U.S. patent application number 14/226940 was filed with the patent office on 2014-07-31 for quality communicative indicia for paper towel products.
This patent application is currently assigned to The Procter & Gamble Company. The applicant listed for this patent is The Procter & Gamble Company. Invention is credited to Richard Lee CONNER, Laura Kathleen WEBER, Jeffrey William WINKLE.
Application Number | 20140212644 14/226940 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 40346821 |
Filed Date | 2014-07-31 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140212644 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
CONNER; Richard Lee ; et
al. |
July 31, 2014 |
QUALITY COMMUNICATIVE INDICIA FOR PAPER TOWEL PRODUCTS
Abstract
A method of communicating qualities to a consumer of a paper
towel product where the method involves: providing a paper towel
product having one or more qualities, identifying one or more
communicative elements having one or more of the same qualities of
the paper towel product, selecting a first communicative element by
applying one or more selective criteria to the one or more
communicative elements, providing a visual representation of the
paper towel product and a visual representation of the first
communicative element, and using the visual representations of the
paper towel product and first communicative element to provide a
quality communicative indicium.
Inventors: |
CONNER; Richard Lee;
(Loveland, OH) ; WEBER; Laura Kathleen; (Crescent
Springs, KY) ; WINKLE; Jeffrey William; (West
Chester, OH) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
The Procter & Gamble Company |
Cincinnati |
OH |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
The Procter & Gamble
Company
Cincinnati
OH
|
Family ID: |
40346821 |
Appl. No.: |
14/226940 |
Filed: |
March 27, 2014 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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13593622 |
Aug 24, 2012 |
8722176 |
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14226940 |
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11891433 |
Aug 10, 2007 |
8273446 |
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13593622 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
428/211.1 ;
428/195.1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06Q 30/0225 20130101;
G06Q 30/00 20130101; Y10T 428/31982 20150401; A47K 10/16 20130101;
Y10T 428/24802 20150115; Y10T 428/24934 20150115 |
Class at
Publication: |
428/211.1 ;
428/195.1 |
International
Class: |
A47K 10/16 20060101
A47K010/16 |
Claims
1. A quality communicative indicium for a method of communicating
qualities to a consumer of a paper towel product, the quality
communicative indicium comprising: (a) a visual representation of a
paper towel product and a visual representation of a cloth or
sponge; and (b) wherein the visual representation of the cloth or
sponge is represented integrally with the visual representation of
the paper towel product.
2. The quality communicative indicium of claim 1 wherein the
quality communicative indicium further comprises a first part and a
second part that are simultaneously visible wherein the first part
comprises the visual representation of the paper towel product and
the second part comprises the visual representation of a cloth.
3. The quality communicative indicium of claim 1 wherein the
quality communicative indicium further comprises a first part and a
second part that are simultaneously visible wherein the first part
comprises the visual representation of the paper towel product and
the second part comprises the visual representation of a
sponge.
4. The quality communicative indicium of claim 1 wherein the visual
representation of the primary product further comprises the visual
representation of one or more embossments.
5. The quality communicative indicium of claim 4 wherein the visual
representation of the absorbent paper product further comprises one
or more embossments in an embossing pattern.
6. The quality communicative indicium of claim 5 wherein the one or
more embossments are visually similar to an embossment pattern on
the primary product wherein the primary product is an absorbent
paper product.
7. A packaged absorbent paper product, comprising, (a) a plurality
of paper towel products inside packaging, the packaging comprising
a visual representation of a paper towel product and a visual
representation of a cloth; and (b) wherein the visual
representation of the cloth is represented integrally with the
visual representation of the paper towel product.
8. The packaged absorbent paper product of claim 7 wherein the
quality communicative indicium further comprises a first part and a
second part that are simultaneously visible wherein the first part
comprises the visual representation of the paper towel product and
the second part comprises the visual representation of a cloth.
9. The packaged absorbent paper product of claim 7 wherein the
visual representation of the paper towel product further comprises
the visual representation of one or more embossments.
10. The packaged absorbent paper product of claim 9 wherein the
visual representation of the paper towel product further comprises
one or more embossments in an embossing pattern.
11. The packaged absorbent paper product of claim 10 wherein the
one or more embossments are visually similar to an embossment
pattern on the paper towel product inside the packaging.
12. A packaged absorbent paper product, comprising, (a) a plurality
of paper towel products inside packaging, the packaging comprising
a visual representation of a paper towel product and a visual
representation of a sponge; and (b) wherein the visual
representation of the sponge is represented integrally with the
visual representation of the paper towel product.
13. The packaged absorbent paper product of claim 12 wherein the
quality communicative indicium further comprises a first part and a
second part that are simultaneously visible wherein the first part
comprises the visual representation of the paper towel product and
the second part comprises the visual representation of a
sponge.
14. The packaged absorbent paper product of claim 12 wherein the
visual representation of the paper towel product further comprises
the visual representation of one or more embossments.
15. The packaged absorbent paper product of claim 14 wherein the
visual representation of the paper towel product further comprises
one or more embossments in an embossing pattern.
16. The packaged absorbent paper product of claim 15 wherein the
one or more embossments are visually similar to an embossment
pattern on the paper towel product inside the packaging.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] This invention relates to packaging for a paper towel
product wherein the packaging has one or more indicia that conveys
a quality of the paper towel product by showing a simulated
representation of the paper towel product wherein the simulated
representation shows that the paper towel product as though the
paper towel product is constructed of a material that is well-known
to have the same quality as the paper towel product.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Product packaging impacts product visibility to the customer
and consequently impacts revenues derived for product sales.
Because of this relationship, manufacturers and retailers have a
vested interest in displaying product packages that have the most
effective communication indicia as is possible. That being said,
providing effective communicative indicia on the product packages
may provide obstacles for a manufacturer. For instance, ensuring
that the communicative indicia on the product package does not take
up an unduly large amount of surface area, or is simple enough to
understand so as to not detract consumers from the product itself,
yet effectively conveys a particular message, are some problems
that a manufacturer may encounter.
[0003] Some types of products have certain qualities or benefits
that are desirable. For example, with family care products, such as
absorbent paper products, a highly desirable quality is to have a
cloth-like feeling. Much work has gone into the prior art to
develop actual paper products that have, or appear to have, such
quality. However, even if a product has such a quality it is still
necessary to convey such information to the consumers.
[0004] An exemplary prior art methodology of conveying the presence
of certain qualities or benefits includes advertising or packaging
that includes text printed on the product packaging that touts the
improved features. However, packaging for prior art absorbent paper
products, particularly paper towel products, tends to use a vast
amount of text to convey qualities and benefits to the consumers.
The text tends to be distracting to the overall visual effect of
the packaging and does not take full advantage of the space on the
product packaging that it is printed on. It can sometimes be the
case that the text that conveys the message is generic in form, may
be verbose, and does not separate itself from other packages in the
retail space which may have similar messages. This being the case,
the overall impact of such indicia on the product package may be
dramatically reduced.
