1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates in general to the field of thin film barriers for single- and multiple-user tactile surfaces and surfaces of tangible devices, including electronic, Point-of-Sale (POS), and other keypad devices.

2. Description of Related Art

Hygienics is a complex science due to multiple unknown and uncontrolled variables, including social constructs, economic constraints, circumstances of home life and self-development, and numerous others. Due, in-part, to the complexity and variance in hygienics, there exists a wide array of communicable diseases. Fortunately, the immune and lymphatic systems of human beings are highly adaptive and develop defenses, including the ability to isolate, defeat, or incapacitate microbes, germs, and viruses.

Despite the defenses and capabilities provided by these systems, viruses often evolve into multiple different strains of the same type. New viruses, strains of known viruses, or bacteria may infect the body before a sufficient number of antibodies are generated, or before the immune and lymphatic systems can properly deal with the foreign contaminants. These conditions often result in symptoms of flu, cold, or other illness in healthy individuals. In others, having weakened immune systems, autoimmune diseases, under- or over-active immune systems, cancer, or other diseases, the consequences of infections, viruses, and foreign contaminants may be devastating.

Despite these known health risks, society is generating an ever-increasing number of tactile surfaces, such as POS keypads on credit card readers, cash registers, automatic teller machines (ATMs), and similar consumer electronics. Users are often required to use these devices and want a clean screen for each use. Nevertheless, often there is no option for intangible customer/merchant interfacing, or users may be blind or have another disability that requires Braille, keypads, or similar tactile surfaces. Multiple users of a single point-of-entry device often have identical as well as unique needs as other users of the same device. Tactile interfaces usually meet these various needs, while increasing the ease and rapidity of interfacing with enterprises, such as retailers, manufacturers, banks, and other commercial and non-commercial institutions. Not surprisingly, in meeting these needs, the convenience and prevalence of tactile interfacing devices has created a level of criticality associated with these devices. Because these electronics are so critical, the health risks associated tactile interfacing will only increase over time.

Current preventative solutions to meet these health risks include costly chemical sprays, time-consuming sanitizing procedures, over-time hours to ensure procedures are followed, increased shifts to accommodate the sanitizing procedures, new inventory expenses to maintain adequate cleaning supplies, and reduced face-to-face interaction. Manually applied sprays are often the preferred disinfecting or sanitizing means. Although the chemical formulation of some sprays are very effective, manual application and human error often result excess fluid application, thereby damaging electrical circuits near the tactile surfaces. Although some preventative practices do contemplate the use of plastic covers, these covers often include openings or perforations through which germs and bacteria are transferred. In other instances, the covers are thick, semirigid materials, intended for long-term use. Problems with these covers include requiring an overly excessive amount of raw materials to manufacture, interfering with the keypad and other tactile surfaces of the device, and becoming rapidly saturated with germs and bacteria. Further, in order for these covers to be of any use against the onslaught of bacteria, germs, and communicable diseases, they must be manually and individually exchanged between uses by nurses, administrators, or other operators, requiring expensive resources and manpower. Although the aforementioned preventative methods represent great strides in the area of preventative measures, sanitization, and hygienics, many shortcomings remain.

Thus, there exists significant room for improvement in the art for preventing, overcoming, and mitigating the health risks associated with the increasing number of tactile interfaces, including POS and other keypad devices. DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The novel features believed characteristic of the invention are set forth in the appended claims. However, the invention itself, as well as a preferred mode of use, and further objectives and advantages thereof, will best be understood by reference to the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

Figure 1A is a perspective view of a mounting system and a barrier film in a retracted position, according to the present application;

Figure 1 B a perspective view of the mounting system and the barrier film of Figure 1 in an extended position;

Figure 2A is a perspective view of a mounting system and a barrier film in a retracted position, according to the present application;

Figure 2B a perspective view of the mounting system and the barrier film of Figure 3 in an extended position;

Figure 3 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a mounting system and a barrier film in an extended position, according to the present application;

Figure 4 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a mounting system and a barrier film in an extended position, according to the present application;

Figure 5 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a mounting system and a barrier film in an extended position, according to the present application;

Figure 6 is an exploded, rear, elevational view of the mounting system and barrier film of Figure 5; Figure 7 is an exploded, side perspective view of the mounting system and barrier film of Figure 5;

Figure 8 is a rear, elevational view of the mounting system and barrier film of Figure 5;

Figure 9 is a front, elevational view of the mounting system and barrier film of Figure 5;

Figure 10 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a mounting system and a barrier film in an extended position, according to the present application;

Figure 11 is a rear, perspective view of the mounting system and barrier film of Figure 10;

Figure 12 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a mounting system and a barrier film in an extended position, according to the present application;

Figure 13 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a mounting system and a barrier film in an extended position, according to the present application;

Figure 14 is an exploded, perspective view of the mounting system and barrier film of Figure 15; and

Figure 15 is a block diagram of a distributed network of barrier films, according to the present application.

