DESC:TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present disclosure relates to the field of mechanical assemblies. In particular, the present disclosure relates to a tape dispenser assembly for dispensing tape with removal means.

BACKGROUND
[0002] Tapes are widely used for securing two substrates together. In some applications, tapes may be used for securing flaps of packaging boxes. Food packaging and delivery companies, for instance, use tapes to secure food packages and deliver it to customers, sometimes in less than 1 hour. In such scenarios, the taping and packaging are required to keep food in a packed secured form only for the duration of the delivery.
[0003] While many tape dispensing solutions focus on efficiently and conveniently dispensing tape from a roll thereof, existing solutions do not provide for dispensing tape with convenient removal means that allow users to remove the tape from the surface once its purpose is served. For instance, once a customer receives the package, it becomes very difficult and time-consuming for the receiver to unbox the package by removing the tape. In most cases, the box along with the tape is cut open by cutters or scissors, or is torn apart using hands when the cutters or scissors are not readily available.
[0004] Typical design of a tape dispenser available in the market requires the user to pull the tape from a roll. The tape roll is rotatably fixed on a plastic roller such that tape roll rotate in place when the tape is pulled therefrom towards a sharp edge of a cutter to help the user cut the tape. However, such solutions do not have mechanisms to dispense the tape with removal means that allow the user to remove tape from the packaging, thereby requiring the user to search for external tools to cut the tape off or use his hands to tear apart the tape which takes effort, time and could damage the package as well as the content of the package when done in a rush.
[0005] Some solutions in the prior art provide for electronic or automatic mechatronic tape dispensers having means to dispense tape of predetermined length, thereby not requiring any force to be applied by the user to pull and cut the tape. However, such solutions do not help users identify the end of the tape once the tape is applied to the package, require constant power supply, and are very expensive and are used by major industries only.
[0006] Additionally, some solutions in the prior art provide for tape dispensers that use a rotating mechanism to dispense strips of tapes of equal lengths with a folded edge at one end. However, the means of creating this fold is quite complicated which requires multiple gears and blades connected together. Such solutions have limited applications as tapes of a fixed length can only be dispensed, which could be an issue for some most of the applications where different packaging boxes may require different shapes and sizes of the tape to package the product safely. Such solutions have many moving parts, and hence are expensive and difficult to maintain or repair.
[0007] Furthermore, none of the solutions provide for inclusion of a convenient removal means that helps users locate the end of the tape and make it easier for them to pull the tape off from a package once.
[0008] Therefore, there is a need in the art tape dispenser assemblies that provide removal means on cutting the tape. Further, there is a need for tape dispenser assemblies that have minimal moving parts, and are inexpensive to make and maintain.

OBJECTS OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE
[0009] A general object of the present disclosure is to overcome the problems associated with existing conventional mechanical assemblies, by providing a simple, compact, efficient, and cost-effective dispensing tape with a removal means.
[0010] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a non-adhesive removal means at one end of the tape for easy removal of the tape warped around a package.
[0011] Yet another object of the present disclosure is to facilitate a user of the tape dispenser to hold the non-adhesive removal means that can be peeled off from the package to remove the tape from packaging.
[0012] Yet another object of the present disclosure is to provide a tape dispenser that works without a power supply and uses minimal mechanical parts to reduce cost.

SUMMARY
[0013] Aspects of the present disclosure pertain to the field of bolt seals. In particular, the present disclosure relates to a simple, compact, and efficient tape dispenser assembly for dispensing tape with removal means.
[0014] According to an aspect, a tape dispenser includes a housing and at least one tape roll rotatably positioned within the housing to dispense tape. The tape dispenser includes at least one blade positioned within the housing to cut the dispensed tape to achieve a desired length of the tape. The tape dispenser includes a tab assembly positioned within the housing to form a peak-like contour such that the tape rests on the tab assembly. The peak like contour enables a user of the tape dispenser to create a fold at one end of the dispensed tape upon manual application of pressure on the dispensed tape such that adhesive side of an end portion of the dispensed tape is stuck to the adhesive side of a near end portion of the dispensed tape. The fold is peeled off so as to allow easy removal of the dispensed tape when applied over a surface.
[0015] In an embodiment, the tape dispenser may inlcude at least one support structure positioned within the housing. The at least one support structure may facilitates formation of the peak like contour when the dispensed tape may be allowed to pass through the at least one support structure.
[0016] According to an Aspect, a tape dispenser inlcudes a housing and at least one first vertical member positioned on one side of the housing. The tape dispenser inlcudes at least one second vertical member positioned on an opposite side of the housing such that there is an air gap between the at least one first vertical member and at least one second vertical member. At least a first portion of a tape rests on the air gap owing to a second portion of the tape touching any or both of the at least one first vertical member and the at least one second vertical member.
[0017] An adhesive side of the tape that is lying ahead of the at least one first vertical member and the at least one second vertical member touches the adhesive side of the tape that is lying behind the at least one first vertical member upon application of manual pressure on the tape by at least two fingers. The at least one second vertical member so as to create a tab. The tape to be dispensed is pulled using the said tab, and thereafter cut using a blade that is positioned within the housing.
[0018] In an embodiment, the at least one first vertical member may include a plurality of first vertical members arranged adjacent to each other and configured on one side of a housing.
[0019] In an embodiment, the at least a second vertical member may include a plurality of second vertical members arranged adjacent to each other. The at least a second vertical member may be configured on other side of a housing.
[0020] In an embodiment, the at least one first vertical member and the at least one second vertical member may be flexible.
[0021] In an embodiment, the at least one first vertical member and/or the at least one second vertical member may be made of any or a combination of a rigid material or of a non-sticky material or a low surface energy (LSE) plastic.
