U.S. patent application number 11/985636 was filed with the patent office on 2009-05-21 for package for storing dryer sheets.
Invention is credited to Ida Abdalkhani, George Kavin Morgan, III, Catherine Samarcq, Julie Ann Wagner.
Application Number | 20090127149 11/985636 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 40260545 |
Filed Date | 2009-05-21 |
United States Patent
Application |
20090127149 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Samarcq; Catherine ; et
al. |
May 21, 2009 |
Package for storing dryer sheets
Abstract
A package for storing a dryer sheet comprising: a carton
comprising a top panel defining at least one window; and at least
one dryer sheet comprising a perfume technology comprising at least
one perfume microcapsule, wherein said at least one dryer sheet
comprises an indicia of freshness, and wherein said at least one
dryer sheet is located within the interior of said carton such that
said indicia of freshness is visible through said at least one
window.
Inventors: |
Samarcq; Catherine; (West
Chester, OH) ; Wagner; Julie Ann; (Cincinnati,
OH) ; Morgan, III; George Kavin; (Hamilton, OH)
; Abdalkhani; Ida; (Cincinnati, OH) |
Correspondence
Address: |
THE PROCTER & GAMBLE COMPANY;Global Legal Department - IP
Sycamore Building - 4th Floor, 299 East Sixth Street
CINCINNATI
OH
45202
US
|
Family ID: |
40260545 |
Appl. No.: |
11/985636 |
Filed: |
November 16, 2007 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
206/494 ; 221/63;
229/229 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65D 5/4204
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
206/494 ; 221/63;
229/229 |
International
Class: |
B65D 73/00 20060101
B65D073/00; B65D 17/00 20060101 B65D017/00; B65H 1/00 20060101
B65H001/00 |
Claims
1. A package for storing a dryer sheet comprising: a. a carton
comprising a top panel defining at least one window; and b. at
least one dryer sheet comprising a perfume technology comprising at
least one perfume microcapsule, wherein said at least one dryer
sheet comprises an indicia of freshness, and wherein said at least
one dryer sheet is located within the interior of said carton such
that said indicia of freshness is visible through said at least one
window.
2. The package according to claim 1, wherein said indicia of
freshness comprises dots, bubbles, triangles, squares, stars,
flowers, lines, crescents, hearts, letters, numbers and
combinations thereof.
3. The package according to claim 1, wherein said indicia of
freshness comprises a water soluble ink.
4. The package according to claim 1, wherein said indicia of
freshness comprises an indicia area of from about 5% to about 50%
of said area of said at least one dryer sheet.
5. The package according to claim 1, wherein said at least one
dryer sheet comprises a non-woven substrate.
6. The package according to claim 1, wherein said at least one
dryer sheet comprises an embossed substrate comprising at least one
embossment.
7. The package according to claim 1, wherein said at least one
perfume microcapsule is selected from the group consisting of a
friable microcapsule, a moisture-activated microcapsule, a
heat-activated microcapsule, and combinations thereof.
8. The package according to claim 7, wherein said
moisture-activated microcapsule comprises a cyclodextrin.
9. A package for storing a dryer sheet comprising: a. a carton
comprising: i. a top panel defining at least one window comprising
an arcoidal shape; and b. at least one dryer sheet comprising a
perfume technology, wherein said at least one dryer sheet comprises
an indicia of freshness, and wherein said at least one dryer sheet
is located within the interior of said carton such that said
indicia of freshness is visible through said at least one
window.
10. The package according to claim 9, wherein said at least one
window is selected from the group consisting of a circle, an oval,
an ellipse, a crescent, a half-circle, a quarter circle, a
semi-circle, a ring, a group of concentric circles, a group of
concentric rings, and combinations thereof.
11. The package according to claim 9, wherein said at least one
window comprises a window area from about 10% to about 40% of said
top panel area.
12. The package according to claim 11, wherein said indicia of
freshness comprises dots, bubbles, circular shapes, and
combinations thereof.
13. The package according to claim 11, wherein said perfume
technology comprises a friable microcapsule, a moisture-activated
microcapsule, a heat-activated microcapsule, and combinations
thereof.
14. The package according to claim 11, wherein said carton is
formed of a single carton blank.
15. The package according to claim 11, wherein said at least one
window comprises a clear sheet.
16. The package according to claim 15, wherein said clear sheet is
selected from the group consisting of a polyethylene sheet, a
polyester sheet, a cellophane sheet, and a mixture thereof.
17. The package according to claim 15, wherein said clear sheet
comprises a slit wherein said at least one dryer sheet can be
accessed through said slit to be extracted from said carton.
18. The package according to claim 11, wherein said top panel
comprises a proximal edge and said carton further comprises a
proximal panel, wherein said proximal panel is attached to said
proximal edge of said top panel.
19. The package according to claim 18, wherein said proximal panel
further comprising a second window.
