Patent Description:
Disposable utensils can typically be found in fast-food and take out restaurants. Such restaurants allow consumers the ability to select various types of utensils that they wish to use by taking the utensils from a publicly accessible dispenser or bin. Conventional utensil dispensers have been used to provide a confined and controlled protective environment for utensils housed within. Such assemblies, however, have challenges and issues delivering utensils to a consumer in a repeatable and reliable manner. Conventional assemblies can also have difficulties associated with loading utensils and with maintaining a reliable supply of utensils for customers. Further relevant Prior Art are described in <CIT> and <CIT>.

There is a need, therefore, for a cutlery dispenser that can supply utensils to customers in a reliable and sanitary manner.

Utensil dispenser and methods for making and using same are provided. According to the invention, the utensil dispenser includes a housing configured to contain a stack of utensils and a stack gauge that indicates a quantity of utensils in the stack of the utensils in the housing. The stack gauge is mounted and located such that it is visible from outside the housing. In particular it is provided a utensil dispenser having the features defined in claim <NUM>.

According to the invention, the housing further includes a first gauge opening and the stack gauge arm further comprises a first prong, wherein the stack gauge arm is configured to move from a first position wherein the first prong is in contact with the stack of the utensils to a second position when the first prong is not in contact with the stack of utensils, wherein the utensil stack gauge indicates a second quantity of utensils in the housing that is less than a first quantity of utensils in the housing when the stack gauge arm is in the second position.

It is to be understood that the following disclosure describes several exemplary embodiments for implementing different features, structures, or functions of the invention. Exemplary embodiments of components, arrangements, and configurations are described below to simplify the present disclosure; however, these exemplary embodiments are provided merely as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Additionally, the present disclosure may repeat reference numerals and/or letters in the various exemplary embodiments and across the Figures provided herein. This repetition is for the purpose of simplicity and clarity and does not in itself dictate a relationship between the various exemplary embodiments and/or configurations discussed in the Figures. Moreover, the formation of a first feature over or on a second feature in the description that follows may include embodiments in which the first and second features are formed in direct contact, and may also include embodiments in which additional features may be formed interposing the first and second features, such that the first and second features may not be in direct contact. Finally, the exemplary embodiments presented below may be combined in any combination of ways, i.e., any element from one exemplary embodiment may be used in any other exemplary embodiment, without departing from the scope of the disclosure. The figures are not necessarily to scale and certain features and certain views of the figures may be shown exaggerated in scale or in schematic for clarity and/or conciseness.

Additionally, certain terms are used throughout the following description and claims to refer to particular components. As one skilled in the art will appreciate, various entities may refer to the same component by different names, and as such, the naming convention for the elements described herein is not intended to limit the scope of the invention, unless otherwise specifically defined herein. Further, the naming convention used herein is not intended to distinguish between components that differ in name but not function. Additionally, in the following discussion and in the claims, the terms "including" and "comprising" are used in an open-ended fashion, and thus should be interpreted to mean "including, but not limited to. " All numerical values in this disclosure may be exact or approximate values unless otherwise specifically stated. Accordingly, various embodiments of the disclosure may deviate from the numbers, values, and ranges disclosed herein without departing from the intended scope. Furthermore, as it is used in the claims or specification, the term "or" is intended to encompass both exclusive and inclusive cases, i.e., "A or B" is intended to be synonymous with "at least one of A and B," unless otherwise expressly specified herein.

The terms "up" and "down"; "upward" and "downward"; "upper" and "lower"; "upwardly" and "downwardly"; "above" and "below"; and other like terms as used herein refer to relative positions to one another and are not intended to denote a particular spatial orientation since the apparatus and methods of using the same may be equally effective at various angles or orientations.

<FIG> and <FIG> depict a perspective view of an illustrative utensil dispenser <NUM>, according to one or more embodiments. The utensil dispenser <NUM> can include a body <NUM> having a base <NUM> and an access door <NUM>, which can be closed while the utensil dispenser <NUM> is operated, as depicted in <FIG>, and the access door <NUM> can be opened to reveal the inside of the body <NUM>, as depicted in <FIG>. Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, the utensil dispenser <NUM> can include one or more dispense chassis <NUM> for dispensing a plurality of utensils <NUM> through an access port <NUM>. A user or customer can grasp a handle <NUM> of the utensil <NUM> and pull the utensil <NUM> free from the utensil dispenser <NUM> for use. In response to the removal or dispensing of the utensil <NUM> by the user, the utensil dispenser <NUM> can position another utensil <NUM> to be dispensed with the utensil handle <NUM> accessible via the access port <NUM>. The utensil dispenser <NUM> can dispense plastic cutlery, e.g., polystyrene utensils. As one utensil <NUM> is removed, another utensil <NUM> can be moved into position such that handle <NUM> is outside the access port <NUM>. Head portions of utensils <NUM> that can come into contact with food, e.g., fork tines, spoon bowls, knife blades, etc., can remain within the utensil dispenser <NUM>. Accordingly, these portions of the utensils can be protected from the environment. The utensil dispenser <NUM> can be used to dispense various utensils such as, but not limited to, spoons, forks, knives, sporks, chopsticks, etc..

A utensil dispenser <NUM> can be hung on a wall using wall mounting bracket attachment holes (not shown). The utensil dispenser <NUM> can be attached to a base <NUM>. The base <NUM> can provide support for the utensil dispenser <NUM> and allows the utensil dispenser <NUM> to be free standing. The base <NUM> can be removable such that the utensil dispenser <NUM> can be wall mounted using wall mounting bracket attachment holes. Multiple utensil dispensers <NUM> can be hung on a wall.

Utensils <NUM> stored in the utensil dispenser <NUM> can be stored in a dispense chassis <NUM>. The utensil dispenser <NUM> can be opened allowing the replacement of dispense chassis <NUM> to refill the utensil dispenser <NUM>. The utensil dispenser <NUM> can open using a hinge. A hinged access door <NUM> can allow access to the internal compartment of the utensil dispenser <NUM>. The hinge location can be located on the top, bottom, or side of the utensil dispenser <NUM>. Access door <NUM> can have fill level windows (not shown). Dispense chassis <NUM> can have corresponding fill level windows (not shown) that allow a visual indication of the stock of utensils <NUM> in each respective dispense chassis <NUM> to be seen. A dispense chassis <NUM> can be attached to or inserted within the utensil dispenser <NUM> and provides utensils <NUM> that can be dispensed. The dispense chassis <NUM> can be pre-packaged with utensils <NUM>. In some implementations, the dispense chassis <NUM> is replaced with a new dispense chassis and is not reused. In other implementations, the dispense chassis <NUM> can be refilled and reused in the utensil dispenser <NUM>. The utensil dispenser <NUM> can accept one, two, three or more dispense chassis. The utensil dispenser <NUM> of <FIG> is shown with three dispense chassis <NUM>, e.g., one for each of a spoon, fork, and knife, but any combination of utensils may be used. The dispense chassis <NUM> can be in communication with any dispensing slot. Accordingly, a dispense chassis <NUM> of any type of utensil <NUM> can be placed into any available dispensing slot.

Alternatively, each dispense chassis <NUM> and dispensing slot can be unique to the utensil <NUM> being dispensed. A dispense chassis <NUM> can be designed individually to fit the corresponding utensil <NUM>. The footprint and dimensions of the dispense chassis <NUM> can be distinct from one another in these implementations and the shape of the openings therein can be designed for a specific type of utensil.