[0022] In an embodiment, the at least one first flexible vertical member and the at least one second flexible vertical members may be configured to bend upon manual pressure application. The at least one first flexible vertical member and the at least one second flexible vertical members may exhibit greater resistance to bending vertically than horizontally.
[0023] In an embodiment, the tape dispenser assembly may include a housing and at least one tape roll. The at least one tape roll may be rotatably positioned within the housing to dispense tape. The tape dispenser assembly may include at least one flexible substrate roll positioned within a housing of the assembly to dispense the flexible substrate from at least one flexible substrate roll such that a portion of the dispensed flexible substrate may be adhered to an adhesive portion of the dispensed tape that is dispensed from the at least one tape roll.
[0024] The tape dispenser assembly includes a top portion positioned within the housing. The top portion is configured for being moved downwards to an actuated position upon manual pressure application in an actuated position for a portion of the dispensed tape and the portion of the flexible substrate to be simultaneously cut. The freshly cut portion of the flexible substrate is glued to one end of the freshly cut tape thereby forming a removal means at one end of the freshly cut tape. The freshly cut tape when applied over a surface is peeled off by pulling the removal means so as to allow easy removal of the freshly cut tape from the surface.
[0025] In an embodiment, the tape dispenser may include a blade positioned within the housing. The tape dispenser may be configured for enabling the portion of the dispensed tape and the portion of the flexible substrate to be simultaneously cut.
[0026] In an embodiment, the top portion may include a pair of shafts having one or more compression springs. The pair of shafts may be positioned within the housing to bias the top portion to return to a normal position from the actuated position upon release of applied manual pressure.
[0027] In an embodiment, the top portion may include a rack assembly operatively coupled to the pair of shafts. The rack assembly may be configured to enable the top portion to move downwards and upwards between the normal position and the actuated position.
[0028] Various objects, features, aspects, and advantages of the subject matter will become more apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments, along with the accompanying drawing figures in which like numerals represent like components.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0029] The following drawings form part of the present disclosure and are included to further illustrate aspects of the present disclosure. The disclosure may be better understood by reference to the drawings in combination with the detailed description of the specific embodiments presented herein.
[0030] FIG. 1 illustrates an example side view of a tape dispenser where the user pinches the tape to form a removal means, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0031] FIG. 2 illustrates an example isometric view of the tape dispenser where the user pinches the tape to form the removal means, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0032] FIG. 3 illustrates an example side view of the tape dispenser where the user pulls the tape from the roll, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0033] FIG. 4 illustrates an example isometric view of the tape dispenser where the user pulls the tape from the roll, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0034] FIG. 5 illustrates an example side view of the tape dispenser where the user cuts the tape with the blade, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0035] FIG. 6 illustrates an example isometric view of the tape dispenser where the user cuts the tape with the blade, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0036] FIG. 7 illustrates an example side view of the tape dispenser with a side wall thereof hidden, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0037] FIG. 8 illustrates an example isometric view of the tape dispenser with a side wall thereof hidden, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0038] FIG. 9 illustrates an example view of a package tapped with the removal means, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0039] FIG. 10 illustrates an example side view of the tape dispenser having a circular contour, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0040] FIG.11 illustrates an exemplary cross sectional view describing a pair of flexible flaps of a tape dispenser, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0041] FIG.12 illustrates an exemplary orthogonal view of the tape dispenser, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0042] FIG.13 illustrates an exemplary cross-sectional view of the tape dispenser describing a user’s hand holding the peak end of the tape, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0043] FIG.14 illustrates an exemplary orthogonal view of a user’s hand holding the peak end of the tape, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0044] FIG.15 illustrates an orthogonal view of the tape dispenser describing the user‘s thumb pushing the end of the tape resting on the flexible flaps, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0045] FIGs.16 and 17 illustrate an orthogonal view of the tape dispenser describing the user pulling the tape by holding the tab, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0046] FIG.18 illustrates an orthogonal view of the second embodiment describing the user using the index finger of the other hand to push the portion of the tape close to the flaps, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0047] FIG.19 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the tape dispenser describing the user pulling the cut tape using the pull tab, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0048] FIG.20 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the tape dispenser describing the user pulling the cut tape using the pull tab, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0049] FIG. 21 illustrates an example side view of a tape dispenser assembly with one side wall thereof hidden, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0050] FIG. 22 illustrates an example isometric view of the tape dispenser assembly with one side wall thereof hidden, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0051] FIG. 23 illustrates an example representation of a rack assembly of the tape dispenser assembly, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0052] FIG. 24 illustrates an example isometric view of the rack assembly, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0053] FIG. 25 illustrates an example side view of a lock mechanism, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0054] FIG. 26 illustrates an example isometric view of a roller housing of the first tape dispenser assembly, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0055] FIG. 27 illustrates an example exploded view of the roller housing of the first tape dispenser assembly, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0056] FIG. 28 illustrates an example isometric exploded view of the roller housing of the first tape dispenser assembly, according to embodiments of the present disclosure
[0057] FIG. 29 illustrates an example representation of a user pulling the tape from the first tape dispenser assembly, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0058] FIG. 30 illustrates an example isometric view of the user pulling the tape to a desired length, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0059] FIGs. 31 and 32 illustrate an example side view of the tape dispenser assembly where the user pushes a rack of the rack assembly to cut a tape using a blade, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0060] The following is a detailed description of embodiments of the disclosure depicted in the accompanying drawings. The embodiments are in such detail as to clearly communicate the disclosure. If the specification states a component or feature “may”, “can”, “could”, or “might” be included or have a characteristic, that particular component or feature is not required to be included or have the characteristic.