While the assembly of the present application is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments thereof have been shown by way of example in the drawings and are herein described in detail. It should be understood, however, that the description herein of specific embodiments is not intended to limit the invention to the particular embodiment disclosed, but on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the present application as defined by the appended claims.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

Illustrative embodiments of the barrier film with features including mobility, adjustability, adaptability, and unhindered dispensing are provided below. It will of course be appreciated that in the development of any actual embodiment, numerous implementation-specific decisions will be made to achieve the developer’s specific goals, such as compliance with assembly-related and business-related constraints, which will vary from one implementation to another. Moreover, it will be appreciated that such a development effort might be complex and time-consuming, but would nevertheless be a routine undertaking for those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

Referring now to Figures 1A-2B in the drawings, perspective views of a barrier film system 1000 according to the preferred embodiment of the present application are illustrated. A retracted position 100 and an extended position 101 of a barrier film 103 according to the present application are illustrated. Barrier film 103 comprises a continuous, thin, flexible, transparent film, such as a polyethylene, polyurethane, polycarbonate, polymethyl methacralate (PMMA) (e.g., plexiglass), or a flexible glass film having a discrete length. Preferably, a portion of the discrete length is extended and fed over a tactile surface 105 of keypad device, such as a Point-of-Sale (POS) device, a mailroom keypad, a time-punch interface, or another tactile device. In retracted position 100, a first portion 104 of tactile surface 105 is accessible to an operator, such as a merchant owning the credit card reader on which tactile surface 105 is located. Preferably, first portion includes a longitudinal dimension. First portion 104 may enable replacing, removing, or repairing portions of the device, such as tactile surface 105. In extended position 101 , a second portion 106 of tactile surface 105 is accessible to the operator, where second portion 106 is smaller than first portion 104. Preferably, second portion 106 includes a latitudinal dimension. Second portion 106 includes a portion of the device that does not need to be touched by a user in order to use that portion, such as a credit card insert or slide slot. It is noted that the credit card reader may be configured to sanitize any surfaces that contact the inserted credit card using internal components of the credit card machine. Referring now also to Figures 2A and 2B in the drawings, a first roll 109 of barrier film 103 and a second roll 111 of the barrier film is depicted. Preferably, first and second rolls 109, 111 are removable. First roll 109 includes multiple layers of the continuous barrier film rolled, folded, stacked (e.g., accordion style), or otherwise placed on top of each other to reduce storage space. First roll 109 feeds a clean portion of barrier film 103 in first direction 112, while second roll 111 receives a dirty portion of the barrier film in second direction 114. In some embodiments, first and second directions 112 and 114 are reversed.

Preferably, housing 107 includes a first compartment 113 for storing or preventing unintended access to first roll 109, and a second compartment 115 for storing or preventing unintended access to second roll 111. For example, compartments 113, 115 may prevent fingers and unwanted debris from being caught or pinched between moving components. Preferably, first and second compartments 113, 115 are separated from each other, preventing cross-contamination of the clean layers of the barrier film. In some embodiments, one or both of the compartments 113, 115 are configured to clean the layers of barrier film that enter or leave the compartment.

Housing 107 includes a feed outlet 117 and a feed inlet 119. Within compartments 113, 115 and/or feed outlet and inlet 117, 119, or in close proximity thereto, are additional feed components, such as motors, springs, guide shafts, sensors, tension elements, rollers, ratchets, flanges, feed plates, spreading apertures, and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, these components may be located outside the compartments or feed inlet and outlet. For example, a guide bar may be located outside the compartments (see Figure 3 below).

A rotating support strut 121 , or elements of a rack and pinion, are connected to barrier film 103 to move the film between extended and retracted positions. Support strut 121 includes a tensioner 122 to interface with barrier film 103. Preferably, tensioner 122 is a rubberized roller, or includes another friction-generating, gripping surface to grip the barrier film and stretch or extend it into extended position 101. For example, tensioner 122 may have a knurled surface, a polymer-based adhesive applied to its surface to temporarily adhere to the film, or use vacuum suction. In at least one embodiment, support strut 121 is telescopic, having a telescopic boom, or is otherwise extendable, to adjust a dimension of the support strut relative to tactile surface 105.

