U.S. patent application number 11/344331 was filed with the patent office on 2006-08-03 for array of articles of manufacture.
Invention is credited to Michael Ricardo Burns, Thorsten Knobloch, Jennifer Lori Steeves-Kiss, Illya Torrance Thomas.
Application Number | 20060168914 11/344331 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 36406080 |
Filed Date | 2006-08-03 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060168914 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Steeves-Kiss; Jennifer Lori ;
et al. |
August 3, 2006 |
Array of articles of manufacture
Abstract
An array of articles of manufacture, more particularly, an array
of sanitary tissue products each of which comprises at least one
value of a common intensive property that is different from the
others is provided.
Inventors: |
Steeves-Kiss; Jennifer Lori;
(Cincinnati, OH) ; Thomas; Illya Torrance;
(Cincinnati, OH) ; Knobloch; Thorsten; (Loveland,
OH) ; Burns; Michael Ricardo; (Cincinnati,
OH) |
Correspondence
Address: |
THE PROCTER & GAMBLE COMPANY;INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY DIVISION
WINTON HILL TECHNICAL CENTER - BOX 161
6110 CENTER HILL AVENUE
CINCINNATI
OH
45224
US
|
Family ID: |
36406080 |
Appl. No.: |
11/344331 |
Filed: |
January 31, 2006 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60648569 |
Jan 31, 2005 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
53/443 ; 162/125;
428/537.5 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65D 71/00 20130101;
Y10T 428/31993 20150401; A47K 10/16 20130101; B65D 2201/00
20130101; B65D 2203/00 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
053/443 ;
162/125; 428/537.5 |
International
Class: |
B65B 21/06 20060101
B65B021/06 |
Claims
1. An array of sanitary tissue products comprising two or more
multi-ply sanitary tissue products each of which comprises at least
one value of a common intensive property that is different from the
others, wherein the two or more multi-ply sanitary tissue products
are marketed by one company.
2. The array of sanitary tissue products according to claim 1
wherein the array further comprises at least one single-ply
sanitary tissue product.
3. The array of sanitary tissue products according to claim 2
wherein the at least one single-ply sanitary tissue product
comprises at least one value of a common intensive property that is
different from at least one of the two or more multi-ply sanitary
tissue products.
4. The array of sanitary tissue products according to claim 2
wherein the at least one single-ply sanitary tissue product
comprises at least one value of a common intensive property that is
different from the two or more multi-ply sanitary tissue
products.
5. The array of sanitary tissue products according to claim 2
wherein the array comprises two or more single-ply sanitary tissue
products each of which comprises at least one value of a common
intensive property that is different from the others.
6. The array of sanitary tissue products according to claim 1
wherein each sanitary tissue product is packaged in a package
comprising a common single source identifier.
7. The array of sanitary tissue products according to claim 6
wherein the common single source identifier comprises a
trademark.
8. The array of sanitary tissue products according to claim 6
wherein the package further comprises a separate, independent
product designation by which a consumer can differentiate one of
the sanitary tissue products from another.
9. The array of sanitary tissue products according to claim 6
wherein at least one package further comprises a non-verbal cue
that connotes strength.
10. The array of sanitary tissue products according to claim 6
wherein at least one package further comprises a non-verbal cue
that connotes softness.
11. The array of sanitary tissue products according to claim 6
wherein at least one package further comprises a representation of
a texture present on the sanitary tissue product within the
package.
12. The array of sanitary tissue products according to claim 1
wherein the common intensive property is selected from the group
consisting of: lint, softness, tensile strength, basis weight,
texture, absorbency and mixtures thereof.
13. The array of sanitary tissue products according to claim 1
wherein at least two of the sanitary tissue products are priced
differently.
14. The array of sanitary tissue products according to claim 13
wherein each of the sanitary tissue products is priced differently
from the others.
15. The array of sanitary tissue products according to claim 6
wherein the package further comprises information about at least
two other sanitary tissue products within the array of sanitary
tissue products.
16. The array of sanitary tissue products according to claim 6
wherein the package further comprises information about various
roll sizes in which the sanitary tissue product within the package
is available.
17. The array of sanitary tissue products according to claim 1
wherein the sanitary tissue products comprise dry and wet sanitary
tissue products.
18. A process for displaying an array of sanitary tissue products,
the process comprising the step of displaying an array of sanitary
tissue products comprising two or more multi-ply sanitary tissue
products each of which comprises at least one value of a common
intensive property that is different from the others, wherein the
two or more multi-ply sanitary tissue products are marketed by one
company, wherein the two or more multi-ply sanitary tissue products
are packaged in a package such that a consumer desiring to purchase
one of the multi-ply sanitary tissue products has the opportunity
to choose one of the two or more multi-ply sanitary tissue
products.
19. A process for making an array of sanitary tissue products, the
process comprising the steps of: a. producing a first multi-ply
sanitary tissue product; b. producing a second multi-ply sanitary
tissue product; and c. packaging the first and second multi-ply
sanitary tissue products in packages comprising a common single
source identifier, wherein the first and second multi-ply sanitary
tissue products exhibit at least one value of a common intensive
property that is different from the others.
20. An array of sanitary tissue products made by the process
according to claim 19.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Application No. 60/648,569 filed Jan. 31, 2005.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to an array of articles of
manufacture, more particularly, to an array of sanitary tissue
products each of which comprises a different common intensive
property value different from the others.
BACKGOUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] In the past, consumers of articles of manufacture,
especially sanitary tissue products, have had the opportunity to
purchase articles of manufacture that have similar common intensive
property values but have differed in physical form and/or additives
contained within the articles of manufacture. For example, sanitary
tissue products are currently offered in physical forms that vary
by number of plies, most often one-ply or two-ply. In addition,
some sanitary tissue products may add additives, such as lotion, to
the fibrous structures that make up the sanitary tissue products.
For example, Charmin.RTM. brand toilet tissue comes in a two-ply
physical form under the name Charmin.RTM. Ultra, whereas its
one-ply physical form is marketed under the name Charmin.RTM.
and/or Charmin.RTM. Plus and/or Charmin.RTM. Scents.
[0004] It is believed that different consumers, especially
consumers of sanitary tissue products, desire different common
intensive property values in the articles of manufacture that they
purchase. However, conventional product and marketing strategies
utilized by producers of articles of manufacture, especially of
sanitary tissue products, fail to satisfy the consumers'
desires.
