U.S. patent application number 14/968941 was filed with the patent office on 2016-06-23 for package of stacked fibrous structure sheets and methods of dispensing from same.
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 Devin William Baldridge, Kevin Benson McNeil, Gustav Andre Mellin.
Application Number | 20160176618 14/968941 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 55071176 |
Filed Date | 2016-06-23 |
United States Patent
Application |
20160176618 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Baldridge; Devin William ;
et al. |
June 23, 2016 |
Package of Stacked Fibrous Structure Sheets and Methods of
Dispensing From Same
Abstract
Packages of stacked fibrous structure sheets and methods of
dispensing the same are described. The fibrous structure sheets can
have a non-planar dispensing configuration that is manipulated to a
second configuration for their intended use; for example, absorbing
liquids and other messes. The stacked format is an alternative to
typically rolled form, and can permit one-handed dispensing.
Inventors: |
Baldridge; Devin William;
(Cincinnati, OH) ; McNeil; Kevin Benson;
(Loveland, OH) ; Mellin; Gustav Andre; (Amberley
Village, OH) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
The Procter & Gamble Company |
Cincinnati |
OH |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
The Procter & Gamble
Company
|
Family ID: |
55071176 |
Appl. No.: |
14/968941 |
Filed: |
December 15, 2015 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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62094373 |
Dec 19, 2014 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
221/1 ;
221/33 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65D 83/0894 20130101;
A47G 19/23 20130101; A47K 10/42 20130101; B65D 83/0805
20130101 |
International
Class: |
B65D 83/08 20060101
B65D083/08; A47G 19/23 20060101 A47G019/23 |
Claims
1. A package of fibrous structure sheets, the package including: a.
a plurality of fibrous structure sheets that are folded or
otherwise manipulated from a first planar configuration to a
non-planar dispensing configuration, the plurality of fibrous
structure sheets stacked adjacent one another in their dispensing
configuration to form a sheet stack including a stack bottom and a
stack top; and b. a disposable package including package components
including a package base, a package top, and a sidewall attached to
the package base and/or the package top; c. wherein the package
base covers the stack bottom and the package top covers the stack
top; and d. wherein at least a portion of at least one of the
package base, the package top, and a portion of the sidewall is
capable of being moved from a first location to a second location
while still being attached to other package components to dispense
one of the fibrous structure sheets from the sheet stack and then
repositioned thereafter to the first location.
2. The package of claim 1, wherein the dispensing configuration is
conical.
3. The package of claim 1, wherein the dispensing configuration is
pyramidal.
4. The package of claim 1, wherein the dispensing configuration
comprises a peak.
5. The package of claim 1, wherein the dispensing configuration
comprises a pleat.
6. The package of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of fibrous
structure sheets in their dispensing configuration has a base
and/or cross-sectional geometry that is substantially similar to a
geometry of at least one of the package base and the package
top.
7. A method of dispensing fibrous structure sheets, the method
including the steps of: e. providing a package including a first
package configuration, and a plurality of stacked fibrous structure
sheets that are in a first sheet configuration disposed within the
package; f. dispensing a first sheet from the plurality of stacked
fibrous structure sheets and manipulating the first sheet from the
first sheet configuration to a second sheet configuration for use;
g. thereafter affirmatively manipulating the package from the first
package configuration to a second package configuration; and h.
thereafter dispensing a second sheet from the plurality of stacked
fibrous structure sheets and manipulating the second sheet from the
first sheet configuration to a third sheet configuration for
use.
8. The method of claim 7, wherein the first sheet configuration is
a non-planar configuration.
9. The method of claim 7, wherein the first sheet configuration is
a conical shape.
10. The method of claim 7, wherein the first sheet configuration is
a pyramid shape.
11. The method of claim 7, wherein the first sheet configuration
comprises at least one pleat.
12. The method of claim 7, wherein at least one of the second sheet
configuration and the third sheet configuration is substantially
planar.
13. The method of claim 7, wherein the package has a first size
associated with the first package configuration and a second size
associated with the second package configuration, and wherein the
second size is smaller than the first size.
14. The method of claim 7, wherein the step of affirmatively
manipulating package from the first package configuration to a
second package configuration comprises removing a portion of the
package.
15. The method of claim 7, wherein the step of affirmatively
manipulating package from the first package configuration to a
second package configuration comprises folding, rolling, or bending
a portion of the package.
