto (e.g., springs or other suitable biasing mechanism) that assist in rotation of the feed roller (e.g., facilitate return of the feed roller to an initial position after manual dispensing of the sheet material).

One or more pressing rollers further are positioned adjacent the feed roller. The pressing rollers also can be biased toward the body of the feed roller sufficient to engage the sheet material between the one or more pressing rollers and the feed roller so that the sheet material is pulled therebetween and from the supply for feeding along the dispensing path upon rotation of the feed roller during a dispensing operation.

Additionally, the dispenser includes a cutting mechanism or assembly at least partially disposed within the chamber defined by the body of the feed roller. The cutting assembly includes a cutting blade coupled to at least one movable support.

The at least one moveable support further is operatively connected to the body of the feed roller so as to be actuated with rotation thereof to cause the cutting blade to be moved into and out of one or more openings or a notch or recess defined along the body of the feed roller and at least partially cut, score, or perforate the sheet materials after or during a dispensing operation with the feeding of a selected portion of the sheet material.

The cutting assembly further can include a cam follower (e.g., including a roller or bearing) that is connected to the at least one moveable support, and which engages and rides along a cam surface or track positioned within the chamber of the body of the feed roller as the feed roller is rotated to cause movement of the cutting blade into and out from the one or more openings in the body of the feed roller.

The cutting assembly can include a substantially fixed cam member or track mounted within the chamber of the feed roller body such that the feed roller and the cutting mechanism are rotatable thereabout.

The cam member can have at least one protrusion, or alternatively the track can have an area or portion, shaped, positioned, sized, and/or configured to be engaged by the cam follower to cause rotation or pivoting of the at least one support sufficient to move the cutting blade out of the feed roller body for at least partially cutting, scoring, or perforating the sheet material. The protrusion of the cam member (or area of the track) can have various configurations, including having one or more curved or arcuate surfaces configured to engage the cam follower, in response to which, the cutting blade is moved out of the feed roller body for at least partially cutting, scoring, or perforating the sheet material without scrapping, tearing, and/or ripping thereof.

In one aspect, the at least one moveable support also may be biased, e.g., by one or more biasing members, to urge the cam follower into engagement with the portion or track. In one aspect,.

In one additional aspect, the cutting assembly can include a linkage driven cutting mechanism (e.g., without biasing members) having at least one support that supports the cutting blade and is connected to an interior surface of the feed roller body at a first portion/end and to a cam follower, such as a roller or bearing that is received within the track, at a second portion/end. As the body of the feed roller rotates the roller connected to the first portion of the support can move about and engage the track, such that the support is pivoted or otherwise moved about the first end thereof connected to the body of the feed roller to move the cutting mechanism into engagement with the sheet material.

The biasing assembly connected to the feed roller to assist rotation thereof and can also facilitate/assist movement of the cutting blade into and out from the one or more openings for at least partially cutting or perforating the selected portion of the sheet material.

The one or more biasing members of the biasing assembly further can extend generally along a longitudinal or rotational axis of the feed roller body.

The biasing assembly also can include one or more linkages and one or more pulleys. The linkage(s) can include one end that is connected to a corresponding biasing member, and an opposing end that is connected to a component of the dispenser that is substantially fixed in relation to the feed roller body. The pulley(s) can be configured to engage the linkage(s) to facilitate a change of direction thereof, such that an axial pull force or tension along the biasing member(s) is converted into a radial pull force or tension to maintain or assist in rotation of the feed roller body and/or facilitate movement of the cutting blade into and out from the one or more openings for at least partially cutting or perforating the selected portion of the sheet material.

Still further, the biasing assembly can include a support assembly configured to support the biasing member(s), linkage(s), and pulley(s) along the feed roller body, e.g., to help facilitate alignment of, or to help to substantially reduce, prevent, or inhibit misalignment of, the biasing member(s), linkage(s), and/or pulley(s) when the biasing assembly is rotated or otherwise moved with the feed roller body.

These and other advantages and aspects of the embodiments of the disclosure will become apparent and more readily appreciated from the following detailed description of the embodiments and the claims, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Moreover, it is to be understood that both the foregoing summary of the disclosure and the following detailed description are exemplary and intended to provide further explanation without limiting the scope of the disclosure as claimed.

The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a further understanding of the embodiments of the present disclosure, are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of this disclosure, and together with the detailed description, serve to explain the principles of the embodiments discussed herein. No attempt is made to show structural details of this disclosure in more detail than may be necessary for a fundamental understanding of the exemplary embodiments discussed herein and the various ways in which they may be practiced.

The following description is provided as an enabling teaching of embodiments of this disclosure. Those skilled in the relevant art will recognize that many changes can be made to the embodiments described, while still obtaining the beneficial results. It will also be apparent that some of the desired benefits of the embodiments described can be obtained by selecting some of the features of the embodiments without utilizing other features. Accordingly, those who work in the art will recognize that many modifications and adaptations to the embodiments described are possible and may even be desirable in certain circumstances. Thus, the following description is provided as illustrative of the principles of the embodiments of the invention and not in limitation thereof, since the scope of the invention is defined by the claims.

As generally illustrated in <FIG>, the present disclosure is directed to a sheet material dispenser <NUM> for feeding or dispensing a flexible sheet material <NUM> (<FIG>). The dispenser <NUM> generally includes a feed roller drive assembly <NUM> mounted/disposed within a dispenser housing <NUM>. The drive assembly <NUM> generally will be manually operated (as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>); though in some constructions the dispenser can include a motorized/driven feed roller. Upon use or activation of the dispenser <NUM>, the feed roller drive assembly <NUM> for dispensing sheet material will be engaged, causing rotation of a feed roller or drive spindle <NUM>, thereby resulting in conveyance of a measured or selected amount or length L of sheet material <NUM> along a conveying or feed path P (<FIG>) from a roll or supply <NUM> of the sheet material <NUM> and out of a dispensing throat or discharge chute <NUM> or other suitable aperture or opening provided/defined in the housing <NUM>, as generally indicated in <FIG> and <FIG>. It further should be appreciated that the sheet material dispenser <NUM> described herein should not be considered to be limited to any particular style, configuration, or intended type of sheet material. For example, the dispenser <NUM> may be operable to dispense paper towels, toilet tissue, or other similar paper or sheet materials, including dispensing or feeding non-perforated and/or perforated sheet materials.

