Patent Description:
Disposable utensils can typically be found in fast-food and take out restaurants. 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 typically suffer from one or more utensils getting jammed within the dispenser housings and not being able to be dispensed without time consuming attention and disassembly, which exposes the contents inside, i.e. the utensils, to the surrounding environment. Conventional assemblies also have difficulties associated with re-loading utensils and maintaining a reliable supply of utensils for user demand. Relevant prior art is described in <CIT>, <CIT>, <CIT>, <CIT>, and <CIT>.

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

In particular, it is provided an utensil dispenser having the features defined in claim <NUM>. Further preferred embodiments are defined in dependent claims.

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 defined in the appended claims. 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> depicts a perspective view of an illustrative utensil dispenser <NUM>, according to one or more embodiments. The utensil dispenser <NUM> includes a housing or body <NUM> having a base <NUM> and an access door <NUM>. The base <NUM> can provide support for the dispenser housing <NUM> and allows the utensil dispenser <NUM> to be free standing. The base <NUM> can be fixedly attached to the bottom of the dispenser housing <NUM> using one or more fasteners such as screws, bolts, rivets, or any other type of fastener. The dispenser housing <NUM> can also sit on the base <NUM> without any form of mechanical fastening. The base <NUM> can be removable so that the utensil dispenser <NUM> can be wall mounted using one more wall mounting attachment holes (not shown in these views).

The access door <NUM> can swing opened and closed using one or more hinges attached to the dispenser housing <NUM>. The hinge locations can vary and can be located at the top, bottom, or side of the dispenser housing <NUM>. The access door <NUM> can include one or more fill level apertures or windows <NUM> that align with corresponding fill level apertures or windows <NUM> disposed on the dispense chassis <NUM>. As explained further below with reference to <FIG>, these apertures or windows <NUM>, <NUM> allow a visual indication of the stock of utensils within the dispenser to be visible outside the dispenser <NUM>.

<FIG> depicts a perspective view of the illustrative utensil dispenser of <FIG> with the access door <NUM> opened to reveal one or more dispense chassis <NUM> located therein, according to one or more embodiments. Within the dispenser housing <NUM>, the utensil dispenser <NUM> can include one or more dispense chassis <NUM> for dispensing a plurality of utensils through an access port <NUM> disposed at one end of each dispense chassis <NUM>. Each dispense chassis <NUM> can be pre-packaged with utensils (i.e. knife, fork, spoon, spork, etc.). In some implementations, the dispense chassis <NUM> is replaced with a new dispense chassis <NUM> 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, or three or more dispense chassis <NUM>. 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 can be used. Further, any of the dispense chassis <NUM> can be located within any dispensing position (e.g. left, right, middle for a <NUM> chassis dispenser) within the dispenser housing <NUM>. Accordingly, a dispense chassis <NUM> of any type of utensil can be placed into any available position.

<FIG> depicts a side elevation view of an illustrative dispense chassis <NUM> for use with the dispenser, according to one or more embodiments. The dispense chassis <NUM> can include a top <NUM> disposed on a first or upper end of a chassis body or chassis housing <NUM>. The chassis housing <NUM> can further include a griper or handle <NUM> formed in a centrally located section or portion thereof. The handle <NUM> can provide a point of engagement for service personnel to more sanitarily carry or transport the dispense chassis <NUM> without having to touch the top <NUM> or access port <NUM> where the utensils will be removed. The handle <NUM> will also allow a service personnel a point of contact to better manipulate the dispense chassis <NUM> when loading or loaded in the dispenser <NUM>. Dispense chassis <NUM> can have one or more corresponding fill level windows <NUM> that allow a visual indication of the stock of utensils in each respective dispense chassis <NUM>, as explained below. In other embodiments, the fill level windows <NUM> can allow a line of sight into the chassis interior from the corresponding sight windows <NUM> on the access door <NUM> (<FIG>).

<FIG> depicts an illustrative plan view of a dispense chassis <NUM>, according to one or more embodiments. As shown, the top <NUM> of the dispense chassis <NUM> can include an opening <NUM> to provide access to a cavity or chamber <NUM> within the chassis housing <NUM> for storing utensils therein. The opening <NUM> can be universally configured or shaped to allow any type of utensil <NUM> to pass through, including for example, a knife, fork (as shown), spoon and spork. Alternatively, each dispense chassis <NUM> can have a top opening <NUM> specific to one type of utensil. In some embodiments, the top <NUM> can be snap fitted onto the chassis housing <NUM>, so the top <NUM> can be easily removed or interchanged to customize the utensil types for a particular dispense chassis <NUM>.