Preferably, an offset distance 123 remains between tactile surface 105 and the barrier film, facilitating unhindered, rapid, fluid movement of the film. Offset distance 123 ranges from 0.1 to 2.0 inches, inclusive. Preferably, offset distance 123 is about 0.25 to 0.5 inches. In a preferred embodiment, the motor is a variable speed motor, allowing adjustment of the barrier film dispensing speed.

Preferably, barrier film 103 is extended adjacent one or more back walls 125. For example, an outlet feed of film 103 is tensioned in-part by being placed on back wall 125a, while an inlet feed of film 103 is tensioned in-part by being placed on back wall 125b. A roller associated with roll 111 includes a locking mechanism or stop member to lock the dirty layers of film into place while support strut 121 is activated and stretches a layer of clean barrier film from roll 109 over the device that is beneath the arm of the support strut. Roll 109 freely rotates while the clean layer of barrier film is extended over the device.

In some embodiments, at least one of the compartments 113, 115 is sealable in order to contain a liquid sanitizing solution. Preferably, an amount of the liquid applied to film 103 is controlled through the use of a sponge or fabric applicator. Alternatively, the roll is dipped within a volume of the solution contained in the compartment. In these embodiments, because the dirty barrier film 103 is cleaned, sanitized, or disinfected as it is placed onto roll 111 or as it leaves roll 111 , the motor(s) or the feed direction can be reversed to continually reuse the barrier film. This continuous reuse may be limited by a predetermined threshold number of cycles-of-use based on a number of revolutions a roll experiences in one or both directions (i.e., winding and unwinding). Upon meeting the predetermined number of cycles-of-use, an indicator 129, such as an LED indicator, an audible alert, or a wireless signal is provided to notify the user that the rolls, or additional components associated with moving film 103, need to be replaced. The wireless signal may convey other statuses to a smart phone user, such if film is no longer in contact with a tensioner, which may indicate that the barrier film has been cut or is no longer extending between rolls.

In a preferred embodiment, a motion sensor 131 is located on an exterior portion of housing 107 to activate film dispensing, film storage, film tensioning, or combinations thereof, such that a user need not touch a dirty portion of the barrier film before, during, or after each use of the credit card machine. Alternatively, a pressure sensor or a pressure plate is incorporated into housing 107 or positioned beneath the device having tactile surface 105. The pressure sensor or pressure plate also indicates when a portion of the barrier film is dirty, requiring exchange with another clean portion of the barrier film. This indication is provided by correlating the pressure of a user interacting with the device with a dirty use of the device user-interface, which necessitates the positioning of a clean portion of the barrier film above the device.

The pressure plate is calibrated to reduce false positives. For example, a child or an employee, may inadvertently touch a surface near the keypad of the device. The calibration of the pressure plate allows the motor(s) responsible for advancing/retracting the film to remain inactive, despite the inadvertent manipulation near the tactile surface. Sensitivity settings are programmable by the operator mounting and installing the barrier film.

In a preferred embodiment, barrier film 103 is adapted for small-scale uses. For example, 300 feet of four-inch film may be contained on first roll 109. The small-scale form factor allows for increased mobility of the housing for movement and repair by a single operator.

In other embodiments, barrier film 103 is scaled up to reasonable dimensions for dispensing barrier films as wide as eight to ten feet, or more. These large scaled uses include protecting large tactile surfaces, such as those associated with packing and shipping, or surfaces associated with tents, booths, large conferences, gaming conventions, or in other settings where large-scale tactile surfaces are used. For example, a conveyor belt, or an assembly line, often includes workers wearing gloves to handle or make small adjustments to products passing along the assembly line/conveyor belt. In these embodiments, a large-scale barrier film and mount is placed over a portion of the conveyor belt or assembly line. This provides the workers to handle or make small adjustments to the products using the barrier film. Due to the flexibility of the film, the handling and adjustments are made without requiring gloves, and without interfering with the dispensing and/or retracting of the barrier film. A clean layer is repositioned between each batch, each handling, each adjustment, a preconfigured multiple times of handling, a preconfigured multiple number of adjustments, or as selectively determined by an administrator of the barrier film. The barrier film can be retracted, internally cleaned, and the film dispensing reversed over multiple cycles until the film breaks, is significantly deformed to prevent retraction, or until a predetermined threshold number of uses is reached. Then, both rolls of film are removed and replaced with new rolls, allowing the multiple cycles to restart.