As indicated in <FIG> and <FIG>, the dispenser housing <NUM> generally includes a roll support mechanism <NUM>, for holding at least one roll <NUM> of the supply <NUM> of sheet material <NUM>. For example, the roll <NUM> can be supported by a pair of arms <NUM> coupled to the dispenser housing <NUM>. These arms <NUM> may be fixedly arranged to hold the supply <NUM> of sheet material in a spaced relationship with the feed roller <NUM> or, in the alternative, the arms <NUM> may be biased or urged, such as by a spring, other pre-stressed member or suitable biasing mechanisms, toward the feed roller <NUM> to urge or direct the supply <NUM> of sheet material downwardly toward or against the roller <NUM>. In an alternative construction (not shown), the roll support mechanism can include slots or grooves defined in or along the dispenser housing <NUM> that are configured to receive the first and/or second ends of the roll <NUM> of the sheet material <NUM>, such that at least a portion of the supply <NUM> of sheet material <NUM> is supported by, and/or rests on or engages the feed roller <NUM>. The slots or grooves of the roll support mechanism further can include one or more angled or sloped portions having a variable slope to increase/decrease the amount of force the supply <NUM> of sheet material exerts on the roller <NUM>. For example, a slope can be selected such that as the supply <NUM> of sheet material is fed (e.g., the amount of sheet material <NUM> left on the roll decreases), the slope or position of the supply roll can change so as to keep a downward force exerted on the feed roller <NUM> by the supply roll substantially constant as the supply of sheet material, and likewise the weight thereof, is diminished as selected portions of the sheet material <NUM> are dispensed.

<FIG> and <FIG> further show that the dispenser <NUM> also can include one or more pressing rollers <NUM> that can be biased toward engagement with the feed roller <NUM>, so as to engage and force or press the sheet material <NUM> against the feed roller <NUM>. The pressing roller(s) <NUM> can be movably mounted within the dispenser housing <NUM>, such as with the ends thereof held within holders or brackets 36A/36B that can be biased toward engagement with the driven feed roller <NUM> such as by springs, biased cylinders or other suitable biasing mechanisms. The pressing rollers or a single roller, when used, also can be biased independently forward the feed roller. The pressing roller(s) <NUM> further can include bands of a gripping material, such as a rubber or synthetic material, to assist in pulling the sheet material therebetween without causing damage to the sheet material as it passes between the feed roller and pressing roller(s). Additional pressing or guide rollers 36C also can be arranged along the feed roller <NUM> to assist in guiding the sheet material, which additional rollers 36C (<FIG>) may be fixed or biased against the feed roller body <NUM>, such as by springs, biased cylinders or other suitable biasing mechanisms.

<FIG> provides an exploded view of the feed roller <NUM> according to one embodiment. As illustrated in <FIG>, the feed roller body <NUM> may include first and second ends 28A/28B and a generally cylindrical outer side wall <NUM> and an inner side wall <NUM> defining an open ended passage, recess, or at least partially hollow cavity <NUM> defined within/along the feed roller body <NUM>, and the feed roller body <NUM> may also include one or more driving bands <NUM> disposed on, or adhered to, an outer surface 30A of the side wall <NUM>, such as a series of driving bands or sections <NUM> disposed on the outer surface 30A in a spaced arrangement or configuration. The driving bands <NUM> may at least partially include or be comprised of rubber, plastic, resin or other similar materials suitable to increase grip of the feed roller <NUM> and/or friction between the feed roller <NUM> and the sheet material <NUM> to thereby assist in the feeding or driving of the sheet material <NUM>. In addition, the outer surface 30A of the feed roller body <NUM> also may include a series of recessed or gap sections <NUM> defined therein.

As additionally illustrated in <FIG>, the feed roller body <NUM> can be made up of various sections or portions including a first section or portion <NUM> having, for example, a cylindrical sidewall 29A defining an open ended passage or at least a partially hollow cavity 29B therealong, and a second, or other additional, section or portion <NUM> connected to and/or adjacent the first section <NUM> also having, for example, a cylindrical sidewall 33A defining an open ended passage or at least a partially hollow cavity 33B therealong. The feed roller body <NUM> can be movably or rotatably mounted/attached to one or more walls or other portions of the dispenser housing <NUM>, such as side walls <NUM>/<NUM> (<FIG> and <FIG>). The first 28A and/or second 28B ends of the feed roller body <NUM> can be connected, mounted or otherwise coupled to the side walls <NUM>/<NUM> by one or more bearing assemblies <NUM> (<FIG> and <FIG>), and/or other suitable support mechanisms that support and allow for rotation of the feed roller body <NUM> in relation to the dispenser housing <NUM>. The bearings <NUM> may include roller or ball bearings, though embodiments of this disclosure are not so limited and may include plain, fluid, or magnetic bearings or any other suitable mechanisms for rotatably fixing the feed roller body <NUM> to or within the dispenser housing <NUM>. The first 28A and/or second 28B ends of the feed roller body <NUM> can be receive and engage the bearing assemblies <NUM> to enable the feed roller body <NUM> to rotate with respect to the dispenser housing <NUM> (<FIG> and <FIG>).

<FIG> and <FIG> show a dispenser cutting assembly or system <NUM> according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the cutting assembly <NUM> can include a cutting blade <NUM> and a base or support <NUM> connected to and at least partially supporting the cutting blade <NUM>. The base <NUM> can be pivotably or otherwise movably mounted within the cavity or chamber <NUM> defined within the feed roller body <NUM>, such that teeth or sharpened portions <NUM> of the cutting blade <NUM> are extensible between extended and retracted positions out of and back through an opening or slot <NUM> defined along the feed roller body <NUM> by movement of the base.