[0005] Accordingly, there is a need for an array of articles of
manufacture each of which comprises a different common intensive
property value different from the others, processes for displaying
such an array for the consumer to choose amongst the array of
articles of manufacture and processes for making the array of
articles of manufacture.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] The present invention fulfills the need described above by
providing an array of articles of manufacture that address the
consumers' desires.
[0007] In one example of the present invention, an array of
sanitary tissue products comprising two or more multi-ply sanitary
tissue products each of which comprises at least one value of a
common intensive property that is different from the others,
wherein the two or more multi-ply sanitary tissue products are
marketed by one company, is provided.
[0008] In another example of the present invention, a process for
displaying an array of sanitary tissue products, the process
comprising the step of displaying an array of sanitary tissue
products comprising two or more multi-ply sanitary tissue products
each of which comprises at least one value of a common intensive
property that is different from the others, wherein the two or more
multi-ply sanitary tissue products are marketed by one company,
wherein the two or more multi-ply sanitary tissue products are
packaged in a package such that a consumer desiring to purchase one
of the multi-ply sanitary tissue products has the opportunity to
choose one of the two or more multi-ply sanitary tissue products,
is provided.
[0009] In even another example of the present invention, a process
for making an array of sanitary tissue products, the process
comprising the steps of:
[0010] a. producing a first multi-ply sanitary tissue product;
[0011] b. producing a second multi-ply sanitary tissue product;
and
[0012] d. packaging the first and second multi-ply sanitary tissue
products in packages comprising a common single source identifier,
wherein the first and second multi-ply sanitary tissue products
exhibit at least one value of a common intensive property that is
different from the others, is provided.
[0013] In still another example of the present invention, an array
of articles of manufacture each of which comprises a different
common intensive property value different from the others, wherein
each of the three or more articles of manufacture are packaged in a
package comprising a common single source identifier, is
provided.
[0014] In yet another example of the present invention, a process
for displaying an array of articles of manufacture, the process
comprising the step of displaying an array of articles of
manufacture comprising three or more articles of manufacture each
of which comprises a different common intensive property different
from the others, wherein each of the three or more articles of
manufacture are packaged in a package comprising a common single
source identifier such that a consumer desiring to purchase one of
the articles of manufacture has the opportunity to choose one of
the three or more articles of manufacture, is provided.
[0015] In even yet another example of the present invention, a
process for making an array of articles of manufacture, the process
comprising the steps of:
[0016] a. producing a first article of manufacture comprising a
first common intensive property value;
[0017] b. producing a second article of manufacture comprising a
second common intensive property value different from the first
common intensive property value;
[0018] c. producing a third article of manufacture comprising a
third common intensive property value different from the first and
second common intensive property values; and
[0019] d. packaging the first, second and third articles of
manufacture in packages comprising a common single source
identifier and a separate, independent product designation that
delineates the first, second and third articles of manufacture from
each other, is provided.
[0020] Accordingly, the present invention provides an array of
articles of manufacture, such as an array of sanitary tissue
products that address the consumers' desires, a process for
displaying such an array and a process for producing such an
array.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0021] FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of an array of articles
of manufacture in accordance with the present invention.
[0022] FIG. 2 is a schematic illustration of an article of
manufacture useful in an array of articles of manufacture in
accordance with the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Definitions
[0023] "Array of Articles of Manufacture" as used herein means a
group of consumer products/goods that provide a similar benefit to
a consumer. In other words, an array of articles of manufacture
includes a group of consumer products/goods within a category such
as sanitary tissue products. In one case, such a group of consumer
products/goods includes those products/goods residing on the same
shelf in a retail store and/or in the same aisle in a retail store.
For example, sanitary tissue products are an array of articles of
manufacture.
[0024] "Fiber" as used herein means an elongate particulate having
an apparent length greatly exceeding its apparent diameter, i.e. a
length to diameter ratio of at least about 10. Fibers having a
non-circular cross-section are common; the "diameter" in this case
may be considered to be the diameter of a circle having
cross-sectional area equal to the cross-sectional area of the
fiber. More specifically, as used herein, "fiber" refers to
papermaking fibers. The present invention contemplates the use of a
variety of papermaking fibers, such as, for example, natural fibers
or synthetic fibers, or any other suitable fibers, and any
combination thereof.
[0025] Natural papermaking fibers useful in the present invention
include animal fibers, mineral fibers, plant fibers and mixtures
thereof. Animal fibers may, for example, be selected from the group
consisting of: wool, silk and mixtures thereof. Plant fibers may,
for example, be derived from a plant selected from the group
consisting of: wood, cotton, cotton linters, flax, sisal, abaca,
hemp, hesperaloe, jute, bamboo, bagasse, kudzu, corn, sorghum,
gourd, agave, loofah and mixtures thereof.
[0026] Wood fibers; often referred to as wood pulps include
chemical pulps, such as kraft (sulfate) and sulfite pulps, as well
as mechanical and semi-chemical pulps including, for example,
groundwood, thermomechanical pulp, chemi-mechanical pulp (CMP),
chemi-thermomechanical pulp (CTMP), neutral semi-chemical sulfite
pulp (NSCS). Chemical pulps, however, may be preferred since they
impart a superior tactile sense of softness to tissue sheets made
therefrom. Pulps derived from both deciduous trees (hereinafter,
also referred to as "hardwood") and coniferous trees (hereinafter,
also referred to as "softwood") may be utilized. The hardwood and
softwood fibers can be blended, or alternatively, can be deposited
in layers to provide a stratified and/or layered web. U.S. Pat. No.
4,300,981 and U.S. Pat. No. 3,994,771 are incorporated herein by
reference for the purpose of disclosing layering of hardwood and
softwood fibers. Also applicable to the present invention are
fibers derived from recycled paper, which may contain any or all of
the above categories as well as other non-fibrous materials such as
fillers and adhesives used to facilitate the original
papermaking.
[0027] The wood pulp fibers may be short (typical of hardwood
fibers) or long (typical of softwood fibers). Nonlimiting examples
of short fibers include fibers derived from a fiber source selected
from the group consisting of Acacia, Eucalyptus, Maple, Oak, Aspen,
Birch, Cottonwood, Alder, Ash, Cherry, Elm, Hickory, Poplar, Gum,
Walnut, Locust, Sycamore, Beech, Catalpa, Sassafras, Gmelina,
Albizia, Anthocephalus, and Magnolia. Nonlimiting examples of long
fibers include fibers derived from Pine, Spruce, Fir, Tamarack,
Hemlock, Cypress, and Cedar. Softwood fibers derived from the kraft
process and originating from more-northern climates may be
preferred. These are often referred to as northern softwood kraft
(NSK) pulps.