It is important to note that a width of rolls 109, 111 and/or a width of housing 107 dictates the surface coverage provided by barrier film 103. Accordingly, in some embodiments, a first width may be used for a first keypad device, such as a credit card reader, while in other embodiments a second width may be used for a second keypad device, such as an ATM machine. The width of the rolls, the housing, or both, are varied to retrofit a device, or manufacture a barrier film, that provides sanitary coverage for each intended use. A dimension of an extended position 101 is also adjustable, for example, by adjusting the degree of rotation of support strut 121 . Alternatively, a portion of housing 107 may be telescopic, or slide into or onto itself, to adjust a dimension of the housing.

Although rolls 109, 111 are preferably electronically fed, in at least one embodiment, a housing crank is included to allow a manual feed of the barrier film. This embodiment is preferably confined to outdoor uses where the crank is exposed to disinfecting UV sunlight.

Referring now also to Figure 2B in the drawings, preferably, one or more slots 116 are formed in the housing to receive a housing tray, which slides into and out of housing 107 to move the credit card reader, or other device, out from underneath barrier film 103. The tray may have a ball and spring detent, catch, a stop member, a flange, or an outturned edge that prevents the tray from being completely removed without angling the tray, pressing the ball and spring detent, releasing the catch, or manipulating the stop member, such that the tray is only removable after a deliberate removal step in addition to sliding the tray. Alternatively, the flanges or edges of the tray are built into the housing to ensure that the tray cannot be removed without disassembling one or more portions of the housing.

In some embodiments, housing 107 is configured to retrofit a pre-installed machine. For example, one or more slots 116 may be formed in housing 107 without a tray in order to receive a pre-installed machine onto/into the slot(s) of housing 107.

In some embodiments, housing 107 includes one or more cover plates (not shown in Figures 2A and 2B, see Figure 5 below) to cover and/or seal the components and compartments of the housing. In at least one embodiment, the cover plate(s) include one or more gaskets to seal at least one of the compartments of the housing. Alternatively, housing 107 is positioned on a counter and against a wall, using the counter to prevent access to the underside of housing 107 and the wall to prevent access to the open side of housing 107 depicted in Figures 2A and 2B. This type of mounting may save on materials required to form cover plates.

In some embodiments, a pre-installed keypad is mounted to a pole, such as a gate entry keypad. In these embodiments, one or both of slot 116 and compartment 113 are increased in size to accommodate sliding housing 107 onto the mounted keypad and/or pole. A number or count of slot 116 may also be increased to accommodate the attachment of housing 107 to the pre-mounted keypad.

In at least one embodiment, housing 107 is formed of two separate halves. For example, slot 116 may extend over an entire width of a first half of housing 107 and is formed to receive a receiving tab (not shown) formed in a second half of housing 107. The two halves may be separated to install and uninstall the housing. Although halves are expressly mentioned above, it is noted that other sectional divisions of housing 107 are encompassed by present application. For example, housing thirds, fourths, or fifths may be attachable, removable, and/or secured around a mounting pole of the keypad device.

Referring now also to Figure 3 in the drawings, another embodiment of an extended position 201 of a single layer 203 of barrier film positioned near a credit card reader 205 is depicted. A first plurality of layers 209 is connected at one end of housing 207 to single layer 203 above credit card reader 205. First plurality of layers 209 is further connected to another layer 211 at the other end of housing 207. Preferably, layer 211 comprises a drive roller, meaning a layer of barrier film is adhered to a roller, or a cylindrical tube, which is connected to a motorized shaft to retract the used or dirty barrier film onto the layer adhered to the roller. A friction element, such as an elastomer grip pad, a plastic, spandex, or rubber strip, a clamp, a set screw, a pin, or a similar fastener is used to retain the roller onto the motorized shaft. Preferably, when the drive roller associated with layer 211 initiates movement, simultaneously, a locking mechanism or a stop member (e.g., a rubber pad, electric brake, etc.) is activated on a roller associated with plurality of layers 209. This ensures that the plurality of layers freely rotate or freely move when the drive roller begins to retract the dirty barrier film onto layer 211. In at least one embodiment, the locking mechanism or stop member may be configured to selectively stop one, or both of, the plurality of layers and the roller on which plurality of layers 209 are mounted. Thus, the locking mechanism or stop member may help provide tension to the barrier film while a user is using the tactile surface beneath it.