The base <NUM> can have a body <NUM> with front <NUM>, back <NUM>, top <NUM>, bottom <NUM>, and side <NUM>/<NUM> portions or sections (<FIG>). In one embodiment, the body <NUM> of the base <NUM> further can be formed from a plastic material or other polymeric material, though other suitable materials, such as rubber, wood, composites, etc., also can be used without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The base <NUM> further generally will be coupled or connected to the cutting blade <NUM> along the top portion <NUM> of the base <NUM>, for example, by a series of fasteners <NUM>, such as screws, bolts, rivets, etc., that can be received and/or threaded through a series of holes <NUM> defined in/through the cutting blade <NUM> as well as corresponding holes <NUM> defined in the top portion of the base <NUM>. However, the cutting blade <NUM> can be otherwise fixed to or integrally formed with the support/base <NUM>, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as claimed.

As generally shown in <FIG>, the base <NUM> further is rotatably or pivotally coupled to at least a portion of the feed roller body <NUM>. For example, the cutting assembly <NUM> can include pins <NUM>, or other suitable connection means or connecting members, e.g., rods, bearings, etc., allowing for pivoting or rotation thereabout, to couple to ends 324A/B of the base <NUM> to side walls <NUM> of the feed roller body <NUM> such that the base/support <NUM> is rotatable/pivotable about the pins <NUM> and further moves/rotates with the feed roller body <NUM> during dispensing of the sheet material. Additionally, the cutting assembly <NUM> can include one or more biasing members <NUM>, such as torsion springs, or other suitable biasing members, that are coupled to pins <NUM> and provide a biasing force against the support/base <NUM>, e.g., sufficient to urge or bias the support/base <NUM>, and thus the cutting blade <NUM>, toward a retracted position.

<FIG> and <FIG> also show that the base <NUM> also has a cam follower assembly <NUM> arranged along the top portion <NUM> thereof. The cam follower assembly <NUM> generally has one or more cam followers <NUM>, which can include bearings, rollers, or other rotating members or portions. In one embodiment, the cam followers <NUM> can be at least partially received within notches or grooves <NUM> defined in the top portion <NUM> of the base <NUM>, and can be rotatably coupled thereto by rods or pins <NUM>, or other suitable connection mechanisms, as generally shown in <FIG>. The rods or pins <NUM> each further can be received/engaged within a hole or passage <NUM> defined through a body <NUM> of each cam followers <NUM> and corresponding holes/passages <NUM> defined along the top portion <NUM> of the base <NUM>, to rotatably couple the cam followers <NUM> to the base <NUM>, as generally shown in <FIG>.

The cam followers <NUM> engage and move along one or more corresponding cam surfaces or tracks <NUM> located within the cavity <NUM> of the feed roller body <NUM>, as the feed roller body <NUM> is rotated, and correspondingly pivot/rotate the base <NUM> and move the cutting blade <NUM> out from and back into the opening/slot <NUM>. For example, in one embodiment, the cutting assembly <NUM> can include cam members <NUM> that can be mounted in a substantially fixed or stationary position within the cavity <NUM> of the feed roller body <NUM>, such that the feed roller body <NUM> and the base <NUM> are rotated about such cam members <NUM>, such as indicated in <FIG>.

The biasing member <NUM> further can bias or urge the cam followers <NUM> against and into engagement with at least a portion of the cam members <NUM>. The cam members <NUM> further can have one or more protrusions, protuberances, or extending portions <NUM> provided therealong, such that when the protrusion(s) <NUM> are engaged by the cam followers <NUM> the biasing force of the biasing member <NUM> is overcome to cause the base/support <NUM> to pivot, rotate, or otherwise move and thereby extend the cutting blade <NUM> out from the opening/slot <NUM> in the feed roller body <NUM> for at least partial perforation or cutting of the sheet material. Accordingly, as shown in <FIG>, as the feed roller body <NUM> is rotated to dispense sheet material <NUM> (and the base <NUM> is rotated therewith) the cam followers <NUM> will be pressed against/into engagement with and moved along the cam members <NUM> such that the support/base <NUM> pivots or moves the cutting blade <NUM> between a plurality of extended and retracted positions <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, the cutting blade <NUM> initially can be in a rest or initial position <NUM>, with the cam followers <NUM> engaging a surface or portion <NUM> of the cam members <NUM> such that the cutting blade <NUM> is retracted from the opening <NUM> in the feed roller body <NUM>. In this rest/initial position <NUM>, a tail or portion <NUM> of the sheet material <NUM> may hang or otherwise extend from the discharge chute <NUM> of the dispenser. It will, however, be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to this arrangement, and the sheet material <NUM> may be concealed within the dispenser or in any other suitable arrangement, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as claimed.

<FIG> also indicate that when the feed roller body <NUM> is rotated to dispense a selected amount of sheet material, for example, upon a manual activation of the dispenser, e.g., when a user turns a knob or lever <NUM> operatively connected to the feed roller body <NUM> by a post or support <NUM> (<FIG> and <FIG>) or pulls on the tail <NUM> of a hanging sheet or portion of sheet material extending from the discharge, the cam follower <NUM> will move along surface <NUM> until the cam follower <NUM> engages a cam surface or portion <NUM> of a protrusion <NUM> of the cam member <NUM> and is moved to an extent sufficient to overcome the biasing force of the biasing member <NUM>. In response, the support/base <NUM> will be pivoted so as to move the cutting blade <NUM> to exit the opening <NUM> defined in the feed roller body <NUM> to cut, score, or perforate the sheet material <NUM>.