[0028] Synthetic fibers may be selected from the group consisting
of: wet spun fibers, dry spun fibers, melt spun (including melt
blown) fibers, synthetic pulp fibers and mixtures thereof.
Synthetic fibers may, for example, be comprised of cellulose (often
referred to as "rayon"); cellulose derivatives such as esters,
ether, or nitrous derivatives; polyolefins (including polyethylene
and polypropylene); polyesters (including polyethylene
terephthalate); polyamides (often referred to as "nylon");
acrylics; non-cellulosic polymeric carbohydrates (such as starch,
chitin and chitin derivatives such as chitosan); and mixtures
thereof.
[0029] "Fibrous structure" as used herein means a structure that
comprises one or more fibers. Nonlimiting examples of processes for
making fibrous structures include known wet-laid papermaking
processes and air-laid papermaking processes. Such processes
typically include steps of preparing a fiber composition,
oftentimes referred to as a fiber slurry in wet-laid processes,
either wet or dry, and then depositing a plurality of fibers onto a
forming wire or belt such that an embryonic fibrous structure is
formed, drying and/or bonding the fibers together such that a
fibrous structure is formed, and/or further processing the fibrous
structure such that a finished fibrous structure is formed. For
example, in typical papermaking processes, the finished fibrous
structure is the fibrous structure that is wound on the reel at the
end of papermaking, but before converting thereof into a sanitary
tissue product. In one example, the fibrous structure is a wet-laid
fibrous structure.
[0030] "Sanitary tissue product" comprises one or more finished
fibrous structures, converted or not, that is useful as a wiping
implement for post-urinary and post-bowel movement cleaning (toilet
tissue), for otorhinolaryngological discharges (facial tissue), and
multi-functional absorbent and cleaning uses (absorbent
towels).
[0031] "Ply" or "Plies" as used herein means an individual finished
fibrous structure optionally to be disposed in a substantially
contiguous, face-to-face relationship with other plies, forming a
multiple ply ("multi-ply") finished fibrous structure product
and/or sanitary tissue product. It is also contemplated that a
single fibrous structure can effectively form two "plies" or
multiple "plies", for example, by being folded on itself.
[0032] "Intensive Property" as used herein means a property of a
fibrous structure and/or sanitary tissue product, wherein the
property is selected from the group consisting of: lint, softness,
basis weight, texture, tensile strength, absorbency and mixtures
thereof.
[0033] "Value of a Common Intensive Property" as used herein means
a measured value of an intensive property that is present in two or
more articles of manufacture.
[0034] "Basis Weight" as used herein is the weight per unit area of
a sample reported in lbs/3000 ft.sup.2 or g/m.sup.2. Basis weight
is measured by preparing one or more samples of a certain area
(m.sup.2) and weighing the sample(s) of a fibrous structure
according to the present invention and/or a sanitary tissue product
comprising such fibrous structure on a top loading balance with a
minimum resolution of 0.01 g. The balance is protected from air
drafts and other disturbances using a draft shield. Weights are
recorded when the readings on the balance become constant. The
average weight (g) is calculated and the average area of the
samples (m.sup.2). The basis weight (g/m.sup.2) is calculated by
dividing the average weight (g) by the average area of the samples
(m.sup.2). In one embodiment, the fibrous structures and/or
sanitary tissue products according to the present invention exhibit
a basis weight of from about 10 g/m.sup.2 to about 120 g/m.sup.2
and/or from about 20 g/m.sup.2 to about 60 g/m.sup.2.
[0035] "Machine Direction" or "MD" as used herein means the
direction parallel to the flow of the fibrous structure through the
papermaking machine and/or product manufacturing equipment.
[0036] "Cross Machine Direction" or "CD" as used herein means the
direction perpendicular to the machine direction in the same plane
of the fibrous structure and/or sanitary tissue product comprising
the fibrous structure.
[0037] "Dry Tensile Strength" (or simply "Tensile Strength" as used
herein) of a fibrous structure and/or sanitary tissue product is
measured as follows. One (1) inch by five (5) inch (2.5
cm.times.12.7 cm) strips of fibrous structure and/or sanitary
tissue product are provided. The strip is placed on an electronic
tensile tester Model 1122 commercially available from Instron
Corp., Canton, Mass. in a conditioned room at a temperature of
73.degree. F..+-.4.degree. F. (about 28.degree. C..+-.2.2.degree.
C.) and a relative humidity of 50%.+-.10%. The crosshead speed of
the tensile tester is 2.0 inches per minute (about 5.1 cm/minute)
and the gauge length is 4.0 inches (about 10.2 cm). The Dry Tensile
Strength can be measured in any direction by this method. The
"Total Dry Tensile Strength" or "TDT" is the special case
determined by the arithmetic total of MD and CD tensile strengths
of the strips.
[0038] "Absorbency" as used herein means the characteristic of the
fibrous structure which allows it to take up and retain fluids,
particularly water and aqueous solutions and suspensions. In
evaluating the absorbency of paper, not only is the absolute
quantity of fluid a given amount of paper will hold significant,
but the rate at which the paper will absorb the fluid is also.
Absorbency is measured herein by the Horizontal Full Sheet (HFS)
test method described in the Test Methods section herein. In one
embodiment, the fibrous structures and/or sanitary tissue products
according to the present invention exhibits an HFS absorbency of
greater than about 5 g/g and/or greater than about 8 g/g and/or
greater than about 10 g/g up to about 100 g/g. In another
nonlimiting embodiment, the fibrous structures and/or sanitary
tissue products according to the present invention exhibit an HFS
absorbency of from about 12 g/g to about 20 g/g.
[0039] "Lint" as used herein means any material that originated
from a finished fibrous structure and/or sanitary tissue product
comprising such finished fibrous structure that remains on a
surface after which the finished fibrous structure and/or sanitary
tissue product comprising such finished fibrous structure has come
into contact. The lint value of a finished fibrous structure and/or
sanitary tissue product comprising such finished fibrous structure
is determined according to the Lint Test Method described
herein.
[0040] "Texture" as used herein means any pattern present in the
fibrous structure. For example, a pattern may be imparted to the
fibrous structure during the papermaking process, such as during a
through-air-drying step. A pattern may also be imparted to the
fibrous structure by embossing the finished fibrous structure
during the converting process.