[0061] As used in the description herein and throughout the claims that follow, the meaning of “a,” “an,” and “the” includes plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Also, as used in the description herein, the meaning of “in” includes “in” and “on” unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
[0062] Aspects of the present disclosure relate to the field of mechanical assemblies. In particular, the present disclosure relates to a tape dispenser assembly for dispensing tape with removal means.
[0063] According to an aspect, a tape dispenser features a tab assembly to form a peak-like contour, allowing the tape to rest on the surface of the peak-like contour. The peak-like contour enables user of the tape dispenser to create a fold at one end of the dispensed tape by applying manual pressure, causing the adhesive side of the end portion of the dispensed tape to adhere to the adhesive side of a near end portion of the dispensed tape. The fold can be easily peeled off, facilitating the removal of the dispensed tape when applied to a surface. Furthermore, the tape dispenser includes at least one support structure within the housing, which aids in forming the peak-like contour as the dispensed tape passes through the at least one support structure.
[0064] Various embodiments of the present disclosure will be explained in details with reference to FIGs. 1 to 10.
[0065] Referring to FIGs. 1 to 10, the disclosed tape dispenser assembly, hereinafter referred to as the second tape dispenser assembly 100, is described. The tape dispenser assembly 100 is configured to form a fold 112 at one end of a tape 104A.
[0066] The tape dispenser 100 features a housing 102 that securely holds its components. Within this housing 102, at least one tape roll 104 is rotatably positioned, allowing for the smooth dispensing of tape 104A. The tape roll 104 is designed to ensure that the tape 104A can be easily unwound and accessed by the user.
[0067] To facilitate cutting, the tape dispenser 100 includes at least one blade (106) strategically placed within the housing 102. This blade 106 is designed to precisely cut the dispensed tape 104A to the desired length, providing clean and efficient cuts with minimal effort.
[0068] A key feature of the tape dispenser 100 is the tab assembly 108, also located within the housing 102. This assembly is responsible for forming a peak-like contour 110 on the tape 104A. The contour 110 is crucial as it allows the tape 104A to rest on the tab assembly 108 in a manner that facilitates the creation of a fold 112 at one end of the tape 104A.
[0069] When a user applies manual pressure to the dispensed tape 104A, the peak-like contour 110 enables the adhesive side of the end portion of the tape 104A to adhere to the adhesive side of a nearby portion. This action forms a fold 112, which is essential for creating a removal means.
[0070] The fold 112 is designed to be easily peeled off, allowing for the straightforward removal of the dispensed tape 104A when it is applied to a surface. This feature enhances the user experience by simplifying the process of detaching the tape 104A from surfaces without leaving residue or causing damage.
[0071] Referring to FIGs. 7 and 8, the structural components of the tape dispenser assembly 100 are described. The tape dispenser 100 includes a tape 104A wound on at least one tape roll 104, which is rotatably supported on a tape roll holder shaft 114. The tape 104A travels through at least one support structure 114 of a pair of support structures 114-1, 114-2 between the tape roll 104 and the blade (106).
[0072] In an embodiment, when the tape 104A passes over at least one of the pair of support structures 114-1, 114-2, it forms a substantially pointed or peak-like contour 110 that allows a user to grasp the tape 104A such that it folds at the peak to form the fold 112. The support structure 114 may have cylindrical or triangular elements attached to one or more side walls 116. Additionally, the tape dispenser 100 includes a guiding pulley 118 configured to guide the tape 104A towards the support structure 114, preventing it from moving back towards the tape roll 104 once unrolled. The tape 104A is maintained at a predetermined tension between the blade 106 and the tape roll 104. The side walls 116 are removable and contoured to accommodate different finger sizes, allowing a gap for the user to grasp the tape (104A) with a pinching motion. At least one support structure 114-1 extends from at least one side wall 116-1, with a gap between the pair of support structures 114-1, 114-2. The edges of the tape 104A rest over the support structures 114-1, 114-2, with the center hanging due to the support from the structures on the side walls 116-1, 116-2.
[0073] When the user pinches the tape 104A at the gap between the support structures 114-1, 114-2, the flexible tape 104A bends and slides down from the support structures 114. The pinching force causes a portion of the tape 104A to adhere to itself. During this operation, the cut end of the tape 104A resting on the blade 106 is pulled away and adheres to the tape 104A hanging behind the support structures 114-1, 114-2, which are made of non-sticky material.
[0074] When the end of the tape 104A adheres to a portion of its adhesive side, a fold 112 is created. The user can easily hold the tape 104A by the fold 112 as its outer surface is non-adhesive. The user may grip and pull the fold 112 to a desired length, then pull the tape 104A downwards, engaging the blade 106 to cut the tape 104A as shown in FIGs. 3 to 6. Once cut, the tape 104A can be applied over a package surface, as shown in FIG. 9, where the fold 112 is a section not stuck to the package. To remove the tape 104A, the user grips the fold 112 and pulls it away, removing the tape 104A without needing a sharp object.
[0075] In an embodiment, the height of the support structures 114 may be adjusted to create the fold 112 such that a section of the tape 104A beyond the fold 112 and before the blade 106 remains sticky. This is useful for securing contents more strongly, with the fold 112 not at the extreme end of the cut tape 104A, preventing accidental removal during shipping.
[0076] Referring to FIG. 10, the tape dispenser 100 is shown in a side view with a circular contour. The dispenser 100 may have a circular design with the tape 104A pinching/folding section at one end before cutting. In an embodiment, the dispenser 100 may have a circular, cylindrical, or polygonal form, using a peak-like support structure before cutting the tape 104A for one-handed use or faster packaging. The support structures 114-1, 114-2 may have a circular contour or spherical profile.