16. A package of fibrous structure sheets, the package including:
f. a package including a first package configuration and an
adaptation feature; and g. a plurality of stacked fibrous structure
sheets that are in a dispensing configuration disposed within the
package; h. wherein the plurality of sheets are capable of being
transformed from the dispensing configuration to a use
configuration that is different from the dispensing configuration;
i. wherein some of the plurality of sheets are accessible for
dispensing when the package is in the first package configuration;
and j. wherein the package is capable of being manipulated from the
first package configuration to a second package configuration via
the adaptation feature to make other of the plurality of sheets
accessible for dispensing.
17. The package of claim 16, wherein the adaptation feature is
located on a package sidewall.
18. The package of claim 16, wherein the adaptation feature
comprises a fold line.
19. The package of claim 16, wherein the adaptation feature
comprises a line of weakness.
20. The package of claim 16, wherein the dispensing configuration
is non-planar.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention generally relates to packages of
stacked fibrous structure sheets and methods of dispensing the
same. The fibrous structure sheets can take the form of paper
towels, personal wipes, facial tissues, bath tissues, and the like.
The fibrous structure sheets of the present invention are generally
intended to perform a cleaning or drying function and should be
distinguished from other stacked paper products such as, for
example, paper cups, coffee filters, and other similar items that
aren't designed for drying and cleaning tasks.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Fibrous structures in the form of paper towels are generally
manufactured and sold in a rolled configuration. While useful in
this configuration, it can make one-handed dispensing difficult.
The user often must hold the roll still with one hand while tearing
off a single sheet with the other hand. And two-handed dispensing
avoids the problem of inadvertently pulling off more sheets than is
intended or needed. But one reason consumers need to use a paper
towel is because his or her hands are wet or soiled, and two-handed
dispensing can result in one hand (that is, the holding or helping
hand) getting non-dispensed portions of the paper towel roll
undesirably damp or dirty.
[0003] To address the above shortcoming, the inventors in U.S. Pat.
No. 7,954,665 disclose a new configuration of paper wipes that are
in a non-attached and stacked form, wherein a consumer can
one-handedly grasp a wipe and remove it from the stack. FIG. 1
shows a representative embodiment (included as FIG. 2) of the '665
patent, which includes a package 10 of stacked wipes 12. Package 10
has a sidewall 13 with an opening 14 therein to facilitate removal
of wipes 12. Note that the top of the stacked wipes 12 is not
covered. The stacked configuration and package dispenser
advantageously allow the wipes 12 to sit on a kitchen counter,
bathroom counter or floor, or on a garage work bench, for example.
The flexibility of dispensing environment and configuration
openness shown in FIG. 1 however can again lead to the
non-dispensed wipes becoming prematurely wet or contaminated before
they are used in an intended task. At least some of the embodiments
of the present invention are capable of addressing this
shortcoming.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0004] The following detailed description of specific embodiments
of the present invention can be best understood when read in
conjunction with the drawings enclosed herewith.
[0005] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of an embodiment included
in U.S. Pat. No. 7,954,665.
[0006] FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of a first package
embodiment provided by the present invention.
[0007] FIGS. 3A-3H are plan views of a fibrous structure sheet
being cut from a continuous planar web, and then being manipulated
from its initial planar configuration to an exemplary non-planar
dispensing configuration.
[0008] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an exemplary fibrous
structure sheet having a pyramidal configuration and a pleat.
[0009] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the underside of the fibrous
structure sheet in FIG. 4.
[0010] FIG. 6 is a front perspective view of a second package
embodiment provided by the present invention.
[0011] FIG. 7 is a front perspective view of the package embodiment
shown in FIG. 6, with a portion of its sidewall and top being swung
open to permit dispensing of fibrous structure sheets contained
therein.
[0012] FIG. 8A is a front perspective view of a third package
embodiment provided by the present invention.
[0013] FIG. 8B is a front perspective view of a package embodiment
that is similar to the one shown in FIG. 8A, but in an inverted
orientation to that shown in FIG. 8A.
[0014] FIG. 9 is a front perspective view of a portion of another
package embodiment that comprises an optional hanger feature for
allowing the package to be hung rather than placed onto a counter,
floor, or other flat home surface.
[0015] FIGS. 10A and 10 B are front perspective views of a package
embodiment having a re-closable access.