20. The package according to claim 18, wherein said top panel and
said proximal panel define a line of weakness, and said top panel
defines a hinge line, wherein said hinge line and said line of
weakness define a recloseable access flap pivotably attached to
said top panel by said hinge line.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to the field of packages for
storing dryer sheets.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] One method of applying fabric enhancers to fabrics utilizes
dryer sheets impregnated with a fabric enhancer composition
comprising fabric enhancer actives such as softeners, antistatic
agents, and perfumes. These dryer sheets may be readily placed in
the dryer with the fabrics. During drying process the fabric
enhancer actives are transferred from the dryer sheets to the
fabrics. Dryer sheets have generally been provided to consumers in
the form of a roll or as individual folded sheets stored in
recloseable cartons. Examples of known cartons include those
disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,577,612 to Chesson et al.; U.S. Pat.
No. 5,310,057 to Caldwell et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 5,305,881 to
Caldwell et al.; U.S. Patent Publication No. 2005/0109827 to Martin
et al.,; and 2003/0224962 to Fryc et al.
[0003] Surprisingly, some of the problems associated with the
proper selection and use of dryer sheets are traceable to recent
attempts to provide consumers with varying types of scent
experiences. Recent attempts to provide varying types of consumer
scent experiences have focused on proliferation of different scent
types and attempts to provide controlled scent release profiles to
provide desired levels of scent during the laundering process
and/or the wear/re-wear cycle. These and other attempts have been
disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,196,049 to Brain et al.; and U.S.
Patent Publication No. 2005/0209116 to Edelman et al.
[0004] Many consumers desire an enhanced/or and more pleasurable
scent experience during the laundering process. Attempts to provide
this type of consumer with their desired scent experience have had
limited success in part due to the proliferation of scent types and
lack of sufficient communication to the consumer of the scent
experience provided in a given package of dryer sheets.
Differentiation and selection of dryer sheets based on a consumer's
scent experience preference is difficult due to the many types of
scent types available in the store. Moreover, consumers selecting
dryer sheets based on scent descriptor(s) provided on the packaging
often fail to make the proper selection because the consumers often
do not know what type of scent experience to expect based solely on
the scent descriptor, as these are usually fictional names (i.e.,
Clean Breeze). Accordingly, there remains a need to provide
consumers with an enhanced and/or more pleasurable scent experience
as well as an effective way to properly communicate this type of
scent experience to the consumer. The proper communication of the
expected scent experience will allow consumers to select the right
type of dryer sheet during the purchasing process as well as when
they are in the process of laundering their fabrics at home.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0005] One aspect of the invention provides a package for storing a
dryer sheet comprising: a carton comprising a top panel defining at
least one window; and at least one dryer sheet comprising a perfume
technology comprising at least one perfume microcapsule, wherein
said at least one dryer sheet comprises an indicia of freshness,
and wherein said at least one dryer sheet is located within the
interior of said carton such that said indicia of freshness is
visible through said at least one window.
[0006] Another aspect of the invention provides a package for
storing a dryer sheet comprising: a carton comprising: a top panel
defining at least one window comprising an arcoidal shape; and at
least one dryer sheet comprising a perfume technology, wherein said
at least one dryer sheet comprises an indicia of freshness, and
wherein said at least one dryer sheet is located within the
interior of said carton such that said indicia of freshness is
visible through said at least one window.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0007] FIG. 1 shows an elevated side view of one embodiment
according to the present invention.
[0008] FIG. 2 shows an elevated side view of another embodiment
according to the present invention.
[0009] FIG. 3 shows an elevated side view of yet another embodiment
according to the present invention.
[0010] FIG. 4 shows a top planar view of a carton blank in
accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
[0011] FIG. 5 shows an elevated side view of a carton in accordance
with one embodiment of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0012] It has surprisingly been found that a package for storing a
dryer sheet comprising: a carton comprising a top panel defining at
least one window; and at least one dryer sheet comprising a perfume
technology in accordance with the present invention, wherein said
at least one dryer sheet comprises an indicia of freshness, and
wherein said at least one dryer sheet is located within the
interior of said carton such that said indicia of freshness is
visible through said at least one window in accordance with the
present invention provides the synergistic benefits of providing
consumers with an enhanced and/or more pleasurable scent experience
while properly communicating the type of scent benefit provided in
the given package of dryer sheets. In one embodiment, the window
comprises an arcoidal shape. In another embodiment, the perfume
technology comprises at least one perfume microcapsule.