[0077] According to an aspect, the tape dispenser incorporates vertical members on opposite sides of the housing, creating an air gap where the tape rests, allowing a unique method of forming a tab by applying manual pressure with two fingers. The adhesive side of the tape ahead of the vertical members adheres to the adhesive side behind them, creating a convenient tab for pulling and dispensing the tape. The tape dispenser not only simplifies the process of handling and cutting the tape but also enhances user efficiency. The vertical members can be made from flexible or rigid materials, including non-sticky or low surface energy plastics, providing versatility and durability.
[0078] Referring to FIGs. 11 to 20, the disclosed tape dispenser, (referred to as tape dispenser 200) for forming a tab 210 is described. The tape dispenser 200 includes a housing 202 that contains several components for efficient tape dispensing. On one side of the housing 202 is at least one first vertical member 204, and on the opposite side is at least one second vertical member 206. These vertical members create an air gap 208 between them, allowing a first portion 208-1 of the tape (208) to rest on the air gap 208 due to a second portion 208-2 making contact with either or both vertical members 204, 206.
[0079] When manual pressure is applied to the tape 208 using at least two fingers, the adhesive side of the tape 208 ahead of the vertical members 204, 206 adheres to the adhesive side behind them, forming a tab 210. This tab 210 facilitates pulling the tape 208 for dispensing, which is then cut using a blade positioned within the housing 202.
[0080] In an embodiment, the first vertical member 204 comprises a plurality of first vertical members arranged adjacent to each other on one side of the housing 202. Similarly, the second vertical member 206 comprises a plurality of second vertical members arranged adjacent to each other on the opposite side of the housing 202.
[0081] Both the first vertical member 204 and the second vertical member 206 are flexible, allowing them to adapt to the tape's movement. These vertical members can be made from a combination of rigid materials, non-sticky materials, or low surface energy (LSE) plastics, enhancing their functionality and durability.
[0082] The first and second flexible vertical members 204, 206 are configured to bend upon manual pressure application, exhibiting greater resistance to bending vertically than horizontally. This design ensures stability while allowing the necessary flexibility for effective tape handling.
[0083] As shown in FIGs. 11 and 12, the pair of vertical members 204, 206 are made of a non-sticky material. They are connected to the tape dispenser 200 on the side walls and separated by an air gap 208 in the center. One end of the tape 210 rests on these vertical members 204, 206, and the edge of this end is stuck to the cutter 214 located right under them. In its neutral position, the end of the tape 210 close to the cutter 214 rests over the vertical members 204, 206.
[0084] The vertical members 204, 206 are designed to have higher resistance to bending vertically and lesser resistance horizontally. The user uses their index finger and thumb to hold the portion of the tape resting on the vertical members 204, 206 as shown in FIGs. 13 and 14.
[0085] When the user pushes their thumb inward/backward as shown in FIG. 15, the vertical members 204, 206 bend inwards, allowing the tape 210 in front of them to move inwards with the thumb. This motion, combined with the position of the index finger, causes the tape behind the vertical members 204, 206 to stick to the tape in front from the adhesive side. This pinching action creates a folded portion, forming the tab, which the user can hold as shown in FIG. 16. The user can pull the tape 210 from a tape roll 216 positioned within the dispenser 200, holding the tab to the desired length. The other hand's index finger or thumb places the tape 210 close to the vertical members 204, 206 and pushes it downward towards the cutter 214 to cut the tape 210 as shown in FIG. 18. Thus, the desired length of tape 210 is cut, and the dispenser returns to its starting position, with a new end of the tape 210 resting over the vertical members 204, 206 where the remaining tape 210 from the tape roll 216 is positioned.
[0086] According to an aspect, the tape dispenser integrates a flexible substrate roll alongside the traditional tape roll within a single housing, allowing the tape dispenser to simultaneously dispense both tape and a flexible substrate, with the substrate adhering to the adhesive portion of the tape. The inclusion of a top portion that moves downward upon manual pressure enables the simultaneous cutting of both the tape and the substrate to create a removal means (45) at one end of the freshly cut tape, facilitating easy removal from surfaces.
[0087] Referring to FIGs. 21 to 32 a tape dispenser (hereinafter referred as a tape dispenser assembly 300) for creating a removal means is described.
[0088] The first tape dispenser assembly 300 may be configured to add a strip or portion of a flexible substrate, such as paper, plastic, cardboard, or any other non-sticky material but not limited thereto, at the first end of a tape on an adhesive side thereof to make a portion of the tape effectively non-sticky. The portion, hereinafter interchangeably referred to as removal means, may be used to hold the tape while adhering the tape to a surface, such as a portion of box. The tape may be used to close/package/seal the box by adhering a sticky/adhering side of the tape thereto. In some embodiments, the flexible substrate, by covering the portion to form the removal means, may prevent that portion of the tape from adhering to the surface. The removal means may extend out from the surface when the tape is applied thereto such that the removal means is visible to a user. The user may grip the removal means and pull to remove the tape from the surface.
[0089] FIGs. 21 and 22 illustrate structural components of the tape dispenser assembly 300. Referring to FIG. 21 and 22 an example side view and perspective view, respectively, of the tape dispenser assembly 300 is shown with one side wall (8) thereof hidden. The tape dispenser assembly 300 may include a tape roll 1 affixed to a tape roll holder, such as tape roll holder 9. The tape roll 1 may be configured to dispense the tape therefrom. The tape may be configured to have at least one adhesive side. The adhesive side may be indicative of a side having at least one layer of adhesives, such as pressure-sensitive adhesives, applied thereto. The adhesive on the adhesive side of the tape may allow the tape to adhere to one or more surfaces (hereinafter referred to as the surface), such as plastics, cardboard, glass, paper, metals, and the like, but not limited thereto.
