Inserts for use with web dispensing means

Abstract

Hat-like inserts for use with supply rolls comprised of a hollow cylindrical core having an elongated web of indeterminate length wrapped about said core. The hat-like inserts have a slightly tapered, generally cylindrical shaped side wall terminating at the narrow diameter end in an integral closed end surface and being opened at the wider diameter end thereof and having an integral continuous flange encircling said open end and extending radially outward therefrom. The inserts are pressed into opposing ends of the hollow core with said flanges overlying at least the adjacent end of said core and preferably a portion of the end of the rolled up web. A curvature provided in the region where the open end of said cylindrical side wall joins said flange maintains the flange a spaced distance from at least the adjacent core to prevent surface contact therebetween and thereby reduce frictional drag. Outwardly projecting ribs are provided about said cylindrical side wall to minimize surface contact between the insert and the interior periphery of said core. Inwardly directed ribs are provided along the side wall of said insert which, together with the outwardly projecting ribs, facilitate gripping of the insert by the fingers of an operator. The insert is preferably made of a suitable plastic material having a low coefficient of sliding friction to permit the core to rotate relative to the hand held inserts facilitating the feeding and dispensing of the web of wrapping material. The supply roll of wrapping material may be stably stood on either one of its ends without removing the inserts, said flanges preventing the edge of the web from being damaged.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.