[0005] Another exemplary prior art method for conveying the
presence of certain qualities or benefits is to provide consumers
with samples of the product for them to use and experience at home
or in store. However, this method tends to be somewhat costly, can
be difficult to coordinate, and is limited in the number of media
that can be used.
[0006] Thus, there exists the need for a method of doing business
that provides manufacturers with the ability to convey the
existence of certain benefits to the consumers quickly and
effectively and that is compatible with a wide variety of
media.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] In one embodiment, the present invention relates to a method
of communicating qualities to a consumer of a paper towel product,
the method comprising the steps of: (1) providing a paper towel
product having one or more qualities; (2) selecting one or more of
the one or more qualities of the absorbent paper product; (3)
identifying one or more communicative elements wherein each of the
one or more communicative elements represents one or more of the
one or more selected qualities of the absorbent paper product; (4)
applying one or more selective criteria to the one or more
communicative elements and selecting a first communicative element;
(5) providing a visual representation of the absorbent paper
product; (6) providing a visual representation of the first
communicative element; and (7) using the visual representation of
the absorbent paper product and the visual representation of the
first communicative element to provide a quality communicative
indicium.
[0008] In another embodiment, the present invention relates to a
quality communicative indicium for a method of communicating
qualities to a consumer of a paper towel product, the quality
communicative indicium comprising: (a) a visual representation of a
paper towel product and a visual representation of a cloth; and (b)
wherein the visual representation of the cloth is represented
integrally represented in the visual representation of the
absorbent paper product.
[0009] In another embodiment, the a paper towel product for use
with a method of communicating qualities to a consumer of a paper
towel product wherein the paper towel product comprises: (a) an
absorbent paper product comprising two or more plies having a
Compression Slope of from about 7 to about 30; a basis weight of
from about 20 lbs/3000 ft.sup.2 to about 50 lbs/3000 ft.sup.2; a
Wet Caliper of from about 18 mils to about 40 mils; and a Flex
Modulus of from about 0.1 to about 1.2; (b) product packaging
comprising a quality communicative indicium for a method of
communicating qualities to a consumer of an absorbent paper
product, the quality communicative indicium comprising a quality
communicative indicium comprising a visual representation of a
paper towel product and a visual representation of a cloth wherein
the visual representation of the cloth is integrally represented in
the visual representation of the absorbent paper product.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0010] FIG. 1 is a flow diagram that illustrates one embodiment of
the method of marketing as may utilize the present invention
[0011] FIG. 2A is an exemplary embodiment of a quality
communicative indicium as may utilize the present invention.
[0012] FIG. 2B is an exemplary embodiment of a quality
communicative indicium as may utilize the present invention.
[0013] FIG. 3 is an exemplary embodiment of a product package
comprising a roll of absorbent paper product and a quality
communicative indicium as may utilize the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0014] As defined herein, "product packaging" refers to the outer
wrap or container in which the consumer product is held while in
the retail space. In one embodiment product packaging may be
selected from the group consisting of: boxes, shrink wrap, outer
wrap, bags, pouches, containers, bottles, the like, and
combinations thereof.
[0015] As defined herein, "primary product" refers to the product
that is being described by one or more quality communicative
indicia. In one embodiment, a primary product is a paper towel
product.
[0016] As defined herein, "quality" refers to a characteristic that
is associated with a product that may, or may not be, normally
associated with a product, but which the product may possess
nonetheless. A quality may be expressed descriptively. In an
exemplary embodiment, a quality may be described in terms of:
absorbency, softness, caliper, biodegradability, hygiene,
anti-microbial benefits, luxury, scent, moisturizing qualities,
strength, the like and combinations thereof. Texture is the visual
or tactile surface characteristics and appearance of the absorbent
paper product. Absorbency is the characteristic of the paper web
that facilitates the take up and retention of fluids, particularly
water, aqueous solutions, and aqueous suspensions. In addition, the
absolute quantity of a fluid that a fixed amount of an absorbent
paper product will hold, and the rate at which a fixed amount of an
absorbent paper product web will absorb the fluid are also primary
benefits of an absorbent paper product. Softness is a pleasing
tactile sensation the user perceives as the paper is crumpled in
their hand and is contacted to various portions of the anatomy.
Caliper is the thickness of the absorbent paper product.
Biodegradability is the tendency of the paper to be broken down
into innocuous products by the action of micro-organisms. Hygiene
is the ability of the product to perform functions that are
conducive to health or cleanliness. Anti-microbial benefits include
the ability of the product to remove or reduce the presence of
harmful micro-organisms. Luxury is the adding of pleasure, comfort,
satisfaction, or ease but not being necessary. Scent refers to the
effluvia from a substance that affects the sense of smell.
Moisturizing qualities refer to the ability of the product to
impart lotion or other skin-benefiting agents onto the user.
Strength is the ability of a paper web to retain its physical
integrity during use. Alternatively, a quality may be expressed
comparatively. In other words, a quality may be described in terms
of other products or articles. For example, an absorbent paper
product may be described, in an exemplary embodiment, as being
fabric-like. Fabric like includes, but is not limited to:
cloth-like, cotton-like, silk-like, flannel-like, sponge-like,
denim-like, spandex-like, and combinations thereof.
[0017] As defined herein, "communicative element" refers to an
item, object, product, or some representation thereof, which is
known to possess one or more qualities of the primary product. As
exemplified supra, a communicative element may be, but is not
limited to: cloth, cotton, silk, flannel, sponge, denim, spandex,
and combinations thereof. In another embodiment, a communicative
element may be: metal, mesh, chain, netting, cable, and
combinations thereof.
[0018] As defined herein, "quality communicative indicium" refers
to any indicium or visual indicator that can communicate a benefit
or property of the primary product. For example, quality
communicative indicia may include, but are not limited to symbols,
pictures, photographs, trademarks, graphics, the like and
combinations thereof. In one embodiment, a quality communicative
indicium comprises one or more communicative elements. In some
embodiments, the quality communicative indicium may be represented
integrally into the primary product. In other words, in some
embodiments the quality communicative indicium is visually
represented as being a part of the primary product itself. An
example of a quality communicative indicium that is represented
integrally into a primary product may be as follows: a primary
product such as an absorbent paper product paper towel may be
represented by a drawing of a square or rectangular sheet having an
embossment pattern that is similar to that of the actual absorbent
paper product. If the quality that the paper towel possesses is
that the paper towel is fabric-like or cloth-like, then the quality
communicative indicium may be a visual representation of a piece of
fabric or cloth. The visual representation of the piece of fabric
or cloth (quality communicative indicium) may then be shown as a
part of the visual representation of the primary product itself. In
one embodiment, the drawing of a square sheet which has drawings of
embossments can be redrawn such that the square now has half of the
sheet with drawings of embossments, while the other half of the
sheet may have drawings of a pattern that may be common to cloth
products--for example, a gingham pattern, toile, etc. In another
embodiment, one half of the sheet may have drawings of a pattern
that may be common to fabrics--for example, a herringbone,
houndstooth, pique, etc. As a result, the quality communicative
indicium may be represented integrally as being a part of the
primary product. Examples of quality communicative indicia which
are integrally visually represented into the primary product
(absorbent paper product) are illustrated in FIGS. 2A-B and
discussed infra.