[0041] "Softness" of a fibrous structure according to the present
invention and/or a paper product comprising such fibrous structure
is determined as follows. Ideally, prior to softness testing, the
samples to be tested should be conditioned according to Tappi
Method #T4020M-88. Here, samples are preconditioned for 24 hours at
a relative humidity level of 10 to 35% and within a temperature
range of 22.degree. C. to 40.degree. C. After this preconditioning
step, samples should be conditioned for 24 hours at a relative
humidity of 48% to 52% and within a temperature range of 22.degree.
C. to 24.degree. C. Ideally, the softness panel testing should take
place within the confines of a constant temperature and humidity
room. If this is not feasible, all samples, including the controls,
should experience identical environmental exposure conditions.
[0042] Softness testing is performed as a paired comparison in a
form similar to that described in "Manual on Sensory Testing
Methods", ASTM Special Technical Publication 434, published by the
American Society For Testing and Materials 1968 and is incorporated
herein by reference. Softness is evaluated by subjective testing
using what is referred to as a Paired Difference Test. The method
employs a standard external to the test material itself. For
tactile perceived softness two samples are presented such that the
subject cannot see the samples, and the subject is required to
choose one of them on the basis of tactile softness. The result of
the test is reported in what is referred to as Panel Score Unit
(PSU). With respect to softness testing to obtain the softness data
reported herein in PSU, a number of softness panel tests are
performed. In each test ten practiced softness judges are asked to
rate the relative softness of three sets of paired samples. The
pairs of samples are judged one pair at a time by each judge: one
sample of each pair being designated X and the other Y. Briefly,
each X sample is graded against its paired Y sample as follows:
[0043] 1. a grade of plus one is given if X is judged to may be a
little softer than Y, and a grade of minus one is given if Y is
judged to may be a little softer than X;
[0044] 2. a grade of plus two is given if X is judged to surely be
a little softer than Y, and a grade of minus two is given if Y is
judged to surely be a little softer than X;
[0045] 3. a grade of plus three is given to X if it is judged to be
a lot softer than Y, and a grade of minus three is given if Y is
judged to be a lot softer than X; and, lastly:
[0046] 4. a grade of plus four is given to X if it is judged to be
a whole lot softer than Y, and a grade of minus 4 is given if Y is
judged to be a whole lot softer than X.
[0047] The grades are averaged and the resultant value is in units
of PSU. The resulting data are considered the results of one panel
test. If more than one sample pair is evaluated then all sample
pairs are rank ordered according to their grades by paired
statistical analysis. Then, the rank is shifted up or down in value
as required to give a zero PSU value to which ever sample is chosen
to be the zero-base standard. The other samples then have plus or
minus values as determined by their relative grades with respect to
the zero base standard. The number of panel tests performed and
averaged is such that about 0.2 PSU represents a significant
difference in subjectively perceived softness.
[0048] All percentages and ratios are calculated by weight unless
otherwise indicated. All percentages and ratios are calculated
based on the total composition unless otherwise indicated.
[0049] Unless otherwise noted, all component or composition levels
are in reference to the active level of that component or
composition, and are exclusive of impurities, for example, residual
solvents or by-products, which may be present in commercially
available sources.
Array of Articles of Manufacture
[0050] In one example, an array of articles of manufacture in
accordance with the present invention may comprise a plurality of
single- and/or multi-ply sanitary tissue products. The sanitary
tissue products may be dry and/or wet. The sanitary tissue products
may come in a variety of roll sizes and may be packaged in
different numbers, such as four, six, nine, twenty-four, and the
like. The plurality of sanitary tissue products may displayed on a
shelf at a point of sale, such as within a retail store, in such as
way that the different sanitary tissue products within the array
are visible to a consumer during the consumer's purchasing decision
process.
[0051] The array of sanitary tissue products of the present
invention may comprise two or more multi-ply sanitary tissue
products, such as two or more two-ply sanitary tissue products. The
array may comprise at least one single-ply sanitary tissue product.
The array may comprise a mixture of single-ply and multi-ply
sanitary tissue products.
[0052] The array of sanitary tissue products may comprise two or
more sanitary tissue products each of which comprises at least one
value of a common intensive property that is different from at
least the others.
[0053] The array of sanitary tissue products may comprise a
single-ply sanitary tissue product that comprises at least one
value of a common intensive property that is different from at
least one multi-ply sanitary tissue product within the array of
sanitary tissue products.
[0054] The array of sanitary tissue products may comprises a
single-ply sanitary tissue product that comprises at least one
value of a common intensive property that is different from the two
or more multi-ply sanitary tissue products within the array of
sanitary tissue products.
[0055] The array of sanitary tissue products may comprise two or
more single-ply sanitary tissue products each of which comprises at
least one value of a common intensive property that is different
from the others.
[0056] The sanitary tissue products within the array of sanitary
tissue products may differ in at least one value of a common
intensive property selected from the group consisting of: lint,
softness, tensile strength, basis weight, texture, absorbency and
mixtures thereof.
[0057] The two or more sanitary tissue products within the array of
sanitary tissue products may differ in price, for example differ in
retail price to a consumer.
[0058] The sanitary tissue products within the array of sanitary
tissue products may differ in price from each other, for example
differ in retail price to a consumer.
Fibrous Structures
[0059] Nonlimiting types of finished fibrous structures according
to the present invention include conventionally felt-pressed
fibrous structures; pattern densified fibrous structures; and
high-bulk, uncompacted fibrous structures. The fibrous structures
may be of a homogenous or multilayered (two or three or more
layers) construction; and the sanitary tissue products made
therefrom may be of a single-ply or multi-ply construction.
[0060] The finished fibrous structures and/or sanitary tissue
products of the present invention may exhibit a basis weight of
between about 10 g/m.sup.2 to about 120 g/m.sup.2 and/or from about
14 g/m.sup.2 to about 80 g/m.sup.2 and/or from about 20 g/m.sup.2
to about 60 g/m.sup.2.
[0061] The finished fibrous structures and/or sanitary tissue
products of the present invention may exhibit a total dry tensile
strength of greater than about 59 g/cm (150 g/in) and/or from about
78 g/cm (200 g/in) to about 394 g/cm (1000 g/in) and/or from about
98 g/cm (250 g/in) to about 335 g/cm (850 g/in).
