Paper Roll Stabilizing Holder

The present application claims priority to, and the benefit of, U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/647,340 which was filed on May 14, 2024 and is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

The present invention generally relates to toilet paper adapter devices. More specifically, the invention relates to an adapter designed to stabilize toilet paper and paper towel rolls on non-spring-loaded holders, particularly free-standing holders. The adapter comprises a pair of arcuate members forming symmetrical halves, each equipped with restrictors connected to torsional springs to prevent excessive unrolling and stabilize the roll during use. Adjustable screws enable customization of the spacing between the halves, accommodating rolls of varying widths. The device can be applied to an existing paper towel roll or toilet paper roll, wherein the device stabilizes the roll. Accordingly, the present disclosure makes specific reference thereto. Nonetheless, it is to be appreciated that aspects of the present invention are also equally applicable to other like applications, devices, and methods of manufacture.

By way of background, toilet paper rolls are commonly used for personal hygiene, and commonly consists of perforated paper wound around a cylindrical core. The core is stored on spindles or holders near a toilet. Conventional holders are designed to dispense paper as users pull on the free end. While functional, conventional spindles and holders often fail to restrict excessive unrolling of the paper, particularly in free-standing toilet paper holders. Paper automatically unrolls as well in free-standing holders due to gravity. The lack of control can lead to users unknowingly pulling more paper than necessary, contributing to inefficiency and inconvenience during use.

Additionally, the free movement of the roll can result in it falling off the holder during dispensing, further compounding the problem. Excessive unrolling or rolling of paper can also cause tilting and tipping over of the free-standing toilet paper holder. The unintentional overuse of toilet paper is not only costly to consumers but also environmentally detrimental, as toilet paper production contributes to deforestation and resource depletion.

Therefore, there exists a long-felt need in the art for an adapter device that addresses the challenges of stabilizing toilet paper and paper towel rolls on non-spring-loaded holders. There is a long-felt need for a solution that prevents excessive movement or unintentional unrolling of the paper. Additionally, there is a long-felt need for a device that can restrict the overuse of toilet paper, reducing waste and promoting environmental sustainability. Further, there is a long-felt need for a device that is versatile, compatible with existing holders, and adjustable to accommodate rolls of different sizes. Furthermore, there is a long-felt need for an adapter that is durable, cost-effective, and easy to install, ensuring a practical solution for both household and commercial users. Finally, there is a long-felt need for an adapter device that minimizes toilet paper wastage while enhancing convenience and functionality for the user.

The subject matter disclosed and claimed herein, in one embodiment, comprises a toilet paper adapter device designed to stabilize toilet paper and paper towel rolls on non-spring-loaded holders. The device includes a pair of arcuate members forming symmetrical halves, each equipped with a pair of restrictors that provide frictional resistance against the interior core of a paper roll. These restrictors are operatively connected to torsional springs, enabling the device to flexibly accommodate rolls of varying diameters. Adjustable screws are provided to modify the spacing between the arcuate members, enabling the device to fit rolls of different widths. The device is constructed from durable materials such as ABS plastic or stainless steel and may include coatings for enhanced hygiene and durability.

In this manner, the toilet paper adapter device of the present invention accomplishes all of the foregoing objectives and provides a practical, eco-friendly solution to reduce paper wastage and stabilize rolls during use. The restrictors and springs work together to prevent excessive unrolling, ensuring controlled dispensing while minimizing the risk of accidental roll movement or displacement. The device can be applied to an existing paper towel roll or toilet paper roll, wherein the device stabilizes the roll. The durable, lightweight materials and optional antimicrobial coatings enhance longevity and hygiene of the device.

The following presents a simplified summary in order to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the disclosed innovation. This summary is not an extensive overview, and it is not intended to identify key/critical elements or to delineate the scope thereof. Its sole purpose is to present some general concepts in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

The subject matter disclosed and claimed herein, in one embodiment thereof, comprises a toilet paper adapter device for stabilizing a roll of toilet paper or paper towel on a non-spring-loaded holder. The adapter device comprises a pair of arcuate members, the arcuate members form two symmetrical halves of the adapter device. At least a pair of restrictors are disposed on each arcuate member, wherein the restrictors are aligned coaxially between the two arcuate members. A spring is operatively connected to each restrictor, wherein the spring is adapted to compress and expanded to accommodate paper rolls of varying diameters. An adjustable screw is disposed on each arcuate member, wherein the adjustable screw is configured to adjust the spacing between the arcuate members to accommodate paper rolls of different widths.

In another aspect, a toilet paper adapter device for use with a free-standing toilet paper holder is disclosed. The toilet paper adapter device includes a pair of arcuate members forming a unitary structure that encloses a central holder arm of the toilet paper holder, a plurality of restrictors are disposed near the ends of the arcuate members, the restrictors are configured to provide frictional resistance to the interior surface of a paper roll core, a tubular connecting structure links the arcuate members, and a plurality of torsional springs are operatively connected to the restrictors, wherein the springs facilitate the flexibility of the restrictors to adapt to paper roll dimensions.