<FIG> depicts a perspective view of the utensil <NUM>, and <FIG> and <FIG> depict bottom views and bottom perspective views of the utensil <NUM>, according to one or more embodiments. Each utensil <NUM> can have a functional portion or section <NUM> adjacent and adjoining a handle <NUM>. The functional section <NUM> can be configured to perform a function that assists in the consumption of food, such as for example, cutting, piercing, and/or scooping. The functional section <NUM> can have a first end <NUM> that is adjacent to the handle <NUM>, and a second end <NUM> that is distal from the handle <NUM>. The handle <NUM> can be utilized by a user to hold and/or manipulate the utensil <NUM>. The handle <NUM> can have a first end <NUM> and a second end <NUM>. For sake of reference, the first end <NUM> of the handle <NUM> can be the end furthest from the functional section <NUM>, and the second end <NUM> can be the end adjacent and adjoining (i.e. closest) the functional section <NUM>. Each utensil <NUM> can be disposable and constructed from a formable material. The formable material can include, for example, plastic, combinations of plastics, or combinations of plastics and other materials suitable for use as disposable or reusable cutlery. In certain embodiments, the formable material can be or include polystyrene, polyethylene, polypropylene, as well as blends and mixtures thereof. The utensil <NUM> can include a first portion <NUM> that can be or can include wings or detents <NUM> on one or both sides of the utensil <NUM>. The utensil <NUM> can also include a second portion <NUM> that can be or can include a tail support and/or the handle <NUM>. The first portion <NUM> and the second portion <NUM> can be incorporated into other utensils such as, but not limited to, spoons, knives, forks, sporks, etc..

Each utensil <NUM> can include an axially oriented protrusion or raised spine <NUM> extending outwardly and away from a first or upper surface <NUM> of the utensil <NUM>. The raised spine <NUM> can form a raised portion of the handle <NUM> and/or the functional section <NUM>. The raised spine <NUM> can extend from the first end <NUM> of the handle <NUM> to the second end <NUM> of the handle <NUM>. The raised spine <NUM> can also extend into the functional section <NUM>. The raised spine <NUM> can be continuous from its first end <NUM> to its second end <NUM>, or the raised spine <NUM> can be intermittent (i.e. non-continuous). In one embodiment, the first end <NUM> of the raised spine <NUM> can be proximate the handle <NUM>, and the second end <NUM> of the raised spine <NUM> can be proximate the functional section <NUM>.

The length of the raised spine <NUM> can extend over the entire length of the handle <NUM>, or any portion thereof. For example, the length of the raised spine <NUM> can be about <NUM>%, about <NUM>%, about <NUM>% or more of the length of the handle <NUM>. The length of the raised spine <NUM> also can be about <NUM>%, about <NUM>%, about <NUM>% or more of the length of the handle <NUM>. The length of the raised spine <NUM> also can range from a low of about <NUM>%, about <NUM>%, or about <NUM>% to a high of about <NUM>%, about <NUM>%, about <NUM>%, or about <NUM>% of the length of the handle <NUM>. The length of the raised spine <NUM> as measured from its first end <NUM> to its second end <NUM> can be at least <NUM>, at least <NUM>, at least <NUM>, at least <NUM>, at least <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, or between <NUM> and <NUM>.

The raised spine <NUM> can have a height that varies from its first end <NUM> to its second end <NUM>. The height of the raised spine <NUM> can increase or slant from its first end <NUM> to its second end <NUM>, i.e., in the direction toward the functional section <NUM>. The height of the raised spine <NUM> can decrease or slant from its first end <NUM> to its second end <NUM>, i.e., in the direction toward the functional section <NUM>. The changes in the height of the raised spine <NUM> from the first end <NUM> to its second end <NUM> can be gradual or the changes can occur intermittently at different points along the raised spine <NUM>. The highest point or portion of the raised spine <NUM> is its crown <NUM>. The crown <NUM> can be proximate or adjacent to the second end <NUM> of the handle <NUM> or the first end <NUM> of the functional section <NUM> or be proximate or adjacent to the first end <NUM> of the handle <NUM> or any other suitable location along the utensil. The spine crown <NUM> can have a height measured from the first surface <NUM> to the top of the spine crown <NUM> that is greater than <NUM>, greater than <NUM>, greater than <NUM>, greater than <NUM>, greater than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, or between <NUM> and <NUM>.

The raised spine <NUM> can have a width that varies between its first end <NUM> and its second end <NUM>. The width of the raised spine <NUM> can decrease from its first end <NUM> towards its second end <NUM>, i.e. in the direction from the handle <NUM> toward the functional section <NUM>. The width of the raised spine <NUM> also can increase in the direction from the handle <NUM> toward the functional section <NUM>. In certain embodiments, the widest portion of the raised spine <NUM> is at the spine crown <NUM>. The raised spine <NUM> can have a maximum width that is greater than <NUM>, greater than <NUM>, greater than <NUM>, greater than <NUM>, greater than <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, or between <NUM> and <NUM>. The maximum width of the raised spine <NUM> can be proximate or adjacent the first end <NUM> of the raised spine <NUM>. The width of the raised spine <NUM> at its first end <NUM> can be greater than about <NUM>%, about <NUM>%, about <NUM>%, about <NUM>%, about <NUM>%, or about <NUM>% of the width of the handle <NUM>. The width of the raised spine <NUM> at its second end <NUM> can be greater than about <NUM>%, about <NUM>%, about <NUM>%, about <NUM>%, about <NUM>%, or about <NUM>% of the width of the handle <NUM>.

The raised spine <NUM> can have a minimum width that is less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, or between <NUM> and <NUM>. The minimum width of the raised spine <NUM> on the handle <NUM> can be at the spine crown <NUM>. The width of the raised spine <NUM> at the spine crown <NUM> can be less than <NUM>% of the width of the handle <NUM> at the raised spine crown <NUM>, less than <NUM>% of the width of the handle <NUM> at the raised spine crown <NUM>, less than <NUM>% of the width of the handle <NUM> at the raised spine crown <NUM>, less than <NUM>% of the width of the handle <NUM> at raised spine crown <NUM>, less than <NUM>% of the width of the handle <NUM> at raised spine crown <NUM>.

The raised spine <NUM> can have a varying height along a first section <NUM> that can increase in the direction of the functional section <NUM>. The first section <NUM> can have a first section end <NUM> that is relatively closer to the raised spine first end <NUM> and a second section end <NUM> that is relatively closer to the raised spine second end <NUM>. The first section end <NUM> can be adjacent to the raised spine first end <NUM> or any suitable position along the length of the raised spine <NUM> where the raised spine begins to increase in height. The second section end <NUM> can be adjacent to the spine crown <NUM> or anywhere the raised spine <NUM> begins to decrease in height. The length of the first section <NUM> as measured from the first section end <NUM> to the second section end <NUM> can be at least <NUM>, at least <NUM>, at least <NUM>, at least <NUM>, at least <NUM>, at least <NUM>, at least <NUM>, at least <NUM>, at least <NUM>, at least <NUM>, less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, or between <NUM> and <NUM>. The length of the first section can be greater than <NUM>% of the length of the raised spine <NUM>, greater than <NUM>% of the length of the raised spine <NUM>, greater than <NUM>% of the length of the raised spine <NUM>, greater than <NUM>% of the length of the raised spine <NUM>, greater than <NUM>% of the length of the raised spine <NUM>.

Utensil <NUM> can include at least one shaped extension <NUM> that is disposed on one or both sides of the utensil <NUM>. The shaped extension <NUM> can be a wing, detent, or other shape protruding from the side of the utensil <NUM>. The shaped extension <NUM> can extend laterally from a side of the functional section <NUM> or the side of the handle <NUM>. The shaped extension <NUM> can be disposed on any suitable position along the length of the utensil <NUM>. The shaped extension <NUM> can be disposed proximate the crown <NUM> of the raised spine <NUM>. In certain embodiments, the shaped extension <NUM> can be two laterally opposed shaped extensions. A first shaped extension <NUM> can laterally extending from a first lateral side of the utensil <NUM> (e.g. from the handle <NUM> or the functional section <NUM>), and a second shaped extension <NUM> laterally extending from an opposite of the utensil <NUM> (e.g. from the handle <NUM> or functional section <NUM>). The first and second shaped extensions <NUM> can be co-planar. Each shaped extension <NUM> can have any shape or cross-section, including for example, wing-shaped, triangular, rectangular, square, hexagonal, pentagonal, or any other shape capable of forming a surface. If two or more shaped extensions <NUM> are used, the shape or cross-section of each shaped extension <NUM> can be the same or different. In certain embodiments, there could be multiple shaped extensions (not shown) on one side of the utensil <NUM> or on both sides of the utensil <NUM>.