As an alternative to a single drive roller configuration, in some embodiments, both layer 211 and the plurality of layers 209 are connected to drive rollers. Having at least two driver rollers provides the option of quicker dispensing/retracting of barrier film, redundancy in the event one drive roller stops working, reverse feed options, tensioning without a stop member, and other desirable advantages. Preferably, housing 207 includes two support struts 221a, 221b to extend the barrier film above tactile surface 205. Each support strut 221a, 221 b moves between angles of 30° to 45° above a bottom surface of housing 207. For example, support strut 121a moves downward from a “Roll-load” position to a “Film-use” position. In the “Filmuse” position, the freely-moving or free-pivoting roller onto which the first plurality of layers 209 is adhered is prevented from movement as first plurality of layers 209 are pressed against a back wall 225 of the housing. In the “Film-use” position, layer 211 may also be pressed against guide bar 227, maintaining proper tension of the barrier film while the user accesses credit card reader 205. After use, as determined by a delay time associated with the motion sensor, support struts 221 rotate up slightly, such as between 1 ° to 5° above the bottom surface of housing 207, allowing for guided retraction of the used portion of barrier film onto layer 211. Alternatively, only a single support strut 121 moves, while the other remains stationary, to retract the barrier film. For example, support strut 121 b may remain stationary, with the roller associated with layer 211 being pressed against guide bar 227 to ensure proper placement and tensioning of layer 203 onto layer 211. In yet another embodiment, the support struts 221 move only to replace layers 209 and 211 , and do not move during use. In this embodiment, a roll associated with first plurality of layers 209 may include a releasable ratchet or a pawl to prevent rotation while the user presses the keypad.

Referring now also to Figure 4 in the drawings, another embodiment of an extended position 301 of a multi-layer 303a, 303b barrier film positioned near a credit card reader 305 is depicted. The multi-layer 303a, 303b configuration is similar to a conveyor belt drive configuration, having layers that are fed above and beneath two or more rollers. Preferably, film canister 309 is connected at one end of housing 307 to multi-layer film 303 above credit card reader 305. Multi-layer barrier film 303 is further connected to a pivoting member 311 at the other end of housing 307. In a preferred embodiment, pivoting member 311 includes another canister. Alternatively, pivoting member 311 is a roller. Preferably, film canisters are pre-loaded and pre-stretched for quick refill, repair, or replacement, and may include a shaft, a roller, a ratchet, or another moving member within the housing of the canister. In embodiments having two canisters, reversible motors are positioned on either side of housing 307 to extend or retract the barrier film between the canisters.

Although the layers of the conveyor-type feed are depicted as in front of the keypad of credit card reader 305, other layer configurations are encompassed by the present application. For example, layer 303a may be positioned to be fed in front of the keypad, while layer 303b is fed and/or passes behind the back surface of the keypad. Such an orbiting or revolving configuration is advantageous for multiple reasons, including but not limited to, providing clean barrier film to devices with keypads on front and back sides, allowing additional cleaning of the barrier film when the back side of the device is behind a wall — the additional cleaning occurring while the barrier film passes behind the wall, and maximizing barrier film coverage over or around a device.

Film canister 309 includes a disinfector 310 disinfecting one or all of the multiple layers as they pass through the canister. Disinfector 310 may include a brush, sponge, wiper, fabric applicator, UV light, absorber, or combinations thereof. Film canister 309 may further include liquid compartments, dry compartments, motors, gears, tensioners, or combinations thereof to ensure the multi-layer barrier film is clean and substantially dry in extended position 301 .

