Tape Dispensing Device

Abstract

A tape dispensing device is provided. The device is designed for efficient deployment of reusable caution tape, crime scene tape, event tape, or other marking or barrier tape in fields such as construction, law enforcement, and event management. The device comprises a housing that encloses at least one tape roll, accessible via a hinged and lockable lid, and that incorporates openings for tape exit in one or more directions. The reusable tape is comprised of waterproof material, customizable in width and length, and may include reflective coatings or indicia for enhanced visibility and adaptability. Tape deployment is facilitated by an actuation mechanism, such as a hand crank and axle, while a return spring enables controlled retraction. The tape end is further equipped with an attachment point for securing to objects via a carabiner.

Claims

1. A tape dispensing device comprising: a housing; a handle attached to the housing; a tape roll disposed within the housing, the tape roll having a reusable tape wound thereon; a lid attached to the housing by a hinge, the lid being secured to the housing by a locking mechanism; an opening in the housing through which the reusable tape is dispensed; and an actuation mechanism configured to dispense the reusable tape from the tape roll through the opening.

2. The tape dispensing device of claim 1, wherein the handle is a fixed handle, a foldable handle, or a telescoping handle.

3. The tape dispensing device of claim 1, wherein the reusable tape is comprised of a waterproof material.

4. The tape dispensing device of claim 1, wherein the reusable tape is comprised of a reflective coating.

5. The tape dispensing device of claim 1 further comprised of an internal member configured to guide the removable tape as it is dispensed.

6. The tape dispensing device of claim 1 further comprised of a return spring.

7. A tape dispensing device comprising: a housing comprised of a first attachment point; a handle attached to the housing; a tape roll disposed within the housing, the tape roll having a reusable tape wound thereon; a carabiner attached to the reusable tape; a lid attached to the housing by a hinge, the lid being secured to the housing by a locking mechanism; a first opening in the housing through which the reusable tape is dispensed; and an actuation mechanism configured to dispense the reusable tape from the tape roll through the opening.

8. The tape dispensing device of claim 7, wherein the reusable tape is comprised of a reflective element.

9. The tape dispensing device of claim 7, wherein the reusable tape is comprised of a canvas, a nylon, a polyester fabric, or a plastic.

10. The tape dispensing device of claim 7 further comprised of a second opening in the housing through which the reusable tape is dispensed.

11. The tape dispensing device of claim 7 further comprised of a return spring.

12. The tape dispensing device of claim 7 further comprised of a mounting structure.

13. The tape dispensing device of claim 7, wherein the reusable tape is comprised of a second attachment point.

14. The tape dispensing device of claim 7, wherein the second attachment point is comprised of a loop.

15. The tape dispensing device of claim 7, wherein the second attachment point is comprised of a clip.

16. The tape dispensing device of claim 7, wherein the locking mechanism is comprised of a snap-lock, a cam lock, a latch, or a magnetic closure.

17. The tape dispensing device of claim 7, wherein the handle is comprised of a grip area.

18. The tape dispensing device of claim 17, wherein the handle is comprised of a non-slip material.

19. The tape dispensing device of claim 18, wherein the grip area is comprised of a texture to improve grip.

20. A method of using a tape dispensing device, the method comprising the following steps: providing a tape dispensing device comprised of a housing, a handle attached to the housing, a tape roll disposed within the housing, a lid secured to the housing, an opening in the housing, and an actuation mechanism; opening the lid and loading the tape roll into the housing while aligning a tape wound on the tape roll to pass through the opening; closing the lid and securing the lid to the housing; operating the actuation mechanism to dispense the tape through the opening; and retrieving the tape using a return spring configured to retract the tape into the housing.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] The description refers to provided drawings in which similar reference characters refer to similar parts throughout the different views, and in which:

[0015] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of one potential embodiment of a tape dispensing device of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture;

[0016] FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of one potential embodiment of a tape dispensing device of the present invention with the tape attached to the housing via a carabiner in accordance with the disclosed architecture; and

[0017] FIG. 3 illustrates a flowchart of a method of using one potential embodiment of a tape dispensing device of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] 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 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 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.

[0019] As noted above, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a tape dispensing device that allows for the efficient deployment of reusable caution tape. There also exists a long-felt need in the art for a tape dispensing device that reduces environmental waste by eliminating single-use tape. Moreover, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a tape dispensing device that provides flexibility, durability, and enhanced functionality to adapt to various applications and working environments.