[0019] As defined herein, "selective criteria" refers to any
factor(s) that may be applied to two or more potential
communicative elements to decide which communicative element is
better suited for use in a quality communicative indicium.
[0020] As defined herein, "cloth" refers to a pliable material made
usually by weaving, felting, or knitting natural or synthetic
fibers and filaments. Nonlimiting examples of cloths in everyday
use include: dish towels, tablecloths, and the like.
[0021] As defined herein, "visually similar" means having an
appearance of one object that is comparable in shape, pattern,
texture, to another object.
Quality Communicative Indicium
[0022] In one embodiment, the present invention to a quality
communicative indicia that may be used with a method of
communicating the qualities of a primary product. In one
embodiment, the quality communicative indicia may be printed on the
product packaging of the primary product. In another embodiment,
the quality communicative indicium may be displayed on a billboard
or placard and not necessarily on the product packaging.
[0023] FIG. 1 is flow chart illustrating the steps of an exemplary
embodiment of the present business method of providing a quality
communicative indicium for a product. A primary product 10 is
produced having one or more qualities 20. One or more of the one or
more qualities 20 are identified from the primary product 10.
Applying a Selective Criterion:
EXAMPLE 1
[0024] In an exemplary embodiment, a paper towel product (primary
product 10) has the qualities 20 of having a smooth texture, heavy,
thick, and conveys test-users a sense of warmth. A communicative
element 30 may then be chosen that will illustrate the one or more
qualities 20 associated with the exemplary primary product 10. For
example, without being limited by theory, it is thought that
flannel fabric is well-known to consumers for possessing, among
other qualities, the qualities 20 of having a smooth texture,
heavy, and thick and is something that a person would wear to stay
warm. Therefore, because flannel is a well known object that
possesses one or more qualities 20 that primary product 10
possesses, flannel is a possible choice for the communicative
element 30. Without being limited by theory, it is thought that
wool is well-known to consumers for being heavy, thick and is
something that a person would wear to stay warm. Therefore, wool is
also a well known object that possesses one or more qualities 20
that the primary product possesses 10 and is also a possible choice
for the communicative element 30.
[0025] Because there are two possible choices for the communicative
element 30, a selective criterion 40 may be used to pick which
communicative element is best suited for the quality communicative
indicium 40. For example, a selective criterion may be to pick the
selective criterion which has the highest number of qualities 20 in
common with the primary product 10. Comparing wool with flannel and
without wishing to be limited by theory, it is thought that flannel
possesses the additional quality of having a smooth texture that
wool does not possess. Thus, applying the selective criterion 40 of
highest number of qualities in common with the primary product,
flannel is a better choice than wool for being the communicative
element 30.
Applying a Selective Criterion:
EXAMPLE 2
[0026] In an exemplary embodiment, a paper towel product (primary
product 10) has the qualities 20 of being "soft" and "absorbent." A
communicative element 30 may then be chosen that will illustrate
the one or more qualities 20 associated with the exemplary primary
product 10. Two nonlimiting communicative elements could then be a
cloth and a sponge. Without wishing to be limited by theory, it is
thought that a cloth is known to be soft and absorbent whereas a
sponge is known to be absorbent, but not necessarily soft. Thus,
applying the selective criterion 40 of highest number of qualities
20 in common with the primary product 10, the cloth is chosen as
the communicative element because it embodies 2 qualities of the
primary product whereas the sponge only embodies 1 quality.
Applying a Selective Criterion:
EXAMPLE 3
[0027] In an exemplary embodiment, a paper towel product (primary
product 10) has the qualities 20 of being "wring-able" (able to be
squeezed and/or twisted to expel liquids) "strong" and "absorbent."
A communicative element 30 may then be chosen that will illustrate
the one or more qualities 20 associated with the exemplary primary
product 10. Two nonlimiting communicative elements could then be a
cloth and a sponge. Without wishing to be limited by theory, it is
thought that a cloth is known to be wring-able, strong and
absorbent and that a sponge is also known to be wring-able, strong
and absorbent. Thus, applying a selective criterion 40 such as
highest number of qualities 20 in common with the primary product
10 will not successfully select a communicative element 30 because
both a cloth and a sponge have three qualities 20 in common with
the primary product 10.
[0028] In the case of a tie (as exemplified supra), then one or
more selective criteria 40 may be applied to choose from the
possible communicative elements 30 or the qualities 20 of the
primary product 10 may be expanded further and the first selective
criterion 40 may be reapplied. For example, in the current example,
the paper towel is described as having the quality of being strong.
Strength can be further expanded to be described as
tensile-strength. In this case, without wishing to be limited by
theory, it is thought that a cloth is known to have a strong
tensile strength whereas a sponge is not. Thus, reapplying the
selective criteria 40 of highest number of qualities 20 in common
with the primary product 10, the cloth is now chosen as an
appropriate communicative element 30.
[0029] Alternatively, any number of other selective criteria 40 may
be applied. For example, nonlimiting examples of alternate
selective criteria 40 include: more aesthetically pleasing, easiest
to execute, alphabetical order, and combinations thereof.
Applying a Selective Criterion:
EXAMPLE 4
[0030] In an exemplary embodiment, a paper towel product (primary
product 10) has the qualities 20 of being "stretchable." A
communicative element 30 may then be chosen that will illustrate
the one or more qualities 20 associated with the exemplary primary
product 10. One nonlimiting communicative element could then be a
piece of spandex fabric which is being stretched. Without wishing
to be limited by theory, it is thought that spandex fabric is very
stretchable and by showing that it is being stretched indicates
that the fabric is, in fact, spandex. Since there is only one
communicative element 30 at issue, the selective criterion 40 that
may be applied is simply to select the lone communicative element
30.
[0031] Without wishing to be limited by theory, it is thought that
for consumers to more easily identify the message being conveyed by
the quality communicative indicium, then the consumer should be
able to identify the primary product 10 and communicative element
30 illustrated in the quality communicative indicium. For example,
if a primary product 10 is a paper towel product with the quality
of being "flannel like" and the selected communicative element 30
is flannel fabric, then to have consumers identify the primary
product 10 and the chosen communicative element 30, some
representation of the communicative element 30 should be made. A
visual representation 50 can be made of both the paper towel
product (primary product 10) and the flannel (communicative element
30). In one embodiment for the visual representation of a paper
towel product (primary product 10) a visual representation 50 of
embossments, or in another embodiment, the same embossing pattern
as on the actual paper towel product, may be used. In one
embodiment, for a communicative element 30 such as flannel, then a
visual representation 50 may be made of flannel. In one embodiment
the visual representations 50 can be made by, but not limited to,
drawings, photographs, pictures, the like and combinations thereof.