In addition, <FIG> shows that when the feed roller body <NUM> is rotated an initial amount, e.g., rotated approximately <NUM>° to approximately <NUM>°, such as approximately <NUM>°, from the rest position <NUM> in a counterclockwise direction D1, the cam follower <NUM> generally will begin to engage the surface or portion <NUM> of the protrusion <NUM> and the cutting blade <NUM> will begin to exit the opening <NUM>. Thereafter, as shown in <FIG>, as the feed roller body <NUM> is rotated a further amount, e.g., rotated approximately <NUM>° to approximately <NUM>°, such as approximately <NUM>°, from the rest position <NUM> in the counterclockwise direction D1, to the cam follower <NUM> is moved further along the surface/portion <NUM>, causing the cutting blade <NUM> to extend further toward a cutting position <NUM> with the cutting blade <NUM> contacting or otherwise engaging the sheet material for cutting or perforation thereof. In one embodiment, the cam surface or portion <NUM> of the protrusion <NUM> further generally can be sloped, curved, or otherwise shaped or configured to help control the engagement of the cutting blade with the sheet material so as to substantially prevent ripping or tearing during cutting, scoring, or perforation thereof.

Subsequently, as illustrated in <FIG>, when the feed roller body <NUM> rotates an even further amount, e.g., approximately <NUM>° to approximately <NUM>° or more, such as approximately <NUM>°, from the rest position <NUM> in the counterclockwise direction D1, the cam follower <NUM> is moved further along the cam surface or portion <NUM> such that the cutting blade <NUM> is moved to its fully extended position <NUM>, with the cutting blade <NUM> substantially projecting or extending out of the opening <NUM> in the feed roller body <NUM>.

Thereafter, as the feed roller body <NUM> continues to rotate and as the cam follower <NUM> engages and moves along cam surface or portion <NUM> of the protrusion <NUM>, the cutting blade <NUM> is retracted back through the opening <NUM> in the feed roller body <NUM> (<FIG>). Additionally, when the feed roller body <NUM> has made a full rotation, e.g., rotated approximately <NUM>° from its initial or rest position <NUM>, the cam follower <NUM> will again engage the cam surface or portion <NUM> of the cam members <NUM> such that the cutting blade <NUM> is in its retracted or initial position (<FIG>).

<FIG> and <FIG> additionally show that the feed roller body <NUM> includes a biasing assembly <NUM> disposed within the body and operable or configured to assist rotation of the feed roller body <NUM> and/or movement of the cutting assembly <NUM>, for example, upon manual activation of the feed roller body <NUM>. The biasing assembly <NUM> can include tension springs <NUM>, e.g., one or two tension springs, though any suitable number of springs, such as <NUM> or more, also can be employed without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as claimed. The springs <NUM> generally will be fixably connected to the feed roller body <NUM> and rotatably coupled to at least a portion of one of the cam members <NUM>, or other suitable fixed portion positioned within the cavity <NUM> of the feed roller body <NUM>. For example, one end 392A of the springs <NUM> can be fixably connected, such as by fasteners <NUM>, e.g., screws, bolts, rivets, etc., to the feed roller body <NUM>, and an opposite/opposing end 392B of the springs <NUM> can be rotatably connected, such as by a bearing assembly <NUM>, or other moveable/pivotably assembly, to one of the cam members <NUM>. The springs <NUM> also can be arranged such that they are transverse or oblique to one another, for example, the springs <NUM> can be disposed to have an angle of approximately <NUM>°-<NUM>° therebetween, though lessor angles and/or angles up to <NUM>° or more can be used without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as claimed.

As shown in <FIG>, with the cutting blade <NUM> at its initial or rest position <NUM>, the springs <NUM> can have an initial or equilibrium length. Then, as the feed roller body <NUM> is rotated, the springs <NUM> will be elongated and can provide biased assistance for rotation of the feed roller body <NUM>, with the spring tension further assisting movement of the cutting blade <NUM> for cutting, scoring, or perforating the sheet material. The springs <NUM> further can cause the feed roller body <NUM> to fully rotate, e.g., rotate approximately <NUM>°, while also helping to return the cutting blade <NUM> to its initial or rest position <NUM>, retracted into the body <NUM> of the feed roller.

<FIG> and <FIG> also indicate that the cam members <NUM> can be attached to at least a portion, e.g., side walls <NUM>/<NUM>, of the dispenser housing <NUM>, for example, by support caps <NUM>. The support caps <NUM> can be connected to the side walls <NUM>/<NUM> of the dispenser housing <NUM> by fasteners <NUM>, e.g., screws, bolts, rivets, etc., and further can be connected to the cam members <NUM> using fasteners <NUM>, such as screws, bolts, rivets, etc., to mount and support the cam members <NUM> within the cavity <NUM> of the feed roller body <NUM>. As a result, the feed roller body <NUM> and the base <NUM>, with the cutting blade <NUM> attached thereto, are supported in a manner so as to be generally rotatable about the cam member <NUM>. Other connectors also can be used to connect the support caps <NUM> to the dispenser housing <NUM> and the cam members <NUM>, however, such as, for example, snap-fit or press-fit connections, adhesives, etc., without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as claimed.

As further shown in <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>, the feed roller body <NUM> can be rotatably coupled to the cam member(s) <NUM> by bearings <NUM>. For example, at least a portion of the cam members <NUM> will be received within a passage <NUM> defined through the bearings <NUM>, and can engage an inner race 406A of the bearings <NUM>. The bearings <NUM> further will be connected to the feed roller body <NUM> by one or more support portions <NUM>, each of which can include a body <NUM> having a ring-like or circular shape and connected to or integrally formed with the sidewalls <NUM> of the feed roller body <NUM>, as generally indicated in <FIG> and <FIG>. The bearings <NUM> further generally can be received within, e.g., fitted into, a passage <NUM> defined through the body <NUM> of each of the supports <NUM> to operatively connect the feed roller body <NUM> to an outer race 406B of the bearings <NUM>.

<FIG> and <FIG> show a biasing assembly <NUM> for assisting in the operation/movement of the feed roller (such as for use in a manually driven or similar operation of the feed roller) for assisting movement of the feed roller for an operative cycle and to a rest or home position, wherein the cutting blade can be retracted to a non-operative position (e.g., within a recess, notch, opening, etc. in the feed roller body), according to an additional embodiment of the present disclosure as claimed.