<FIG> depicts a perspective view of a fork 20A for use with the utensil dispenser, according to one or more embodiments. <FIG> depicts a perspective view of a knife 20B for use with the utensil dispenser, according to one or more embodiments. <FIG> depicts a perspective view of a spoon 20C for use with the illustrative utensil dispenser, according to one or more embodiments. Each utensil 20A, 20B, 20C 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 handle <NUM> can be utilized by a user to hold and/or manipulate the utensil <NUM>. Each utensil 20A, 20B, 20C includes one or more contoured projections <NUM> formed thereon. The contoured projections <NUM> can include any suitable number, shapes and/or sizes of wings or detents formed on one or both sides of the utensil 20A, 20B, 20C. For example, each contoured projection <NUM> can have or can include a tapered, squared, rounded or other shaped outer surface. The contoured projections <NUM> provide a point of engagement for use within the dispense chassis <NUM>, as will be explained in more detail below. Each utensil 20A, 20B, 20C 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.

<FIG> depicts an enlarged cut away side view of the dispense chassis <NUM>, according to one or more embodiments. Several components within the dispense chassis <NUM> have been removed to better illustrate the interior side of the chassis housing <NUM>. As depicted, the chassis housing <NUM> includes a front pedestal <NUM> and a rear pedestal <NUM> for contacting and supporting utensil <NUM>. At least one generally vertical guide rail <NUM> can be disposed in or on one or both side walls of the chassis housing <NUM>. The guide rail <NUM> can be configured for maintaining the utensils <NUM> in a stacked orientation within the chamber <NUM> of the dispense chassis <NUM>. The guide rail <NUM> can extend the entire length of the dispense chassis <NUM> or any portion thereof, and can have a cross section that is sized and shaped to retain a stack of utensils <NUM> (not shown). The guide rail <NUM> can include one more contours or recessed portions <NUM> that are shaped and/or have a cross section that is complementary to the wings or detents <NUM> on each utensil <NUM>. The guide rail <NUM> can also include two spaced apart extensions or protrusions forming a contour or recessed portion <NUM> therebetween. The recessed portion <NUM> can be formed in one or both sidewalls of the dispense chassis <NUM>, or the recessed portion <NUM> can be formed by attaching the spaced apart extensions or protrusions as separate components to one or both sidewalls of the dispense chassis <NUM>. In use, the contoured projections <NUM> of each utensil <NUM> resides at least partially within the recess <NUM> of the guide rail <NUM>.

Still considering the guide rails <NUM>, <FIG> depicts a cut away side view of the dispense chassis <NUM>, according to one or more embodiments. Each guide rail <NUM> can be vertically aligned above the front pedestal <NUM>. In use, a contoured projection <NUM> adjacent the functional portion <NUM> of a bottom utensil fits at least partially within the recess <NUM>, and utensils <NUM> within the chamber <NUM> rest on the front pedestal <NUM>, as depicted in <FIG>. When there is more than one recess <NUM> of the guide rail <NUM> on the same side of the chassis housing <NUM>, there can be additional contoured projections <NUM> on one or both sides of utensil <NUM> complementary to the additional recesses <NUM> and can further guide the utensils <NUM> into position and help a stack of utensils remain in a stacked orientation within the chamber <NUM>.

<FIG> depicts an isometric view of the dispense chassis <NUM> having a portion of the chassis housing <NUM> removed to reveal a dispensing mechanism <NUM> therein, according to one or more embodiments. Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, the dispensing mechanism <NUM> can include an actuator <NUM>, drive mechanism <NUM> and according to the invention includes a moveable member <NUM>. The actuator <NUM> can be attached or otherwise supported by the chassis housing <NUM> and configured to pivot or swing about a pivot point or axis <NUM>.

The actuator <NUM> can include a shaped or cam surface in communication with the drive mechanism <NUM>, which can also include a contoured or cam surface. The shaped surfaces on the actuator <NUM> and the drive mechanism <NUM> can be similar or different. The actuator <NUM> can further include an opening <NUM> formed in a lower portion thereof. This opening <NUM> can be sized to permit passage of the handle portion of each utensil <NUM>, while retaining the larger, functional portion of each utensil <NUM> as the utensil <NUM> moves down a gravity ramp <NUM>. In this capacity, the actuator <NUM> can serve the function of a door or gate that can have opened and closed positions.

The drive mechanism <NUM> can be affixed to the chassis housing <NUM> via a pivot point or axis <NUM>. Movement of the actuator <NUM> translates to the drive mechanism <NUM>, allowing the drive mechanism <NUM> to move in a first direction and a second direction, e.g. backwards and forwards. A spring <NUM> can be operatively linked to the drive mechanism <NUM> to urge the drive mechanism <NUM> toward its second or ready position after rotation.

The moveable member <NUM> can be operatively connected to the drive mechanism <NUM>. Movement of the drive mechanism <NUM> causes movement of the moveable member <NUM>. The moveable member <NUM> can be any arm, bar, or other extension device that can slide or otherwise move linearly or substantially linearly within the chassis housing <NUM>. The moveable member <NUM> has sufficient flexibility to flex or deflect outwardly when contacted by sufficient resistance. The moveable member <NUM> also includes one or more fingers, bars or extensions <NUM> that are configured to contact or otherwise engage at least a portion of a utensil <NUM> resting on the pedestals <NUM>, <NUM>. Each extension <NUM> can be configured to move at the same time as the others or each extension <NUM> can move independently of the others.