The handle <NUM> can be chamfered, tapered, or profiled anywhere along its length. For example, the first end <NUM> of the handle <NUM> can be chamfered, tapered, or profiled. The chamfer at the first end <NUM> can make it easier for the dispensing unit to pick between utensils <NUM> when stacked. In some embodiments, a portion of each handle <NUM> can be cutout to provide a thinner section or profile. Similar to a chamfer, this cutout in the handle <NUM> can make it easier for a dispensing unit (not shown) to pick between utensils <NUM>.

Still referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, as the utensils <NUM> can be stacked in a dispense chassis, one or more nesting features can be used to stabilize a stack <NUM> of utensils <NUM>. The handle <NUM> can have one or more cutouts disposed along a length thereof for receiving a band (shown in <FIG>) to help the utensils <NUM> remain in a stacked orientation. For example, a cutout section can be formed in the handle <NUM> between a first shoulder or cutout <NUM> and the shaped extension <NUM>. In another example, a cutout section can be formed in the handle <NUM> between the first cutout <NUM> and a second shoulder or cutout <NUM>. The length of the cutout as measured from the first cutout <NUM> to the second cutout <NUM> can be greater than <NUM>, greater than <NUM>, greater than <NUM>, greater than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>. The width of the band can be about the same length as the length of the cutout. Additionally, one or both sides of the handle <NUM> can taper from the first cutout <NUM> toward the first end <NUM> of the handle <NUM>. The taper can make the band tighten as the band is moved from the first cutout <NUM> toward the first end <NUM> of the handle <NUM>. One or both sides of the handle <NUM> can taper from the second cutout <NUM> toward the second end <NUM> of the handle <NUM>. The taper can make the band tighten as the band is moved from the second cutout <NUM> toward the second end <NUM> of the handle <NUM>. Any tapers on the handle <NUM> can be continuous or intermittent. The band can be removed prior to or after the utensils <NUM> are loaded in a dispenser. In one embodiment, the band can be absent of adhesive that contacts the utensils <NUM>. In a separate embodiment, the band can contain adhesive that contacts the utensils <NUM>.

<FIG> depicts a bottom view of an illustrative fork, according to one or more embodiments. As seen in these bottom perspective view, the utensil <NUM> can have a second or bottom surface <NUM> that is opposite the upper or top surface <NUM>. One or more channels or recessed groves <NUM>, <NUM> (two are shown) can be formed in the second surface <NUM>. Each recessed channel <NUM>, <NUM> can extend along a portion, or all, of the second surface <NUM>. As depicted, a first recessed channel <NUM> can be formed in the second surface <NUM> and a second recessed channel <NUM> can be formed within the first recessed channel <NUM>. The maximum depth of the first recessed channel <NUM> or the second recessed channel <NUM> can be substantially equal to a maximum height of the raised spine <NUM>.

First recessed channel <NUM> can have a first recessed channel first end <NUM> that can be adjacent to the first end <NUM> of the handle <NUM>. The first recessed channel first end <NUM> can be less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, or less than <NUM> from the first end <NUM> of the handle <NUM>. First recessed channel <NUM> can have a first recessed channel second end <NUM> that can be on either the handle <NUM> or on the functional section <NUM>. The first recessed channel second end <NUM> can be adjacent to either the first functional section end <NUM> or second end <NUM> of the handle <NUM>. The first recessed channel second end <NUM> can be less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, or less than <NUM> from the first functional section end <NUM>. The first recessed channel second end <NUM> can be less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, or less than <NUM> from the second end <NUM> of the handle <NUM>.

The length of the first recessed channel <NUM> as measured from the first recessed channel first end <NUM> to the first recessed channel second end <NUM> can be at least <NUM>, at least <NUM>, at least <NUM>, at least <NUM>, at least <NUM>, at least <NUM>, at least <NUM>, at least <NUM>, at least <NUM>, at least <NUM>, less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, or between <NUM> and <NUM>. The length of the first recessed channel <NUM> can be substantially the same length as the raised spine <NUM>. The length of the first recessed channel <NUM> can be at least <NUM>, at least <NUM>, at least <NUM>, at least <NUM>, at least <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, or between <NUM> and <NUM> longer than the length of the raised spine <NUM>.

The first recessed channel <NUM> can have a constant depth or varying depth that can increase in depth in the direction of the functional section <NUM> until reaching a maximum depth. The maximum depth of the first recessed channel <NUM> can be adjacent to the second end <NUM> of the handle <NUM> or the first end <NUM> of the functional section <NUM>. The first recessed channel <NUM> can have a depth measured from the second surface <NUM> to the bottom of the first recessed channel <NUM> that is greater than <NUM>, greater than <NUM>, greater than <NUM>, greater than <NUM>, greater than <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, or between <NUM> and <NUM>.

The first recessed channel <NUM> can have a fairly constant width, a varying width that can decrease in width in the direction of the functional section <NUM> until reaching a minimum width, or can increase in width in the direction of the functional section <NUM> until reaching a maximum width or other suitable configuration. The first recessed channel <NUM> can have a maximum width that is greater than <NUM>, greater than <NUM>, greater than <NUM>, greater than <NUM>, greater than <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, or between <NUM> and <NUM>. The maximum width of the first recessed channel <NUM> can be at the first recessed channel first end <NUM>. The width of the first recessed channel <NUM> at first recessed channel first end <NUM> can be greater than <NUM>% of the width of the handle <NUM> at first recessed channel first end <NUM>, greater than <NUM>% of the width of the handle <NUM> first recessed channel first end <NUM>, greater than <NUM>% of the width of the handle <NUM> at the first recessed channel first end <NUM>, greater than <NUM>% of the width of the handle <NUM> at the first recessed channel first end <NUM>, greater than <NUM>% of the width of the handle <NUM> at the first recessed channel first end <NUM>.

The first recessed channel <NUM> can have a minimum width that is less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, or between <NUM> and <NUM>. The minimum width of the first recessed channel <NUM> can be adjacent to the shaped extension(s) <NUM>. The minimum width of the first recessed channel <NUM> can be less than <NUM>% of the width of the handle <NUM> at the minimum width of the first recessed channel <NUM>, less than <NUM>% of the width of the handle <NUM> at the minimum width of the first recessed channel <NUM>, less than <NUM>% of the width of the handle <NUM> at the minimum width of the first recessed channel <NUM>, less than <NUM>% of the width of the handle <NUM> at the minimum width of the first recessed channel <NUM>, less than <NUM>% of the width of the handle <NUM> at the minimum width of the first recessed channel <NUM>. The first recessed channel <NUM> can receive a raised spine <NUM> of an adjacent utensil in a stack of utensils. The raised spine <NUM> of the second utensil can nest within the first recessed channel <NUM>. This nesting of raised spine <NUM> within the first recessed channel <NUM> of another adjacent utensil and can increase the stability of a stack of utensils without increasing the height of the stack of utensils.

Second recessed channel <NUM> can have a second recessed channel first end <NUM>. The second recessed channel first end <NUM> can be adjacent to the first end <NUM> of the handle <NUM>. The second recessed channel first end <NUM> can be less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, or less than <NUM> from the first end <NUM> of the handle <NUM>. Second recessed channel <NUM> can have a second recessed channel second end <NUM> that can be on either the handle <NUM> or on the functional section <NUM>. The second recessed channel second end <NUM> can be adjacent to either the first end <NUM> of the functional section <NUM> or second end <NUM> of the handle <NUM>. The second recessed channel second end <NUM> can be less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, or less than <NUM> from the first functional section end <NUM>. The second recessed channel second end <NUM> can be less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, or less than <NUM> from the second end <NUM> of the handle <NUM>.

The length of the second recessed channel <NUM> as measured from the second recessed channel first end <NUM> to the second recessed channel second end <NUM> can be at least <NUM>, at least <NUM>, at least <NUM>, at least <NUM>, at least <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, or between <NUM> and <NUM>. The length of the second recessed channel <NUM> can be substantially the same length as the raised spine <NUM>.