As also shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the biasing assembly <NUM> includes one or more biasing members <NUM>, e.g. in the embodiment illustrated, a pair of biasing members <NUM> are shown extending along the interior surface <NUM> of the feed roller body <NUM>. It will be understood that fewer or more biasing elements can be used without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as claimed. Each biasing member <NUM> can comprise a tension spring or other suitable tensioning or biasing member having an elongated spring body <NUM> with first and second ends 454A/B. The biasing members <NUM> also generally extend in a direction along, e.g., generally parallel, to the longitudinal (or rotational) axis (axis LA shown in <FIG>) of the feed roller body <NUM>, and can be fixably attached to the interior surface <NUM> of the feed roller body <NUM>.

The first or distal end 454A of each biasing member <NUM> can engage and couple to a connection mechanism <NUM>, such as flange, arm, or other connecting member attached to the feed roller body <NUM> by one or more fasteners, (e.g., a screw, rivet, or other fastener). For example, in one embodiment, as illustrated in <FIG>, the first end 454A of the spring body <NUM> of each biasing member <NUM> can include a hoop, ring, hook or other suitable feature or mechanism that connects to a protruding portion <NUM> formed with, or connected to the connection mechanism <NUM>, which portion <NUM> has a notch or opening 460A for receiving the hoop, ring, or hook of the spring. The second end 454B of each biasing member <NUM> can be similarly attached to a connecting linkage <NUM> that is connected to a bearing assembly <NUM> for the feed roller as indicated in <FIG>.

In one example, the connection mechanism <NUM> can include a body <NUM> that is connected to, or engages, portions or protrusions <NUM> and <NUM> fixed to, or integrally formed with, the feed roller body <NUM>, e.g., at first and second ends 462A and 462B of the body <NUM>. The protrusions <NUM> and <NUM> can be received within openings or apertures defined along the ends 462A and 462B of the body <NUM>, and/or can include threaded openings defined therein to receive fasteners passed through the openings in the ends 462A/462B of the body <NUM> to secure the body <NUM> to the feed roller body <NUM>. The body <NUM> can have a generally Z-shaped cross-section to facilitate connection of the body <NUM> to the portions <NUM>/<NUM>, though the body can have other suitable shapes and configurations, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as claimed.

In one variation or alternative constructions, the feed roller body <NUM> can have a plurality of attachment points <NUM>/<NUM> about the interior surface <NUM> thereof. For example, the feed roller body <NUM> can have multiple portions <NUM>/<NUM> formed/connected to the feed roller body <NUM> in spaced series to allow for adjustment (e.g., tightening or loosening) of the biasing members <NUM>, e.g., to accommodate different sheet material sizes and/or to correct for time dependent displacement or movements of the spring due to the repeated loading. In one embodiment, up to five attachment points can be provided, though any suitable number of attachment points, e.g., <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, or more than <NUM>, can be employed without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as claimed.

<FIG> and <FIG> further show that each linkage <NUM> can include a wire, band, or rod <NUM>, or other flexible coupling, with first and second ends 456A/456B. The first end 456A of each linkage <NUM> can be formed as a looped end, and can be connected to the second end 454B of its corresponding biasing member <NUM> such as by a hook, hoop, or split-ring type of connection forming the second end 454B of the biasing member <NUM>. The second end 456B of each linkage <NUM> can be formed with a similar looped end and generally will be rotatably connected to the bearing assembly <NUM>, such as by attachment to a fastener <NUM> (e.g., screw, bolt, etc.) or other suitable connection mechanism. The fastener <NUM> also can have one or more spacers <NUM> received therealong to engage and facilitate alignment of the second looped ends 456B of the linkages <NUM> (<FIG> and <FIG>).

Additionally, the biasing assembly <NUM> can include one or more pulley assemblies <NUM> (as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>) that engage and facilitate a change in the direction of the linkages <NUM> operatively connecting the biasing members <NUM> to the bearing assembly <NUM> (e.g., such that an axial pull force or tension along the biasing members <NUM> can be converted into a radial pull force or tension to maintain or assist in rotation of the feed roller body <NUM> and/or movement of the cutting mechanism). Each of the pulley assemblies <NUM> can include a bracket <NUM> that is connected to the interior surface <NUM> of the feed roller body <NUM> and that at least partially supports a pulley <NUM> having a track or race <NUM> against which at least a portion of the linkage <NUM> is engaged and/or moves.

As shown in <FIG>, the pulley brackets <NUM> can be pivotably or rotatably mounted (e.g., by a pinned or hinged connection <NUM>) to the interior surface <NUM> of the feed roller body <NUM>. The pinned or hinged connection <NUM> can help to maintain engagement between, or substantially prevent disalignment of, the linkage <NUM> and the race <NUM> of the pulleys <NUM>, e.g., as/when the feed roller body <NUM> is rotated and the biasing assembly <NUM> is rotated therewith. The interior surface <NUM> of the feed roller body <NUM> further can have a notch or recessed portion <NUM> formed/defined therein to accommodate movement/pivoting of the brackets <NUM>.

In operation, upon activation of the feed roller <NUM> (e.g., when a user pulls a hanging tab or portion of sheet material or turns a knob or lever connected to the feed roller), the feed roller body <NUM> rotates and carries the biasing assembly <NUM> therewith. As a result, the linkages <NUM> are caused to be pulled or otherwise engaged about the pulleys <NUM>, tensioning and stretching the spring bodies of the biasing members <NUM>, thus creating tension in or along the biasing members <NUM>. This tension assists in the rotation of the feed roller and helps urge the feed roller body <NUM> to facilitate return of the feed roller body <NUM> to its rest or home position. In one example, the rotation of the feed roller can be sufficient to generate a tab or portion for pulling or engagement by subsequent users for dispensing a selected portion of sheet material. Also, this tension helps facilitate rotation of the feed roller body <NUM> sufficient to cause activation or movement of the cutting blade of the dispenser to cut, perforate, or otherwise cause or assist in separation of a sheet of the paper material. The return movement of the feed roller body <NUM> also can cause retraction of the cutting blade (e.g., into a notch, recess, opening, etc. in the feed roller body).