[0016] FIG. 11 is a front perspective view of another package
embodiment of the present invention that has a changeable
configuration as fibrous structure sheets are dispensed.
[0017] FIGS. 12-15 are block diagrams of exemplary dispensing
methods provided by the present invention.
[0018] The embodiments set forth in the drawings are illustrative
in nature and not intended to be limiting of the invention defined
by the claims. Moreover, individual features of the drawings and
invention will be more fully apparent and understood in view of the
detailed description.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0019] The following text sets forth a broad description of
numerous different embodiments of the present invention. The
description is to be construed as exemplary only and does not
describe every possible embodiment since describing every possible
embodiment would be impractical, if not impossible. And it will be
understood that any feature, characteristic, component,
composition, ingredient, product, step or methodology described
herein can be deleted, combined with or substituted for, in whole
or part, any other feature, characteristic, component, composition,
ingredient, product, step or methodology described herein. Numerous
alternative embodiments could be implemented, using either current
technology or technology developed after the filing date of this
patent, which would still fall within the scope of the claims. All
publications and patents cited in the Detailed Description of the
Invention section are incorporated herein by reference.
[0020] It should also be understood that, unless a term is
expressly defined in this specification using the sentence "As used
herein, the term `______` is hereby defined to mean . . . " or a
similar sentence, there is no intent to limit the meaning of that
term, either expressly or by implication, beyond its plain or
ordinary meaning, and such term should not be interpreted to be
limited in scope based on any statement made in any section of this
patent (other than the language of the claims). No term is intended
to be essential to the present invention unless so stated. To the
extent that any term recited in the claims at the end of this
patent is referred to in this patent in a manner consistent with a
single meaning, that is done for sake of clarity only so as to not
confuse the reader, and it is not intended that such a claim term
be limited, by implication or otherwise, to that single meaning.
Finally, unless a claim element is defined by reciting the word
"means" and a function without the recital of any structure, it is
not intended that the scope of any claim element be interpreted
based on the application of 35 U.S.C. .sctn.112, sixth
paragraph.
[0021] "Filament" as used herein means an elongate particulate that
exhibits a length of greater than or equal to 5.08 cm (2 in.)
and/or greater than or equal to 7.62 cm (3 in.) and/or greater than
or equal to 10.16 cm (4 in.) and/or greater than or equal to 15.24
cm (6 in.).
[0022] Filaments are typically considered continuous or
substantially continuous in nature. Filaments are relatively longer
than fibers. Non-limiting examples of filaments include meltblown
and/or spunbond filaments. Non-limiting examples of polymers that
can be spun into filaments include natural polymers, such as
starch, starch derivatives, cellulose, such as rayon and/or
lyocell, and cellulose derivatives, hemicellulose, hemicellulose
derivatives, and synthetic polymers including, but not limited to
polyvinyl alcohol, thermoplastic polymer, such as polyesters,
nylons, polyolefins such as polypropylene filaments, polyethylene
filaments, and biodegradable thermoplastic fibers such as
polylactic acid filaments, polyhydroxyalkanoate filaments,
polyesteramide filaments and polycaprolactone filaments.
[0023] "Fiber" as used herein means an elongate particulate as
described above that exhibits a length of less than 5.08 cm (2 in.)
and/or less than 3.81 cm (1.5 in.) and/or less than 2.54 cm (1
in.).
[0024] Fibers are typically considered discontinuous in nature.
Non-limiting examples of fibers include pulp fibers, such as wood
pulp fibers, and synthetic staple fibers such as polypropylene,
polyethylene, polyester, copolymers thereof, rayon, glass fibers
and polyvinyl alcohol fibers.
[0025] Staple fibers may be produced by spinning a filament tow and
then cutting the tow into segments of less than 5.08 cm (2 in.)
thus producing fibers.