[0020] The present invention, in one exemplary embodiment, is comprised of a tape dispensing device that facilitates the efficient deployment of reusable marking or barrier tape for use in construction, law enforcement, and event management. The device comprises a housing with at least one handle incorporating a non-slip grip for ease of carrying. The housing includes a hinged lid secured by a locking mechanism, providing convenient access to a tape roll stored within.

[0021] The tape roll contains reusable, waterproof tape that may feature reflective coatings or printed elements to enhance visibility and allow customization. The housing includes at least one opening for dispensing tape, with internal guiding components to ensure smooth operation. Tape deployment is achieved through an actuation mechanism, such as a hand crank rotating an axle, with an optional adjustable return spring for controlled retraction.

[0022] The tape is fixedly attached to the roll, with an attachment point at the opposite end for securing to objects using a carabiner. The housing may also include a mounting structure for attachment to belts or other supports, enabling hands-free operation.

[0023] The method of use involves loading the tape roll, securing the lid, attaching the tape to an anchor point, dispensing the tape using the actuation mechanism, and retracting it when necessary. The tape and carabiner can be stored within the housing after use for future application.

[0024] The device offers significant advantages by enabling efficient tape deployment and retraction. Its durable housing stores the tape roll, and the actuation mechanism ensures smooth operation. The reusable tape, made from waterproof materials, may be enhanced with reflective or customized markings for specific applications. With flexible attachment points and mounting structures for secure placement, the device frees the user's hands for other tasks. By promoting reusable caution tape, the device reduces waste and offers a sustainable solution for use in construction, law enforcement, and event management, addressing the limitations of existing tape dispensing methods.

[0025] Referring initially to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of one potential embodiment of a tape dispensing device 100 of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture. The tape dispensing device 100 is designed to efficiently dispense reusable caution tape, crime scene tape, event tape, and other types of marking or barrier tape used in construction, law enforcement, event management, and similar fields. The device 100 enables quick and effortless deployment of tape to demarcate hazardous zones, secure investigation perimeters, or create temporary barriers for crowd control.

[0026] The device 100 is comprised of a housing 102, which serves as the primary structural component and enclosure. The housing 102 is preferably comprised of a metal or plastic material to ensure durability while remaining lightweight. The housing 102 is comprised of at least one handle 104 that allows the device 100 to be easily carried. The handle 104 may include any handle type, such as, but not limited to, a fixed handle, foldable handle, or telescoping handle. The handle 104 may also be comprised of a grip area 106, which is made from a non-slip material, such as, but not limited to, rubber, silicone, or thermoplastic elastomer (TPE). To further improve grip and user comfort, the grip area 106 may also be textured with patterns such as, but not limited to, ridges, crosshatches, or dimples, reducing the risk of slippage during handling.

[0027] At least one tape roll 108 is stored within the housing 102. To provide easy access to the tape roll 108, the housing 102 may be comprised of a lid 110 that is attached to the housing 102 via at least one hinge 112. The hinge 112 may include hinge types such as, but not limited to, a piano hinge, barrel hinge, or spring hinge, etc. The lid 110 is secured to the housing 102 by at least one locking mechanism 114, such as, but not limited to, a snap-lock, cam lock, latch, or magnetic closure, ensuring the tape roll 108 is securely enclosed while remaining easily accessible for replacement or maintenance. In one embodiment, the tape roll 108 is not removable from the housing 102 and the device 100 has no lid 110.

[0028] The tape 116 stored around the roll 108 is preferably reusable and can be comprised of a waterproof material such as, but not limited to, canvas, nylon, polyester fabric, or traditional plastic. The tape 116 is further enhanced with a reflective coating 118 and/or printed reflective elements 120 to improve visibility in low-light or nighttime environments. The tape 116 can also be customized in width and length to suit specific applications in various embodiments. In one embodiment, the reflective element 120 is comprised of indicia that allows users to adapt the tape 116 for specific purposes, wherein the indicia is comprised of symbols and/or words such as but not limited to, Caution, Police Line, or event-specific messaging. In another embodiment, the reflective element 120 is non-reflective, providing flexibility for applications where reflectivity is not required.