[0013] FIG. 1 shows one non-limiting embodiment of a package for
storing a dryer sheet comprising: a carton 10 comprising: a top
panel 20 comprising a proximal edge 30; and a proximal panel 40
connected to said top panel at said proximal edge; a line of
weakness 50 formed from at least one of said top panel and said
proximal panel, said line of weakness defining a recloseable access
flap 60, a hinge line 70 formed from said top panel 20, said hinge
line 70 pivotably attaches said recloseable access flap 60 to said
top panel. Said top panel further defines a window 80 having an
arcoidal shape revealing the interior of the carton 400. The
package as shown in FIG. 1 further comprises at least one dryer
sheet 90 stored within said carton 10, said at least one dryer
sheet comprising at least one perfume microcapsule, wherein said at
least one dryer sheet comprises an indicia of freshness 100. FIG. 1
further shows how said indicia of freshness is visible through said
window 80. The carton 10 further comprises a distal panel 140
connected to said top panel 20 at the edge opposite the proximal
edge 30. Further, the carton 10 comprises a bottom panel 150,
attached to said proximal and distal panels, and opposite said top
panel. On one side of the carton 10, there is a first side panel
130 attached to said top, bottom, proximal, and distal panels.
Opposite this first side panel, the carton comprises a second side
panel 120, attached to said top, bottom, proximal, and distal
panels.
[0014] FIG. 2 shows another embodiment of the present invention,
wherein said carton 10 further comprises a second window 110
defined by said proximal panel 40. In another suitable embodiment,
the second window is defined by the top panel 20.
[0015] FIG. 3 shows yet another embodiment of the present
invention, wherein said portion of said top panel 62 which forms
said recloseable access flap 60 also forms a portion of said window
80. In this embodiment, the hinge line is formed of both the top
panel as well as a portion of said window film 85. FIG. 3 also
shows a second window 110 which is displaced from said portion of
said proximal panel 64 which forms said recloseable access flap 60.
In this embodiment, the carton contains a plurality of dryer sheets
160 which are visible through said second window 110. Further, the
dryer sheet 90 further comprises at least one area of embossment
170.
[0016] FIG. 4 shows a carton blank 15 which can be used to form the
carton according to at least one embodiment of the present
invention. Top panel 10 is connected to said proximal panel 40 at
the proximal edge 30 of said top panel. In this embodiment, the
line of weakness 52 has a rounded shape. Further, a plurality of
adhering flaps 200 are provided so that the carton blank when
properly cut and folded forms the carton 10 of the present
invention.
[0017] FIG. 5 shows a carton 10 formed of a carton blank in
accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5
shows the carton empty of any contents within the interior 400 of
said carton.
1. ENHANCED AND/OR MORE PLEASURABLE SCENT EXPERIENCE
[0018] An enhanced and/or more pleasurable scent experience is not
only limited to the scent or fragrance deposited upon the fabrics
during the laundering process but also includes the experience the
consumers obtain when selecting their desired fabric enhancers
during the purchasing process as well as when the consumer takes
the fabric enhancers home. As defined herein, an enhanced and/or
more pleasurable scent experience means the holistic freshness or
scent feeling which a consumer achieves throughout the laundering
process, starting from the purchase of the laundering products, use
of the laundering products, storage of the fabrics laundered by
said product, and extending to the wear and/or re-wear cycle. The
present invention provides a holistic approach to conveying a sense
of an enhanced and/or more enjoyable scent experience to the
consumer by informing them of the type of scent experience they are
selecting. This enhanced and/or more pleasurable scent experience
is shown through enhanced user scent/ freshness acceptance rates
from using the present invention.
[0019] Further, the present invention allows consumers to more
easily identify the type of scent experience they are searching for
during the selection process, thereby saving time while shopping
and helping the consumers select the proper type of dryer sheet for
their laundering preferences. It is believed that providing a
window to allow consumers to see the interior contents of the
carton is desirable in that it allows the consumer to begin the
scent experience without having to open the carton or wait till the
consumer has taken the package home. By coordinating the type of
scent experience with the indicia of freshness located upon the
dryer sheet, the consumer can more easily determine which type of
scent experience they desire. For example, in one embodiment where
dryer sheet comprises a perfume technology comprising at least one
microcapsule, the indicia of freshness comprises one or more dots,
bubbles or other circular shapes. By coordinating the indicia of
freshness to represent the perfume technology, the present
invention allows consumers to more easily understand that the type
of perfume technology provided within the dryer sheet. In other
words, the perfume microcapsule technology is more effectively
conveyed to the consumer, helping the consumer differentiate
between the multitude of dryer sheets available in the market.
[0020] In one embodiment, the package further comprises a different
types of dryer sheets having different types of scents and/or
varying fabric softening dosages (i.e. soft vs. very soft),
different indicia of freshness are used to signal different types
of dryer sheets. For example, a certain color or shape can be used
to indicate the type of scent or perfume technology used. The
window of the present invention thereby allows the consumer to view
the dryer sheets within the container and more easily select the
desired sheet during the purchasing process and/or the laundering
process. This reduces the amount of time the carton is in an open
position, thereby decreasing any undesired fragrance loss from the
carton and/or the contained dryer sheets.
2. CARTON
[0021] The package for storing dryer sheets of the present
invention comprises a carton. The carton of the present invention
can be in the shape of a rectangular or square box. The carton can
have sharp angular edges or smoothed edges. In one embodiment the
carton is formed from a single carton blank. This carton blank
comprises a single sheet of carton material. Suitable carton
materials include card board and or paper materials and are
commonly known and used for storing dryer sheets. Depending upon
the number of dryer sheets to be stored within the carton and the
dryer sheet dimensions, the carton can have varying dimensions.