In another embodiment, the arcuate members and restrictors formed of durable and lightweight material selected from ABS plastic, aluminum alloy, or stainless steel.

In one embodiment, an anti-microbial coating is disposed on the discs to enhance hygiene and durability.

In yet another aspect, a toilet paper adapter device is disclosed. The toilet paper adapter device includes a pair of arcuate members forming two symmetrical halves of the adapter device, a plurality of restrictors are disposed along the length of the arcuate members, the restrictors are configured to engage the interior surface of a paper roll core to provide frictional resistance, torsional springs are operatively connected to the restrictors, wherein the springs enable the adapter to adapt to different paper roll diameters while maintaining stabilization, the adapter device is configured to be mounted on a free-standing holder with a central arm, wherein the arcuate members secure the roll and prevent excessive unrolling due to accidental tugging or gravity.

Numerous benefits and advantages of this invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art to which it pertains upon reading and understanding of the following detailed specification.

To the accomplishment of the foregoing and related ends, certain illustrative aspects of the disclosed innovation are described herein in connection with the following description and the annexed drawings. These aspects are indicative, however, of but a few of the various ways in which the principles disclosed herein can be employed and are intended to include all such aspects and their equivalents. Other advantages and novel features will become apparent from the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the drawings.

The innovation is now described with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals are used to refer to like elements throughout. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding thereof. It may be evident, however, that the innovation can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form in order to facilitate a description thereof. Various embodiments are discussed hereinafter. It should be noted that the figures are described only to facilitate the description of the embodiments. They are not intended as an exhaustive description of the invention and do not limit the scope of the invention. Additionally, an illustrated embodiment need not have all the aspects or advantages shown. Thus, in other embodiments, any of the features described herein from different embodiments may be combined.

As noted above, there exists a long-felt need in the art for an adapter device that addresses the challenges of stabilizing toilet paper and paper towel rolls on non-spring-loaded holders. There is a long-felt need for a solution that prevents excessive movement or unintentional unrolling of the paper. Additionally, there is a long-felt need for a device that can restrict the overuse of toilet paper, reducing waste and promoting environmental sustainability. Further, there is a long-felt need for a device that is versatile, compatible with existing holders, and adjustable to accommodate rolls of different sizes. Furthermore, there is a long-felt need for an adapter that is durable, cost-effective, and easy to install, ensuring a practical solution for both household and commercial users. Finally, there is a long-felt need for an adapter device that minimizes toilet paper wastage while enhancing convenience and functionality for the user.

The present invention, in one exemplary embodiment, is a toilet paper adapter device for use with a free-standing toilet paper holder. The toilet paper adapter device includes a pair of arcuate members forming a unitary structure that encloses a central holder arm of the toilet paper holder, a plurality of restrictors are disposed near the ends of the arcuate members, the restrictors are configured to provide frictional resistance to the interior surface of a paper roll core, a tubular connecting structure links the arcuate members, and a plurality of torsional springs are operatively connected to the restrictors, wherein the springs facilitate the flexibility of the restrictors to adapt to paper roll dimensions.

Reference will now be made in detail to the present preferred embodiments of the invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same reference numerals are used in the drawings and the description to refer to the same or like parts.

Referring initially to the drawings,illustrates a perspective view of one potential embodiment of toilet paper device adapter of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture. The toilet paper device adapterof the present invention is designed to stabilize toilet paper and paper towel rolls on a non-spring-loaded holder. More specifically, the adapter deviceprevents excessive movement or unrolling of the paper from a toilet paper roll. The deviceincludes a pair of symmetrical and identical arcuate members or discs,. The first arcuate member or disc or arcuate memberand the second arcuate member/disc or arcuate membercan be integrated along the length thereof or can be joined at one or more common points for providing a unitary, single piece structure to the adapter device. The arcuate members,form the two longitudinal and equal halves of the adapter device.

The first arcuate memberhas at least a pair of restrictors,disposed thereon. The first restrictoris disposed near the first endof the first arcuate memberand the second restrictoris disposed near the opposite second endof the first arcuate member. Similarly, the second arcuate memberhas at least a pair of restrictors,disposed thereon. The first restrictorof the second arcuate memberis in coaxial alignment with the first restrictorof the first arcuate memberand is near the first endof the second arcuate member. Similarly, the second restrictorof the second arcuate memberis in coaxial alignment with the second restrictorof the first arcuate member. The pair of restrictors,and,are configured to limit the side-to-side or rotational movement of a toilet paper roll.

Each restrictor included in the deviceis attached to the corresponding arcuate member using a spring. As illustrated, the restrictors,,,have corresponding springs,,,respectively, wherein each spring is adapted to be compressed and expanded, thereby enabling the adapter deviceto fit to paper roll cores of different diameters. All the springs are identical and torsional and preferably, can be replaced with a new spring to enhance lifespan and utility of the adapter device. The restrictors,can be pushed, compressed, and/or rotated along the axis A to operate the corresponding springs. The restrictors,can be pushed, compressed, and/or rotated along the axis B to operate the corresponding springs.