For example, without wishing to be limited by theory it is thought
that a plaid pattern is well known and commonly associated with
flannel. Therefore, an exemplary visual representation 50 of
flannel would be a drawing that included a plaid pattern on it. In
an embodiment, for a communicative element 30 like cloth, a pattern
or some other indicator, that is common with a piece of cloth
(i.e., gingham pattern, toile pattern, striped pattern, texture,
etc.) may be chosen for the visual representation 50 to indicate
that the communicative element 30 is a piece of cloth.
[0032] Having a primary product 10 and having chosen a
communicative element 30, a quality communicative indicium 60 may
be made by visually linking the primary product 10 with the
communicative element 30. In one embodiment, the primary product 10
and communicative element 30 may be visually linked by providing a
visual representation 50 of the primary product 10 and a visual
representation 50 of the communicative element 30 and using the two
visual representations 50 to create a single quality communicative
indicium 60 that has aspects of both visual representations 50
wherein the visual representation 50 of the primary product 10 and
the visual representation 50 of the communicative element make two
halves of a single quality communicative indicium 60.
[0033] The quality communicative indicium 60 may then be displayed
70 on, but not limited to, the product packaging or on placards,
signs, billboards, shopping carts, lane dividers, advertisements,
the like and combinations thereof. Further, while it may be highly
beneficial to display the quality communicative indicium in a
retail location where the primary product may be sold, it is not
necessary to limit the placement of quality communicative indicia
to a retail location. For example, a quality communicative indicium
may be displayed on a billboard near a road or on an advertisement
that is mailed to the consumers' homes.
[0034] FIG. 2A is an exemplary embodiment of a quality
communicative indicium 60 of the present invention. In this
exemplary embodiment the primary product is an absorbent paper
product having a quality of being cloth-like. Referring to FIG. 2A,
the quality communicative indicium 60 comprises a visual
representation 50 of the primary product 10 and a visual
representation 50 of the communicative element 30 (a piece of
cloth). In this case, the visual representation 50 of the primary
product 10 and communicative elements 50 are drawings. In the
exemplary embodiment the quality communicative indicium 60
comprises an absorbent paper product having a first part 71 and a
second part 73. In some embodiments the first part 71 and the
second part 73 are simultaneously visible. In the exemplary
embodiment the first part 71 and second part 73 are visually
represented as a first side and second side (respectively) of a
sheet of an absorbent paper product. It should be understood that
it is not necessary for the first part 71 and second part 73 of the
quality communicative indicium 60 to be two different sides (as
drawn) of the primary product in order to create a visual link
between the primary product and quality communicative indicium. In
the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 2A, the sheet of absorbent
paper product (quality communicative indicium 60) is twisted to
show the first part 71 and the second part 73.
[0035] FIG. 2B shows another exemplary embodiment of a quality
communicative indicium 60 of the present invention. The quality
communicative indicium 60 comprises a visual representation 50 of a
primary product (absorbent paper product) and a visual
representation 50 of the communicative element 30 (cloth) wherein
the primary product comprises an absorbent paper product having a
first part 71 and a second part 73. In one embodiment the first
part 71 can be from about 25% to about 75% of one side of the
visual representation 50 of the primary product (as drawn) and the
second part 73 can be from about 25% to about 75% of the same side
of the quality communicative indicium 60.
[0036] The visual representations 50 of the present invention
quality communicative indicium 60 can be illustrated by any means
known in the art such as, but not limited to, drawings,
photographs, paintings, computer graphics, the like, and
combinations thereof. In the exemplary FIGS. 2A-B the absorbent
paper product (primary product 10) is shown as such by drawing a
pattern comprising embossments 75 on the first part 71. Any other
feature that a consumer would understand as being present in the
primary product can be drawn onto the quality communicative
indicium 60 so that it is understood that the quality communicative
indicium 60 relates to that primary product 10. In one embodiment
the quality 20 that is present in the primary product that 10 is
being conveyed by the quality communicative indicium 60 can be
depicted by drawing any feature that a consumer would understand as
representing that quality. For example, in FIGS. 2A-B the exemplary
quality communicative indicium 60 represents an absorbent paper
product (the primary product) that has a cloth-like texture,
softness and strength. In the exemplary embodiment, the second part
73 of the quality communicative indicium 60 is visually represented
50 through a communicative element 30 that represents a piece of
cloth. Such a representation may be made by drawing a pattern that
is commonly used on cloth napkins on the second part 73 of the
quality communicative indicium 60. Without wishing to be limited by
theory, it is thought that by using a single indicium to indicate
one or more qualities that a primary product may possess by
associating that primary product with an item, object, or other
product that is known to embody one or more of these qualities,
then this simplified form of communication will be more easily
received by consumers.
[0037] FIG. 3 is an exemplary embodiment of a roll of an absorbent
paper product 80 in product packaging 90 wherein the product
packaging comprises a quality communicative indicium 60 of FIG.
2A.
Absorbent Paper Product
[0038] As defined herein, "absorbent paper product" refers to any
formed, fibrous structure paper products, traditionally, but not
necessarily, are used for drying, cleaning, and wiping purposes.
Absorbent paper products comprise paper making fibers. Absorbent
paper products include products such as paper towels, facial
tissues, sanitary tissues, and the like.
[0039] An absorbent paper product may comprise a variety of paper
making fibers, such as, but not limited to, natural fibers,
synthetic fibers, as well as any other suitable fibers, starches,
and combinations thereof. Paper making fibers useful in the present
invention include cellulosic fibers commonly known as wood pulp
fibers. Applicable wood pulps include chemical pulps, such as, but
not limited to, Kraft, sulfite and sulfate pulps, as well as
mechanical pulps including, groundwood, thermomechanical pulp,
chemically modified, and the like. Chemical pulps may be used in
tissue towel embodiments since they are known to those of skill in
the art to impart a superior tactical sense of softness to tissue
sheets made therefrom. Pulps derived from deciduous trees
(hardwood) and/or coniferous trees (softwood) can be utilized
herein. Such hardwood and softwood fibers can be blended or
deposited in layers to provide a stratified web. Exemplary layering
embodiments and processes of layering are disclosed in U.S. Pat.
Nos. 3,994,771 and 4,300,981. Additionally, fibers derived from
wood pulp such as cotton linters, bagesse, and the like, can be
used. Additionally, fibers derived from recycled paper, which may
contain any of all of the categories as well as other non-fibrous
materials such as fillers and adhesives used to manufacture the
original paper product may be used in the present web. In addition,
fibers and/or filaments made from polymers, specifically hydroxyl
polymers, may be used in the present invention. Non-limiting
examples of suitable hydroxyl polymers include polyvinyl alcohol,
starch, starch derivatives, chitosan, chitosan derivatives,
cellulose derivatives, gums, arabinans, galactans, and combinations
thereof. Additionally, other synthetic fibers such as rayon,
polyethylene, and polypropylene fibers can be used within the scope
of the present invention. Further, such fibers may be latex bonded.
Other materials are also intended to be within the scope of the
present invention as long as they do not interfere or counteract
any advantage presented by the instant invention.