The second recessed channel <NUM> can have a varying depth that can increase in depth in the direction of the functional section <NUM> until reaching a maximum depth. The maximum depth of the second recessed channel <NUM> can be adjacent to the second end <NUM> of the handle <NUM> or the first functional section end <NUM> or opposite the spine crown <NUM>. The second recessed channel <NUM> can have a depth measured from the second surface <NUM> to the bottom of the second recessed channel <NUM> that is greater than <NUM>, greater than <NUM>, greater than <NUM>, greater than <NUM>, greater than <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, or between <NUM> and <NUM>. The second recessed channel <NUM> can have a relative depth measured from the bottom of the first recessed channel <NUM> to the bottom of the second recessed channel <NUM> that is greater than <NUM>, greater than <NUM>, greater than <NUM>, greater than <NUM>, greater than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, or between <NUM> and <NUM>.

The second recessed channel <NUM> can have a varying width that can decrease in width in the direction of the functional section <NUM> until reaching a minimum width. The second recessed channel <NUM> can have a maximum width that is greater than <NUM>, greater than <NUM>, greater than <NUM>, greater than <NUM>, greater than <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, or between <NUM> and <NUM>. The maximum width of the second recessed channel <NUM> can be at the second recessed channel first end <NUM> or any suitable location. The width of the second recessed channel <NUM> at second recessed channel first end <NUM> can be greater than <NUM>% of the width of the handle <NUM> at the second recessed channel first end <NUM>, greater than <NUM>% of the width of the handle <NUM> at the second recessed channel first end <NUM>, greater than <NUM>% of the width of the handle <NUM> at the second recessed channel first end <NUM>, greater than <NUM>% of the width of the handle <NUM> at the second recessed channel first end <NUM>, greater than <NUM>% of the width of the handle <NUM> at the second recessed channel first end <NUM>.

The second recessed channel <NUM> can have a minimum width that is less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, or between <NUM> and <NUM>. The minimum width of the second recessed channel <NUM> can be adjacent to the shaped extension(s) <NUM>. The minimum width of the second recessed channel <NUM> can be less than <NUM>% of the width of the handle <NUM> at the minimum width of the second recessed channel <NUM>, less than <NUM>% of the width of the handle <NUM> at the minimum width of the second recessed channel <NUM>, less than <NUM>% of the width of the handle <NUM> at the minimum width of the second recessed channel <NUM>, less than <NUM>% of the width of the handle <NUM> at the minimum width of the second recessed channel <NUM>, less than <NUM>% of the width of the handle <NUM> at the minimum width of the second recessed channel <NUM>. The second recessed channel <NUM> can receive a raised spine <NUM> of an adjacent utensil in a stack of utensils. The raised spine <NUM> of the second utensil can nest within the second recessed channel <NUM>. This nesting of raised spine <NUM> within the second recessed channel <NUM> of another adjacent utensil and can increase the stability of a stack of utensils without increasing the height of the stack of utensils.

The first or second recessed channel <NUM>, <NUM> can have at least one counterweight (not shown) protruding from the surface of the second recessed channel <NUM>. The counterweight can be adjacent to the handle end <NUM>. The length of the counterweight as measured from the counterweight first end <NUM> to the counterweight second end <NUM> can be at least <NUM>, at least <NUM>, at least <NUM>, at least <NUM>, at least <NUM>, at least <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>, between <NUM> and <NUM>. The shape of the counterweight can be a cube, cuboid, cylinder, triangular prism, sphere, cone, or any other shape that can serve the function of a counterweight. The counterweight can be disposed on the first recessed channel <NUM>, the second recessed channel <NUM>, or both the first recessed channel <NUM> and the second recessed channel <NUM>. The counterweight can help provide balance and stability to the utensil <NUM> during use by acting as a counterweight to objects on the functional section <NUM> or as a counterweight when the utensil <NUM> is in a dispenser. This counterweight can make it easier to separate the utensils <NUM> using a utensil dispenser (not shown).

The utensils <NUM> can be stacked together to form a stack of utensils. The stack of utensils can have a reduced gap between the utensils <NUM>. The gap at the first end of the handle <NUM> as measured by the distance of first surface <NUM> of the first utensil to the second surface <NUM> of the adjacent utensil in the stack of utensils can be less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, or less than <NUM>. The gap at the second end <NUM> of the functional section as measured by the distance of first surface <NUM> of the first utensil to the second surface <NUM> of the adjacent utensils in the stack of utensils can be less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>. The gap at the first end <NUM> of the handle <NUM> between every utensil <NUM> in a stack of utensils can be substantially the same. The gap at the second end <NUM> of the functional section <NUM> between every utensil <NUM> in a stack of utensils can be substantially the same. Reducing the gap between the utensils <NUM> in a stack of utensils can reduce the height of the stack of utensils. The stack of utensils can be loaded into a dispenser with the first surface <NUM> facing down or with the second surface <NUM> facing down. The height of the stack of utensils in centimeters as measured by the distance from first surface <NUM> of the top utensil in a stack of utensils at the first end <NUM> of the handle <NUM> of to the second surface <NUM> of the bottom utensil in the stack of utensils at the first end <NUM> of the handle <NUM> of can be less than <NUM>%, less than <NUM>%, less than <NUM>%, less than <NUM>%, less than <NUM>%, less than <NUM>%, less than <NUM>%, between <NUM>% and <NUM>%, between <NUM>% and <NUM>%, between <NUM>% and <NUM>%, between <NUM>% and <NUM>%, between <NUM>% and <NUM>%, between <NUM>% and <NUM>%, between <NUM>% and <NUM>%, between <NUM>% and <NUM>%, between <NUM>% and <NUM>%, between <NUM>% and <NUM>%, or between <NUM>% and <NUM>% of the height of the utensil <NUM> in centimeters as measured by the distance from the first surface <NUM> to the second surface <NUM> at the first end <NUM> of the handle <NUM> multiplied by the number of utensils <NUM> in the stack of utensils.

When the utensils <NUM> are stacked in a stack of utensils, an individual utensil <NUM> in the stack of utensils can generally only slide out of the stack of utensils in one direction. When the utensils <NUM> are stacked in a stack of utensils, an individual utensil <NUM> in the stack of utensils can generally only slide out in the direction from the handle <NUM> toward the functional section <NUM>, from the functional section <NUM> toward the handle <NUM>, or from both the direction from the handle <NUM> toward the functional section <NUM> and from the direction from the functional section <NUM> toward the handle <NUM>. When the stack of utensils are loaded into a dispenser with the first surface <NUM> facing down, the utensils <NUM> can generally only slide in the direction from the handle <NUM> toward the functional section <NUM>. The spine crown <NUM> can act as a wedge to prevent or otherwise restrict a utensil <NUM> that is directly below a utensil <NUM> in the stack of utensils from sliding out toward the first end <NUM> of the handle <NUM>. The stop <NUM> can be disposed on the raised spine <NUM> proximate to the spine crown <NUM>. The stop <NUM> can prevent or otherwise restrict a utensil <NUM> that is directly below a utensil <NUM> in the stack of utensils from sliding out from the handle <NUM> toward the functional section <NUM> or from the functional section <NUM> toward the handle <NUM>. When the stack of utensils are loaded into a dispenser with the first surface <NUM> facing down, the stop <NUM> can prevent or otherwise restrict a utensil <NUM> that is directly below a utensil <NUM> in the stack of utensils from sliding out from the functional section <NUM> toward the handle <NUM>.

<FIG> depicts a partial perspective view of the dispense chassis <NUM> shown in <FIG> showing a portion of a housing 38a. Another portion of the housing 38b of the dispense chassis <NUM> has been removed in <FIG> to reveal interior details of the dispense chassis <NUM>. The housing <NUM> can contain one or more of the utensils <NUM>, and can include a front pedestal <NUM> that can support and contact the first portion <NUM> of the utensil <NUM> and a rear pedestal <NUM> that can support and contact the second portion <NUM> of the utensil <NUM>. The housing <NUM> can also include at least one generally vertical guide rail <NUM> which can be configured for maintaining the utensils <NUM> in a stacked orientation. The first portion <NUM> can be positioned within the guide rail <NUM> to assist in maintaining the utensils <NUM> in the stacked orientation. To help increase stability of the stack <NUM> and maximize the usage of space within the dispense chassis <NUM>, each utensil <NUM> can include one or more nesting features, such as a chamfered end, a concave cavity, ribbing, a cutout to provide a thinner endpoint in the handle of each utensil, just to name a few. A utensil <NUM> can be stacked vertically on a second utensil <NUM>. The utensils <NUM> can be the same height, width, and length. A cut out (not shown) in a handle <NUM> of the utensil <NUM> can allow for a thinner endpoint that can be used by the dispensing portion of the utensil dispenser <NUM> to separate individual utensils <NUM>. A nesting feature can be used to help maintain the utensils <NUM> in a stacked configuration within the dispense chassis <NUM>.