A pair of adjustable screws,are disposed in the adapter devicewherein a first adjustable screwis disposed on the first disc or arcuate memberand a second adjustable screwis disposed on the second disc or arcuate member. The adjustable screws,are used for adjusting the spacing between the arcuate members,and thereby adjusting the overall diameter of the combined or integrated arcuate members,to fit different sizes/diameters of the toilet paper rolls. It should be noted that the arcuate halves/discs,can clamp around a free-standing toilet paper holder arm and help to secure a toilet paper roll for preventing unrolling due to accidental tugging or gravity.

The half or arcuate members,can be made of durable, lightweight, and cost-effective material such as ABS plastic, Aluminum alloy, and Stainless Steel. The springs used in the adapter deviceare preferably made of Stainless Steel or High-Carbon Steel. The restrictors are non-slip, soft, and prevents damage to a toilet paper roll. The length of the deviceextending between the opposite ends thereof can range from 100 mm to 150 mm to fit different roll widths. The adapter devicecan come in different colors and designs and may include an anti-microbial or non-stick coating for enhanced hygiene and durability of the toilet paper rolls.

illustrates a perspective view showing the toilet paper adapter device of the present invention mounted on a free-standing toilet paper device in accordance with the disclosed structure. The adapter devicecan be mounted to any conventional free-standing toilet paper devicewherein the discs,are positioned around the toilet paper holder armand the armis accommodated between the discs,. When the adapter deviceis in the mounted state, the restrictors,,,are easily accessible to a user and a toilet paper roll is placed on the devicesuch that paper roll coreencloses or surrounds the adapter device.

illustrates a perspective view showing a toilet paper roll being supported on the adapter device of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed structure. The adapter devicecan be used with any free-standing holder enabling users to use the adapter devicewith any existing paper holder system. As illustrated as an example, the restrictors,and,abut against the interior surfaceof the coreof the rollsuch that the restrictors,,,provide restriction and friction to free flowing and loose movement of the paper rollas performed by conventional spindle and paper holders. When the rollis to be replaced, the rollcan be removed from the adapter deviceand a new roll can be mounted to the adapter device.

illustrates a flow chart depicting a process of using the toilet paper roll adapter device of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed structure. For using the adapter device, initially, the adapter deviceis mounted to a freestanding paper holder with the holder arm accommodated between the discs,(Step). Then, the rollis positioned on the devicesuch that the adapter deviceis enclosed by the roll(Step). Thereafter, the restrictors,,,provide restriction and friction to movement of the rolland enables a user to easily pull the paper from the roll without unintentional unrolling of the paper off of the roll(Step). It should be noted that the discs or arcuate members,can be adjusted to adjust the size therebetween for accommodating paper roll holder armsof different sizes (i.e., diameters).

In one embodiment as illustrated in, a central connecting tubelinks the two halves,, providing alignment and stability. The tubealso acts as a spacer between the two halves and is hollow. The tubecan be used for mounting the deviceto any paper roll holder with the tubeaccommodating the paper holder arm.

Certain terms are used throughout the following description and claims to refer to particular features or components. As one skilled in the art will appreciate, different persons may refer to the same feature or component by different names. This document does not intend to distinguish between components or features that differ in name but not structure or function. As used herein “adapter device for stabilizing toilet paper”, “toilet paper roll stabilizing adapter”, “toilet paper roll adapter device”, “adapter device”, and “device” are interchangeable and refer to the toilet paper roll stabilizing adapter deviceof the present invention.

Notwithstanding the forgoing, the toilet paper roll stabilizing adapter deviceof the present invention can be of any suitable size and configuration as is known in the art without affecting the overall concept of the invention, provided that it accomplishes the above stated objectives. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the toilet paper roll stabilizing adapter deviceas shown in the FIGS. are for illustrative purposes only, and that many other sizes and shapes of the toilet paper roll stabilizing adapter deviceare well within the scope of the present disclosure. Although the dimensions of the toilet paper roll stabilizing adapter deviceare important design parameters for user convenience, the toilet paper roll stabilizing adapter devicemay be of any size that ensures optimal performance during use and/or that suits the user's needs and/or preferences.

Various modifications and additions can be made to the exemplary embodiments discussed without departing from the scope of the present invention. While the embodiments described above refer to particular features, the scope of this invention also includes embodiments having different combinations of features and embodiments that do not include all of the described features. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications, and variations as fall within the scope of the claims, together with all equivalents thereof.

What has been described above includes examples of the claimed subject matter. It is, of course, not possible to describe every conceivable combination of components or methodologies for purposes of describing the claimed subject matter, but one of ordinary skill in the art may recognize that many further combinations and permutations of the claimed subject matter are possible. Accordingly, the claimed subject matter is intended to embrace all such alterations, modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. Furthermore, to the extent that the term “includes” is used in either the detailed description or the claims, such term is intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising” as “comprising” is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in a claim.