[0040] The absorbent paper products may comprise any tissue-towel
paper product known in the industry. Embodiment of these absorbent
paper products may be made according U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,191,609
4,300,981, 4,191,609, 4,514,345, 4,528,239, 4,529,480, 4,637,859,
5,245,025, 5,275,700, 5,328,565, 5,334,289, 5,364,504, 5,527,428,
5,556,509, 5,628,876, 5,629,052, 5,637,194, and 5,411,636; EP
677612; and U.S. Patent App. No. 2004/0192136A1.
[0041] The absorbent paper products may be manufactured via a
wet-laid making process where the resulting web is
through-air-dried or conventionally dried. Optionally, the
substrate may be foreshortened by creping or by wet
microcontraction. Creping and/or wet microcontraction are disclosed
in commonly assigned U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,048,938, 5,942,085,
5,865,950, 4,440,597, 4,191,756, and 6,187,138.
[0042] Methods for making such absorbent paper products are known
in the art. See commonly assigned U.S. Pat. No. 6,547,928. One
suitable absorbent paper product is pattern densified tissue paper
which is characterized by having a relatively high-bulk field of
relatively low fiber density and an array of densified zones of
relatively high fiber density. The high-bulk field is alternatively
characterized as a field of pillow regions. The densified zones are
alternatively referred to as knuckle 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. Processes for making pattern densified tissue webs are
disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,301,746, 3,974,025, 4,191,609,
4,637,859, 3,301,746, 3,821,068, 3,974,025, 3,573,164, 3,473,576,
4,239,065, and 4,528,239.
[0043] Uncompacted, non pattern-densified absorbent paper products
are also contemplated within the scope of the present invention and
are described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,812,000 and 4,208,459. Uncreped
tissue paper as defined in the art is also contemplated. The
techniques to produce uncreped tissue in this manner are taught in
the prior art. For example, European Patent Application Nos. 0 677
612A2 and 0 617 164 A1; and U.S. Pat. No. 5,656,132.
[0044] The substrate which comprises the absorbent paper product of
the present invention may be cellulosic, non-cellulosic, or a
combination of both. The substrate may be conventionally dried
using one or more press felts or through-air dried. If the
substrate which comprises the paper according to the present
invention is conventionally dried, it may be conventionally dried
using a felt which applies a pattern to the paper as taught by
commonly assigned U.S. Pat. No. 5,556,509 and PCT Application WO
96/00812. The substrate which comprises the paper according to the
present invention may also be through air dried. A suitable through
air dried substrate may be made according to commonly assigned U.S.
Pat. No. 4,191,609.
[0045] Other materials are also intended to be within the scope of
the present invention as long as they do not interfere or
counteract any advantage presented by the instant invention.
[0046] In one embodiment, the absorbent paper product has a basis
weight of greater than about 20 lbs/3000 ft.sup.2, in another
embodiment from about 20 lbs/3000 ft.sup.2 to about 50 lbs/3000
ft.sup.2. In another embodiment the basis weight is about 30
lbs/3000 ft.sup.2 to about 45 lbs/3000 ft.sup.2, as measured by the
Basis Weight Method described herein.
[0047] In one embodiment the absorbent paper product comprises a
High Load Caliper of from about 10 mils to about 45 mils; in
another embodiment from about 12 mils to about 30 mils; in another
embodiment from about 19 mils to about 28 mils, and in another
embodiment from about 20 mils to about 25 mils, as measured by the
High Load Caliper Method described herein.
[0048] In one embodiment the absorbent paper product comprises a
Flex Modulus from about 0.1 to about 1.2; in another embodiment
from about 0.1 to about 0.3, as measured by the Flex Modulus Method
described herein.
[0049] In one embodiment the absorbent paper product comprises a
Compression Slope of from about 7 to about 30; in another
embodiment from about 7 to about 25, and in yet another embodiment
from about 8 to about 20, as measured by the Compression Slope
Method described herein.
[0050] In one embodiment the absorbent paper product comprises a
Wet Caliper of greater than about 18 or greater than about 25 mils;
in another embodiment from about 18, 22, 27, 28 mils to about 30,
32, 35, 40 mils, as measured by the Wet Caliper Test Method as
disclosed herein.
[0051] In still yet another embodiment, the absorbent paper product
exhibits a sheet caliper or loaded caliper of at least about 29, in
another embodiment from about 30 mils to about 50 mils, and/or from
about 33 mils to about 45, as measured by the Sheet Caliper Test
Method disclosed herein.
[0052] In one embodiment of the present invention, the absorbent
paper product has a plurality of embossments. Suitable means of
embossing include those disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,323,983,
5,468,323, 5,693,406, 5,972,466, 6,030,690, and 6,086,715.
Absorbent Paper Product: Optional Ingredients
[0053] The absorbent paper product may optionally comprise one or
more ingredients that may be added to the aqueous papermaking
furnish or the embryonic web. These optional ingredients may be
added to impart other desirable characteristics to the product or
improve the papermaking process so long as they are compatible with
the other components of the fibrous structure product and do not
significantly and adversely affect the functional qualities of the
present invention. The listing of optional chemical ingredients is
intended to be merely exemplary in nature and is not meant to limit
the scope of the invention. Other materials may be included as well
so long as they do not interfere or counteract the advantages of
the present invention.
[0054] A cationic charge biasing species may be added to the
papermaking process to control the zeta potential of the aqueous
papermaking furnish as it is delivered to the papermaking process.
These materials are used because most of the solids in nature have
negative surface charges, including the surfaces of cellulosic
fibers and fines and most inorganic fillers. In one embodiment the
cationic charge biasing species is alum. In addition charge biasing
may be accomplished by use of relatively low molecular weight
cationic synthetic polymer, in one embodiment having a molecular
weight of no more than about 500,000 and in another embodiment no
more than about 200,000, or even about 100,000. The charge
densities of such low molecular weight cationic synthetic polymers
are relatively high. These charge densities range from about 4 to
about 8 equivalents of cationic nitrogen per kilogram of polymer.
An exemplary material is Cypro 514.RTM., a product of Cytec, Inc.
of Stamford, Conn.
[0055] High surface area, high anionic charge microparticles for
the purposes of improving formation, drainage, strength, and
retention may also be included herein. See, for example, U.S. Pat.
No. 5,221,435.
[0056] If permanent wet strength is desired, cationic wet strength
resins may be optionally added to the papermaking furnish or to the
embryonic web. From about 2 to about 50 lbs./ton of dry paper
fibers of the cationic wet strength resin may be used, in another
embodiment from about 5 to about 30 lbs./ton, and in another
embodiment from about 10 to about 25 lbs./ton. The cationic wet
strength resins useful in this invention include without limitation
cationic water soluble resins. These resins impart wet strength to
paper sheets and are well known to the paper making art. These
resin may impart either temporary or permanent wet strength to the
sheet. Such resins include the following Hercules products.
KYMENE.RTM. resins obtainable from Hercules Inc., Wilmington, Del.
may be used, including KYMENE.RTM. 736 which is a polyethyleneimine
(PEI) wet strength polymer. It is believed that the PEI imparts wet
strength by ionic bonding with the pulps carboxyl sites.