[0026] In one example of the present invention, a fiber may be a
naturally occurring fiber, which means it is obtained from a
naturally occurring source, such as a vegetative source, for
example a tree and/or plant, such as trichomes. Such fibers are
typically used in papermaking and are oftentimes referred to as
papermaking fibers. Papermaking fibers useful in the present
invention include cellulosic fibers commonly known as wood pulp
fibers. Applicable wood pulps include chemical pulps, such as
Kraft, sulfite, and sulfate pulps, as well as mechanical pulps
including, for example, groundwood, thermomechanical pulp and
chemically modified thermomechanical pulp. Chemical pulps, however,
may be preferred since they impart a superior tactile sense of
softness to fibrous structures made therefrom. Pulps derived from
both deciduous trees (hereinafter, also referred to as "hardwood")
and coniferous trees (hereinafter, also referred to as "softwood")
may be utilized. The hardwood and softwood fibers can be blended,
or alternatively, can be deposited in layers to provide a
stratified web. Also applicable to the present invention are fibers
derived from recycled paper, which may contain any or all of the
above categories of fibers as well as other non-fibrous polymers
such as fillers, softening agents, wet and dry strength agents, and
adhesives used to facilitate the original papermaking.
[0027] In addition to the various wood pulp fibers, other
cellulosic fibers such as cotton linters, rayon, lyocell, and
bagasse fibers can be used in the fibrous structures of the present
invention.
[0028] "Fibrous structure" as used herein means a structure that
comprises one or more fibrous elements. In one example, a fibrous
structure according to the present invention means an association
of fibrous elements that together form a structure capable of
performing a function. In another example of the present invention,
a fibrous structure comprises a plurality of inter-entangled
fibrous elements, for example filaments.
[0029] "Sanitary tissue product" as used herein means a soft,
relatively low density fibrous structure useful as a wiping
implement for post-urinary and post-bowel movement cleaning (toilet
tissue), for otorhinolaryngological discharges (facial tissue),
multi-functional absorbent and cleaning uses (absorbent paper
towels) and wipes, such as wet and dry wipes. Sanitary tissue
products include paper products, including paper products made with
cellulosic fibers, the primary intended use of which is to absorb
liquids. Thus, substrates such as films, polymer films, foils,
non-absorbent wipes, filter paper, paper utilized for paper cups
and other containers, and other forms of substrates that do not
have a primary intended purpose of absorbency are not considered
sanitary tissue products as used herein.
[0030] The sanitary tissue products and/or fibrous structures of
the present invention may exhibit a basis weight between about 1
g/m.sup.2 to about 5000 g/m.sup.2 and/or from about 10 g/m.sup.2 to
about 500 g/m.sup.2 and/or from about 10 g/m.sup.2 to about 300
g/m.sup.2 and/or from about 10 g/m.sup.2 to about 120 g/m.sup.2
and/or from about 15 g/m.sup.2 to about 110 g/m.sup.2 and/or from
about 20 g/m.sup.2 to about 100 g/m.sup.2 and/or from about 30 to
90 g/m.sup.2 as determined by the Basis Weight Test Method
described herein. "Basis Weight" as used herein is the weight per
unit area of a sample reported in lbs/3000 ft.sup.2 or g/m.sup.2 as
determined by the Basis Weight Test Method described herein.
[0031] The sanitary tissue products of the present invention may
exhibit a CRT absorbent capacity of from about 0.1 grams per square
inch to about 1.5 grams per square inch, from about 0.2 grams per
square inch to about 1.2 grams per square inch, or from about
[0032] The sanitary tissue products of the present invention may
exhibit a total dry tensile strength of greater than about 59 g/cm
and/or from about 78 g/cm to about 394 g/cm and/or from about 98
g/cm to about 335 g/cm. In addition, the sanitary tissue product of
the present invention may exhibit a total dry tensile strength of
greater than about 196 g/cm and/or from about 196 g/cm to about 394
g/cm and/or from about 216 g/cm to about 335 g/cm and/or from about
236 g/cm to about 315 g/cm. In one example, the sanitary tissue
product exhibits a total dry tensile strength of less than about
394 g/cm and/or less than about 335 g/cm as measured according to
the Elongation/Tensile Strength/TEA/Tangent Modulus Test Method
described herein.
[0033] The sanitary tissue products of the present invention may
exhibit a density of less than 0.60 g/cm.sup.3 and/or less than
0.30 g/cm.sup.3 and/or less than 0.20 g/cm.sup.3 and/or less than
0.15 g/cm.sup.3 and/or less than 0.10 g/cm.sup.3 and/or less than
0.07 g/cm.sup.3 and/or less than 0.05 g/cm.sup.3 and/or from about
0.01 g/cm.sup.3 to about 0.20 g/cm.sup.3 and/or from about 0.02
g/cm.sup.3 to about 0.15 g/cm.sup.3 and/or from about 0.02
g/cm.sup.3 to about 0.10 g/cm.sup.3.