Each extension <NUM> includes one or more engaging sections <NUM> (<FIG>) that are sized and shaped to engage the contoured projection <NUM> of each utensil <NUM>. For example, each engaging section <NUM> can be or include a key, cut-out, slot, notch, or other opening. The engaging section <NUM> can also be an area of reduced wall thickness formed along the length of the extension <NUM>. The moveable member <NUM> through the engagement of the at least one engaging section <NUM> with the at least one contoured projection <NUM> on a utensil <NUM> is configured to advance a utensil <NUM> by a sufficient distance to release the utensil <NUM> from the pedestals <NUM>, <NUM>, causing the utensil <NUM> to fall onto the gravity ramp <NUM>. The engaging section <NUM> can matingly engage any one or more contoured projection <NUM> on a utensil <NUM>. The engaging section <NUM> can also engage an outer surface of the one or more contoured projections <NUM> on a utensil <NUM>. In an embodiment not according to the invention, a reverse configuration is used where a notch or recess can be formed in the side of the utensil and the engaging section <NUM> of the extension <NUM> can have a detent or protrusion to fit within the notch or recess. In yet another embodiment not shown, the utensil can include a notch or recess in addition to the contoured projection <NUM>, such notch or recess sized and shaped to at least partially receive a detent or protrusion on the engaging section <NUM> of the extension <NUM>.

In use, a user or customer will grasp a handle <NUM> of a utensil <NUM> and pull the utensil <NUM> free from the dispenser <NUM> via the access port <NUM> of the dispense chassis <NUM>. In response to the movement or removal of the utensil <NUM> by the user, the dispense chassis <NUM> can position the handle <NUM> of another utensil <NUM> for removal by a user via the access port <NUM>. As one utensil <NUM> is removed, another utensil <NUM> can be moved into position until the dispense chassis <NUM> is emptied of utensils <NUM>. It should be appreciated that the functional ends <NUM> of the utensils <NUM> that can come into contact with food, e.g., fork tines, spoon bowls, knife blades, etc., are protected within the dispense chassis <NUM> and remain within the dispense chassis <NUM> until ready for use.

Once each dispense chassis <NUM> has been loaded within the dispenser housing <NUM>, each dispense chassis <NUM> can be primed or prepared for dispensing. <FIG> depicts an enlarged cut away side view of the lower portion of the dispense chassis in a ready to be primed position, according to one or more embodiments. As depicted, the dispense chassis <NUM> can include a priming assembly <NUM>. The priming assembly <NUM> can include at least one primer handle <NUM>, primer arm or rachet <NUM> and pawl <NUM>. The primer handle <NUM> can be located beneath the access port <NUM> and can be configured to move in and out of the chassis housing <NUM>. The primer handle <NUM> can be operatively linked to at least one primer arm or ratchet <NUM>. The ratchet <NUM> can include a push surface for engaging the actuator <NUM>, a series of teeth or projections for receiving the pawl <NUM>, and a dwell surface located between the teeth and the push surface for resetting the pawl <NUM>. Being operatively linked, the ratchet <NUM> moves with the primer handle <NUM>. Although not shown, the priming assembly <NUM> can include one or more return springs affixed to the primer handle <NUM> and/or the ratchet <NUM> to return the priming assembly <NUM> to its resting or closed position. In some embodiments, the primer assembly <NUM> can include two ratchets <NUM>, position opposite one another on each side of the primer handle <NUM>.

Each pawl <NUM> can be affixed to a side of the chassis housing <NUM> and can freely rotate or pivot in both the clockwise and counter-clock wise directions. As the primer handle <NUM> and ratchet <NUM> are pulled, the pawl <NUM> engages the teeth on the ratchet <NUM>, preventing the ratchet <NUM> and handle <NUM> from retracting prematurely. The pawl <NUM> allows a user to extend the primer handle <NUM>, which allows the actuator <NUM> to pivot or rotate to an open or dispense position. When the primer handle <NUM> is pulled sufficiently to clear the teeth from the pawl <NUM>, the pawl <NUM> can disengage from the ratchet <NUM>, allowing the primer handle <NUM> and the ratchet <NUM> to return to their resting or closed position. Movement of the ratchet <NUM> allows the actuator <NUM> to move toward an opened position, creating sufficient space to allow a released utensil on the ramp <NUM> to slide through the actuator <NUM> and exit the dispense chassis <NUM>. If not for the ratchet <NUM> and pawl <NUM>, a user could repetitiously pull the primer handle <NUM> to release multiple utensils from the bottom of the stack without fully opening the actuator <NUM>, which would jam the dispense chassis <NUM> with the multiple released utensils piling on the gravity ramp <NUM>.