<FIG> and <FIG> illustrate a cutting assembly <NUM> according to an additional embodiment of the present disclosure, which cutting assembly <NUM> includes a cutting blade or portion <NUM> (e.g., having a plurality of spaced serrated or sharpened portions <NUM>) that includes a linkage or similar structure that controls movement of the cutting blade <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the cutting blade <NUM> is received within a notch or recess <NUM> defined along an outer surface <NUM> of a cylindrical side wall <NUM> of the feed roller body <NUM>, when the cutting blade <NUM> is in a retracted position <NUM> (as shown in <FIG>, and <FIG>). The cutting blade <NUM> is moveable to an extended position <NUM> whereupon it at least partially projects from the notch/recess <NUM> of the feed roller body <NUM> to an extent sufficient to enable the blade <NUM> to engage the sheet material as it is dispensed to at least partially cut, score, or perforate a portion thereof.

The cutting assembly <NUM> also includes a linkage assembly <NUM> with a moveable support or body <NUM> that is connected to (or integrally formed with) and supports the cutting blade <NUM>. A first end or portion 520A of the support <NUM> is rotatably, pivotably, or otherwise moveably connected to the feed roller body <NUM>. In one example, the first end or portion 520A of the support <NUM> can include a pivotable or rotatable connection mechanism, such as a pinned or hinged connection <NUM>, or other suitable connector for pivoting, rotation, or other movement thereabout. A second, free end 520B of the support <NUM> is attached to a cam follower <NUM>, such as a roller, bearing, etc., that is received within and rides along a cam track <NUM> as the feed roller body <NUM> is rotated to dispense selected portions of the sheet material.

The cam track <NUM> is positioned/formed within selected positions of feed roller body <NUM>, (e.g., within the interior cavity or chamber <NUM> thereof), and in one variation, the cam track <NUM> can be integrally formed with, or otherwise connected to, the bearings <NUM> supporting the feed roller body <NUM> and allowing rotation thereabout. In one embodiment, the cam track <NUM> can be defined in a track body or component <NUM> that is integrally formed with, or otherwise attached to, the bearing <NUM>. In alternative constructions, the cam track <NUM> can be integrally formed with or otherwise defined in or along the feed roller body <NUM> or other portions attached thereto. As a result, as the feed roller is rotated to dispense the sheet material, the feed roller body <NUM> rotates about the cam track <NUM> moving the cam follower <NUM> therealong. As components of the cutting assembly <NUM> (e.g., the cam track <NUM>) and the biasing assembly integrated with the feed roller body, e.g., housed within the feed roller body, tampering, damaging, unwanted access to, etc. of these components can be substantially minimized, inhibited, or prevented.

As additionally shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the cam track <NUM> is shaped, positioned, or otherwise configured such that the support <NUM> is rotated or pivots, moving the cutting blade between the retracted and extended positions <NUM> and <NUM>, with rotation of the feed roller. For example, the cam track <NUM> has an outer surface 524A and an opposing inner surface 524B that contact or otherwise engage the cam member <NUM>, and the cam track <NUM> controls/engages the cam follower <NUM> to engage and move the second end 520B of the support <NUM> towards and away from the wall <NUM> of the feed roller body <NUM> to pivot or otherwise move the support <NUM> about the rotatable connection mechanism <NUM> at its first end or portion 520A.

<FIG> illustrate cross-sectional views of the cutting assembly <NUM> and the feed roller body <NUM> showing movement of the cutting mechanism <NUM> between its initial, retracted or rest position <NUM> and its extended, cutting position <NUM> with rotation of the feed roller. <FIG> shows the cutting mechanism <NUM> in the initial, retracted position <NUM>, <FIG> shows the cutting mechanism <NUM> in the extended, cutting position <NUM>, while <FIG> illustrates movement of the cutting mechanism <NUM> across approximately <NUM> degree rotation of the feed roller body <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, in its retracted position <NUM>, the cutting blade <NUM> is received within the notch or recess <NUM> and does not extend from the side wall <NUM> of the feed roller body <NUM> (e.g., such that sheet material can be received about the notch/recess without interference from the cutting blade). Then, as the feed roller body <NUM> is rotated (e.g., in the counterclockwise direction D1 shown in <FIG>) to dispense a selected amount of sheet material, the cam follower <NUM> will enter/engage a first portion <NUM> of the cam track <NUM>, causing the cutting blade <NUM> to extend out from the notch <NUM> (at position <NUM>). As the feed roller further rotates in the counterclockwise direction, the cam follower <NUM> further moves along/engages the first portion <NUM> of the cam track <NUM> to further extend the cutting blade <NUM> from the notch <NUM>. The cam follower <NUM> will move along the first portion <NUM> of the cam track <NUM> with rotation of the feed roller body <NUM> until the cutting mechanism <NUM> is moved to its extended position <NUM> to substantially cut or perforate the sheet material as it is being dispensed, as generally shown in <FIG> and <FIG>.

After the cutting blade <NUM> has reached its extended position (e.g., as shown at <NUM>) and as the feed roller body <NUM> is continued to be rotated (e.g., under tension of the biasing assembly), the cam member <NUM> will begin to enter/engage a second portion <NUM> of the cam track <NUM> that facilitates return of the cutting blade <NUM> to its initial, retracted position <NUM> (e.g., as shown at <NUM>). As the feed roller body <NUM> continues to rotate (e.g., under tension of the biasing assembly <NUM>), the cutting blade <NUM> will return to its initial rest position <NUM> with the cutting mechanism <NUM> retracted within the notch <NUM>.