[0034] The fibrous structures of the present disclosure can be
single-ply or multi-ply fibrous structures and can comprise
cellulosic pulp fibers. Other naturally-occurring and/or
non-naturally occurring fibers can also be present in the fibrous
structures. In one example, the fibrous structures can be through
dried, or "through air dried (TAD)". In one example, the fibrous
structures can be wet-laid fibrous structures. The fibrous
structures can be incorporated into single- or multi-ply sanitary
tissue products. The sanitary tissue products or fibrous structures
can be in roll form where they are convolutedly wound or wrapped
about themselves with or without the employment of a core. In other
embodiments, the sanitary tissue products or fibrous structures can
be in sheet form or can be at least partially folded over
themselves. Fibrous structures of the present invention can have
basis weights in the range of 15 lbs/3000 ft.sup.2 to 30 lbs/3000
ft.sup.2 per ply, or 30 or lbs/3000 ft.sup.2, 40 lbs/3000 ft.sup.2,
50 lbs/3000 ft.sup.2, or 60 lbs/3000 ft.sup.2 for 2-ply
structures.
[0035] The fibrous structures of the present invention can be made
by using a patterned papermaking belt for forming
three-dimensionally structured wet-laid webs as described in U.S.
Pat. No. 4,637,859, issued Jan. 20, 1987, to Trokhan. Broadly, the
papermaking belt of the present invention includes a reinforcing
element (such as a woven belt) which can be thoroughly coated with
a liquid photosensitive polymeric resin to a preselected thickness.
A film or negative incorporating the pattern desired is juxtaposed
on the liquid photosensitive resin. The resin is then exposed to
light of an appropriate wave length through the film. This exposure
to light causes curing of the resin in the exposed areas (i.e.,
white portions or non-printed portions in the film). Unexposed (and
uncured) resin (under the black portions or printed portions in the
film) is removed from the system leaving behind the cured resin
forming the pattern desired, which pattern transfers during the
wet-forming phase of papermaking to the fibrous structure.
[0036] The sanitary tissue products of the present invention may
comprise additives such as softening agents, temporary wet strength
agents, permanent wet strength agents, bulk softening agents,
lotions, silicones, wetting agents, latexes, patterned latexes and
other types of additives suitable for inclusion in and/or on
sanitary tissue products.
[0037] The present invention is directed to packages of stacked
fibrous structure sheets. Referring now to the figures, FIG. 2
shows a first exemplary embodiment of a package 20 of stacked
fibrous structure sheets 22. Package 20 includes a package base 23,
a package top 24, and a sidewall 25. While the description and
claims may use terms like "top", "base", and "bottom" that
traditionally connote an orientation, the scope of the claims is
not so limited. That is, packages and other structural items
described herein can be oriented in multiple ways during their
manufacture, shipping, in-store shelving, and in-home use.
[0038] The plurality of fibrous structure sheets 22 are placed
adjacent one another to form a sheet stack 26 having a stack bottom
27 and a stack top 28. Fibrous structure sheets 22 within sheet
stack 26 are disconnected to one another in a preferred embodiment,
but can alternatively be temporarily connected (for example, via a
perforation or other line of weakness), and/or nested or
interfolded together prior to dispensing. The package base 23,
package top 24, and package sidewall 25 of package 20 comprises
straight edges, as opposed to curved edges, which can help with
positioning the package into corners or against straight edges in
one's home. With reference to FIGS. 3A-3H, fibrous structure sheets
22 can be made in an initial planar configuration being
individually cut (see FIG. 3B) from a continuous planar fibrous
structure web 21 (see FIG. 3A). Before or after cutting the sheets
22 (completely or partially), they are folded or otherwise
manipulated into a non-planar dispensing configuration as shown in
FIGS. 3C-3H. Exemplary non-planar dispensing configurations
include, but are not limited to, conical and pyramidal.