[0062] The finished fibrous structure and/or sanitary tissue
products of the present invention may exhibit a density of less
than about 0.60 g/cm.sup.3 and/or less than about 0.30 g/cm.sup.3
and/or less than about 0.20 g/cm.sup.3 and/or less than about 0.10
g/cm.sup.3 and/or less than about 0.07 g/cm.sup.3 and/or less than
about 0.05 g/cm.sup.3 and/or from about 0.01 g/cm.sup.3 to about
0.20 g/cm.sup.3 and/or from about 0.02 g/cm.sup.3 to about 0.10
g/cm.sup.3.
[0063] In one example, the finished fibrous structure of the
present invention is a pattern densified fibrous structure
characterized by having a relatively high-bulk region of relatively
low fiber density and an array of densified regions of relatively
high fiber density. The high-bulk field is characterized as a field
of pillow regions. The densified zones are referred to as knuckle
regions. The knuckle regions exhibit greater density than the
pillow regions. The densified zones may be discretely spaced within
the high-bulk field or may be interconnected, either fully or
partially, within the high-bulk field. Typically, from about 8% to
about 65% of the fibrous structure surface comprises densified
knuckles, the knuckles may exhibit a relative density of at least
125% of the density of the high-bulk field. Processes for making
pattern densified fibrous structures are well known in the art as
exemplified in U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,301,746, 3,974,025, 4,191,609 and
4,637,859.
Article of Manufacture
[0064] In one example, the article of manufacture in accordance
with the present invention comprises a sanitary tissue product
according to the present invention and a package housing said
sanitary tissue product. The package may be configured such that
the sanitary tissue product is visible to a consumer, especially at
the time and/or point of sale or purchase decision of the article
of manufacture by the consumer.
[0065] In addition, the package may comprise a common single source
indicator, such as a trademark.
[0066] As shown in FIG. 1, an array of articles of manufacture 10
comprises three or more articles of manufacture 12, 14, 16. Each
article of manufacture comprises at least one value of a common
intensive property that is different from the others. Further, each
article of manufacture comprises a consumer product 12', 14', 16'
that is packaged (housed) within a package 12'', 14'', 16''. Each
package 12'', 14'', 16'' comprises a common single source
identifier represented by the letter "A" in FIG. 1.
[0067] In one example of the present invention, each package 12'',
14'', 16'' may also comprise a separate, independent product
designation represented by the letters "B", "C", "D" respectively.
The product designation functions to delineate the consumer
products within the array of articles of manufacture so the
consumer can choose the consumer's desired consumer product.
[0068] FIG. 2 shows a single article of manufacture 18 that can be
a part of an array of articles of manufacture in accordance with
the present invention. The article of manufacture 18 may comprise a
plurality of consumer products 18'. The consumer products 18' may
be packaged (housed) within a package 18''. The package 18''
comprises a single source identifier represented by the letter "A".
The package 18'' may also comprise a separate, independent product
designation represented by the letter "B".
[0069] Any suitable material may be used for the package. For
example, plastic materials, cardboard materials, other paper
materials may be used. In one example, the package is a polywrap
material.
[0070] Each package containing a sanitary tissue product may
comprise a common single source identifier. The common single
source identifier may comprise a trademark.
[0071] Each package may comprise a separate, independent product
designation by which a consumer can differentiate one of the
sanitary tissue products from another.
[0072] The package in accordance with the present invention may
comprise a non-verbal cue, [such as word(s), symbol(s),
representation(s)], that connotes strength.
[0073] The package in accordance with the present invention may
comprise a non-verbal cue, [such as word(s), symbol(s),
representation(s)], that connotes softness.
[0074] The package may comprise a representation of a texture
present on the sanitary tissue product within the package.
[0075] The package may comprise information about at least two
other sanitary tissue products within the array of sanitary tissue
products.
[0076] The package may comprise information about various roll
sizes in which the sanitary tissue product within the package is
available.
Process for Displaying an Array of Articles of Manufacture
[0077] The array of articles of manufacture in accordance with the
present invention may be displayed, especially in a retail
store.
[0078] In one example, a process for displaying an array of
articles of manufacture comprises a step of displaying an array of
articles of manufacture comprising three or more articles of
manufacture wherein each of the three or more articles of
manufacture exhibit at least one value of a common intensive
property that is different from the others, wherein each of the
three or more articles of manufacture are packaged in a package
comprising a common single source identifier such that a consumer
desiring to purchase one of the articles of manufacture has the
opportunity to choose one of the three or more articles of
manufacture.
Process for Making an Array of Articles of Manufacture
[0079] In one example, a process for making an array of articles of
manufacture comprises the steps of:
[0080] a. producing a first article of manufacture;
[0081] b. producing a second article of manufacture;
[0082] c. producing a third article of manufacture; and
[0083] d. packaging the first, second and third articles of
manufacture in packages comprising a common single source
identifier and a separate, independent product designation that
delineates the first, second and third articles of manufacture from
each other, wherein the first, second and third articles of
manufacture exhibit at least one value of a common intensive
property that is different from the others.
Test Methods
[0084] Lint Test Method:
[0085] The amount of lint generated from a finished fibrous
structure is determined with a Sutherland Rub Tester. This tester
uses a motor to rub a weighted felt 5 times over the finished
fibrous structure, while the finished fibrous structure is
restrained in a stationary position. This finished fibrous
structure can be is referred to throughout this method as the
"web". The Hunter Color L value is measured before and after the
rub test. The difference between these two Hunter Color L values is
then used to calculate a lint value. This lint method is designed
to be used with white or substantially white fibrous structures
and/or sanitary tissue products. Therefore, if testing of a
non-white tissue, such as blue-colored or peach-colored tissue is
desired, the same formulation should be used to make a sample
without the colored dye, pigment, etc, using bleached kraft
pulps.
i. Sample Preparation
[0086] Prior to the lint rub testing, the samples to be tested
should be conditioned according to Tappi Method #T402OM-88. Here,
samples are preconditioned for 24 hours at a relative humidity
level of 10 to 35% and within a temperature range of 22.degree. C.
to 40.degree. C. After this preconditioning step, samples should be
conditioned for 24 hours at a relative humidity of 48 to 52% and
within a temperature range of 22.degree. C. to 24.degree. C. This
rub testing should also take place within the confines of the
constant temperature and humidity room.