<FIG> depicts an enlarged cut away side view of the lower portion of the chassis housing <NUM> as the primer handle <NUM> is partially extended, according to one or more embodiments. Referring to <FIG>, as the primer handle <NUM> moves away from the chassis housing <NUM>, the ratchet <NUM> moves underneath the pawl <NUM>, and the push surface of the ratchet <NUM> pushes against the actuator <NUM>. The actuator <NUM> rotates, driving the drive mechanism <NUM>, which drives the moveable member <NUM>, allowing the utensil at the bottom of the stack (i.e. "the next utensil") to release from the pedestals <NUM>, <NUM>. Said another way, the ratchet <NUM> pushes the actuator <NUM> toward its dispense position, which pushes the drive mechanism <NUM> toward its ready position, which pulls the moveable member <NUM> toward its ready position. In this ready position for the moveable member <NUM>, the engaging section <NUM> on the moveable member <NUM> receives at least a portion of the contoured projections <NUM> on the lower most or next utensil <NUM> at the bottom of the stack.

<FIG> depicts an enlarged cut away side view of the lower portion of the chassis housing <NUM> as the primer handle <NUM> is fully extended, according to one or more embodiments. At this position of the priming movement, the ratchet <NUM> pushes against the actuator <NUM> toward its full rotated or open position (or dispense position), which drives the drive mechanism <NUM> to its ready position, which is a fully retracted or stop position. This fully retracted position helps prevent the spring <NUM> from winding unnecessarily to a full load, reducing the total amount of energy in the system.

<FIG> depicts an enlarged cut away side view of the lower portion of the dispense chassis as the primer handle <NUM> begins to return or retract back into the chassis housing <NUM>, according to one or more embodiments. As the primer handle <NUM> returns to its resting or closed position, the moveable member <NUM> moves toward its dispense position. In its dispense position, the moveable member <NUM> has moved toward the backside <NUM> of the chassis housing <NUM> (opposite the access port <NUM>) pushing the next utensil <NUM> away from the pedestals <NUM>, <NUM>.

<FIG> depicts an enlarged cut away side view of the lower portion of the chassis housing <NUM> as the primer handle <NUM> retracts into the chassis housing <NUM>, according to one or more embodiments. In this position, the actuator <NUM> returns toward its closed or resting position, the drive mechanism <NUM> moves toward its release position and the moveable member moves toward its dispense position to push the next utensil away from the pedestals <NUM>, <NUM> (best seen in <FIG>). When cleared from the pedestals <NUM>, <NUM>, the next utensil releases from the stack and falls onto the gravity ramp <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>.

<FIG> depicts an enlarged cut away side view of the lower portion of the dispense chassis <NUM> as the next utensil releases from the stack and falls onto the gravity ramp <NUM>, according to one or more embodiments. The released utensil can move down the gravity ramp <NUM> toward the access port <NUM> until it is caught and retained in the opening <NUM>, as depicted in <FIG>.

<FIG> depicts an enlarged cut away side view of the lower portion of the dispense chassis <NUM> as the released utensil moves down the gravity ramp <NUM> and is caught by the actuator <NUM> and held in a dispensing position <NUM>, according to one or more embodiments. <FIG> is another view of <FIG> but with the utensils removed to better illustrate the moving parts of the dispense chassis <NUM>. As depicted, the actuator <NUM>, ratchet <NUM>, drive mechanism <NUM> and moveable member <NUM> have all returned to the closed or ready position. It should be further detailed, that as the moveable member <NUM> returns to its retracted or ready position, extensions <NUM> can either move underneath the then next utensil of the stack or the extensions <NUM> can deflect outward, moving move around the contoured projections <NUM> of the then next utensil of the stack, until the contoured projections <NUM> fit within the engaging portion <NUM> of the extensions <NUM>.

Referring again to <FIG>, the gravity ramp <NUM> can be angled or canted within the chassis housing <NUM>. The gravity ramp <NUM> can slope from the back of the chassis housing <NUM> toward the front back of the chassis housing <NUM> (right to left in the views shown). The slope helps a released utensil slide on its own, via gravity, toward to the access port <NUM>. The angle or slope gravity ramp <NUM> can range anywhere from a low of about <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM> degrees to a high of about <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM> degrees with relation to horizontal. As will be explained in more detail below, the angle or slant of the ramp <NUM> works with a swing trajectory of the actuator <NUM> to pinch or trap pieces of utensil therebetween thereby impeding the movement of utensils against the slope of the ramp <NUM> (i.e. up the ramp <NUM>).

Optionally, the gravity ramp <NUM> can include at least one positioning mechanism <NUM> located on an upper surface thereof. The positioning mechanism <NUM> can be any suitable positioner, obstruction, stabilizer, bumper or guide, including but not limited to any one more steps, bumps, extensions or other artifices. Because of the positioning mechanism <NUM> being located on an upper surface of the gravity ramp <NUM>, the upper surface of the gravity ramp <NUM> is not a flat or level surface. For example, the positioning mechanism <NUM> can be or include a stepped profile that is formed in, formed on, or otherwise located on the upper surface of the ramp <NUM>. The positioning mechanism <NUM> can be integrally formed with the ramp <NUM> or can be a separate component attached, adhered, or otherwise affixed to the ramp <NUM>. The positioning mechanism <NUM> provides a fulcrum or single point of contact that can be used to align or re-align a released utensil on the ramp <NUM>. The positioning mechanism <NUM> can provide a point of contact to stabilize or re-direct a utensil as it lands on the gravity ramp <NUM>. The positioning mechanism <NUM> can help a utensil land in a desired orientation after being released from the stack, e.g. lay flat opposed to lay on its side.