<FIG> further show that the cam track <NUM> is shaped, positioned, and/or configured to move the second end 520B of support <NUM> to be in relatively closer proximity to the side wall <NUM> of the feed roller body <NUM> as the cutting blade <NUM> is moved toward its extended position (e.g., position <NUM>). The track <NUM> further is shaped to move the second end 520B of the support <NUM> relatively further away from the side wall <NUM> of the feed roller body <NUM> to return the blade <NUM> to its retracted position <NUM>. As a result, the cutting blade <NUM> is moved or driven by the linkage assembly <NUM>, which movement can be controlled without requiring springs or other biasing members to return the blade <NUM> to the retracted position <NUM> (or to move the blade <NUM> to the extended position <NUM>), e.g., enabling enhanced control and improved reliability, and/or cleaner cutting of the sheet material.

The cam track <NUM> further can be shaped, positioned, and/or configured such that the cutting blade <NUM> is in its extended position <NUM> (or other positions) at a selected or desired positions within the housing of the dispenser. For example, the cam track <NUM> may be shaped, positioned, and/or configured such that the cutting blade <NUM> only extends within the chamber of the housing, or does not extend at a position in which the cutting blade <NUM> would be exposed to users or maintenance personnel, e.g., to substantially prevent injury thereto or damage to the cutting blade.

<FIG> illustrate a biasing assembly <NUM> according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in <FIG>, the biasing assembly <NUM> includes a plurality of biasing members <NUM>, such as two or more biasing members <NUM>, extending along the interior surface <NUM> of the feed roller body <NUM>, e.g., in a direction that extends generally along the longitudinal (or rotational) axis (axis LA shown in <FIG> and <FIG>) of the feed roller body <NUM>. In one embodiment, the biasing members <NUM> can be generally parallel to the longitudinal axis LA; however, in other embodiments, the biasing members <NUM> can be set at an angle in relation to the longitudinal axis LA. The biasing members <NUM> can include tension springs with an elongated spring body <NUM> having first and second ends 654A/B, though other suitable tensioning or biasing members can be used without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as claimed. In one embodiment, one of the spring bodies <NUM> can have a length that is longer than another one of the spring bodies <NUM>, though the spring bodies <NUM> can have generally the same length, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as claimed.

As further illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>, the first end 654A of the biasing members <NUM> is connected to the feed roller body <NUM>, and the second end 654B of the biasing members <NUM> is connected to a linkage <NUM>. The linkage <NUM> is operatively connected to the bearing assembly <NUM>, e.g., connected to the track body <NUM> formed therewith, or other suitable, fixed component that does not rotate with the feed roller body <NUM>. The linkage <NUM> further generally includes a belt <NUM> having a belt body <NUM> with a plurality of cogs or teeth <NUM> or other suitable gripping projections extending along the belt body <NUM>. The belt body <NUM> generally is formed from an elastomeric material, such as rubber, though the belt body <NUM> can be formed from other suitable materials, e.g., plastics or other polymeric materials, or combinations of materials, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as claimed.

<FIG> and <FIG> additionally show that the first end 656A of each linkage <NUM> can include a connector <NUM> having a connector body <NUM> that includes a looped or hooked end 664A that is connected to the second end 654B of a corresponding biasing member <NUM> (e.g., by a hook, hoop, or split-ring type of connection forming the second end 654B of the biasing member <NUM>). The connector body <NUM> can be formed from a plastic or other suitable polymeric material, and further can be attached to the belt body <NUM> at a first end 658A thereof (e.g., by a fastener, adhesive, or other suitable fixing mechanism, such as, snap-fitting, frictional connection, etc.). The second end 656B of each linkage <NUM> can include a rotatable connection assembly <NUM> that is movably connected to the bearing assembly <NUM>, e.g., to the track body <NUM> formed therewith. The rotatable connection assembly <NUM> can include a rotatable body <NUM> that is connected to the track body <NUM> by a pinned connection or other suitable connection that allows for rotational movement between the rotatable body <NUM> and the bearing assembly <NUM>. In the illustrated embodiment, the rotatable body <NUM> includes a passage <NUM> defined therethrough that is sized and configured to receive a pin or axle <NUM> that is connected to the track body <NUM> and facilitates rotation of the rotatable body <NUM> relative thereto. The pin <NUM> can support the rotatable bodies <NUM> of the linkages <NUM> for each of the plurality of biasing members <NUM> in an adjacent series, e.g., the rotatable bodes <NUM> can be positioned next to or adjacent to each other along the pin <NUM>, so as to be supported thereby. The rotatable body <NUM> further can be formed from a plastic or other suitable polymeric material, and can be fixed to a second end 658B of the belt body <NUM> (e.g., by a fastener, adhesive, or other suitable fixing mechanism, such as snap-fitting, frictional connection, etc.).

Additionally, the biasing assembly <NUM> can include one or more pulley assemblies <NUM> (as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>) that engage and facilitate a change in the direction of the linkages <NUM> operatively connecting the biasing members <NUM> to the bearing assembly <NUM> or track body <NUM> (e.g., such that an axial pull force or tension along the biasing members <NUM> can be converted into a radial pull force or tension to maintain or assist in rotation of the feed roller body <NUM> and/or movement of the cutting mechanism). Each of the pulley assemblies <NUM> can include a pulley <NUM> having a track or race <NUM> against which at least a portion of the belt body <NUM> is engaged and/or moves. The pulley <NUM> can include a plurality of teeth or cogs (not shown) that correspond to an engage the cogs <NUM>, such as to substantially reduce, inhibit, or prevent slippage or other disengagement between the pulley <NUM> and the belt body <NUM>. Each pulley <NUM> further generally engages a corresponding belt <NUM> such that a first portion 657A of the belt <NUM> is generally aligned with its corresponding biasing member <NUM>, e.g., extends in a direction along the longitudinal axis LA, and a second portion 657B of the belt <NUM> is generally arranged to be transverse to the biasing member <NUM>, e.g., extends radially in relation to the feed roller body <NUM> or in a direction that otherwise transverse to the longitudinal axis LA of the feed roller body <NUM>.