In some embodiments, a thin film treatment is applied to multi-layer barrier film 303 having a single molecule or a single chain of molecules thickness. Despite the small amount applied, the treatment is sufficient to kill or nullify the effect of a majority of germs and bacteria. For example, an alcohol based treatment may be used. This ensures that there is no excess fluid leaked onto credit card reader 305, and that each use of multi-layer barrier film 303 is clean. The use of canister 309 enables reuse and recycling of multi-layer barrier film 303 until a pre-tested threshold number of cycles is met. Upon meeting the threshold number of cycles, an indicator 329 indicates that the multi-layer barrier film, canister, or other components need to be replaced. The threshold number of cycles may be based on total revolutions the barrier film has made since attaching mount 307 to the credit card reader and initializing the use of the barrier film. Preferably, a motion sensor 331 is used to determine when multi-layer barrier film 303 is cycled through canister 309. For example, in a first state, motion is detected and the motor is powered, but placed into a “Wait” state. During the wait state, motion sensor 331 is active. When motion is no longer detected (i.e., motion sensor 331 is inactive), the motor is removed from the “Wait” state, and enters an “Active” state. In some embodiments, a programmable time delay exists between the “Wait” and “Active” states. The motor remains in the “Active” state until a “Move time” associated with moving an extended length of barrier film 303 is obtained. This time will vary depending on a length of the barrier film over the device, a speed of the motor, a disinfectant time associated with applying treatment solution to sanitize the film, or combinations thereof. The motor is then placed in an “Inactive” state until the process starts again when motion is again detected by motion sensor 331 .

In at least one embodiment, the “Wait” state is present and issued as a command to the motor(s) of the barrier film until an “Authorization” is received from a user. For example, the housing of the barrier film may be equipped with a Bluetooth®, short- range wireless, infrared, or other radio frequency, optical, audio, or electro-magnetic communication device that is limited by a predetermined range, unique frequency, or type of modulation. When a user is within the predetermined range, or the user’s smart phone (or other mobile device) detects the unique frequency or type of modulation, then the barrier film communication device pairs with the mobile device of the user. This pairing enables the user the choice to authorize payment for dispensing the next clean layer(s) of the barrier film or to use the previously dispensed/used layer(s) of film. When payment is authorized, an amount is deducted from the user account/bill associated with using the keypad/tactile device on which the barrier film is located. The amount deducted reflects the cost of film, upkeep, maintenance, etc., and would likely range from about 0.01 to 0.04 cents. Alternatively, the deduction from the account/bill of the user is automatic if a sensor located on the barrier film mount detects use of a clean layer of barrier film.

Preferably, indicator 329 indicates more than just when components need to be replaced. For example, indicator 329 may include multiple different colored LEDs, each LED having a different meaning, mode, or state associated with it. A red LED may indicate an “Active” state of the motor, a green LED — or an LED without any power — may indicate an “Inactive” state of the motor. Various combinations of states, modes, and LED indicators beyond those listed are encompassed herein.

Referring now also to Figure 5 in the drawings, an extended position 401a of a barrier film 403 is illustrated. Barrier film 403 is positioned adjacent a touch screen 405 of a POS device using a multi-piece housing 407. Multi-piece housing 407 includes corner brackets 407a, 407b, 407c, and 407d. Corner brackets 407a and 407d support the multiple clean layers of film roll 409, while corner brackets 407b and 407c support the one or more layers of roll 411.

Preferably, a protective cover 503 is placed onto, over, or adjacent corner brackets 407 to prevent unintended access to moving parts of rolls 409 and 411. Although protective cover 503 is depicted as a single, unitary structure, multiple units or segments may be used so that each of the corner brackets and rolls are covered. At least one portion of protective cover 503 includes slots or apertures 516 for providing visible access to components of the brackets, such as actuator 431 , LED indicator, or motion sensor (see Figure 11 , below).

In some embodiments, barrier film is used outdoors, as with an outdoor kiosk. In these embodiments, cover 503 is transparent in order to allow UV rays from the sun to pass through the cover and help to disinfect barrier film 403 within the cover. It is important to note that cover 503 may be extruded and cut from a continuous section of extrusion materials, such as polyethylene, polypropylene, or polyvinyl chloride. Alternatively, for barrier films used indoors, cover is made from folding a sheet of sheet metal or aluminum into a desired shape and is not transparent. Other materials for the cover include, but are not limited to, pliable materials including synthetic and nonsynthetic polymers, such as rubber, spandex, and plastic.

Preferably, barrier film 403 includes an indicator 429a applied to a surface of the barrier, such as an adhesive sticker, printed words, a colored portion of the film, or combinations thereof. Preferably, multiple indicators 429 are used at intervals of the film, where each interval corresponds at least to a height dimension of touch screen 405, or a dimension of another device to which the film is applied.