Non-limiting examples of suitable carton dimensions are described
in U.S. Pat. No. 5,310,057 to Caldwell et al.
[0022] The carton of the present invention comprises a line of
weakness which allows for easy opening of the carton to access the
interior contents. In one embodiment, the line of weakness
comprises a plurality of slits or cuts into the carton. In one
embodiment, the line of weakness is formed from the top panel and
the proximal panel of the carton. In another embodiment, the line
of weakness is formed only of the top panel. In yet another
embodiment, the line of weakness is formed only of the proximal
panel. It should be understood that the line of weakness can be
formed in any one or more adjacent panels such that a recloseable
access flap is formed from the portion of the panel(s) which form
the line of weakness.
[0023] The two ends of the line of weakness of the present
invention are connected by a hinge line to forms recloseable access
flap. The hinge line can be a score line or a fold line such that
when the interior of the carton is accessed by accessing the line
of weakness, the hinge line allows the recloseable access flap to
remain attached to the carton. The hinge line further allows the
recloseable access flap to be biased away from the carton such that
an the interior contents of the carton can be accessed. Where the
recloseable access flap is formed of more than one panel, the
recloseable access flap will further have a secondary hinge line
where said more than one panels touch; where the recloseable access
flap is formed of the top panel and the proximal panel, the
recloseable access flap further comprises a secondary hinge line
where the proximal edge of the top panel meets the proximal
panel.
[0024] In one embodiment, the recloseable access flap forms a
hexagonal shape. In another embodiment, the recloseable access flap
is in the shape of a quadrilateral, trapezoid, a pentagon, a
semi-circle, semi-oval, or otherwise semi-circular shape, wherein
the hinge line forms one side of the shape.
3. WINDOW
[0025] The carton of the present invention comprises a top panel
defining at least one window. In one embodiment, the window
comprises an arcoidal shape. As defined herein, an arcoidal shape
means any shape which is curved and rounded, comprising a circle,
an oval, an ellipse, a crescent, a half-circle, a quarter circle, a
semi-circle, a ring, a group of concentric circles, a group of
concentric rings, and combinations thereof, and so forth. Further,
in one embodiment, the arcoidal shape includes any of the
aforementioned shapes and portions or sections thereof. In one
embodiment, where the carton comprises more than one window, the
windows can have different arcoidal shapes. In another embodiment,
the window comprises any suitable shape which reveals the interior
of the carton, including but not limited to the arcoidal shapes
disclosed herein, other geometric shapes including squares,
rectangles, triangles, stars, as well as flower shapes, petal
shapes, tear drops, and so forth.
[0026] In one embodiment, said at least one window comprises a
window area of from about 10% to about 40% of said top panel area,
alternatively from about 20% to about 30% of said top panel area.
As used herein, window area means the area of the cut out portion
of the carton which reveals the topmost sheet located in the
interior of the carton. In one embodiment, the top panel comprise
from about 100 cm.sup.2 to about 600 cm.sup.2, alternatively from
about 150 cm.sup.2 to about 500 cm.sup.2, alternatively from about
250 cm.sup.2 to about 350 cm.sup.2.
[0027] Further, in one embodiment the window is from about 10
cm.sup.2 to about 100 cm.sup.2, alternatively from about 15
cm.sup.2 to about 60 cm.sup.2, alternatively from about 20 cm to
about 50 cm.sup.2, and alternatively from about 25 cm.sup.2 to
about 40 cm.sup.2.
[0028] Said at least one window of the present invention is
designed to reveal the contents of the interior of the carton while
protecting said contents from being exposed to the ambient
environment prior to the carton being opened during use or re-use.
In one embodiment a plastic film is laminated upon the panel or
panels which define said at least one window. Suitable materials
for the window include clear sheet, including but not limited to
plastic films comprising polyethylene, polyester, cellophane, and
mixtures thereof. As used herein, clear sheet means the contents
within the carton are visible through the sheet with the naked eye;
transparent and translucent sheets are included in the present
clear sheet. It is suitable for the clear sheet to be laminated
upon the interior facing side of the panel but it is possible to
laminate the clear sheet upon the exterior facing side of the
panel. In one embodiment, the clear sheet comprises a window cut
out area which extends from about 5 mm to about 50 mm away from any
cut line or cut edge of the carton, alternatively 10 mm to about 40
mm, alternatively 15 mm to about 30 mm. As used herein, a window
cut out area means the area of the clear film which is laminated
upon the panel or panels forming said at least one window or under
the panel or panels forming said at least one window (being in the
interior of the carton). The window cut out area is chosen such
that when the clear sheet is laminated onto said panel or panels
the clear sheet covers over said window cut out area. As used
herein, a cut line or a cut edge means any portion of said carton
which forms either an edge between the carton panel and a window or
the edge of the panel.