[0029] The housing 102 is comprised of at least one opening 122 that allows the tape 116 to exit the housing 102 in at least one direction, as seen in FIG. 1. In one embodiment, the housing 102 includes two openings 122, enabling the tape 116 to exit in at least two directions, facilitating greater flexibility in deployment and also allowing for an embodiment of the device 100 that accommodates multiple rolls 108. To aid in directing the tape 116 as it is pulled out from the housing 102, at least one internal member 124, such as a guide roller, tensioner, or spool guide, may be positioned above or below the roll 108 to ensure smooth tape 116 dispensing and prevent tangling or misalignment.

[0030] The tape 116 is dispensed from the housing 102 via an actuation mechanism 126. In one embodiment, the actuation mechanism 126 is comprised of a hand crank, which may be a geared or non-geared crank, providing manual control over tape 116 deployment. The hand crank rotates at least one axle 130, which serves as the central axis for the roll 108 to spin around. The device 100 may also include at least one return spring 132, which ensures smooth and effortless tape retraction back into the housing 102. The return spring 132 may be adjustable to control the tension, preventing rapid snapping of the tape 116 during retraction and enhancing user safety.

[0031] In one embodiment, the tape 116 is fixedly attached to the roll 108 to ensure secure operation. The opposite end 134 of the tape 116 may also include an attachment point 136, such as, but not limited to, a loop, clip, or reinforced tab. The attachment point 136 enables the connection of at least one carabiner 138, which can then secure the tape 116 to objects such as poles, barriers, or designated anchor points. The carabiner 138 may be of any style, such as, but not limited to, a standard locking carabiner, a twist-lock carabiner, or a quick-release carabiner. When not in use, the carabiner 138 can attach to an attachment point 140 on the housing 102 as seen in FIG. 2, such as but not limited to an eyelet, a loop, etc., providing a convenient storage option and reducing the risk of misplacing the carabiner 138.

[0032] To further enhance versatility, the housing 102 may be comprised of a mounting structure 142, such as, but not limited to, brackets, straps, clamps, etc., as seen in FIG. 2. allowing the tape dispensing device 100 to be securely attached to belts, backpacks, tripod stands, or other support structures. This eliminates the requirement that the device 100 be held during use, making the device 100 particularly useful in environments where users need a second hand.

[0033] The present invention is also comprised of a method of using 200 the tape dispensing device 100, as seen in FIG. 3. First, a tape dispensing device 100 is provided, the device 100 comprising a housing 102, at least one handle 104, at least one tape roll 108, at least one actuation mechanism 126, and at least one tape 116 [Step 202]. Then, the lid 110 is opened by releasing the locking mechanism 114, and the tape roll 108 is loaded into the housing 102, with the tape 116 aligned to pass through the opening 122 and any internal members 124 [Step 204]. Next, the lid 110 is closed and secured using the locking mechanism 114 [Step 206]. The tape 116 may then be attached to an anchor point using the attachment point 136 and/or the carabiner 138 [Step 208]. For example, the carabiner 138 may secure the tape 116 to poles, barriers, or other objects to establish a demarcation or barrier. To dispense the tape 116, the actuation mechanism 126 is operated [Step 210]. For example, in one embodiment, the hand crank is rotated, causing the axle 130 to spin and unwind the tape 116 from the roll 108 such that the tape 116 is pulled through the opening 122 while being guided by the internal members 124 to ensure proper alignment. If retraction of the tape 116 is desired, the return spring 132 is engaged to draw the tape 116 back into the housing 102 in a controlled manner, ensuring the tape 116 is wound back onto the roll 108 without tangling [Step 212]. After use, the tape 116 can be stored within the housing 102 by re-securing the opposite end of the tape 116 and storing the carabiner 138 on the attachment point 140, ensuring the device 100 is ready for future use [Step 214].

[0034] 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 tape dispensing device and device are interchangeable and refer to the tape dispensing device 100 of the present invention.

[0035] Notwithstanding the forgoing, the tape dispensing device 100 of the present invention and its various components can be of any suitable size and configuration as is known in the art without affecting the overall concept of the invention, provided that they accomplish the above- stated objectives. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the size, configuration, and material of the tape dispensing device 100 as shown in the FIGS. are for illustrative purposes only, and that many other sizes and shapes of the tape dispensing device 100 are well within the scope of the present disclosure. Although the dimensions of the tape dispensing device 100 are important design parameters for user convenience, the tape dispensing device 100 may be of any size, shape, and/or configuration that ensures optimal performance during use and/or that suits the user's needs and/or preferences.

[0036] 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 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.

[0037] 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.