Preferably, indicators 429 provide an operator visual indications of the location of potentially dirty portions of barrier film 403 relative to clean portions. For example, a child may inadvertently pull excess barrier film 403 from either of rolls 409 and 411. A nearby operator wearing gloves may then activate actuator 431 to place the feed motor into an “Active” state, until one or more indicators 429 have been rolled onto roll 411 and tension exists between roll 409 and roll 411 . Upon positioning indicators 429 onto a roll and upon obtaining tension between the rolls, the operator releases actuator 431 , and the motor enters an “Inactive” or a “Wait” state. Alternatively, housing 407 includes a tensioner and a sensor that determines when tension is removed and/or when tension exists between roll 409 and roll 411. When tension between the rolls is removed beyond a predetermined threshold, tensioner and sensor activates the feed motor. When tension exists at or beyond a predetermined threshold, the tensioner and senor deactivate the feed motor. It is important to note that actuator 431 is optional when the tensioner and sensor are configured to automatically (i.e., by sensor and/or after a trigger event) maintain the predetermined tension threshold between rolls 409 and 411.

Referring now also to Figure 6 in the drawings, a retracted position 400a of barrier film 403 is illustrated. The barrier film 403 is depicted including an exploded view of corner brackets 407a and 407b. Corner bracket 407a includes a port for a power source 433 to charge, recharge, or otherwise provide power to the motor within the corner mount. Although power source 433 is depicted as a receiving port for an AC/DC power adapter, other power sources are encompassed, including but not limited to, internal power sources, such as batteries, external sources, such as a cable connector to draw power from the device to which it is attached, and renewable power sources, such as solar panels for outdoor kiosks. Figure 6 also depicts dirty indicator 429a after it has been retracted onto roll 411 , and two clean indicators 429b, 429c. Referring now also to Figure 7 in the drawings, an exploded view of corner brackets 407c and 407d is illustrated. Corner bracket 407c includes free-moving roller 722 and guide bar 727 to provide or maintain tension in barrier film 403. Corner bracket 407d includes one or more mounting fasteners 721. Mounting fastener 721 includes a rubberized head, or a polymer dipped head, to securely mount roll 409, while simultaneously reducing a negative impact to a surface of touch screen 405.

Preferably, corner brackets 407 are adjustable. For example, mounting fasteners 721 are loosened and the corner bracket is slid into a desired position, then the mounting fasteners 721 are re-tightened. Although not depicted, one or more spacers, such as washers or O-rings, are placed adjacent roller 722, roll 411 and/or roll 409 to maintain a desired location relative to touch screen 405.

Referring now also to Figure 8 in the drawings, another extended position 401b of barrier film 403 is illustrated. Indicator 429c has been extended into extended position 401b, and is depicted relative to a mounting surface, such as back surface 425, of touch screen 405.

Referring now also to Figure 9 in the drawings, a front, elevational view of another retracted position 400b of barrier film 403 is illustrated. In retracted position, dirty indicator 429c has been retracted onto roll 411 , and two clean indicators 429d, 429e are depicted relative to touch screen 405. An LED indicator 929 is depicted above motion sensor 931 on corner bracket 407a.

Referring now also to Figure 10 in the drawings, an extended position 501 of a barrier film 503 is illustrated. Barrier film 503 is positioned above tactile surface 505 corresponding to a light switch. At opposite ends of the light switch are wall supports 521a and 521 b mounted to wall 1025. Although not shown, within each of wall supports 521 is a wire, or another tensioning element, to provide tension to barrier film 503 and maintain the tension between wall supports 521a and 521 b.

Referring now also to Figure 11 in the drawings, a retracted position 500 of barrier film 503 is illustrated. Barrier film 503 is depicted relative to back surface 1125 of wall 1025. Dirty roll 509 and clean roll 511 of barrier film 503 are mounted to back surface 1325 using wall mounts 507a, 507b, 507c, and 507d. Barrier film 503 passes through wall 1025 by way of a feed outlet (not shown) and a feed inlet 519. Preferably, this embodiment is manufactured together with wall 1025.

Referring now also to Figure 12 in the drawings, an embodiment of an extended position 601 of a barrier film 603 is illustrated. Barrier film 603 is extended above keypad 605 by use of retrofitting wall mounts 607a and 607b, which are useful to retrofit a preexisting wall 1225 with barrier film 603.

Referring now also to Figure 13 in the drawings, an extended position 701 of barrier film 703 is illustrated. A keypad 705 of an ATM machine has barrier film 703 extended above it and extended between mounting cartridges 707a and 707b. For retrofitting embodiments, mounting cartridges 707 preferably use magnetic mounts to mount to a metal surface of the ATM machine and adhesive mounting strips if the ATM has only plastic surfaces at the ends of keypad 705. Other mounting means, including clamps, screws, bolts, and nuts are encompassed herein. Alternatively, mounting cartridges are manufactured together with the machine into the housing of the machine. Preferably, at least one cartridge, e.g., 707b, is adjacent a wall 1325 of the ATM.