[0029] In one embodiment, the clear sheet comprises a slit or
opening which allows for access to the interior of the carton
without the need to further open the carton. Suitable cartons with
clear sheets comprising a slit are used with tissue cartons. In
another embodiment, the clear sheet does not have a slit or any
other opening.
[0030] It is believed that the carton comprising said window
enhances the consumer scent experience in that the window helps the
consumer appreciate the perfume technology provided in the dryer
sheet contained therein. Further, the window is designed and
positioned to reveal at least a portion of the indicia present upon
said dryer sheet contained therein. This combination of elements is
believed to cause the consumer to gain a further refreshing and
holistic benefit from using the present invention during the
laundering process.
[0031] In one embodiment, said at least one window is defined by at
least one panel comprising said top panel. In another embodiment,
said at least one window is at least partially defined by said top
panel and at least partially defined by an additional panel,
adjacent to said top panel, such as any of said proximal, distal,
first side, or second side panels.
[0032] In yet another embodiment, the carton further comprises a
second window which is separate and non-contiguous with said first
window. This second window can be on said proximal panel or any
other panel of the present carton, including on the top panel. Said
second panel comprises a window area of from about 10% to about 40%
of said panel which defines said second window, alternatively from
about 20% to about 30%. For example, said second window can be on
said top panel or said proximal panel.
[0033] 4. DRYER SHEET
[0034] The dryer sheets of the present invention comprise a
non-woven substrate and a releasably affixed fabric enhancer
composition, hereinafter "fabric enhancer composition". In one
embodiment, the dryer sheet comprises a fabric enhancer loading
rate of from about 0.1% to about 40% of said fabric enhancer
composition by weight of said dryer sheet. Said fabric enhancer
composition comprising a perfume technology and optionally one or
more additional fabric enhancer actives as defined below. Further,
any conventional fabric enhancer actives can be used with the
present invention. In one embodiment, the fabric enhancer
composition comprises from about 0.1% to about 99% of said perfume
technology, alternatively from about 0.5% to about 60%,
alternatively from about 1% to about 50%, alternatively from about
3% to about 40% by weight of said fabric enhancer composition. In
another embodiment, the remainder of said fabric enhancer
composition comprises said one or more additional fabric enhancer
actives.
[0035] a. Perfume Technology
[0036] The perfume technology of the present invention comprises at
least one perfume microcapsules comprising a friable perfume
microcapsule, a moisture-activated perfume microcapsule and
combinations thereof. In another embodiment, the perfume technology
comprises a free perfume ingredient.
[0037] It is believed that the advantages of using the present
perfume technology in dryer sheets includes, but are not limited
to: (i) the ability to use a reduced total perfume level, e.g., in
neat perfume directly added onto the dryer sheet, and/or the amount
of perfume in the perfume microcapsules; (ii) avoiding cost in
processing and lost perfume through processing; (iii) delivering a
high level of perfume while not affecting process product
disposition or process parameters or product stability or product
physical properties of the fabric enhancer actives and/or the
non-woven substrate; and (iv) delivering a high level of perfume to
fabric while avoiding a high level of neat product odor, which can
be undesirable to some consumers; (v) delivering improved fabric
odor longevity performance compared to neat perfume; and (vi)
delivering improved odor from fabrics under stress conditions (one
example is while wearing clothing during physical activity or
exercise).
[0038] The perfume ingredients of the present invention can be
encapsulated into a microcapsule (as disclosed below) to form a
perfume microcapsule, or can be incorporated into the fabric
enhancer composition as a free perfume oil. In one embodiment, the
perfume technology further comprises from about 1% to about 50% by
weight of a free perfume oil, alternatively from about 5% to about
35%.
[0039] Non-limiting examples of suitable perfumes ingredients
include blooming perfumes, perfume oils, and perfume raw materials
comprising alcohols, ketones, aldehydes, esters, ethers, nitrites
alkenes, and mixtures thereof. In one embodiment, the perfume
microcapsule encapsulates a blooming perfume composition, wherein
the blooming perfume composition comprises blooming perfume
ingredients. Non-limiting examples of blooming perfume ingredients
that may be useful in the articles of the present invention are
given in U.S. Pat. Pub. No. 2005/0192207 A1, published Sep. 1,
2005, aa29-31.
[0040] A non-limiting example of a suitable dryer sheets comprising
a perfume microcapsule is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,425,887 to
Lam et al.
[0041] b. Microcapsules
[0042] The term "microcapsule" is used herein the broadest sense
and includes the encapsulation of perfume or other materials or
actives in small capsules (i.e., microcapsules), typically having a
diameter less than about 300 microns. In one embodiment, these
microcapsules comprise a spherical hollow shell of water insoluble
or at least partially water insoluble material, typically polymer
material, within which the active material, such as perfume, is
contained. Non-limiting examples of microcapsules are available in
the following references: U.S. Patent Publ. Nos. 2003/215417 A1;
2003/216488 A1; 2003/158344 A1; 2003/165692 A1; 2004/071742 A1;
2004/071746 A1; 2004/072719 A1; 2004/072720 A1; 2003/203829 A1;
2003/195133 A1; 2004/087477 A1; 2004/0106536 A1; EP 1,393,706 A1;
U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,645,479; 6,200,949; 4,882,220; 4,917,920;
4,514,461; RE 32,713; and 4,234,627.