[0087] The Sutherland Rub Tester may be obtained from Testing
Machines, Inc. (Amityville, N.Y., 1701). The web is first prepared
by removing and discarding any product which might have been
abraded in handling, e.g. on the outside of the roll. For products
formed from multiple plies of webs, this test can be used to make a
lint measurement on the multi-ply product, or, if the plies can be
separated without damaging the specimen, a measurement can be taken
on the individual plies making up the product. If a given sample
differs from surface to surface, it is necessary to test both
surfaces and average the values in order to arrive at a composite
lint value. In some cases, products are made from multiple-plies of
webs such that the facing-out surfaces are identical, in which case
it is only necessary to test one surface. If both surfaces are to
be tested, it is necessary to obtain six specimens for testing
(Single surface testing only requires three specimens). Each
specimen should be folded in half such that the crease is running
along the cross direction (CD) of the web sample. For two-surface
testing, make up 3 samples with a first surface "out" and 3 with
the second-side surface "out". Keep track of which samples are
first surface "out" and which are second surface out. Obtain a
30''.times.40'' piece of Crescent #300 cardboard from Cordage Inc.
(800 E. Ross Road, Cincinnati, Ohio, 45217). Using a paper cutter,
cut out six pieces of cardboard of dimensions of 2.5'' 6''.
Puncture two holes into each of the six cards by forcing the
cardboard onto the hold down pins of the Sutherland Rub tester.
[0088] Center and carefully place each of the 2.5.times.6''
cardboard pieces on top of the six previously folded samples. Make
sure the 6'' dimension of the cardboard is running parallel to the
machine direction (MD) of each of the tissue samples. Center and
carefully place each of the cardboard pieces on top of the three
previously folded samples. Once again, make sure the 6'' dimension
of the cardboard is running parallel to the machine direction (MD)
of each of the web samples.
[0089] Fold one edge of the exposed portion of the web specimen
onto the back of the cardboard. Secure this edge to the cardboard
with adhesive tape obtained from 3M Inc. (3/4'' wide Scotch Brand,
St. Paul, Minn.). Carefully grasp the other over-hanging tissue
edge and snugly fold it over onto the back of the cardboard. While
maintaining a snug fit of the web specimen onto the board, tape
this second edge to the back of the cardboard. Repeat this
procedure for each sample.
[0090] Turn over each sample and tape the cross direction edge of
the web specimen to the cardboard. One half of the adhesive tape
should contact the web specimen while the other half is adhering to
the cardboard. Repeat this procedure for each of the samples. If
the tissue sample breaks, tears, or becomes frayed at any time
during the course of this sample preparation procedure, discard and
make up a new sample with a new tissue sample strip.
[0091] There will now be 3 first-side surface "out" samples on
cardboard and (optionally) 3 second-side surface "out" samples on
cardboard.
ii. Felt Preparation
[0092] Obtain a 30''.times.40'' piece of Crescent #300 cardboard
from Cordage Inc. (800 E. Ross Road, Cincinnati, Ohio, 45217).
Using a paper cutter, cut out six pieces of cardboard of dimensions
of 2.25''.times.7.25''. Draw two lines parallel to the short
dimension and down 1.125'' from the top and bottom most edges on
the white side of the cardboard. Carefully score the length of the
line with a razor blade using a straight edge as a guide. Score it
to a depth about half way through the thickness of the sheet. This
scoring allows the cardboard/felt combination to fit tightly around
the weight of the Sutherland Rub tester. Draw an arrow running
parallel to the long dimension of the cardboard on this scored side
of the cardboard.
[0093] Cut the six pieces of black felt (F-55 or equivalent from
New England Gasket, 550 Broad Street, Bristol, Conn. 06010) to the
dimensions of 2.25''.times.8.5''.times.0.0625''. Place the felt on
top of the unscored, green side of the cardboard such that the long
edges of both the felt and cardboard are parallel and in alignment.
Make sure the fluffy side of the felt is facing up. Also allow
about 0.5'' to overhang the top and bottom most edges of the
cardboard. Snugly fold over both overhanging felt edges onto the
backside of the cardboard with Scotch brand tape. Prepare a total
of six of these felt/cardboard combinations.
[0094] For best reproducibility, all samples should be run with the
same lot of felt. Obviously, there are occasions where a single lot
of felt becomes completely depleted. In those cases where a new lot
of felt must be obtained, a correction factor should be determined
for the new lot of felt. To determine the correction factor, obtain
a representative single web sample of interest, and enough felt to
make up 24 cardboard/felt samples for the new and old lots.
[0095] As described below and before any rubbing has taken place,
obtain Hunter L readings for each of the 24 cardboard/felt samples
of the new and old lots of felt. Calculate the averages for both
the 24 cardboard/felt samples of the old lot and the 24
cardboard/felt samples of the new lot.
[0096] Next, rub test the 24 cardboard/felt boards of the new lot
and the 24 cardboard/felt boards of the old lot as described below.
Make sure the same web lot number is used for each of the 24
samples for the old and new lots. In addition, sampling of the web
in the preparation of the cardboard/tissue samples must be done so
the new lot of felt and the old lot of felt are exposed to as
representative as possible of a tissue sample. Discard any product
which might have been damaged or abraded. Next, obtain 48 web
samples for the calibration. Place the first sample on the far left
of the lab bench and the last of the 48 samples on the far right of
the bench. Mark the sample to the far left with the number "1" in a
1 cm by 1 cm area of the corner of the sample. Continue to mark the
samples consecutively up to 48 such that the last sample to the far
right is numbered 48.
[0097] Use the 24 odd numbered samples for the new felt and the 24
even numbered samples for the old felt. Order the odd number
samples from lowest to highest. Order the even numbered samples
from lowest to highest. Now, mark the lowest number for each set
with a letter "F" (for "first-side") Mark the next highest number
with the letter "S" (for second-side). Continue marking the samples
in this alternating "F"/"S" pattern. Use the "F" samples for first
surface "out" lint analyses and the "S" samples for second-side
surface "out" lint analyses. There are now a total of 24 samples
for the new lot of felt and the old lot of felt. Of this 24, twelve
are for first-side surface "out" lint analysis and 12 are for
second-side surface "out" lint analysis.
[0098] Rub and measure the Hunter Color L values for all 24 samples
of the old felt as described below. Record the 12 first-side
surface Hunter Color L values for the old felt. Average the 12
values. Record the 12 second-side surface Hunter Color L values for
the old felt. Average the 12 values. Subtract the average initial
un-rubbed Hunter Color L felt reading from the average Hunter Color
L reading for the first-side surface rubbed samples. This is the
delta average difference for the first-side surface samples.