The dispensing of utensils <NUM> can be enhanced based upon one or more features of the utensils themselves. The handle <NUM> can be chamfered. The chamfer can make it easier for the dispensing unit to pick between utensils. Similar to the chamfer, cutouts from the handle <NUM> can also make it easier for the dispensing unit to pick between utensils <NUM>. As the utensils <NUM> can be stacked in dispense chassis, nesting features can be used to stabilize the utensil stack <NUM>. A concave cavity (not shown) can be used such that one utensil <NUM> can nest into another utensil <NUM>.

<FIG> depicts a cross section plan view of the dispense chassis <NUM> showing one or more support or guide rails <NUM> disposed therein, according to one or more embodiments. <FIG> shows two portions of the housing <NUM>, a first portion 38a and a second portion 38b. The guide rail <NUM> can extend the entire length of the chassis <NUM> or any portion thereof. The guide rail <NUM> has a cross section that is sized and shaped to encapsulate or otherwise surround the stack <NUM> of utensils <NUM>. The guide rail <NUM> can include one more contours or recessed portions <NUM> formed therein. The contour <NUM> can be shaped and/or have a cross section that is complementary to the wings or detents <NUM> on the sides of the utensil <NUM>. In use, the wings or detents <NUM> of each utensil <NUM> fits within the contour <NUM>, and the remaining portions of the utensil <NUM> fit within the remaining portion of the guide rail <NUM>.

As mentioned previously, the housing <NUM> can include a first side or portion 38a and second side or portion 38b. In such embodiment, a first portion of the utensil rail <NUM> can be formed in the first portion 38a of the housing <NUM>, and a second portion of the guide rail <NUM> can be formed in the second portion 38b of the housing <NUM>, such that each portion of the guide rail <NUM> is located on opposite sides of the housing <NUM> and each portion of the utensil rail <NUM> has a contour <NUM> formed therein that complements the shape of the detent <NUM> of each utensil <NUM>.

Referring again to <FIG>, the guide rail <NUM> can be vertically aligned above the front pedestal <NUM> and can guide the utensils <NUM> such that the first portion <NUM> of the bottom utensil <NUM> is placed on the front pedestal <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the guide rail <NUM> with contour section <NUM> can retain and help the stack <NUM> of utensils <NUM> remain in a stacked orientation. If there is more than one utensil rail (not shown) on the same side of the housing, there can be additional wings or detents (not shown) on the sides of utensil <NUM> complementary to the additional rails and can further guide the utensils <NUM> into position and can help the stack <NUM> remain in a stacked orientation or if positioned close enough, the first portion <NUM> can be positioned between the rails <NUM>.

<FIG> depicts a cut away elevation view of the dispense chassis <NUM> showing a plurality or stack <NUM> of utensils <NUM> disposed therein. The dispense chassis <NUM> includes a utensil stack gauge <NUM> that can indicate a quantity of utensils <NUM> in stack <NUM> in the housing <NUM>. The utensil stack gauge <NUM> can include a first gauge arm <NUM> which can be pivotally connected to the housing <NUM> with a pivot <NUM>, and a second gauge arm <NUM> which can be pivotally connected to the housing <NUM> with a pivot <NUM>. The utensil dispenser <NUM> can include one or more gauge windows <NUM> (<FIG> and <FIG>) through which the dispense chassis <NUM> can indicate quantities of utensils <NUM> in the dispense chassis <NUM>. The second gauge arm <NUM> can include an indicator portion <NUM> which can display different quantities of utensils <NUM> through the gauge window <NUM>. The first gauge arm <NUM> can include a gear <NUM>, and the second gauge arm <NUM> can include a gear <NUM> which can mesh with the gear <NUM> so that movement of the first gauge arm <NUM> about the pivot <NUM> can be translated to movement of the second gauge arm <NUM> about the pivot <NUM> to move the indicator portion <NUM> relative to the gauge window <NUM>. Gear <NUM> and gear <NUM> can also be a Scotch yoke. In an alternative embodiment that is not shown, the first gauge arm and the second gauge arm can be fixed together and can pivot such that movement of the first gauge arm about the pivot can be translated into movement of the second gauge arm to move the indicator portion relative to the gauge window.

The indicator portion <NUM> can display different quantities of utensils <NUM> through the gauge window <NUM>. The indicator portion <NUM> can have different quantities printed on different parts of the indicator portion <NUM>. The different quantities can be visible through the gauge window <NUM> one at a time or multiple quantities can be displayed to show that the level is between the quantities displayed. For example, the indicator portion <NUM> could have "Full" and/or a green color printed on the indicator portion <NUM> that is visible through the gauge window <NUM> when the dispense chassis <NUM> has more than a certain amount of utensils <NUM> in the utensil stack <NUM>, more than <NUM>% full, more than <NUM>% full, more than <NUM> % full more than <NUM>% full, or more than <NUM>% full; "Half-Full" and/or a yellow color printed on the indicator portion that is visible through the gauge window <NUM> when the dispense chassis <NUM> has between certain amounts of utensils <NUM> in the utensil stack <NUM>, between <NUM>% full and <NUM>% full, between <NUM>% full and <NUM>% full, between <NUM>% full and <NUM>% full, between <NUM>% full and <NUM>% full; and/or "Empty" and/or a red color printed on the indicator portion <NUM> that is visible through the gauge window <NUM> when the dispense chassis <NUM> has less than a certain amount of utensils <NUM>, less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>,or no utensils <NUM> in the utensil stack <NUM>. Alternatively, the colors can be used to indicate how many full stacks of utensils (the number of utensils in a full stack of utensils can vary) can be added to the dispense chassis <NUM>. For example, where a full stack of utensils is thirty utensils, green may indicate that less than one full stack of additional utensils <NUM> will fit within the dispense chassis <NUM>. Yellow can indicate that more than one full stack of additional utensils can be added to the dispense chassis <NUM>, and red can indicated that two full stacks of additional utensils can be added to the dispense chassis <NUM>.

The first gauge arm <NUM> can include <NUM> prongs, <NUM> prongs, <NUM> prongs, <NUM> prongs, at at least 2prongs, at least <NUM> prongs, at least <NUM> prongs, or at least <NUM> prongs. The first gauge arm includes a first prong <NUM> and a second prong <NUM>. The housing <NUM> includes a first gauge opening <NUM> through which the first prong <NUM> can extend and includes a second gauge opening <NUM> through which the second prong <NUM> can extend. The utensil stack <NUM> in the dispense chassis <NUM> shown in <FIG> is higher than the first gauge opening <NUM>. When the utensil stack <NUM> is at or above the first gauge opening <NUM>, the first prong <NUM> contacts the utensils <NUM> in the utensil stack <NUM> through the first gauge opening <NUM> and the contacted utensil or utensils prevent the first prong <NUM> from extending through the first gauge opening <NUM>. The first prong <NUM> contacting the utensils <NUM> sets the first gauge arm <NUM> at a first angle and positions the second gauge arm <NUM> so that the indicator portion <NUM> indicates a corresponding quantity of utensils <NUM> in the dispense chassis <NUM> through the gauge window <NUM>. In this position, the second gauge arm <NUM> can position the indicator portion <NUM> so that the indicator portion <NUM> visible through the gauge window <NUM> indicates that the dispense chassis is "Full".