[0043] i. Friable Microcapsule
[0044] In one embodiment, the plurality of microcapsules comprises
a friable microcapsule. Friability refers to the propensity of the
microcapsules to rupture or break open when subjected to direct
external pressures or shear forces. For purposes of the present
invention, a microcapsule is "friable" if, while attached to
fabrics treated therewith, the microcapsule can be ruptured by the
forces encountered when the capsule-containing fabrics are
manipulated by being worn or handled (thereby releasing the
contents of the capsule). In one embodiment, the perfume technology
comprises from about 0.5% to about 99% of a friable microcapsule,
alternatively from about 1% to about 70%, alternatively from about
2% to about 50%, alternatively from about 4% to about 30%, by
weight of said fabric enhancer composition.
[0045] ii. Moisture-Activated Microcapsule
[0046] In another embodiment, the plurality of microcapsules
comprises a moisture-activated microcapsule. In one embodiment, the
moisture-activated microcapsule comprises a free perfume
ingredients either absorbed onto or into a perfume carrier (e.g.,
zeolites, clays, cyclodextrins, and combinations thereof). As used
herein, a moisture-activated microcapsule includes perfume
ingredient absorbed into or onto a perfume carriers. In one
embodiment, the perfume technology comprises a moisture-activated
microcapsule comprising a cyclodextrin carrier such as
beta-cyclodextrin. In one embodiment, the perfume technology
comprises from about 0.5% to about 30% of a moisture-activated
microcapsule, alternatively from about 1% to about 20%,
alternatively from about 4% to about 15% by weight of said fabric
enhancer composition.
[0047] iii. Other Microcapsules
[0048] In yet another embodiment, the plurality of microcapsules
further comprises a heat-activated microcapsule. As defined herein,
a heat-activated microcapsule is one that ruptures or otherwise
releases the encapsulated fabric enhancer composition by body heat
and/or by the heat in a machine dryer.
[0049] In yet another embodiment, the plurality of microcapsules
comprises a friable microcapsule, a moisture-activated
microcapsule, a heat-activated microcapsule, and combinations
thereof. Non-limiting examples of additional microcapsules include
wax comprising microcapsule such as those described in U.S. Pat.
No. 5,246,603 and starch-based microcapsule also described in U.S.
Pat. No. 5,246,603.
[0050] iv. Preparation of Microcapsule and Microcapsule
Characteristics
[0051] Microcapsules may be prepared using a range of conventional
methods known to those skilled in the art for making shell
capsules, such as interfacial polymerization, and polycondensation.
See e.g., U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,516,941, 4,520,142, 4,528,226,
4,681,806, and 4,145,184; GB Patent No. 2,073,132; and WO
Publication No. 99/17871.
[0052] In one embodiment of the invention, the shell of the
microcapsule comprises an aminoplast resin. A method for forming
such shell capsules includes polycondensation. Aminoplast resins
are the reaction products of one or more amines with one or more
aldehydes, typically formaldehyde. Non-limiting examples of
suitable amines include urea, thiourea, melamine and its derivates,
benzoguanamine and acetoguanamine and combinations of amines.
Suitable cross-linking agents (e.g., toluene diisocyanate, divinyl
benzene, butane diol diacrylate etc.) may also be used and
secondary wall polymers may also be used as appropriate, e.g.,
anhydrides and their derivatives, particularly polymers and
co-polymers of maleic anhydride as disclosed in U.S. Pat. Publ. No.
2004/0087477 A1. In another embodiment, the shell of the
microcapsules comprises urea-formaldehyde; melamine-formaldehyde;
or combinations thereof.
[0053] In one embodiment, the plurality of microcapsules comprises
a mean diameter in the range from about 1 micrometer to about 100
microns, alternatively from about 5 microns to about 80 microns,
alternatively from about 10 microns to about 75 microns, and
alternatively between about 15 microns to about 50 microns. The
particle size distribution can be narrow, broad or multimodal. In
another embodiment, the plurality of microcapsules vary in size
having a maximum diameter between about 5 microns and about 300
microns, alternatively between about 10 microns and about 200
microns. Without intending to be bound by theory, it is believed
that as the microcapsule diameters approach about 300 microns,
(e.g., about 250 microns), a reduction in the number of
microcapsules entrained in the fabric may be observed. In another
embodiment, the plurality of microcapsules comprises an average
shell thickness from about 0.01 micron to about 5 microns,
alternatively from about 0.02 micron to about 1 micron.