Referring now also to Figure 14 in the drawings, preferably, mounting cartridges 707 include multiple square or rectilinear layers 709, 711 of barrier film 703 folded or stacked on or against each other within the cartridge. Barrier film 503 passes between cartridges 707 by way of a feed outlet 717 and a feed inlet (not shown).

Referring now also to Figure 15 in the drawings, in a preferred embodiment, the motor within the motor housing 107 is connected to a power source 1552. The power source 1552 may be a battery, the POS device, a solar panel, or combinations thereof. For example, a solar panel may be coupled with a battery powered motor in order to maintain a voltage of the battery at or above a voltage threshold.

A control system 1503 is connected to one or more barrier films in a group 1554 of barrier films. Control system 1503 is adjustable, enabling the operator or administrator to adjust parameters such as replacement intervals (e.g., reposition film between every single use, after every five, six, or seven uses, etc.), receivable/sendable control commands based on network configuration, alert/notification frequency, how the motor moving the barrier film is powered (e.g., solar, battery, AC, etc.), how motors are activated (e.g., each time a receipt is printed, by motion sensor, by timer, by combinations thereof), and power down/up sequencing (e.g., the film is cleaned initially at power up and/or power down after each day), and similar control parameters.

In at least one embodiment power source 1552 is a 12 volt power source. The power source activates the motor in housing 107 to retract barrier film 103. A time associated with retracting about one foot of film is about 0.6 seconds using the 12 volt power source. It is noted that different motor and power source combinations may yield different retraction times, each of which are encompassed in the present application. In some embodiments, the barrier film is attached to a wall, such that the power source may include a 110-220 volt source, such that the barrier film is configured with an adaptor, resistor, fuse, capacitor, or a combination thereof.

In a preferred embodiment, a barrier film 103 or a group of barrier films 1554 at one or more locations 1556 are configured for remote operation of the barrier film(s). In other embodiments, barrier film 103 or a group of barrier films 1554 are connected to a timer 1557 to activate the motor(s) at a specified time and/or deactivate motor(s) at a specified time. In at least one embodiment, barrier film 103 or the group of barrier films 1554 uses both remote operation and timers. For example, a simple on/off remote controller that uses close-range or near field electromagnetic frequencies may be electrically coupled to the motor and/or the POS device to activate the motion sensors (e.g., at sunrise), and the timer 1557 is set to turn the feeders off at a different time than when the motion sensors were activated started (e.g., when motion is not being detected). By way of another example, barrier film 103 may be a node of a distributed network 1500 of connected barrier films. In this embodiment, the remote control may be a mobile device 1558, such as a smart phone or tablet, a desktop or personal computer 1560, such as a laptop, a server 1562, or a combination thereof. In a preferred embodiment, the nodes of the distributed network 1500 are connected using a network 1564. For example, the network may be a controlled area network (CAN), a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), a mobile network, or a combination thereof.

In a preferred embodiment, the remote controller includes a display screen 1566. The display screen 1566 provides useful indications, control commands, status reports, and/or alerts. For example, an interactive display element 1568 may enable a user to activate all the motion sensor(s), turn off motion sensor(s), start individual motion sensors, stop or delay all motion sensing, retract individual films, advance individual films, display status reports of one or all locations, display empty/full alerts of rolls or canisters, authorize payment for dispensing a new portion of film, and combinations thereof. It is noted that a server 1562 may store and control administrative features, such as passwords, locking, access controls, security features, adding/removing user accounts, and other similar features.

It is apparent that an assembly with significant advantages has been described and illustrated. The particular embodiments disclosed above are illustrative only, as the embodiments may be modified and practiced in different but equivalent manners apparent to those skilled in the art having the benefit of the teachings herein. It is therefore evident that the particular embodiments disclosed above may be altered or modified, and all such variations are considered within the scope and spirit of the application. Accordingly, the protection sought herein is as set forth in the description. Although the present embodiments are shown above, they are not limited to just these embodiments, but are amenable to various changes and modifications without departing from the spirit thereof.

It is apparent that an invention with significant advantages has been described and illustrated. Although the present application is shown in a limited number of forms, it is not limited to just these forms, but is amenable to various changes and modifications without departing from the spirit thereof.