<FIG> depicts the dispense chassis <NUM> shown in <FIG> in which the dispense chassis <NUM> is between half-full and empty of utensils <NUM>. Since the utensil stack <NUM> is lower than the first gauge opening <NUM> and higher than the second gauge opening <NUM>, the first prong <NUM> can extend above the utensil stack <NUM> and the second prong <NUM> cannot extend through the second gauge opening <NUM> into the housing <NUM>. The utensil stack <NUM> is above the second gauge opening <NUM> so the second prong <NUM> contacts one or more of the utensils <NUM> through the second gauge opening <NUM> and sets the first gauge arm <NUM> at a second angle that is rotated relatively counterclockwise (as shown in <FIG>) in comparison to the position of the first gauge arm <NUM> as shown in <FIG>. In this position, the second gauge arm <NUM> can position the indicator portion <NUM> so that the indicator portion <NUM> visible through the gauge window <NUM> indicates that the dispense chassis is "Half-Full" or less than half-full.

<FIG> depicts the dispense chassis <NUM> shown in <FIG> in which the dispense chassis <NUM> is almost empty of utensils <NUM>. The utensil stack <NUM> is lower than the second gauge opening <NUM> so the first prong <NUM> can extend into the housing <NUM> through the first gauge opening <NUM> and the second prong <NUM> can extend into the housing <NUM> through the second gauge opening <NUM>. When the second prong <NUM> can extend into the housing <NUM>, the first gauge arm <NUM> can rotate relatively counterclockwise (as shown in <FIG>) in comparison to the positions of the first gauge arm <NUM> shown in <FIG> and <FIG>. In this position, the second gauge arm <NUM> positions the indicator portion <NUM> so that the indicator portion <NUM> visible through the gauge window <NUM> indicates that the dispense chassis is "Empty.

The gauge window <NUM> can be about <NUM> high and can display colors, numbers, percentages, or any other indicator to indicate the number of utensils <NUM> in the dispense chassis <NUM>. The first gauge arm <NUM> can swing with gravity with or without a spring assistance. The weight and/or the center of gravity of the first gauge arm <NUM> can be adjusted to change how the utensil stack gauge <NUM> operates. The position and/or the number of the prongs can be adjusted to provide more precise level indicators. Additionally, in an embodiment not shown, the first gauge arm <NUM> can be partially or completely inside the housing <NUM> such that the first prong <NUM>, the second prong <NUM>, or both the first prong <NUM> and second prong <NUM> can directly contact the utensil stack <NUM> without passing through an opening in the housing <NUM>.

<FIG> depicts a partial perspective view of the dispense chassis <NUM> shown in <FIG>. The dispense chassis <NUM> can include a ramp <NUM>, an actuator <NUM> and an actuator return spring <NUM> which can be connected between an actuator return spring pin <NUM> and the housing 38b. The actuator <NUM> can include an actuator lever <NUM> which can include an actuator lever opening <NUM>. The actuator lever opening <NUM> can be sized to permit passage of the handle <NUM> of the utensil <NUM> as the utensil <NUM> moves down the ramp <NUM>. The actuator lever opening <NUM> can be sized to contact the first portion <NUM> or head <NUM> of the utensil <NUM> and to prevent further movement of the utensil <NUM> down the ramp <NUM> under the force of gravity. In one or more examples, the actuator lever opening can have a generally upside down "U" shape and can taper from relatively larger to relatively smaller in the downward direction of the ramp <NUM>. In one or more examples, the actuator lever opening <NUM> can be sized to contact wings or detents <NUM> on one or both sides of the utensils <NUM>.

<FIG> depict partial cut away perspective views of the dispense chassis <NUM>. The actuator <NUM> can move between a holding position <NUM> (<FIG>), a dispensing position <NUM> (<FIG>), and a partially dispensing position <NUM> (<FIG>) which can be between the holding position <NUM> and the dispensing position <NUM>. The actuator <NUM> can be pivotally mounted to the housing <NUM> with a pivot <NUM> and the actuator <NUM> can rotate around the pivot <NUM> between the holding position <NUM> and the dispensing position <NUM>.

The dispense chassis <NUM> can include a drive mechanism <NUM> which can have a drive hammer <NUM>, a cam follower <NUM>, and a bias spring <NUM> connected between the drive hammer <NUM> and the housing <NUM>. The drive hammer <NUM> can be mounted to the housing <NUM> with a pivot <NUM> around which the drive hammer <NUM> can rotate to position the drive mechanism <NUM> between a ready position <NUM> (<FIG>) and a release position <NUM> (<FIG>). The pivot <NUM> can be any shaft, pin, or axle on which the drive hammer <NUM> can pivot or rotate.

The actuator <NUM> can include a cam <NUM> which can include a cam surface <NUM>. The cam follower <NUM> of the drive mechanism <NUM> can contact and ride on the cam surface <NUM> as the actuator <NUM> moves between the holding position <NUM> and the dispensing position <NUM>. Movement of the actuator <NUM> between the holding position <NUM> and the dispensing position <NUM> can actuate the drive mechanism <NUM> through the cam <NUM> and cam follower <NUM>. When actuated, the drive mechanism <NUM> can move between the ready position <NUM> in which the drive hammer <NUM> has been retracted and is ready to drive the bottom utensil <NUM> from the utensil stack <NUM>, and the release position <NUM> in which the drive hammer <NUM> contacts and pushes the bottom utensil <NUM> from the utensil stack <NUM>.

<FIG> depict elevation partial cut away views of the dispense chassis <NUM>. In the holding position <NUM> (<FIG> and <FIG>) the actuator <NUM> can receive the released utensil 20a after it has been released from stack <NUM> by the drive mechanism <NUM> via the ramp <NUM> and the actuator lever <NUM> can contact the released utensil 20a to arrest the movement of the released utensil 20a down the ramp <NUM>. The actuator lever <NUM> can contact the detents <NUM> or head <NUM> of the released utensil 20a. In the holding position <NUM>, the actuator <NUM> can hold the released utensil 20a such that the handle <NUM> is accessible via the access port <NUM> (<FIG> and <FIG>) where the released utensil 20a is in a dispense position. When the actuator <NUM> is in the holding position <NUM>, the drive mechanism <NUM> can be in the release position <NUM>. In the partially dispensing position <NUM> (<FIG> and <FIG>), the actuator <NUM> can be rotated and the utensil 20a can move further out of the access port <NUM>. In the partially dispensing position <NUM>, the actuator <NUM> can refrain from immediately returning to the holding position <NUM> if the handle <NUM> is released. In the dispensing position <NUM> (<FIG> and <FIG>) the actuator <NUM> can release the released utensil 20a as the user pulls the released utensil 20a free from the utensil dispenser <NUM> and the drive mechanism <NUM> can move to the ready position <NUM>.

When or as the actuator <NUM> returns from the dispensing position <NUM> to the holding position <NUM> (<FIG>), the drive mechanism <NUM> can move from the ready position <NUM> to the release position <NUM> and the bottom utensil <NUM> can be moved or pushed from the bottom of the utensil stack <NUM>. The drive mechanism <NUM> can push the bottom utensil <NUM> so that the first portion <NUM> of the bottom utensil <NUM> clears the front pedestal <NUM> and second portion <NUM> of the bottom utensil <NUM> clears the rear pedestal <NUM>, which can allow the bottom utensil <NUM> to fall from the utensil stack <NUM>. When the bottom utensil <NUM> is moved or pushed from the bottom of the utensil stack <NUM> (<FIG>), the bottom utensil <NUM> can fall to the ramp <NUM> and can slide or move down the ramp <NUM> to the actuator <NUM> under the force of gravity. When the bottom utensil <NUM> is pushed from the bottom of the utensil stack <NUM>, the utensil stack <NUM> can move down creating a new bottom utensil <NUM>.

Referring again to <FIG>, the dispense chassis <NUM> can include a ratchet gear assembly <NUM>. The ratchet gear assembly <NUM> can include a ratchet gear <NUM> which can be connected to the actuator <NUM>, or can be integral with the actuator <NUM>. The ratchet gear assembly <NUM> can prevent the actuator <NUM> from kicking back as the actuator <NUM> is partially moved from the holding position <NUM> (<FIG> and <FIG>), toward the dispensing position <NUM> (<FIG> and <FIG>), and to the partially dispensing position <NUM> (<FIG> and <FIG>). The ratchet gear <NUM> can be connected to or integral with the actuator cam <NUM> (<FIG>) so that the ratchet gear <NUM> rotates around the pivot <NUM> with the actuator cam <NUM>. The ratchet gear <NUM> can be formed as part of the actuator <NUM> and can be positioned at least partially within the housing <NUM>. The actuator return spring pin <NUM> can extend from the ratchet gear <NUM> and the return spring <NUM> (<FIG>) can bias the actuator <NUM> in the holding position <NUM> through the ratchet gear <NUM> and can return the actuator <NUM> from the dispensing position <NUM> to the holding position <NUM>.