[0054] c. Additional Fabric Enhancer Actives
[0055] In one embodiment, the dryer sheet further comprises
additional fabric enhancer actives. As used herein fabric enhancer
active means any material that performs a function or delivers a
benefit, such as modifying the physical or chemical properties of
the treated material (e.g. fabric).
[0056] Suitable fabric enhancer actives include, but are not
limited to: perfumes, softening agents, anti-static agents,
crisping agents, water/stain repellents, stain release agents,
refreshing agents, disinfecting agents, wrinkle resistant agents,
wrinkle release agents, odor resistance agents, malodor control
agents, abrasion resistance and protection agents, solvents,
insect/pet repellents, wetting agents, UV protection agents,
skin/fabric conditioning agents, skin/fabric nurturing agents,
skin/fabric hydrating agents, color protection agents, dye
fixatives, dye transfer inhibiting agents, silicones, preservatives
and anti-microbials, fabric shrinkage-reducing agents, brighteners,
hueing dyes, bleaches, chelants, antifoams, anti-scum agents,
whitening agents, catalysts, cyclodextrin, zeolite, petrolatum,
glycerin, triglycerides, vitamins, other skin care actives such as
aloe vera, chamomile, shea butter and the like, mineral oils, and
combinations thereof. In one embodiment, said one or more
additional fabric enhancer actives can be encapsulated similar to
the perfume microcapsule. In another embodiment, said one or more
additional fabric enhancer actives are included as free ingredients
present in or on the dryer sheet.
[0057] Those of skill in the art will understand that more than one
type of dryer sheet can be used in accordance with the package of
the present invention. In one embodiment, the package for storing
dryer sheets comprises a carton containing a plurality of dryer
sheets, said plurality of dryer sheets comprising a first dryer
sheet comprising a first perfume technology and a first indicia,
and a second dryer sheet comprising a second perfume technology and
a second indicia, wherein said first and said second perfume
technologies can be different, meaning for example that the first
dryer sheet comprises a perfume microcapsule comprising a first
perfume, and the second dryer sheet comprises a perfume
microcapsule comprising a second perfume. Further said indicia of
said first and said second dryer sheets can be correspondingly
different such that a consumer will understand that dryer sheets
having a certain indicia will provide a certain perfume technology.
In another embodiment, said plurality of dryer sheets comprises a
second dryer sheet comprising a fabric enhancer active other than a
perfume microcapsule.
[0058] d. Embossed Substrate
[0059] In one embodiment, the dryer sheet comprises an embossed
substrate comprising at least one embossment. Suitable examples of
embossed substrates and methods of making are disclosed in U.S.
Pat. No. 6,983,686 to Vaughn et al. In one embodiment, said at
least one embossment comprises an area of embossment. It is
believed that including at least one embossment on said dryer sheet
further enhances and/or makes more pleasurable the consumer scent
experience because the added three dimensionality of the embossed
substrate conveys a sense of increased potency and/or longer
lasting freshness of the dryer sheet. Further, embossed substrates
are believed to allow for increased fabric enhancer composition
loading rates.
[0060] 5. INDICIA OF FRESHNESS
[0061] The dryer sheet of the present invention further comprises
an indicia of freshness. When the dryer sheet is stored within the
carton of the present invention, the indicia of freshness should be
visible through the window of the carton. By revealing the indicia
of freshness, it is believed that the consumer scent experience can
be enhanced and/or made more pleasurable. This enhanced and/or more
pleasurable scent experience is believed to be represented by the
freshness/scent acceptance which a consumer receives when
laundering their fabrics using the package of the present
invention.
[0062] In one embodiment, the indicia of freshness is in the form
of printed designs or patterns upon the dryer sheet. Suitable
designs and or patterns include a variety of shapes comprising
dots, bubbles, circular shapes, triangles, squares, stars, flowers,
lines, crescents, hearts, letters, numbers and combinations
thereof. The type of shape can be selected to convey the scent
experience which is designed from the given type of dryer sheet
provided. For example, where the dryer sheet comprises a perfume
technology comprising at least one perfume microcapsule the indicia
of freshness can be a plurality of dots, bubbles or other circular
shapes. Where the dryer sheet further comprises a floral scent, the
indicia of freshness can comprise flower or petal shapes.
[0063] In one embodiment, the indicia of freshness is printed onto
the dryer sheet. In another embodiment, the indicia of freshness is
printed using a flexographic printer. In yet another embodiment,
the indicia of freshness is made of a water-soluble ink.
Non-limiting examples of suitable methods to provide indicia of
freshness upon dryer sheets are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.
4,663,198 to Norris; U.S. Pat. No. 6,887,524 to Aouad et al. and
U.S. Pat. No. 6,983,686 to Vaughn et al.
[0064] In one embodiment, the indicia of freshness comprises an
indicia area of from about 5% to about 50% of said area of said at
least one dryer sheet. In another embodiment, the indicia area is
from about 10% to about 25% of said area of said at least one dryer
sheet. Regardless of the relative size of the indicia of freshness
or the relative size of the window defined by the carton, it is
believed that at least a portion of said indicia of freshness
should be revealed through the window.
