Dispenser for round and rectangular cans

Abstract

A theft deterrent dispensing unit particularly for use with cans includes a conveyor section that leads to a dispensing head. The dispensing head pivots downwardly allowing the leading can to be grasped. As the dispensing head pivots downwardly, rear tabs of the dispensing head pivots upwardly, preventing the next adjacent can from moving immediately into the dispensing head until the dispensing head rotates back to a closed position. The tabs also act to center smaller cans as they move down the dispenser. Further, when the dispensing head is pivoted to an open position, a barrier is pulled down from the top of the shroud, preventing an individual from reaching in and grabbing the next adjacent can. The dispensing head includes recessed guide members which are raised when smaller round cans are dispensed, centering the cans in the front of the dispenser.

1 . A dispenser comprising a conveyor section and a dispensing head attached to a forward portion of said conveyor section;
 said dispensing head having a base and first and second guide members in said base, said guide members having a raised position wherein said guide members direct cans to a center of said dispensing head and a lowered position in which tops of said guide members are flush with said base.   
     
     
         2 . The dispenser claimed in  claim 1  wherein said dispensing head is pivotally attached to said conveyor section and further comprising first and second tabs extended rearwardly from said head, said tabs extended above a plane of a base of said conveyor section when said dispensing head is pivoted to an open position, thereby preventing cans from sliding from said conveyor section to said dispensing head when said dispensing head is pivoted to said open position and wherein said tabs are recessed in said base of said conveyor when said dispensing head is in a closed position. 
     
     
         3 . The dispenser claimed in  claim 2  wherein said first and second tabs are fixed to first and second legs and said legs attached to said dispensing head. 
     
     
         4 . The dispenser claimed in  claim 1  wherein said guide members are angled toward a center of said dispenser. 
     
     
         5 . The dispenser claimed in  claim 2  further comprising a shroud extending over a forward portion of said conveyor section and a stop member pivotally connected to said shroud member and further connected to said dispensing head by a linkage mechanism whereby moving said dispensing head to an open position causes said stop member to extend downwardly, preventing access to a next adjacent can.