The ratchet gear assembly <NUM> can include a ratchet pawl <NUM> and the ratchet gear <NUM> can include ratchet teeth <NUM>, a surface <NUM>, and a stop <NUM>. The ratchet pawl <NUM> can include a ratchet pawl hook <NUM> and can be pivotally connected to the housing <NUM> with a pivot <NUM>. The ratchet gear assembly <NUM> can include a ratchet pawl spring <NUM> which can bias the ratchet pawl hook <NUM> in contact with the ratchet gear <NUM>.

The ratchet pawl hook <NUM> can engage the stop <NUM> to stop the actuator <NUM> at the holding position <NUM> (<FIG> and <FIG>) and can prevent the actuator <NUM> from rotating past the holding position <NUM> when moving from the dispensing position <NUM>. The ratchet pawl hook <NUM> can engage the ratchet teeth <NUM> in the first part of the movement of the actuator <NUM> from the holding position <NUM> to the partially dispensing position <NUM> (<FIG> and <FIG>) to prevent the actuator lever <NUM> from kicking back if the user releases the utensil handle <NUM> after beginning to pull but before the utensil <NUM> is released from the utensil dispenser <NUM>.

The ratchet pawl hook <NUM> can engage the surface <NUM> to move the ratchet pawl hook <NUM> from the ratchet teeth <NUM> as the actuator <NUM> is moved to the dispensing position <NUM> (<FIG> and <FIG>) and the released utensil 20a is removed from the utensil dispenser <NUM>. After the released utensil 20a is removed, the actuator <NUM> can return to the holding position <NUM> under the force of the return spring <NUM> (<FIG>) and the ratchet pawl hook <NUM> can catch the stop <NUM> to position the actuator <NUM> in the holding position <NUM>.

<FIG> depicts a partial cut away perspective view of the dispense chassis <NUM> shown in <FIG> with a prime mechanism <NUM>. The dispense chassis <NUM> can include the prime mechanism <NUM> for actuating the drive mechanism <NUM> to remove a bottom utensil <NUM> from the utensil stack <NUM> (as shown in <FIG>) to deliver the bottom utensil <NUM> to the actuator <NUM> when the actuator <NUM> is not already holding a released utensil 20a. The prime mechanism <NUM> can be positioned, at least partially below the access port <NUM> (<FIG>). The prime mechanism <NUM> can include a primer handle <NUM> and a primer arm <NUM>. The primer arm <NUM> can be connected to or form part of the primer handle <NUM>. The prime mechanism <NUM> can move between an extended position <NUM> (<FIG>), in which the drive mechanism <NUM> is moved to the ready position <NUM> (<FIG>), and a rest position <NUM> (<FIG> and <FIG>), in which the drive mechanism <NUM> is moved to the release position <NUM> (<FIG>) and moves the bottom utensil <NUM> from the utensil stack <NUM> to fall to the ramp <NUM> and the actuator lever <NUM>. In one or more examples, the primer handle <NUM> can be moved from the rest position <NUM> to the extended position <NUM> using a pulling force.

The actuator lever <NUM> can include a actuator pin <NUM> and the primer arm <NUM> can engage the actuator pin <NUM> to move the actuator <NUM> from the holding position <NUM> to the dispensing position <NUM> by moving the prime mechanism <NUM> from the rest position <NUM> to the extended position <NUM> by pulling the primer handle <NUM> and then releasing the primer handle <NUM>. In one or more examples, the actuator return spring <NUM> (<FIG>) can return the actuator <NUM> back to the holding position <NUM> and the actuator pin <NUM> can push the primer arm <NUM> and the primer handle <NUM> back to the rest position <NUM>. The prime mechanism <NUM> can include a primer return spring <NUM> connected between the primer arm <NUM> and the housing <NUM> to return the prime mechanism <NUM> from the extended position <NUM> to the rest position <NUM>.

The prime mechanism <NUM> can include one or more guides <NUM> (<FIG>) for guiding the primer arm <NUM> between the rest position <NUM> and the extended position <NUM>. The prime mechanism <NUM> allows a user to prime the dispense chassis <NUM> for use by positioning a utensil <NUM> for dispensing through the access port <NUM> after the utensil stack <NUM> is loaded into the housing <NUM> when there was not already a utensil <NUM> with the handle <NUM> extending from the access port <NUM>.

<FIG> depicts the utensil dispenser <NUM> with the access door <NUM> open and dispense chassis 18a in a loading position <NUM> and dispense chassis 18b and 18c in a dispensing position <NUM>. When the dispense chassis <NUM> is in the loading position <NUM>, the utensils <NUM> can be loaded into the housing <NUM> through a loading opening <NUM>, and when the dispense chassis <NUM> is in the dispensing position <NUM> the utensils <NUM> can be dispensed from the utensil dispenser <NUM>. The dispense chassis <NUM> can be moved between the dispensing position <NUM> and the loading position <NUM> while remaining connected to the body <NUM>.

<FIG> depicts a partial cut away elevation view of portions of the utensil dispenser <NUM> shown in <FIG> with the dispense chassis <NUM> in the dispensing position <NUM>. <FIG> depicts a partial cut away elevation view of the utensil dispenser <NUM> shown in <FIG> with the dispense chassis <NUM> in the loading position <NUM>. The utensil dispenser <NUM> can include a dispense chassis support or glide mechanism <NUM> which can be connected to the base <NUM> of the body <NUM> for supporting at least one utensil dispense chassis <NUM>. The dispense chassis <NUM> can include a first pin <NUM>, which can be connected to or integral with the housing <NUM>, disposed at or near a bottom <NUM> of the dispense chassis <NUM>. The dispense chassis <NUM> can include a second pin <NUM>, which can be connected to or be integral with the housing <NUM>, disposed at or near the bottom <NUM> of the dispense chassis <NUM> and can be spaced apart from the first pin <NUM>.

The glide mechanism <NUM> can include one or more slots or channels for guiding each dispense chassis <NUM>. For example, the glide mechanism <NUM> can include a first slot <NUM> for engaging the first dispense chassis pin <NUM> to at least partially support the dispense chassis <NUM>, and a second slot <NUM> for engaging the second dispense chassis pin <NUM> to at least partially support the dispense chassis <NUM>. The first pin <NUM> and/or second pin <NUM> can be any rounded cylindrical or tubular shaped structures. The first pin <NUM> and/or second pin <NUM> can be stationary so that they can slide within the first and second slots <NUM> and <NUM>. The first pin <NUM> and/or second pin <NUM> can roll so that they can roll within the first and second slot <NUM> and <NUM>. The first and second slots <NUM> and <NUM> can be configured to engage the first and second pins <NUM> and <NUM>. The glide mechanism <NUM> can support the dispense chassis <NUM> in the dispensing position <NUM> (<FIG>) and in the loading position <NUM> (<FIG>). The glide mechanism <NUM> can also support and guide the dispense chassis <NUM> between the dispensing position <NUM> and the loading position <NUM>. The glide mechanism <NUM> can guide the dispense chassis <NUM> to tilt outward when in the loading position <NUM>.

The first slot <NUM> can include an arcuate shape and can guide the first pin <NUM> in a forward and upward motion as the dispense chassis <NUM> is moved from the dispensing position <NUM> to the loading position <NUM>. The dispense chassis <NUM> can be removed from the glide mechanism <NUM> and the body <NUM>. The first slot <NUM> can have a first slot opening <NUM> through which the first pin <NUM> can escape the first slot <NUM> when removing the dispense chassis <NUM> from the glide mechanism <NUM>. The second slot <NUM> can include an arcuate shape and can guide the second pin <NUM> in an arcuate and forward motion. The second slot <NUM> can include a second slot opening <NUM> through which the second pin <NUM> can escape the second slot <NUM> when removing the dispense chassis <NUM> from the glide mechanism <NUM>.