Accordingly, upon activation of the feed roller <NUM> (e.g., when a user pulls a hanging tab or portion of sheet material or turns a knob or lever connected to the feed roller), the feed roller body <NUM> rotates and carries the biasing assembly <NUM> therewith. As a result, the linkages <NUM> are caused to be pulled or otherwise engaged about the pulleys <NUM>, tensioning and stretching the spring bodies of the biasing members <NUM>, thus creating tension or force in or along the biasing members <NUM>. This substantially linear force or tension can be translated into a rotational or radial tension force by the biasing assembly <NUM> to assist in the rotation of the feed roller and help urge the feed roller body <NUM> to return to its rest or home position. In one example, the rotation of the feed roller can be sufficient to generate a tab or portion for pulling or engagement by subsequent users for dispensing a selected portion of sheet material. Also, this tension helps facilitate rotation of the feed roller body <NUM> sufficient to cause activation or movement of the cutting blade of the dispenser to cut, perforate, or otherwise cause or assist in separation of a sheet of the paper material. The return movement of the feed roller body <NUM> also can cause retraction of the cutting blade (e.g., into the notch, recess, opening, etc. in the feed roller body).

<FIG> and <FIG> further indicate that the biasing assembly <NUM> can include a support assembly <NUM> that is configured to support the biasing members <NUM>, linkages <NUM>, and pulleys <NUM> along the feed roller body <NUM>, e.g., to help facilitate alignment of, or to help to substantially reduce, prevent, or inhibit misalignment of, the biasing members <NUM>, linkages <NUM>, and/or pulleys <NUM> when the biasing assembly <NUM> is rotated or otherwise moved with the feed roller body <NUM>. As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the support assembly <NUM> can include brackets or other suitable supports <NUM> corresponding to each of the biasing members <NUM>. The brackets <NUM> can include an elongated bracket body <NUM> with a passage or channel <NUM> defined therealong that receives corresponding biasing members <NUM>, linkages <NUM>, and pulleys <NUM>. The brackets <NUM> can support and/or engage the biasing members <NUM>, linkages <NUM>, and pulleys <NUM> such that the biasing members <NUM>, linkages <NUM>, and pulleys <NUM> move substantially in unison with each other, e.g., as a unit, to reduce, inhibit, or prevent dislocation or misalignment thereof during rotation or other movements of the feed roller body <NUM>.

The bracket body <NUM> can be formed from a plastic or other polymeric material, though other suitable materials, such as materials sufficient rigidity to help to facilitate alignment of the biasing members <NUM>, linkages <NUM>, and/or pulleys <NUM> can be used without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as claimed. The biasing members <NUM> can be connected to a first end 692A of the bracket body <NUM> (e.g., a hooked or looped end of the springs <NUM> can be connected to a rod, pin, or other fastener, such as a screw, bolt, etc., that is attached to the bracket body <NUM>). The pulleys <NUM> can be connected to a second end 692A of the bracket body <NUM>. In the illustrated embodiment shown in <FIG>, the pulleys <NUM> are connected to the bracket body <NUM> by a pin or rod <NUM> that allows for rotation or pivoting of the pulleys <NUM> thereabout.

As additionally indicated in <FIG>, the brackets <NUM> can be pivotably or rotatably mounted (e.g., by a pinned or hinged connection <NUM>) to the interior surface <NUM> of the feed roller body <NUM>. The pinned or hinged connection <NUM> can help to maintain engagement between, or substantially prevent misalignment of, the biasing members <NUM>, linkages <NUM>, and/or pulleys <NUM> as/when the feed roller body <NUM> is rotated. <FIG> shows that the brackets <NUM> are connected to the feed roller body <NUM> at the first and second ends 692A and 692B thereof by corresponding pinned connections <NUM>. For example, the pinned connections <NUM> can allow for some give or movement of the brackets <NUM> and the supported biasing members <NUM>, linkages <NUM>, and/or pulleys <NUM> in relation to the feed roller body during rotation thereof for dampening of accelerations, vibrations, etc. and substantially reducing, inhibiting, or preventing dislocation or misalignment thereof.

Claim 1:
A sheet material dispenser (<NUM>), comprising:
a dispenser housing (<NUM>) with a supply of sheet material supported therein;
a feed roller (<NUM>) rotatably mounted within the dispenser housing (<NUM>), and including a feed roller body (<NUM>) having a chamber (<NUM>) defined therein, and an exterior surface (30A) that at least partially engages the sheet material for feeding or dispensing of the sheet material along a path of travel (P) from the supply (<NUM>) of sheet material toward a discharge (<NUM>);
one or more pressing rollers (<NUM>) biased toward the feed roller (<NUM>) sufficient to engage the sheet material between the one or more pressing rollers (<NUM>) and the feed roller (<NUM>) so that the sheet material is pulled from the supply (<NUM>) and fed along the path of travel (P) upon rotation of the feed roller (<NUM>);
a cutting assembly (<NUM>, <NUM>) at least partially disposed within the chamber (<NUM>) defined in the feed roller body (<NUM>), and including a cutting blade (<NUM>) and at least one movable support (<NUM>, <NUM>) coupled to cutting blade (<NUM>) and the feed roller body (<NUM>), the cutting blade (<NUM>) being actuated with rotation of the feed roller (<NUM>) so as to move through one or more openings (<NUM>) defined along the feed roller body (<NUM>) to at least partially cut, score, or perforate the sheet material during dispensing of a selected portion thereof; and
a biasing assembly (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) coupled to the feed roller body (<NUM>) to assist rotation of the feed roller and/or movement of the cutting blade (<NUM>) through the one or more openings (<NUM>);
characterised in that the biasing assembly (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) comprises one or more biasing members (<NUM>, <NUM>) extending along a rotational axis of the feed roller body (<NUM>).