[0090] The tape dispenser assembly 100 may include a flexible substrate roll 2 that is configured to dispense the flexible substrate therefrom. The flexible substrate roll 2 may be rotatably configured on the flexible substrate roll holder 10. The substrate roll holder 10 may be configured to rotate about a rotatable shaft (12). In some embodiments, the flexible substrate roll 2 may be configured to dispense the flexible substrate onto a rack assembly 7 through a feeding roller 4. The feed roll 4 may be rotatable in a single predefined direction. In such embodiments, the feed roll 4 may prevent movement of the flexible substrate in the reverse direction after unrolling from the flexible substrate roll 2 such that the flexible substrate is maintained at a tension between the flexible substrate role 2 and the feed roll 4. In some embodiments, an end of the flexible substrate may be placed on top of a top portion 31, as subsequently shown in FIG. 24, thereby exposing a portion of the flexible substrate on the top portion 31. In some embodiments, both sides of the flexible substrate may be non-adherent to surfaces. In other embodiments, at least one side of the flexible substrate may be configured with a layer of adhesives that adheres to the tape.
[0091] In some embodiments, the user may grip and pull the tape from the tape roll 1 such that the tape wound thereover is unrolled. The user may pull the tape until the tape is unrolled to a desired length. In some embodiments, to cut the tape of the desired length, the user may pull the tape downwards and press the tape against the top portion 31. In some embodiments, the top portion 31 may be indicative of a top portion or surface of a rack assembly 7. Since a portion of the flexible substrate is exposed on the top portion 31, at least one portion or section of adhesive side of the tape may adhere to the flexible substrate, thereby forming the pull tab or the removal means. The user may, while gripping the tape, push the top portion 31 downwards, thereby allowing the flexible substrate to be securely adhered to the tape.
[0092] In some embodiments, when the user pushes the top portion 31 downwards while placing the tape between their finger and the top portion 31, the rack assembly 7 may be configured to move downwards to allow the tape and the flexible substrate to be cut. In some embodiments, the tape and flexible substrate may be cut using a blade 14 configured above the top portion 31. In some embodiments, the blade 14 may be configured at an angle concerning the top portion 31 such that a sharp edge of the blade 14 engages with and cuts the tape and the flexible substrate when the top portion 31 of the rack assembly 7 is pushed downwards. In such embodiments, at least a portion of the tape may adhere to the flexible substrate to form the removal means 45 when the user pushes the top portion 31 downwards while placing the tape and the flexible substrate between the user’s finger and the top portion 31. When the tape is subsequently applied to the surface, the removal may extend outwards from the package, thereby allowing the user to easily identify the end of the tape and remove the tape therefrom whenever required.
[0093] FIGs. 23 to 28 illustrate the structural components of the rack assembly 7 of the tape dispenser assembly 300.
[0094] In an embodiment, the rack assembly 7 may include a set of linearly stacked teeth 32 on the top portion 31 that may engage with a corresponding first set of teeth of a first gear 6. In some embodiments, when the user pushes the top portion 31 downwards, the first gear 6 may be caused to rotate in a direction corresponding to the linear movement of the top portion 31. In an example, the first gear (6) may be configured to move in a clockwise direction, from the perspective of FIG. 21, when the top portion 31 is pushed downwards.
[0095] In some embodiments, a second set of teeth of a second gear (5) may be also meshed/engaged with the first set of teeth on the first gear (6) such that the second gear 5 rotates corresponding to the rotation of the first gear (6). In an example, the clockwise motion of the first gear 6 may cause an anticlockwise motion in the second gear 5, and vice-versa.
[0096] Referring to FIG. 27, the rack assembly 7 may include a first lateral ratchet 17, a roller housing 30, and a shaft. The shaft may hold the aforementioned components together. In some embodiments, the first and second lateral ratchets 17 and 20 may be free to slide over the shaft within a restricted region. In FIGs. 27 and 28, the shaft may be represented by a line passing through the aforementioned components for the purposes of clarity. In some embodiments, the second gear 5, and the roller housing 30 may have a fixed position (translational) concerning the shaft. In an embodiment, the roller housing 3 may include a rolling structure 30 having a substantially cylindrically contour. In such embodiments, at least one end of the rolling structure may be configured with the second gear 2 and the first lateral ratchet 17.
[0097] In an embodiment embodiment, the second gear 5 may include the second set of lateral teeth 23 that engages with a corresponding set of receiving teeth on the first lateral ratchet 17. In some embodiments, the first lateral ratchet 17 may include one or more interlocking elements, such as abutments 25 extending therefrom, that allow the first lateral ratchet 17 to be inserted into a set of cavities 26 on the ends of the roller housing 30. The cavities 26 may be configured in the middle of a set of ratcheting teeth 28 configured at the ends of the roller housing 30. In some embodiments, the first lateral ratchet 17 may be integrated with the set of ratcheting teeth 28 such that the set of ratcheting teeth 18 surrounds the first lateral ratchet 17. In some embodiments, the roller housing 30 may house a feeder and a guide mechanism through the first lateral ratchet 17 with the set of cavities 26 on the set of ratcheting teeth 28 of the roller housing 30 to allow sliding and locking of the first lateral ratchet 17 therein. In some embodiments, the first lateral ratchet 17 may be configured to engage with the second gear 5.