Subtract the average initial un-rubbed Hunter Color L felt reading
from the average Hunter Color L reading for the second-side surface
rubbed samples. This is the delta average difference for the
second-side surface samples. Calculate the sum of the delta average
difference for the first-side surface and the delta average
difference for the second-side surface and divide this sum by 2.
This is the uncorrected lint value for the old felt. If there is a
current felt correction factor for the old felt, add it to the
uncorrected lint value for the old felt. This value is the
corrected Lint Value for the old felt.
[0099] Rub and measure the Hunter Color L values for all 24 samples
of the new felt as described below. Record the 12 first-side
surface Hunter Color L values for the new felt. Average the 12
values. Record the 12 second-side surface Hunter Color L values for
the new felt. Average the 12 values. Subtract the average initial
un-rubbed Hunter Color L felt reading from the average Hunter Color
L reading for the first-side surface rubbed samples. This is the
delta average difference for the first-side surface samples.
Subtract the average initial un-rubbed Hunter Color L felt reading
from the average Hunter Color L reading for the second-side surface
rubbed samples. This is the delta average difference for the
second-side surface samples. Calculate the sum of the delta average
difference for the first side surface and the delta average
difference for the second-side surface and divide this sum by 2.
This is the uncorrected lint value for the new felt.
[0100] Take the difference between the corrected Lint Value from
the old felt and the uncorrected lint value for the new felt. This
difference is the felt correction factor for the new lot of felt.
Adding this felt correction factor to the uncorrected lint value
for the new felt should be identical to the corrected Lint Value
for the old felt. Note that the above procedure implies that the
calibration is done with a two-surfaced specimen. If it desirable
or necessary to do a felt calibration using a single-surfaced
sample, it is satisfactory; however, the total of 24 tests should
still be done for each felt.
iii. Care of 4 Pound Weight
[0101] The four pound weight has four square inches of effective
contact area providing a contact pressure of one pound per square
inch. Since the contact pressure can be changed by alteration of
the rubber pads mounted on the face of the weight, it is important
to use only the rubber pads supplied by the manufacturer (Brown
Inc., Mechanical Services Department, Kalamazoo, Mich.). These pads
must be replaced if they become hard, abraded or chipped off. When
not in use, the weight must be positioned such that the pads are
not supporting the full weight of the weight. It is best to store
the weight on its side.
iv. Rub Tester Instrument Calibration
[0102] The Sutherland Rub Tester must first be calibrated prior to
use. First, turn on the Sutherland Rub Tester by moving the tester
switch to the "cont" position. When the tester arm is in its
position closest to the user, turn the tester's switch to the
"auto" position. Set the tester to run 5 strokes by moving the
pointer arm on the large dial to the "five" position setting. One
stroke is a single and complete forward and reverse motion of the
weight. The end of the rubbing block should be in the position
closest to the operator at the beginning and at the end of each
test.
[0103] Prepare a test specimen on cardboard sample as described
above. In addition, prepare a felt on cardboard sample as described
above. Both of these samples will be used for calibration of the
instrument and will not be used in the acquisition of data for the
actual samples.
[0104] Place this calibration web sample on the base plate of the
tester by slipping the holes in the board over the hold-down pins.
The hold-down pins prevent the sample from moving during the test.
Clip the calibration felt/cardboard sample onto the four pound
weight with the cardboard side contacting the pads of the weight.
Make sure the cardboard/felt combination is resting flat against
the weight. Hook this weight onto the tester arm and gently place
the tissue sample underneath the weight/felt combination. The end
of the weight closest to the operator must be over the cardboard of
the web sample and not the web sample itself. The felt must rest
flat on the tissue sample and must be in 100% contact with the web
surface. Activate the tester by depressing the "push" button.
[0105] Keep a count of the number of strokes and observe and make a
mental note of the starting and stopping position of the felt
covered weight in relationship to the sample. If the total number
of strokes is five and if the end of the felt covered weight
closest to the operator is over the cardboard of the web sample at
the beginning and end of this test, the tester is calibrated and
ready to use. If the total number of strokes is not five or if the
end of the felt covered weight closest to the operator is over the
actual web sample either at the beginning or end of the test,
repeat this calibration procedure until 5 strokes are counted the
end of the felt covered weight closest to the operator is situated
over the cardboard at the both the start and end of the test.
During the actual testing of samples, monitor and observe the
stroke count and the starting and stopping point of the felt
covered weight. Recalibrate when necessary.
v. Hunter Color Meter Calibration
[0106] Adjust the Hunter Color Difference Meter for the black and
white standard plates according to the procedures outlined in the
operation manual of the instrument. Also run the stability check
for standardization as well as the daily color stability check if
this has not been done during the past eight hours. In addition,
the zero reflectance must be checked and readjusted if necessary.
Place the white standard plate on the sample stage under the
instrument port. Release the sample stage and allow the sample
plate to be raised beneath the sample port. Using the "L-Y", "a-X",
and "b-Z" standardizing knobs, adjust the instrument to read the
Standard White Plate Values of "L", "a", and "b" when the "L", "a",
and "b" push buttons are depressed in turn.
vi. Measurement of Samples
[0107] The first step in the measurement of lint is to measure the
Hunter color values of the black felt/cardboard samples prior to
being rubbed on the web sample. The first step in this measurement
is to lower the standard white plate from under the instrument port
of the Hunter color instrument. Center a felt covered cardboard,
with the arrow pointing to the back of the color meter, on top of
the standard plate. Release the sample stage, allowing the felt
covered cardboard to be raised under the sample port.
[0108] Since the felt width is only slightly larger than the
viewing area diameter, make sure the felt completely covers the
viewing area. After confirming complete coverage, depress the L
push button and wait for the reading to stabilize. Read and record
this L value to the nearest 0.1 unit.
[0109] If a D25D2A head is in use, lower the felt covered cardboard
and plate, rotate the felt covered cardboard 90.degree. so the
arrow points to the right side of the meter. Next, release the
sample stage and check once more to make sure the viewing area is
completely covered with felt. Depress the L push button. Read and
record this value to the nearest 0.1 unit. For the D25D2M unit, the
recorded value is the Hunter Color L value. For the D25D2A head
where a rotated sample reading is also recorded, the Hunter Color L
value is the average of the two recorded values.