To further help a released utensil lay flat on the ramp <NUM>, the inner wall <NUM> of the chassis housing <NUM> above the ramp <NUM> can be vertically sloped or canted. Still referring to <FIG>, one or both sides of the housing inner walls <NUM> above the ramp <NUM> can be sloped. For example, the canted portion <NUM> can angle anywhere from <NUM> to <NUM> degrees from vertical. For example, the canted portion <NUM> can slope upward from the ramp <NUM> at an angle from a low of about <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM> degrees to a high of about <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM> degrees. This sloped surface <NUM> helps prevent the released utensil from standing on its side by adding a moment to encourage the utensil to rotate and lay flat.

Once primed, each dispense chassis <NUM> is ready for dispensing. <FIG> provide time elapsed depictions of the dispensing process. <FIG> depicts an enlarged cut away side view of the lower portion of the dispense chassis as the released utensil <NUM> begins to be dispensed via the access port <NUM>. <FIG> is another view of <FIG> but with the utensils removed to better illustrate the moving parts of the dispense chassis <NUM>.

<FIG> depicts another enlarged cut away side view of the lower portion of the dispense chassis as the dispensing utensil <NUM> drives the actuator <NUM> toward its dispense position, according to one or more embodiments. <FIG> is another view of <FIG> but with the utensils removed to better illustrate the moving parts of the dispense chassis. As depicted, movement of the actuator <NUM> causes movement of the drive mechanism <NUM>, which causes the moveable member <NUM> to retract, allowing the engaging portion <NUM> of the extension <NUM> to move under or about the contoured projections <NUM> of the then next utensil <NUM>.

<FIG> depicts an enlarged cut away side view of the lower portion of the chassis housing <NUM> as the dispensing utensil <NUM> exits the dispense chassis, triggering the release of the then next utensil <NUM> (i.e. lowermost utensil) from the stack, according to one or more embodiments. <FIG> is another view of <FIG> but with the utensils removed to better illustrate the moving parts of the dispense chassis. In this depiction, the utensil <NUM> is about freed from the dispense chassis <NUM>, and the engaging portion <NUM> of the extension <NUM> of the moveable member <NUM> is clearing the front pedestal <NUM>, triggering the release of the then next utensil <NUM> (i.e. lowermost utensil) from the stack.

<FIG> depicts an enlarged cut away side view of the lower portion of the dispense chassis as the then next utensil <NUM> releases from the stack. At this point of the cycle, the next utensil lands on the gravity ramp <NUM> and becomes the released utensil <NUM> lying on the ramp <NUM>. <FIG> is another view of <FIG> but with the utensils removed to better illustrate the moving parts of the dispense chassis. The released utensil <NUM> can then move down the ramp <NUM> until caught in the opening <NUM> of the actuator <NUM>. At this point, the handle end <NUM> of the released utensil <NUM> will extend through the access port <NUM> and be available for a next user to take, and a new next utensil <NUM> resides as the lowermost utensil in the stack. The process can then start over until all the utensils have been removed from the chamber <NUM> or interrupted to refill the dispense chassis <NUM>.

Referring again to <FIG>, the actuator <NUM> can include one or more arms or extensions <NUM> facing the access port <NUM>. The arms or extensions <NUM> can be located proximate the opening <NUM> and extend from the actuator body toward the access port <NUM>. The arms <NUM> are sized and shaped to exert a force on the one or more wings or detents <NUM> of the utensil passing through the opening <NUM>. The arms or extensions <NUM> define a height or clearance zone between the upper surface of the ramp <NUM> and a lowest point on the actuator <NUM>. This clearance zone is greatest when the actuator <NUM> moves toward the access port <NUM> toward its open or dispense position and is least when the actuator <NUM> moves away from the access port <NUM> toward its closed or resting position. As the actuator <NUM> moves toward its resting position, the arms <NUM> can exert a downward force on the detents <NUM> to pinch or otherwise trap the utensil against the ramp <NUM> within the clearance zone, preventing the utensil from moving back into the dispense chassis <NUM>. Once the detents <NUM> on the utensil passes through the actuator <NUM> and clears the arms <NUM>, the utensil is freed from the dispense chassis <NUM> and can be removed. In certain embodiments, the actuator <NUM> can include two arms <NUM> that are generally parallel to one another. By "generally parallel" it is meant that the arms <NUM> are mostly parallel to one another, accounting for any insignificant differences off of true parallel.