KYMENE.RTM. 557LX is polyamide epichlorohydrin (PAE) wet strength
polymer. It is believed that the PAE contains cationic sites that
lead to resin retention by forming an ionic bond with the carboxyl
sites on the pulp. The polymer contains 3-azetidinium groups which
react to form covalent bonds with the pulps' carboxyl sites as well
as with the polymer backbone. The product must undergo curing in
the form of heat or undergo natural aging for the reaction of the
azentidinium group. KYMENE.RTM. 450 is a base activated epoxide
polyamide epichlorohydrin polymer. It is theorized that like 557LX
the resin attaches itself ionically to the pulps' carboxyl sites.
The epoxide group is much more reactive than the azentidinium
group. The epoxide group reacts with both the hydroxyl and carboxyl
sites on the pulp, thereby giving higher wet strengths. The epoxide
group can also crosslink to the polymer backbone. KYMENE.RTM. 2064
is also a base activated epoxide polyamide epichlorohydrin polymer.
It is theorized that KYMENE.RTM. 2064 imparts its wet strength by
the same mechanism as KYMENE.RTM. 450. KYMENE.RTM. 2064 differs in
that the polymer backbond contains more epoxide functional groups
than does KYMENE.RTM. 450. Both KYMENE.RTM. 450 and KYMENE.RTM.
2064 require curing in the form of heat or natural aging to fully
react all the epoxide groups, however, due to the reactiveness of
the epoxide group, the majority of the groups (80-90%) react and
impart wet strength off the paper machine. Mixtures of the
foregoing may be used. Other suitable types of such resins include
urea-formaldehyde resins, melamine formaldehyde resins,
polyamide-epichlorohydrin resins, polyethyleneimine resins,
polyacrylamide resins, dialdehyde starches, and mixtures thereof.
Other suitable types of such resins are described in U.S. Pat. Nos.
3,700,623, 3.772,076, 4,557,801, 4,391,878.
[0057] In one embodiment, the cationic wet strength resin may be
added at any point in the processes, where it will come in contact
with the paper fibers prior to forming the wet web. For example,
the cationic wet strength resin may be added to the thick or the
thin stock directly, in may be added at the tray, the fan pump, the
head box, the machine chest, the dump chest or the pulper. In
another embodiment the cationic wet strength resin is added to the
thick stock. It should be noted, however, that the optimal addition
point may very from paper machine to paper machine and from grade
of paper to grade of paper.
[0058] Many absorbent paper products must have limited strength
when wet because of the need to dispose of them through toilets
into septic or sewer systems. If wet strength is imparted to these
products, fugitive wet strength, characterized by a decay of part
or all of the initial strength upon standing in presence of water,
is preferred. If fugitive wet strength is desired, the binder
materials can be chosen from the group consisting of dialdehyde
starch or other resins with aldehyde functionality such as Co-Bond
1000.RTM. offered by National Starch and Chemical Company of
Scarborough, Me.; Parez 750.RTM. offered by Cytec of Stamford,
Conn.; and the resin described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,981,577 and other
such resins having the decay properties described above as may be
known to the art.
[0059] If enhanced absorbency is needed, surfactants may be used to
treat the absorbent paper product of the present invention. The
level of surfactant, if used, in one embodiment, from about 0.01%
to about 2.0% by weight, based on the dry fiber weight of the
absorbent paper product. In one embodiment the surfactants have
alkyl chains with eight or more carbon atoms. Exemplary anionic
surfactants include linear alkyl sulfonates and alkylbenzene
sulfonates. Exemplary nonionic surfactants include alkylglycosides
including alkylglycoside esters such as Crodesta SL40.RTM. which is
available from Croda, Inc. (New York, N.Y.); alkylglycoside ethers
as described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,011,389; and alkylpolyethoxylated
esters such as Pegosperse 200 ML available from Glyco Chemicals,
Inc. (Greenwich, Conn.) and IGEPAL RC-520.RTM. available from Rhone
Poulenc Corporation (Cranbury, N.J.). Alternatively, cationic
softener active ingredients with a high degree of unsaturated (mono
and/or poly) and/or branched chain alkyl groups can greatly enhance
absorbency.
[0060] In addition, chemical softening agents may be used to
increase the softness of the absorbent paper product. In one
embodiment the chemical softening agents comprise quaternary
ammonium compounds including, but not limited to, the well-known
dialkyldimethylammonium salts (e.g., ditallowdimethylammonium
chloride, ditallowdimethylammonium methyl sulfate ("DTDMAMS"),
di(hydrogenated tallow)dimethyl ammonium chloride, etc.). In
another embodiment variants of these softening agents include mono
or diester variations of the before mentioned
dialkyldimethylammonium salts and ester quaternaries made from the
reaction of fatty acid and either methyl diethanol amine and/or
triethanol amine, followed by quaternization with methyl chloride
or dimethyl sulfate.
[0061] Another class of papermaking-added chemical softening agents
comprises organo-reactive polydimethyl siloxane ingredients,
including the amino functional polydimethyl siloxane. The absorbent
paper product of the present invention may further comprise a
diorganopolysiloxane-based polymer. These
diorganopolysiloxane-based polymers useful in the present invention
span a large range of viscosities; from about 10 to about
10,000,000 centistokes (cSt) at 25.degree. C. Some
diorganopolysiloxane-based polymers useful in this invention
exhibit viscosities greater than 10,000,000 centistokes (cSt) at
25.degree. C. and therefore are characterized by manufacturer
specific penetration testing. Examples of this characterization are
GE silicone materials SE 30 and SE 63 with penetration
specifications of 500-1500 and 250-600 (tenths of a millimeter)
respectively.
[0062] Among the diorganopolysiloxane polymers of the present
invention are diorganopolysiloxane polymers comprising repeating
units, where said units correspond to the formula
(R.sub.2SiO).sub.n, where R is a monovalent radical containing from
1 to 6 carbon atoms, in one embodiment selected from the group
consisting of methyl, ethyl, propyl, isopropyl, butyl, isobutyl,
t-butyl, amyl, hexyl, vinyl, allyl, cyclohexyl, amino alkyl,
phenyl, fluoroalkyl and mixtures thereof. The diorganopoylsiloxane
polymers which may be employed in the present invention may contain
one or more of these radicals as substituents on the siloxane
polymer backbone. The diorganopolysiloxane polymers may be
terminated by triorganosilyl groups of the formula (R'.sub.3Si)
where R' is a monovalent radical selected from the group consisting
of radicals containing from 1-6 carbon atoms, hydroxyl groups,
alkoxyl groups, and mixtures thereof. In one embodiment the
silicone polymer is a higher viscosity polymers, e.g.,
poly(dimethylsiloxane), herein referred to as PDMS or silicone gum,
having a viscosity of at least 100,000 cSt.
[0063] Silicone gums, optionally useful herein, correspond to the
formula:
##STR00001##
[0064] where R can be a methyl group.