[0098] In some embodiments, the roller housing 30 may include a spring 21 therein that biases the first lateral ratchet 17 outwards from the roller housing 30, thereby ensuring the lateral ratchet 17 is securely engaged with the second gear 5 by their corresponding teeth.
[0099] In some embodiments, the second gear 5 may include a set of lateral teeth 23 configured to engage with the first lateral ratchet 17 in sliding contact with each other such that when the second gear 5 rotates in an anticlockwise direction, the set of receiving teeth 27 disengages with or causes the set of lateral teeth 23 to slip out of engagement. The interlocking elements of the first lateral ratchet 17 may be pushed inside the cavity 26 to stop transmitting any rotational motion to the roller housing 30 from the second gear 5. Additionally, the roller housing 30 may be prevented from rotating in a predetermined direction by a ratchet and pawl lock mechanism 13 shown in FIG. 25. The lock mechanism 13 may include a pawl 19 that engages with and prevents the roller housing 30 from rotating in a predetermined direction, such as anticlockwise direction concerning FIG. 21.
[00100] In some embodiments, a portion of the flexible substrate may rest over the roller housing 30. In such embodiments, the portion of the flexible substrate may be compressed between a guiding roller 3 and the roller housing 30. In some embodiments, the guiding roller 3 may be a free-rolling element attached to the side walls through a shaft. The guiding roller 3 may be configured to ensure the portion of the flexible substrate is compressed and in contact with the roller housing 30’s outer surface. The guiding roller 3 may be supported by a holding element 15.
[00101] Referring to FIG. 26, the locking mechanism 13 may be in continuous engagement with the set of ratcheting teeth (28) on the ends of the roller housing 30. In some embodiments, the locking mechanism 13 may be configured to engage with the set of ratcheting teeth 28 on the ends of the roller housing 30, thereby restricting the rotation of the roller housing 30 to a single predetermined direction. Further, the locking mechanism 13 may, by restricting the rotation of the roller housing 30, prevent the flexible substrate from being rolled back into the flexible substrate roll 2.
[00102] In some embodiments, the roller housing 30 may have a set of elements corresponding to the first lateral ratchet 17 on the opposing end of the roller housing 30. In FIGs. 26-28, the corresponding set of elements are depicted by a third gear 18 having a corresponding second set of lateral teeth 24, a second lateral ratchet 20, a second spring 22 corresponding to the first spring 21, and a second set of ratcheting teeth 29 corresponding to first set of ratcheting teeth 28 for the third gear 18.
[00103] In some embodiments, the rack assembly 7 may include a set of vertical shafts 34, as shown in FIG. 24, having a compression spring configured thereto. The set of vertical shafts 34 may be configured to support the top portion 31, and movement thereof. In some embodiments, the set of vertical shafts 34, by the corresponding compression springs, may bias the top portion 31 to move towards a substantially upward direction. In some embodiments, the vertical movement of the top portion 31 may be guided by the set of vertical shafts 34 and a sliding guide 42 configured to the set of vertical shafts 34. In some embodiments, the sliding guide 42 may be configured to the bottom wall of an outer enclosure 11 of the tape dispenser assembly 300. The compression springs may be configured between the bottom wall and the set of vertical shafts 34 such that the top portion 31 is biased to move in a substantially upward direction. In some embodiments, the top portion 31 may be configured to slide through a slot on a side wall 8 on the outer enclosure (11), the slot being configured to guide the top portion 31 through a substantially vertical path. The side wall 8 may be detachable from the outer enclosure 11 to allow for periodic replacement of the tape roll 1 and the flexible substrate roll 2. The top portion 31 may include a set of protrusions 33 that extend from the top portion 31 and interface with the slot, thereby allowing the top portion (31) to be guided therethrough.
[00104] When the user ceases pushing the top portion 31 after cutting the tape, the top portion 31 may be biased to move in an upward direction by the compressed spring on corresponding to the set of vertical shafts 34, thereby allowing the top portion 31 to return to its original position.
[00105] In some embodiments, the top portion 31 may include a vertical support structure extending from the top portion 31. The vertical support structure may include the set of linearly stacked teeth 32 that engage with the corresponding teeth of the first gear 6 such that the linear motion of the top portion 31 is translated to rotational motion of the first gear 6. In an example, when the top portion 31 pushed downwards, the first gear 6 may rotate in the clockwise direction when viewed from the perspective shown in FIG. 21.
[00106] In some embodiments, the user may grip and pull the tape such that the tape is unrolled from the tape roll 1. The tape may be pulled until the tape is unrolled to a desired length. To cut the tape, the user may place the tape on the top portion 31 and push the top portion 31 downwards such that the blade 14 engages with and cuts the tape. The user may push the top portion 31 while placing the tape on the top portion 31 such that a portion of the flexible substrate exposed on the top portion 31 adheres to a portion of the tape.
[00107] When the user pushes the top portion 31 downwards with the tape, the downward linear motion of the top portion 31 may be translated to rotational motion in a first direction of the first gear 6 by the interfacing of the set of linearly stacked teeth 32 and the first set of teeth of the first gear 6. In some embodiments, the first gear 6 may cause the second gear 5 to rotate in a second direction by the interfacing of the first and second set of teeth. In an example, the second gear 5 may be meshed/engaged with the teeth of first gear 6 such that the clockwise motion of the first gear 6 causes an anticlockwise motion of the second gear 5, with respect to the perspective in FIG. 21.