Each dispense chassis <NUM> can be configured with a gauging device to help approximate the number of utensils within the dispense chassis <NUM>. <FIG> provide illustrative cut away views of a dispense chassis <NUM> configured with a gauging assembly <NUM>, according to one or more embodiments. The gauging assembly <NUM> can include a first gauge arm <NUM> pivotally connected to the chassis housing <NUM> at pivot <NUM>, and a second gauge arm <NUM> pivotally connected to the chassis housing <NUM> at pivot <NUM>. The second gauge arm <NUM> can include an indicator <NUM> at an external end thereof that can be seen through the apertures or windows <NUM> on the dispense chassis <NUM> and the apertures or windows <NUM> of the access door <NUM>. The indicator <NUM> provides a visual indication of the approximate number of utensils in the stack <NUM>.

Movement of the first gauge arm <NUM> about its pivot connection <NUM> can be translated to movement of the second gauge arm <NUM> about its pivot connection <NUM> to move the indicator <NUM> relative to the gauge window <NUM>. In an alternative embodiment that is not shown, the first gauge arm <NUM> and the second gauge arm <NUM> can be fixed together and can pivot such that movement of the first gauge arm <NUM> about the pivot <NUM> can be translated into movement of the second gauge arm <NUM> to move the indicator <NUM> relative to the gauge window <NUM>.

The indicator <NUM> can display different quantities of utensils within the stack <NUM>, the quantities being visible through the gauge window <NUM>. The indicator <NUM> can have different quantities printed on different parts of the indicator <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 <NUM> could have "Full" and/or a green color printed on the indicator <NUM> that is visible through the gauge window <NUM> when the dispense chassis <NUM> has more than a certain amount of utensils 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 <NUM> that is visible through the gauge window <NUM> when the dispense chassis <NUM> has less than a certain amount of utensils, such as less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, less than <NUM>, or none in the 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 utensil refills can vary) can be added to the dispense chassis <NUM>. For example, where a full stack of utensil refills is thirty, green may indicate that less than one full stack of utensil refills will fit within the dispense chassis <NUM>. Yellow can indicate that more than one full stack of utensil refills can be added to the dispense chassis <NUM>, and red can indicate that two full stacks of utensil refills can be added to the dispense chassis <NUM>.

The first gauge arm <NUM> can include any number of extensions or prongs <NUM> that are configured to contact a side of the stack <NUM>. For example, the first gauge arm <NUM> can include <NUM> prong, <NUM> prongs, <NUM> prongs, <NUM> prongs, or <NUM> prongs disposed along its length. In one particular embodiment, the first gauge arm <NUM> has two prongs as shown in <FIG>. The prongs <NUM> can be disposed on any suitable position along the length of the first gauge arm <NUM>. If more than two prongs <NUM> are used, the spacing between prongs <NUM> can be the same or can vary. Although not shown, each prong <NUM> can be moveably attached to the first gauge arm <NUM> using a clamp or pinch like fastener, so that a prong <NUM> can be moved or adjusted along the length of the first gauge arm <NUM> based on patterns of use.

The chassis housing <NUM> can include a gauge aperture or opening <NUM> formed through an internal wall 310A through which the prong(s) <NUM> can extend and contact a side of the stack <NUM>. The gauge aperture or opening <NUM> can be a recessed section or cut away formed in the internal wall 310A, allowing an adjacent prong <NUM> to pass through. Referring to the embodiment shown in <FIG>, when the height of the utensil stack <NUM> is at or above the first or upper gauge opening <NUM>, the first or upper prong <NUM> moves through the opening <NUM> until it contacts the side of the stack <NUM>. This contact sets the first gauge arm <NUM> at a first angle about its pivot <NUM>, which positions the second gauge arm <NUM> at a first angle about its pivot <NUM>, which positions the indicator <NUM> that is visible through the gauge window <NUM>. The position of the indicator <NUM> corresponds to a quantity of utensils in the stack <NUM> (i.e. the height of the stack <NUM>) within the chassis housing <NUM>.

<FIG> depicts the dispense chassis <NUM> having a stack <NUM> half-full and empty of utensils. In this embodiment, the utensil stack <NUM> is lower than the first, upper gauge opening <NUM> and higher than the second, lower gauge opening <NUM>. The first, upper prong <NUM> extends through its adjacent opening <NUM> and the second, lower prong <NUM> is blocked from extending through its adjacent opening <NUM> by the stack <NUM>. Such positioning sets the first gauge arm <NUM> at a second angle that is rotated relatively counterclockwise (as shown in <FIG>) in comparison to the angle of the first gauge arm <NUM> in <FIG>. In this position, the second gauge arm <NUM> is rotated about its pivot <NUM>, moving the indicator <NUM> to show "Half-Full" or less than half-full through the gauge window <NUM>.