[0065] Fluid diorganopolysiloxane polymers that are commercially
available include SE 30 silicone gum and SF96 silicone fluid
available from the General Electric Company. Similar materials can
also be obtained from Dow Corning and from Wacker Silicones.
[0066] An additional fluid diorganosiloxane-based polymer
optionally for use in the present invention is a dimethicone
copolyol. The dimethicone copolyol can be further characterized as
polyalkylene oxide modified polydimethysiloxanes, such as
manufactured by the Witco Corporation under the trade name Silwet.
Similar materials can be obtained from Dow Corning, Wacker
Silicones and Goldschmidt Chemical Corporation as well as other
silicone manufacturers. Silicones useful herein are further
disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,059,282; 5,164,046; 5,246,545;
5,246,546; 5,552,345; 6,238,682; 5,716,692.
[0067] The chemical softening agents are generally useful at a
level of from about 0.05 lbs/ton to about 300 lbs/ton, in another
embodiment from about 0.2 lbs/ton to about 60 lbs/ton, and in
another embodiment from about 0.4 lbs/ton to about 6 lbs/ton.
[0068] Filler materials may also be incorporated into the absorbent
paper products of the present invention. U.S. Pat. No. 5,611,890
discloses filled tissue-towel paper products that are acceptable as
substrates for the present invention. In addition antibacterial
agents, coloring agents such as print elements, perfumes, dyes, and
mixtures thereof, may be included in the fibrous structure product
of the present invention.
[0069] In one embodiment the primary product may be an absorbent
paper product described in U.S. Provisional Patent App. Nos.
60/797,244 and 60/797,245.
Test Methods
[0070] The following describe the test methods utilized herein to
determine the values consistent with those presented herein. All
measurements for the test methods are made at 23+/-1.degree. C. and
50% relative humidity, unless otherwise specified.
Flex Modulus
[0071] The Flex Modulus is a measurement of the bending stiffness
of the absorbent paper product herein. The following procedure can
be used to determine the bending stiffness of paper product. The
Kawabata Evaluation System-2, Pure Bending Tester (i.e.; KES-FB2,
manufactured by a Division of Instrumentation, Kato Tekko Company,
Ltd. of Kyoto, Japan) may be used for this purpose.
[0072] Samples of the absorbent paper product to be tested are cut
to approximately 20.times.20 cm in the machine and cross machine
direction. The sample width is measured to 0.01 inches (0.025 cm).
The outer ply (i.e.; the ply that is facing outwardly on a roll of
the paper sample) and inner ply as presented on the roll are
identified and marked.
[0073] The sample is placed in the jaws of the KES-FB2 Auto A such
that the sample is first bent with the outer ply undergoing
compression and the inner ply undergoing tension. In the
orientation of the KES-FB2 the outer ply is right facing and the
inner ply is left facing. The distance between the front moving jaw
and the rear stationary jaw is 1 cm. The sample is secured in the
instrument in the following manner. First the front moving chuck
and the rear stationary chuck are opened to accept the sample. The
sample is inserted midway between the top and bottom of the jaws
such that the machine direction of the sample is parallel to the
jaws (i.e.; vertical in the KES-FB2 holder).
[0074] The rear stationary chuck is then closed by uniformly
tightening the upper and lower thumb screws until the sample is
snug, but not overly tight. The jaws on the front stationary chuck
are then closed in a similar fashion. The sample is adjusted for
squareness in the chuck, then the front jaws are tightened to
insure the sample is held securely. The distance (d) between the
front chuck and the rear chuck is 1 cm.
[0075] The output of the instrument is load cell voltage (Vy) and
curvature voltage (Vx). The load cell voltage is converted to a
bending moment normalized for sample width (M) in the following
manner:
Moment (M,gf*cm/cm)=(Vy*Sy*d)/W
where Vy is the load cell voltage; Sy is the instrument sensitivity
in gf*cm/V; d is the distance between the chucks; and W is the
sample width in centimeters.
[0076] The sensitivity switch of the instrument is set at
5.times.1. Using this setting the instrument is calibrated using
two 50 gram weights. Each weight is suspended from a thread. The
thread is wrapped around the bar on the bottom end of the rear
stationary chuck and hooked to a pin extending from the front and
back of the center of the shaft. One weight thread is wrapped
around the front and hooked to the back pin. The other weight
thread is wrapped around the back of the shaft and hooked to the
front pin. Two pulleys are secured to the instrument on the right
and left side. The top of the pulleys are horizontal to the center
pin. Both weights are then hung over the pulleys (one on the left
and one on the right) at the same time. The full scale voltage is
set at 10 V. The radius of the center shaft is 0.5 cm. Thus the
resultant full scale sensitivity (Sy) for the Moment axis is 100
gf*0.5 cm/10V (5 gf*cm/V).
[0077] The output for the Curvature axis is calibrated by starting
the measurement motor and manually stopping the moving chuck when
the indicator dial reaches the stop . The output voltage (Vx) is
adjusted to 0.5 volts. The resultant sensitivity (Sx) for the
curvature axis is 2/(volts*cm). The curvature (K) is obtained in
the following manner:
[0078] Curvature (K,cm.sup.-1)=Sx*Vx
where Sx is the sensitivity of the curvature axis; and Vx is the
output voltage.
[0079] For determination of the bending stiffness the moving chuck
is cycled from a curvature of 0 cm.sup.-1 to +2.5 cm.sup.-1 to -2.5
cm.sup.-1 to 0 cm.sup.-1 at a rate of 0.5 cm.sup.-1/sec. Each
sample is cycled once. The output voltage of the instrument is
recorded in a digital format using a personal computer. At the
start of the test there is no tension on the sample. As the test
begins the load cell begins to experience a load as the sample is
bent. The initial rotation is clockwise when viewed from the top
down on the instrument.
[0080] The load continues to increase until the bending curvature
reaches approximately +2.5 cm.sup.-1 (this is the Forward Bend
(FB)). At approximately +2.5 cm.sup.-1 the direction of rotation
was reversed. During the return the load cell reading decreases.
This is the Forward Bend Return (FR). As the rotating chuck passes
0, curvature begins in the opposite direction. The Backward Bend
(BB) and Backward Bend Return (BR) is obtained.
[0081] The data was analyzed in the following manner. A linear
regression line is obtained between approximately 0.2 and 0.7
cm.sup.-1 for the Forward Bend (FB). The slope of the line is
reported as the Bending Stiffness (B) or Flex Modulus, in units of
gf*cm.sup.2/cm. The method is repeated with the sample oriented
such that the cross direction is parallel to the jaws. Three or
more separate samples are run. The reported values are the averages
of the BFB on the MD and CD samples. This method is also described
in U.S. Pat. No. 6,602,577B1.
Basis Weight Method
[0082] Basis Weight is measured by preparing one or more samples of
a certain area (3000 ft.sup.2 or m.sup.2) and weighing the
sample(s) of a fibrous structure according to the present invention
and/or an absorbent paper 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 (lbs or g) is calculated and
the average area of the samples (3000 ft.sup.2 or m.sup.2). The
basis weight (lbs/3000 ft.sup.2 or g/m.sup.2) is calculated by
dividing the average weight (lbs or g) by the average area of the
samples (3000 ft.sup.2 or m.sup.2). This method is herein referred
to as the Basis Weight Method.