[00108] In some embodiments, the second gear 5 may be connected to the first lateral ratchet 17. The set of lateral teeth 23 of the second gear 5 may translate the rotational motion of the second gear 5 to a corresponding rotational motion of the first lateral ratchet 17, which in turn translates the rotational motion thereof to the rotational motion of the roller housing 30 in the second direction. Since the flexible substrate is compressed between the guiding roller 3 and the roller housing 30, the rotation of the roller housing 30 may cause the flexible substrate to be pulled from the flexible substrate roll 2. The length of the flexible substrate pulled by the roller housing 30 may be adjusted based on the amount of linear movement of the top portion 31. In some embodiments, the roller housing 3 and the guiding roller 3 may be configured to unroll the flexible substrate, and dispense the flexible substrate so pulled on the top portion 31. The flexible substrate may be dispensed on the top portion 31 such that the flexible substrate traverses over the blade (14), and such that the blade 14 engages with and cuts the flexible substrate along with the tape when the top portion 31 is pushed downwards by the user. The roller housing 30 and the guiding roller 3, by pulling and dispensing additional flexible substrate on the top portion 31, may allow the flexible substrate to be replenished for subsequent use.
[00109] When the user ceases to push the top portion 31, which the user may once the tape and the flexible substrate are cut, the springs may push the top portion 31 upwards through the set of vertical shafts 34. On moving upwards, the upward linear motion of the top portion 31 may be translated to the rotational motion of the first gear 6 in the second direction by the interfacing of the set of linearly stacked teeth 32 and the first set of teeth. While the first gear 6 may translate the rotational motion in the second direction thereof to the rotational motion of the second gear 5 in the first direction, the lock mechanism 13 may prevent the second gear 5 from conveying rotational motion thereof to the roller housing 30 via the first lateral ratchet 17. In such embodiments, the pawl 19 of the lock mechanism 13 may engage with the set of ratcheting teeth 28, thereby preventing the roller housing from rotating in the first direction. Further, in such embodiments, the set of lateral teeth on the second gear 5 may be in sliding contact with the corresponding set of receiving teeth on the first lateral ratchet 17 such that the spring 2) is compressed and the first lateral ratchet 17 is pushed inwards into the roller housing 30.
[00110] FIGs. 29-32 illustrate the tape dispenser assembly at various stages of the operation thereof. Referring to FIG. 9, the tape dispenser assembly 300 may include the tape roll 2 for dispensing the tape and the flexible substrate roll 2 for dispensing the flexible substrates. The tape and the flexible substrate may be wound on the tape roll 1 and the flexible substrate roll 2 respectively. In some embodiments, at least one of: the tape roll 1 and the flexible substrate 2 may have at least one adhesive side that is capable of adhering to any surface. In FIG. 9, a small section of the flexible substrate is placed at a first end of the tape dispenser assembly 300.
[00111] In some embodiments, the user may grip and pull the tape from the tape roll 1 such that the tape is unrolled from the tape roll 1. In some embodiments, the user may continue to pull the tape until the tape is unrolled up to a desired length. In other embodiments, the user may pull the tape until the tape is unrolled at least up to a distance between the tape roll 1 and the blade, as shown in FIG. 10.
[00112] In some embodiments, to cut tape once said tape is pulled to the required length, the user may push the tape downwards against a top portion 31 configured in front of the blade 14. The top portion 31 may move down when pressed by the user, thereby allowing the blade 14 to cut the tape. On pressing the tape on the top portion 31, the adhesive side of the tape may adhere to the flexible substrate, thereby forming the removal means 45. Further, blade may also cut the flexible substrate placed on the first end of the tape dispenser assembly 300, as shown in FIGs. 31 and 32. The cut tape may have at least one portion having the removal means 45 and at least one portion having the adhesive side that adheres to the desired substrate. The removal means 45 may be used to remove the tape from the substrate based on requirements.
[00113] In some embodiments, the top portion 31 may be biased to return to its original position by the spring 21 when the user ceases the push. In some embodiments, the spring may be configured to (on two supporting shafts on 42) bring the top portion 31 back up to its neutral position as it was in FIGs. 29 and 30. When the user ceases pushing the top portion 31 once the tape adheres to the flexible substrate, the spring 21 pushes the top portion 31 to its original position. In some embodiments, the compression spring on the set of vertical shaft 34 also causes rack assembly 7 to feed a predetermined length of the flexible substrate towards the top portion 31, thereby making the flexible substrate available for subsequent use. FIGs. 31 and 32 show the tape of a predetermined length being sheered when the user grips and pushes the tape downwards against the top portion 31.
[00114] In an implementation, the tape having the removal means 45, such as the removal means 45 of FIG. 21, may be applied on a desired surface, such as flaps of a box for packaging one or more items therein. In an example shown in FIG. 21, the tape, such as a tape strip 44 of length predetermined, may be applied over a partition 43 formed by two flaps of a package in a closed orientation. The tape may be pressed on the surface in the desired orientation to cause the adhesive side of the tape to adhere to the surface. When a user wishes to remove the tape from the surface, such as for unpacking the box, the user may pull grip the removal means 45 and pull the same out such that the tape de-adheres from the surface.

DISCLAIMER
[00115] In addition to the designs and embodiments shared above, there could be modifications done on the same basic design in order to hold a larger or wider tape between the side walls, there could be modifications in the shape of second tape dispenser assembly 300 in order to keep the peak-like support structure higher or lower than the other sections of the dispenser for different applications of the tape.
[00116] Additionally, the tape used in the tape dispenser assembly 300 may have a printed design on it which helps in further easier identification of the location of the removal means 45. For example, a strip of slanted vertical lines can be used as a pattern printed over a transparent tape such that, once the fold or removal means 45 is created, it will show a combination of these slanted strips in a dense manner, thereby making it easier to identify the location of the removal means 45 in the tape when its folded closer to the package. In other embodiments, the tape and/or the flexible substrate can have contrasting colours, or may have the logos of the brand of the packaging, food or the service company using the product. The above helps in highlighting the removal means 45 for easier identification and faster opening of the package once received.