<FIG> depicts the stack <NUM> in the dispense chassis <NUM> almost empty. The utensil stack <NUM> is lower than the lower, second gauge opening <NUM> so that the upper and lower prongs <NUM> can both extend through their respective openings <NUM> in the inner wall 310A surrounding the stack <NUM>. This positions the first gauge arm <NUM> at an angle more counterclockwise (as shown in <FIG>) in comparison to the positions of the first gauge arm <NUM> in <FIG>. This in turn, positions the second gauge arm <NUM> at a different angle which positions the indicator <NUM> to display "Empty" through the gauge window <NUM>.

The gauge window <NUM> can have any suitable height, such as about <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> or more, and can display colors, numbers, percentages, or any other indicator to indicate the number of utensils or stack height within the dispense chassis <NUM>. The first gauge arm <NUM> can swing with gravity and 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 <NUM> can be adjusted to provide more precise level indicators. Additionally, in an embodiment not shown, the first gauge arm <NUM> can be located inside the housing wall 310A such that any one or more of the prongs <NUM> can directly contact the utensil stack <NUM> without passing through an opening <NUM>.

<FIG> depicts a perspective view of the illustrative utensil dispenser <NUM> showing a first dispense chassis 150A in a loading position, and a second and third dispense chassis 150B, 150C in a dispensing position, according to one or more embodiments. When the dispense chassis 150A is in the loading position, utensils can be loaded into the first dispense chassis 150A through the loading opening <NUM>. The same is true for the other dispense chassis 150B, 150C when time comes to re-load with utensils. Utensils in any dispense chassis that is in the dispensing position <NUM> can be dispensed while any one of the other dispense chassis is in a loading position. And as explained in more detail below, any dispense chassis <NUM> can be moved between a dispensing position and a loading position while remaining connected to the dispenser housing <NUM>. Also as explained below in more detail, the dispenser housing <NUM> can include a mechanism to prevent the dispenser from toppling over while loading and re-loading the individual dispense chassis <NUM>.

<FIG> depicts an illustrative cut away side views of the lower portion of the illustrative dispense chassis <NUM> to better illustrate the dispense chassis in a dispensing position <NUM>, and <FIG> depicts an illustrative cut away side views of the lower portion of the illustrative dispense chassis <NUM> to better illustrate the dispense chassis in a loading position <NUM>. Referring to <FIG>, the utensil dispenser <NUM> can include a dispense chassis support or glide mechanism <NUM> which can be connected to the base <NUM> of the dispenser housing <NUM> for supporting at least one utensil dispense chassis <NUM>.

The glide mechanism <NUM> can include one or more slots or channels (two are shown <NUM>, <NUM>) for guiding each dispense chassis <NUM>. Each slot <NUM>, <NUM> can resemble a guide rail or opening and can be configured to retain a prong or pin appended to a lower portion of each dispense chassis <NUM>. Each slot <NUM>, <NUM> can be curvilinear to allow a dispense chassis to pivot or tilt outward, away from the back of the dispenser housing <NUM>. The slope and degree of curvature can be determined based on the size and weight of the dispense chassis <NUM>. Likewise, the spacing between the slots <NUM>, <NUM> can be determined based on the height of the dispense chassis <NUM> and the needed clearance from the dispenser housing <NUM>. The glide mechanism <NUM> can support the dispense chassis <NUM> in a dispensing position <NUM> (<FIG>) and in the loading position <NUM> (<FIG>) without having to remove the dispense chassis <NUM> being loaded from the dispenser. The glide mechanism <NUM> also provides support and guidance to more easily move a dispense chassis <NUM> between its dispensing position <NUM> and its loading position <NUM>. The glide mechanism <NUM> serves as a controlled pivot point for each chassis <NUM>.

To utilize the glide mechanism <NUM>, each dispense chassis <NUM> can include a first pin <NUM> and a second pin <NUM> that are connected to or integral a lower portion <NUM> of the dispense chassis <NUM>. The first pin <NUM> and/or second pin <NUM> are configured to fit and move within the first and second slots <NUM> and <NUM> of the glide mechanism <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 fixed or stationary. The first pin <NUM> and/or second pin <NUM> can also be rollers that can roll within their respective slots <NUM>, <NUM>.

In a particular configuration, 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 second slot <NUM> can also have an arcuate shape and can guide the second pin <NUM> in an arcuate and forward motion. Each slot <NUM>, <NUM> can include one or more sidewalls <NUM>, <NUM> to provide a rail like containment (<FIG>). Each slot <NUM>, <NUM> can also include a covering or upper wall <NUM>, <NUM> to further contain the pins <NUM>, <NUM> of the dispense chassis <NUM>. Each slot <NUM>, <NUM> can further include an upper opening to allow the dispense chassis <NUM> to be removed from the dispenser housing <NUM>. For example, 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>. Likewise, 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>, <NUM> can be spaced such that only one of the pins <NUM> and <NUM> can be removed through its respective slot openings <NUM>, <NUM> at a time. The pins <NUM> and <NUM> and/or the slots openings <NUM>, <NUM> can also be spaced such that the second slot opening <NUM> can be positioned such that the second pin <NUM> cannot be removed from the second slot <NUM> unless the first pin <NUM> is first removed from its slot <NUM>. Either or both of these configurations help prevent the dispense chassis <NUM> from inadvertently falling out of the dispenser housing <NUM> when moving between the dispensing position <NUM> and the loading position <NUM>.