[0110] Measure the Hunter Color L values for all of the felt
covered cardboards using this technique. If the Hunter Color L
values are all within 0.3 units of one another, take the average to
obtain the initial L reading. If the Hunter Color L values are not
within the 0.3 units, discard those felt/cardboard combinations
outside the limit. Prepare new samples and repeat the Hunter Color
L measurement until all samples are within 0.3 units of one
another.
[0111] For the measurement of the actual web sample/cardboard
combinations, place the web sample/cardboard combination on the
base plate of the tester by slipping the holes in the board over
the hold-down pins. The hold-down pins prevent the sample from
moving during the test. Clip the calibration felt/cardboard sample
onto the four pound weight with the cardboard side contacting the
pads of the weight. Make sure the cardboard/felt combination is
resting flat against the weight Hook this weight onto the tester
arm and gently place the web sample underneath the weight/felt
combination. The end of the weight closest to the operator must be
over the cardboard of the web sample and not the web sample itself.
The felt must rest flat on the web sample and must be in 100%
contact with the web surface.
[0112] Next, activate the tester by depressing the "push" button.
At the end of the five strokes the tester will automatically stop.
Note the stopping position of the felt covered weight in relation
to the sample. If the end of the felt covered weight toward the
operator is over cardboard, the tester is operating properly. If
the end of the felt covered weight toward the operator is over
sample, disregard this measurement and recalibrate as directed
above in the Sutherland Rub Tester Calibration section.
[0113] Remove the weight with the felt covered cardboard. Inspect
the web sample. If torn, discard the felt and web sample and start
over. If the web sample is intact, remove the felt covered
cardboard from the weight. Determine the Hunter Color L value on
the felt covered cardboard as described above for the blank felts.
Record the Hunter Color L readings for the felt after rubbing. Rub,
measure, and record the Hunter Color L values for all remaining
samples. After all web specimens have been measured, remove and
discard all felt. Felts strips are not used again. Cardboards are
used until they are bent, torn, limp, or no longer have a smooth
surface.
vii. Calculations
[0114] Determine the delta L values by subtracting the average
initial L reading found for the unused felts from each of the
measured values for the first-side surface and second-side surface
sides of the sample as follows.
[0115] For samples measured on both surfaces, subtract the average
initial L reading found for the unused felts from each of the three
first-side surface L readings and each of the three second-side
surface L readings. Calculate the average delta for the three
first-side surface values. Calculate the average delta for the
three second-side surface values. Subtract the felt factor from
each of these averages. The final results are termed a lint for the
first-side surface and a lint for the second-side surface of the
web.
[0116] By taking the average of the lint value on the first-side
surface and the second-side surface, the lint is obtained which is
applicable to that particular web or product. In other words, to
calculate lint value, the following formula is used: Lint .times.
.times. Value = Lint .times. .times. Value , First .times. -
.times. side + Lint .times. .times. Value , second .times. -
.times. side 2 ##EQU1## For samples measured only for one surface,
subtract the average initial L reading found for the unused felts
from each of the three L readings. Calculate the average delta for
the three surface values. Subtract the felt factor from this
average. The final result is the lint value for that particular web
or product. Horizontal Full Sheet (HFS) Test Method
[0117] The Horizontal Full Sheet (HFS) test method determines the
amount of distilled water absorbed and retained by a sanitary
tissue product of the present invention. This method is performed
by first weighing a sample of the sanitary tissue product to be
tested (referred to herein as the "Dry Weight of the paper"), then
thoroughly wetting the sanitary tissue product, draining the wetted
sanitary tissue product in a horizontal position and then
reweighing (referred to herein as "Wet Weight of the paper"). The
absorptive capacity of the sanitary tissue product is then computed
as the amount of water retained in units of grams of water absorbed
by the sanitary tissue product. When evaluating different sanitary
tissue product samples, the same size of sanitary tissue product is
used for all samples tested.
[0118] The apparatus for determining the HFS capacity of sanitary
tissue product comprises the following: an electronic balance with
a sensitivity of at least .+-.0.01 grams and a minimum capacity of
1200 grams. The balance should be positioned on a balance table and
slab to minimize the vibration effects of floor/benchtop weighing.
The balance should also have a special balance pan to be able to
handle the size of the sanitary tissue product tested (i.e.; a
paper sample of about 11 in. (27.9 cm) by 11 in. (27.9 cm)). The
balance pan can be made out of a variety of materials. Plexiglass
is a common material used.
[0119] A sample support rack and sample support cover is also
required. Both the rack and cover are comprised of a lightweight
metal frame, strung with 0.012 in. (0.305 cm) diameter monofilament
so as to form a grid of 0.5 inch squares (1.27 cm.sup.2). The size
of the support rack and cover is such that the sample size can be
conveniently placed between the two.
[0120] The HFS test is performed in an environment maintained at
23.+-.1.degree. C. and 50.+-.2% relative humidity. A water
reservoir or tub is filled with distilled water at 23.+-.1.degree.
C. to a depth of 3 inches (7.6 cm).
[0121] The sanitary tissue product to be tested is carefully
weighed on the balance to the nearest 0.01 grams. The dry weight of
the sample is reported to the nearest 0.01 grams. The empty sample
support rack is placed on the balance with the special balance pan
described above. The balance is then zeroed (tared). The sample is
carefully placed on the sample support rack. The support rack cover
is placed on top of the support rack. The sample (now sandwiched
between the rack and cover) is submerged in the water reservoir.
After the sample has been submerged for 60 seconds, the sample
support rack and cover are gently raised out of the reservoir.
[0122] The sample, support rack and cover are allowed to drain
horizontally for 120.+-.5 seconds, taking care not to excessively
shake or vibrate the sample. Next, the rack cover is carefully
removed and the wet sample and the support rack are weighed on the
previously tared balance. The weight is recorded to the nearest
0.01 g. This is the wet weight of the sample.
[0123] The gram per sanitary tissue product sample absorptive
capacity of the sample is defined as (Wet Weight of the paper-Dry
Weight of the paper).
[0124] All documents cited in the Detailed Description of the
Invention are, in relevant part, incorporated herein by reference;
the citation of any document is not to be construed as an admission
that it is prior art with respect to the present invention.
[0125] While particular embodiments of the present invention have
been illustrated and described, it would be obvious to those
skilled in the art that various other changes and modifications can
be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the
invention. It is therefore intended to cover in the appended claims
all such changes and modifications that are within the scope of
this invention.
* * * * *