[00117] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the present disclosure can be provided using some or all the mentioned features and components without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.
[00118] While various embodiments of the present disclosure have been illustrated and described herein, it will be clear that the disclosure is not limited to these embodiments only. Numerous modifications, changes, variations, substitutions, and equivalents will be apparent to those skilled in the art, without departing from the scope of the disclosure.

ADVANTAGES OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE
[00119] The present disclosure provides a simple, compact, efficient, and cost-effective dispensing tape with a removal means.
[00120] The present disclosure provides a non-adhesive removal means at one end of the tape for easy removal of the tape warped around a package.
[00121] The present disclosure facilitates a user of the tape dispenser to hold the non-adhesive removal means that can be peeled off from the package to remove the tape from packaging.
[00122] The present disclosure provides a tape dispenser that works without a power supply and uses minimal mechanical parts to reduce cost.

,CLAIMS:1. A tape dispenser (100) comprising:
a housing (102);
at least one tape roll (104) rotatably positioned within the housing (102) to dispense tape (104A);
at least one blade (106) positioned within the housing (102) to cut the dispensed tape (104A) to achieve a desired length of the tape (104A); and
a tab assembly (108) positioned within the housing (102) to form a peak-like contour (110) such that the tape (104A) rests on the tab assembly (108), the peak like contour (110) enabling a user of the tape dispenser (100) to create a fold (112) at one end of the dispensed tape (104A) upon manual application of pressure on the dispensed tape (104A) such that adhesive side of an end portion of the dispensed tape (104A) is stuck to the adhesive side of a near end portion of the dispensed tape (104A);
wherein the fold (112) is peeled off so as to allow easy removal of the dispensed tape (104A) when applied over a surface.
2. The tape dispenser (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the tape dispenser (100) comprises at least one support structure (114) positioned within the housing (102), wherein the at least one support structure (114) facilitates formation of the peak like contour (110) when the dispensed tape (104A) is allowed to pass through the at least one support structure (114).
3. A tape dispenser (200) comprising:
a housing (202);
at least one first vertical member (204) positioned on one side of the housing (202);
at least one second vertical member (206) positioned on an opposite side of the housing (202) such that there is an air gap (208) between the at least one first vertical member (204) and at least one second vertical member (206), and at least a first portion (208-1) of a tape (208) rests on the air gap (208) owing to a second portion (208-2) of the tape (208) touching any or both of the at least one first vertical member (204) and the at least one second vertical member (206);
wherein upon application of manual pressure on the tape (208) by at least two fingers, an adhesive side of the tape (208) that is lying ahead of the at least one first vertical member (204) and the at least one second vertical member (206) touches the adhesive side of the tape (208) that is lying behind the at least one first vertical member (204) and the at least one second vertical member (206) so as to create a tab (210), wherein the tape (208) to be dispensed is pulled using the said tab (210), and thereafter cut using a blade that is positioned within the housing (202).
4. The tape dispenser (200) as claimed in claim 3, wherein the at least one first vertical member (204) comprises a plurality of first vertical members arranged adjacent to each other and configured on one side of a housing (202).
5. The tape dispenser (200) as claimed in claim 3, wherein at least a second vertical member (206) comprises a plurality of second vertical members arranged adjacent to each other and configured on other side of a housing (202).
6. The tape dispenser (200) as claimed in claim 3, wherein the at least one first vertical member (204) and the at least one second vertical member (206) is flexible.
7. The tape dispenser (200) as claimed in claim 3, wherein the at least one first vertical member (204) and/or the at least one second vertical member (206) is made of any or a combination of a rigid material or of a non-sticky material or a low surface energy (LSE) plastic.
8. The tape dispenser (200) as claimed in claim 3, wherein the at least one first flexible vertical member (204) and the at least one second flexible vertical members (206) are configured to bend upon manual pressure application, exhibiting greater resistance to bending vertically than horizontally.
9. A tape dispenser assembly (300), the assembly (300) comprising:
a housing;
at least one tape roll (1) rotatably positioned within the housing to dispense tape;
at least one flexible substrate roll (2) positioned within a housing of the assembly (300) to dispense the flexible substrate from at least one flexible substrate roll (2) such that a portion of the dispensed flexible substrate is adhered to an adhesive portion of the dispensed tape that is dispensed from the at least one tape roll (1); and
a top portion (31) positioned within the housing, configured for being moved downwards to an actuated position upon manual pressure application in an actuated position for a portion of the dispensed tape and the portion of the flexible substrate to be simultaneously cut such that the freshly cut portion of the flexible substrate is glued to one end of the freshly cut tape thereby forming a removal means (45) at one end of the freshly cut tape,
wherein the freshly cut tape when applied over a surface is peeled off by pulling the removal means (45) so as to allow easy removal of the freshly cut tape from the surface.
10. The tape dispenser (300) as claimed in claim 10, wherein the tape dispenser comprises a blade positioned within the housing, configured for enabling the portion of the dispensed tape and the portion of the flexible substrate to be simultaneously cut.
11. The tape dispenser (300) as claimed in claim 10, wherein the top portion (31) comprises a pair of shafts (34) having one or more compression springs, positioned within the housing to bias the top portion (31) to return to a normal position from the actuated position upon release of applied manual pressure.
12. The tape dispenser (300) as claimed in claim 12, wherein the top portion (31) comprises a rack assembly (7) operatively coupled to the pair of shafts (34), configured to enable the top portion (31) to move downwards and upwards between the normal position and the actuated position.