The first slot <NUM> can include a first end and a second end and a crown <NUM> therebetween which is relatively higher than the ends. The first pin <NUM> can be located at the first end 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 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 or the second end depending on which side of the crown <NUM> the first pin <NUM> is located.

The second slot <NUM> also includes a first end and a second end with a crown <NUM> therebetween. The second pin <NUM> of the dispense chassis <NUM> can be located at the first end of the second slot <NUM> when the dispense chassis <NUM> is in the dispensing position <NUM> (Figure <NUM>) and can be located at the second end 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 of the slot <NUM> when the second pin <NUM> is on a first side of the crown <NUM> and can bias the second pin <NUM> toward the second end of the slot <NUM> when the second pin <NUM> is on a second side of the crown <NUM>. The ends of each slot <NUM>, <NUM> provide a stop for the dispense chassis <NUM> and prevent further movement from the dispensing position <NUM> and the loading position <NUM>.

Still referring to <FIG>, the utensil dispenser <NUM> can further include a chassis interlock assembly <NUM> to help prevent the utensil dispenser <NUM> from tipping forward due to having too much weight in front of the base <NUM>. Each glide mechanism <NUM> can be configured with the chassis interlock assembly <NUM>. The chassis interlock <NUM> can include at least one body or arm <NUM> having a contoured lower surface that is configured to rock on top of the base <NUM>. The chassis interlock <NUM> can also be mechanically joined to one or more of the glide mechanisms <NUM> to rock together as a single unit.

Each arm <NUM> is configured with an upwardly extending post or lock <NUM> that is configured to enter into the second slot <NUM> of the glide mechanism <NUM>, preventing the second pin <NUM> of every chassis <NUM> in the dispenser at the time from moving past. When one of the dispense chassis <NUM> is moved to the loading position <NUM> (<FIG>), the chassis interlock <NUM> tilts forward with the dispense chassis <NUM>, lifting the post <NUM> into the back slot <NUM>, which locks the other dispense chassis <NUM> in the dispensing position <NUM>. This is a convenience and a safety feature to keep the utensil dispenser <NUM> from tipping forward due to having too much weight in front of the base <NUM>.

When all the dispense chassis <NUM> in the dispenser housing <NUM> of the utensil dispenser <NUM> are in the dispensing position <NUM> (<FIG>), the dispense chassis interlock assembly <NUM> can be in an unlocked position (<FIG>), and any one of the dispense chassis <NUM> can be moved to the loading position <NUM> (<FIG>). In the unlocked position, a first portion of the interlock arm <NUM> can be relatively upward (left side in <FIG>) and the second portion of the interlock arm <NUM> can be relatively lower (right side of arm <NUM> in <FIG>). In the unlocked position, the interlock arm <NUM> does not interfere with the movement of any of the dispense chassis <NUM>. When one of the dispense chassis <NUM> is moved to the loading position <NUM> (<FIG>), however, the dispense chassis interlock <NUM> moves to its locked position (<FIG>) where the post <NUM> enters the back slot <NUM> and prevents the other dispense chassis <NUM> from moving forward. In the locked position, the first portion of the interlock arm <NUM> toggles downward and the second portion moves up, causing the post <NUM> to 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> returns the dispense chassis interlock <NUM> to the unlocked position (<FIG>).

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>) with at least two utensils, wherein the dispenser is configured to dispense said at least two utensils (<NUM>, 20A, 20B, 20C), comprising:
a housing (<NUM>) configured to contain a stack (<NUM>) of the utensils (<NUM>, 20A, 20B, 20C) therein, wherein the stack (<NUM>) of the utensils (<NUM>, 20A, 20B, 20C) comprises at least one utensil in addition to a next utensil and each utensil comprises at least one contoured projection (<NUM>) extending outwardly therefrom;
a front pedestal (<NUM>) disposed inside the housing (<NUM>), the front pedestal (<NUM>) configured to support at least one of the at least one contoured projections (<NUM>) extending outwardly from the next utensil (<NUM>, 20A, 20B, 20C); and
a moveable member (<NUM>) disposed within the housing (<NUM>), and moving substantially linearly within the housing, the moveable member (<NUM>) having an engaging section (<NUM>) capable of engaging the contoured projection (<NUM>) extending outwardly from the next utensil, the moveable member (<NUM>) configured to move from a ready position to a dispense position;
wherein the moveable member is configured to move about the contoured projection, allowing the contoured projection of the next utensil to at least partially reside within the engaging section of the moveable member, wherein the moveable member further comprises at least one extension arm and the engaging section of the moveable member is disposed on at least one of the at least one extension arms, the at least one extension arm configured to flex outwardly when sliding about the contoured projection.