Sheet Caliper Method or Loaded Caliper Test Method
[0083] Samples are conditioned at 23+/-1.degree. C. and 50%
relative humidity for two hours prior to testing.
[0084] Sheet Caliper or Loaded Caliper of a sample of absorbent
paper product is determined by cutting a sample of the fibrous
structure product such that it is larger in size than a load foot
loading surface where the load foot loading surface has a circular
surface area of about 3.14 in.sup.2. The sample is confined between
a horizontal flat surface and the load foot loading surface. The
load foot loading surface applies a confining pressure to the
sample of 14.7 g/cm.sup.2 (about 0.21 psi). The caliper is the
resulting gap between the flat surface and the load foot loading
surface. Such measurements can be obtained on a VIR Electronic
Thickness Tester Model II available from Thwing-Albert Instrument
Company, Philadelphia, Pa. The caliper measurement is repeated and
recorded at least five (5) times so that an average caliper can be
calculated. The result is reported in mils.
Wet Caliper Test Method
[0085] Samples are conditioned at 23+/-1.degree. C. and 50%
relative humidity for two hours prior to testing.
[0086] Wet Caliper of a sample of fibrous structure product is
determined by cutting a sample of the absorbent paper product such
that it is larger in size than a load foot loading surface where
the load foot loading surface has a circular surface area of about
3.14 in.sup.2. Each sample is wetted by submerging the sample in a
distilled water bath for 30 seconds. The caliper of the wet sample
is measured within 30 seconds of removing the sample from the bath.
The sample is then confined between a horizontal flat surface and
the load foot loading surface. The load foot loading surface
applies a confining pressure to the sample of 14.7 g/cm.sup.2
(about 0.21 psi). The caliper is the resulting gap between the flat
surface and the load foot loading surface. Such measurements can be
obtained on a VIR Electronic Thickness Tester Model II available
from Thwing-Albert Instrument Company, Philadelphia, Pa. The
caliper measurement is repeated and recorded at least five (5)
times so that an average caliper can be calculated. The result is
reported in mils.
High Load Caliper Method and Compression Slope Method
[0087] Caliper versus load data are obtained using a Thwing-Albert
Model EJA Materials Tester, equipped with a 2000 g load cell and
compression fixture. The compression fixture consisted of the
following; load cell adaptor plate, 2000 gram overload protected
load cell, load cell adaptor/foot mount 1.128 inch diameter presser
foot, #89-14 anvil, 89-157 leveling plate, anvil mount, and a grip
pin, all available from Thwing-Albert Instrument Company,
Philadelphia, Pa. The compression foot is one square inch in area.
The instrument is run under the control of Thwing-Albert Motion
Analysis Presentation Software (MAP V1,1,6,9). A single sheet of a
conditioned sample is cut to a diameter of approximately two
inches. Samples are conditioned for a minimum of 2 hours at
23+/-1.degree. C. and 50.+-.2% relative humidity. Testing is
carried out under the same temperature and humidity conditions. The
sample must be less than 2.5-inch diameter (the diameter of the
anvil) to prevent interference of the fixture with the sample. Care
should be taken to avoid damage to the center portion of the
sample, which will be under test. Scissors or other cutting tools
may be used. For the test, the sample is centered on the
compression table under the compression foot. The compression and
relaxation data are obtained using a crosshead speed of 0.1
inches/minute. The deflection of the load cell is obtained by
running the test without a sample being present. This is generally
known as the Steel-to-Steel data. The Steel-to-Steel data are
obtained at a crosshead speed of 0.005 in/min. Crosshead position
and load cell data are recorded between the load cell range of 5
grams and 1500 grams for both the compression and relaxation
portions of the test. Since the foot area is one square inch this
corresponded to a range of 5 grams/sq in to 1500 grams/sq in. The
maximum pressure exerted on the sample is 1500 g/sq in. At 1500
g/sq in the crosshead reverses its travel direction. Crosshead
position values are collected at 31 selected load values during the
test. These correspond to pressure values of 10, 25, 50, 75, 100,
125, 150, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 750, 1000, 1250, 1500, 1250,
1000, 750, 500, 400, 300, 250, 200, 150, 125, 100, 75, 50, 25, 10
g/sq. in. for the compression and the relaxation direction. During
the compression portion of the test, crosshead position values are
collected by the MAP software, by defining fifteen traps (Trap1 to
Trap 15) at load settings of 10, 25, 50, 75, 100, 125, 150, 200,
300, 400, 500, 600, 750, 1000, 1250. During the return portion of
the test, crosshead position values are collected by the MAP
software, by defining fifteen return traps (Return Trap1 to Return
Trap 15) at load settings of 1250, 1000, 750, 500, 400, 300, 250,
200, 150, 125, 100, 75, 50, 25, 10. The thirty-first trap is the
trap at max load (1500 g). Again values are obtained for both the
Steel-to-Steel and the sample. Steel-to-Steel values are obtained
for each batch of testing. If multiple days are involved in the
testing, the values are checked daily. The Steel-to-Steel values
and the sample values are an average of four replicates (1500
g).
[0088] Caliper values are obtained by subtracting the average
Steel-to-Steel crosshead trap values from the sample crosshead trap
value at each trap point. For example, the values from two, three,
or four individual replicates on each sample are averaged and used
to obtain plots of the Caliper versus Load and Caliper versus
Log(10) Load.
[0089] The Compression Slope is defined as the absolute value of
the initial slope of the caliper versus Log(10)Load. The value is
calculated by taking four data pairs from the compression direction
of the curve that is, the caliper at 500, 600, 750, 1,000 or 750,
1,000, 1250, 1500, g/sq in at the start of the test. The pressure
is converted to the Log(10) of the pressure. A least square
regression is then obtained using the four pairs of caliper
(y-axis) and Log(10) pressure (x-axis). The absolute value of the
slope of the regression line is the Compression Slope. The units of
the Compression Slope are mils/(log(10)g/sq in). For simplicity the
Compression Slope is reported here without units. High Load Caliper
is the average caliper at 1,500 g/sq. inch.
[0090] 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.
[0091] It is noted that terms like "specifically," "preferably,"
"typically", "generally", and "often" are not utilized herein to
limit the scope of the claimed invention or to imply that certain
features are critical, essential, or even important to the
structure or function of the claimed invention. Rather, these terms
are merely intended to highlight alternative or additional features
that may or may not be utilized in a particular embodiment of the
present invention. It is also noted that terms like "substantially"
and "about" are utilized herein to represent the inherent degree of
uncertainty that may be attributed to any quantitative comparison,
value, measurement, or other representation.
[0092] 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".
[0093] 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 written
document conflicts with any meaning or definition of the term in a
document incorporated by reference, the meaning or definition
assigned to the term in this written document shall govern.
[0094] 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.
* * * * *