The pins <NUM> and <NUM> and/or the slots openings <NUM> and <NUM> can be spaced such that only one of the pins <NUM> and <NUM> can be removed through the slot openings <NUM> and <NUM> at a time. The first slot opening <NUM> can be spaced along the first slot <NUM> such that the first pin <NUM> can be removed from the first slot <NUM> when the dispense chassis <NUM> is in between the dispensing position <NUM> and the loading position <NUM>. The pins <NUM> and <NUM>, and the slot openings <NUM> and <NUM> can be arranged to maintain the pins <NUM> and <NUM> in the slots <NUM> and <NUM> when the dispense chassis <NUM> is in the dispensing position <NUM> and the loading position <NUM>. The second slot opening <NUM> can be positioned in the second slot <NUM> such that the second pin <NUM> cannot be removed from the second slot <NUM> unless the first pin <NUM> is first removed from the first slot <NUM>.

The first slot <NUM> can include a first end <NUM> and a second end <NUM> and can have a crown <NUM> which can be relatively higher than the first end <NUM> and/or the second end <NUM>. The first pin <NUM> can be located at the first end <NUM> of the first slot <NUM> when the dispense chassis <NUM> is in the dispensing position <NUM> (<FIG>), and can be located at the second end <NUM> of the first slot <NUM> when the dispense chassis <NUM> is in the loading position <NUM> (<FIG>). The crown <NUM> can bias the first pin <NUM> toward the first end <NUM> or the second end <NUM> depending on which side of the crown <NUM> the first pin <NUM> is located.

The second slot <NUM> can include a first end <NUM> and a second end <NUM> and can have a crown <NUM> that can be relatively higher than the first end <NUM> and/or the second end <NUM>. The second pin <NUM> can be located at the first end <NUM> of the second slot <NUM> when the dispense chassis <NUM> is in the dispensing position <NUM> (<FIG>), and can be located on the second end <NUM> side of the crown <NUM> when the dispense chassis <NUM> is in the loading position <NUM> (<FIG>). The crown <NUM> can bias the second pin <NUM> toward the first end <NUM> when the second pin <NUM> is on the first end side of the crown <NUM>, and can bias the second pin <NUM> toward the second end <NUM> when the second pin <NUM> is on the second end side of the crown <NUM>. The biases provided by the first slot crown <NUM> and the second slot crown <NUM> can hold the dispense chassis <NUM> in the dispensing position <NUM> and the loading position <NUM>. The utensil stack gauge <NUM> can move out of the way of the loaded utensils <NUM> when the dispense chassis <NUM> in the loading position <NUM> under the force of gravity (<FIG>).

<FIG> depicts a bottom view of the dispense chassis <NUM>. The dispense chassis <NUM> can include more than one first pin <NUM> and can include more than one second pin <NUM>. <FIG> depicts a partial cut away perspective view of the utensil dispenser <NUM> with the glide mechanism <NUM> without dispense chassis <NUM>. The glide mechanism <NUM> shown in <FIG> can support three dispense chassis <NUM>. The glide mechanism <NUM> can include more than one first slot <NUM> and second slot <NUM> for each dispense chassis <NUM>. The first pins <NUM> can extend inwardly and can have a first pin space <NUM> between the first pins <NUM>. The second pins <NUM> can extend inwardly and can have a second pin space <NUM> between the second pins <NUM> (<FIG>). The glide mechanism <NUM> can include a slot support <NUM> which can extend between the first slots <NUM> and between the second slots <NUM>. The slot support <NUM> can extend into the first pin space <NUM> and second pin space <NUM> when the dispense chassis <NUM> is mounted to the utensil dispenser <NUM>.

The utensil dispenser <NUM> can include a dispense chassis interlock <NUM> (<FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG>). The dispense chassis interlock <NUM> can include one or more interlock arms <NUM> which can each have a first portion <NUM> and a second portion <NUM>. The dispense chassis interlock <NUM> can be pivotally mounted to the body <NUM> or the glide mechanism <NUM> and the interlock arms <NUM> can be connected to move together. When one of the dispense chassis <NUM> is moved to the loading position <NUM> (<FIG>), the dispense chassis interlock <NUM> can lock the other dispense chassis <NUM> in the dispensing position <NUM> to keep the utensil dispenser <NUM> from tipping forward due to having too much weight in front of the base <NUM>.

When all of the dispense chassis <NUM> in the body <NUM> of the utensil dispenser <NUM> are in the dispensing position <NUM>, the dispense chassis interlock <NUM> can be in an unlocked position <NUM> (<FIG>), and any one of the dispense chassis <NUM> can be moved to the loading position <NUM>. In the unlocked position <NUM>, the first portion <NUM> of the interlock arm <NUM> can be relatively upward and the second portion <NUM> can be relatively downward and the interlock arm <NUM> does not interfere with the movement of the dispense chassis <NUM>. When one of the dispense chassis <NUM> is moved to the loading position <NUM>, the dispense chassis interlock <NUM> can move to a locked position <NUM> (<FIG>) and the other dispense chassis <NUM> can be locked in the dispensing position <NUM>. In the locked position <NUM>, the first portion <NUM> of the interlock arm <NUM> can be pushed relatively downward by the first pin <NUM> and the second portion <NUM> can be moved relatively upward and interfere with the movement of the second pin <NUM> of the remaining dispense chassis <NUM>. Movement of the dispense chassis <NUM> back to the dispensing position <NUM> can returns the dispense chassis interlock <NUM> to the unlocked position <NUM>.

Certain embodiments and features have been described using a set of numerical upper limits and a set of numerical lower limits. It should be appreciated that ranges including the combination of any two values, e.g., the combination of any lower value with any upper value, the combination of any two lower values, and/or the combination of any two upper values are contemplated unless otherwise indicated. Certain lower limits, upper limits and ranges appear in one or more claims below. All numerical values are "about" or "approximately" the indicated value, and take into account experimental error and variations that would be expected by a person having ordinary skill in the art.

Claim 1:
A utensil dispenser (<NUM>) configured to dispense at least two utensils (<NUM>) comprising:
a housing (<NUM>) configured to contain a stack (<NUM>) of the utensils (<NUM>) therein, the housing (<NUM>) comprising at least one gauge opening (<NUM>, <NUM>) formed therethrough and
a stack gauge (<NUM>) comprising an indicator portion (<NUM>) in communication with a stack gauge arm (<NUM>, <NUM>), the stack gauge arm (<NUM>, <NUM>) having at least one prong (<NUM>, <NUM>) extending therefrom that is configured to pass through the at least one gauge opening (<NUM>, <NUM>), wherein the stack gauge arm (<NUM>) is configured to move from a first position where the at least one prong (<NUM>, <NUM>) is in contact with the stack (<NUM>) of the utensils to a second position where the at least one prong (<NUM>, <NUM>) is not in contact with the stack (<NUM>) of the utensils to indicate a quantity of utensils (<NUM>) in the stack (<NUM>) of the utensils in the housing (<NUM>), and wherein the indicator portion of the stack gauge (<NUM>) is visible from outside the housing (<NUM>) and the dispenser (<NUM>), wherein the stack gauge (<NUM>) indicates a second quantity of utensils in the housing (<NUM>) that is less than a first quantity of utensils in the housing when the stack gauge arm (<NUM>) is in the second position, wherein the at least one gauge opening comprises a first gauge opening (<NUM>) and a second gauge opening (<NUM>), the at least one prong comprises a first prong (<NUM>) and a second prong (<NUM>), the stack gauge arm (<NUM>, <NUM>) is configured to move from: (a) the first position when the first prong (<NUM>) is in contact with the stack (<NUM>) of the utensils through the first gauge opening (<NUM>); to (b) the second position when the first prong (<NUM>) is not in contact with the stack (<NUM>) of utensils and the second prong (<NUM>) is in contact with the stack (<NUM>) of utensils through the second gauge opening (<NUM>); to (c) a third position when both the first prong (<NUM>) and the second prong (<NUM>) are not in contact with the stack (<NUM>) of utensils, and the stack gauge (<NUM>) indicates a third quantity of utensils in the housing that is less than the second quantity of utensils in the housing when the stack gauge arm (<NUM>, <NUM>) is in the third position.