[0065] In another embodiment, the indicia of freshness comprises an
area from about 50% to about 90%, alternatively from about 60% to
about 75% of said at least one dryer sheet. In yet another
embodiment, the indicia of freshness comprises colors or color
patterns which can be present upon the entire dryer sheet or a
portion of the dryer sheet. Suitable colors or color patterns for
use herein include any colors which are different from the
conventional dryer sheets which are whitish in color, such as
rainbows, ribbons, or tie dye patterns. Where a color or color
pattern is used as the indicia of freshness, the indicia or
freshness can cover the entire dryer sheet.
6. EXAMPLES
[0066] Table I--Enhanced and/or More Pleasurable Scent
Experience
[0067] A three leg consumer test is conducted providing test
subjects with one of three packages for a two week usage period.
Test subjects are instructed to use the dryer sheets as they
normally do following the wash, during the drying process using an
automatic dryer. After the two week usage period, test subjects are
questioned regarding their acceptance of the tested product.
[0068] Among the test subjects who show interest in scent and
desire scent longevity (self 10 identified) and are accepting of
the scents used for the testing the following surprising results
were obtained. Table I shows that the Leg 1, in accordance with the
present invention provides enhanced and/or more pleasurable scent
experience compared to Leg 2, where no indicia is used, and when
compared to Leg 3, where neither indicia nor a carton having a
window are used.
TABLE-US-00001 TABLE 1 Leg 1 Leg 2 Leg 3 Testing conditions
Perfume: 45 mg neat perfume oil X X X Perfume: 20 mg of a perfume
in X X X cyclodextrin Perfume: 30 mg of a perfume in a X X X
microcapsule Indicia of Freshness X -- -- Carton with Window X X --
Base size 78 86 88 Results % of test subjects preferring tested 88%
76% 73% sheet to usual dryer sheet brand for scent experience
Average ratings* provided by test subjects to scent attributes:
Scent left on dried fabrics 84 76 73 Making the Bed 71 63 65
Noticeable Freshness while Folding 87 82 75 Leave Fabrics smelling
Fresh 89 83 78 Scent lasting a long time on Fabrics 82 70 68
Provides LLF 83 78 72 Unexpected Freshness through out 75 67 61 the
day X means that the test condition is included in that Leg.
*Ratings provided individually by test subjects on a 0-100 scale
(0: poor - 100: excellent). Ratings then averaged across test
subjects.
[0069] Morning Dew Scent Dryer sheets comprising the perfume
technology shown in the table above are used for each of said three
legs. The dryer sheets of Leg 1 include indicia of freshness in the
form of a plurality of dots, printed onto the dryer sheet, whereas
the dryer sheets of Leg 2 and 3 do not. Further, the carton of Leg
3 does not include a window.
Morning Dew Scent Dryer sheets comprise: [0070] Non woven polyester
substrate impregnated with a coating comprising the following
ingredients: [0071] KRA: di(soft tallow oxyethyl) hydroxyethyl
methyl ammonium methyl sulfate with primary benefit being
antistatic; [0072] CSalt: salt of stearyl (and palmyl) dimethyl
amine and hard tallow fatty acid with primary benefit being
softness; [0073] Perfume technology. [0074] Perfume technology for
Morning Dew Scent Dryer sheets: [0075] 45 mg neat perfume oil;
[0076] 20 mg of a perfume in cyclodextrin, said cyclodextrin
supplied by Wacker Chemical Corporation of Adrian, Mich.; [0077] 30
mg of a perfume in a microcapsule, said microcapsule supplied by
Appleton of Appleton, Wis.
[0078] The dimensions and values disclosed herein are not to be
understood as being strictly limited to the exact numerical values
recited. Instead, unless otherwise specified, each such dimension
is intended to mean both the recited value and a functionally
equivalent range surrounding that value. For example, a dimension
disclosed as "40 mm" is intended to mean "about 40 mm".
[0079] It should be understood that every maximum numerical
limitation given throughout this specification includes every lower
numerical limitation, as if such lower numerical limitations were
expressly written herein. Every minimum numerical limitation given
throughout this specification includes every higher numerical
limitation, as if such higher numerical limitations were expressly
written herein. Every numerical range given throughout this
specification includes every narrower numerical range that falls
within such broader numerical range, as if such narrower numerical
ranges were all expressly written herein.
[0080] All parts, ratios, and percentages herein, in the
Specification, Examples, and Claims, are by weight and all
numerical limits are used with the normal degree of accuracy
afforded by the art, unless otherwise specified.
[0081] Except as otherwise noted, the articles "a,""an," and "the"
mean "one or more."
[0082] 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. To the
extent that any meaning or definition of a term in this document
conflicts with any meaning or definition of the same term in a
document incorporated by reference, the meaning or definition
assigned to that term in this document shall govern.
[0083] 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.
* * * * *