[0039] With reference to FIGS. 4 and 5, many of the non-planar
dispensing configurations include a sheet base 30, a sheet peak 31,
and an interior void 32. The folding and/or other manipulation can
create one or more pleats 33. The pleats, when present, can permit
easy dispensing by allowing a user to grasp an individual sheet by
the pleat and remove it from the sheet stack. In some embodiments
of the present invention, the terminal or free end of the pleat can
substantially align with a corner, fold line, or ridge like that
shown in FIG. 4. This way the corner, fold line, or ridge can act
as a visual aid to alert consumers where the pleat is located to
grasp the same for easy dispensing. This is not possible in some
non-planar embodiments, such as a conical shape.
[0040] In some embodiments, the fibrous structure sheets, in their
non-planar dispensing configuration, have a base or cross-sectional
geometry that is substantially similar to geometry of package
components. In other embodiments, the sheet base or cross-sectional
geometry is different than geometry of the package in which they
are contained.
[0041] Once removed from the sheet stack, a user can transform the
fibrous structure sheet from its non-planar dispensing
configuration to one or more use configurations depending on the
intended task. For example, a user can drop the fibrous structure
sheet in a partially but not completely unfolded configuration
(with minimal or without any affirmative action on the user's part)
onto a spill or mess to be cleaned to allow the fibrous structure
sheet to begin absorbing or otherwise collecting the spill or mess.
A user can also substantially completely unfold the fibrous
structure sheet to approach a planar configuration prior to use. Or
a user can affirmatively partially unfold a fibrous structure sheet
prior to its use; for example, unfold the fibrous structure sheet
about a number of fold lines that is fewer than the total number of
fold lines the sheet has in its non-planar dispensing
configuration.
[0042] Referring again to FIG. 2, package base 23 covers sheet
stack bottom 27, and package top 24 covers sheet stack top 28.
Covering both the sheet stack bottom 27 and top 28 helps keep the
fibrous structure sheets 22 dry and clean prior to dispensing the
sheets. "Dry" as that term is used herein means a fibrous structure
sheet having a level of moisture (for example, up to 8%) that it
absorbs due to manufacturing and/or environmental conditions. While
the fibrous structure sheets have a limited amount of moisture in
them, they are still useful for absorbing liquids and other
messes.
[0043] In one embodiment and as shown in FIG. 2, package top 24 is
unconnected from the other package components. A user can displace
package top 24, remove one or more fibrous structure sheets 22 from
the sheet stack, and then replace the package top 24 until future
dispensing is desired. A benefit of having the package top 24
unconnected from other packaging components is to allow a user to
create two separate sheet stacks from package 20. Package top 24
once removed can be configured to act as a second package base that
is capable of holding a sub-stack of fibrous structure sheets. A
user can then place the first sub-stack in one location in their
home (for example, in their kitchen) and the second sub-stack in
another location (for example, in their bathroom or garage).
[0044] FIG. 6 illustrates a second exemplary package embodiment 40
that includes similar package components to that shown in FIG. 2,
including a package base 43, a package top 44, and a sidewall 45.
One or more of the package components are displaceable from a first
location to a second location, the same as with package 20, but the
displaceable package component(s) in this embodiment remain
connected to the other package components. For example and as shown
in FIG. 7, package top 44 and a portion of package sidewall 45 can
be swung out of the way to permit dispensing of the contained
fibrous structure sheets 42, and then repositioned thereafter.
[0045] In package embodiments 20 and 40, the package components
remain in their initial location prior to dispensing and are then
moved or displaced to a second location to permit fibrous structure
sheet dispensing. In a third exemplary package embodiment 50 that
is shown in FIG. 8A, the sheet stack top and bottom are covered by
package components to help keep the fibrous structure sheets dry
and clean before use, but the package components do not need to be
displaced to permit sheet dispensing. In package 50, there is an
opening 58 in sidewall 55 and a clearance gap 59 between the
package base 53 and the sheet stack bottom that enables an
individual fibrous structure sheet 52 to be pulled away from the
reaming sheets in the sheet stack sufficiently to permit dispensing
from sidewall opening 58. FIG. 8B shows a similar package 60 to
package 50, wherein the clearance gap 61 exists between a between a
package top 62 and a sheet stack top 63.
[0046] FIG. 9 shows a portion of another package embodiment 64 that
is capable of covering the sheet stack top and bottom, but does not
require displacement of package components for dispensing contained
fibrous structure sheets 65. In this embodiment, a flexible package
material 66 (for example, a polymeric film) substantially envelopes
the sheet stack and contains an opening 67 for dispensing the
fibrous structure sheets 65. Package 64 also contains an optional
hanger feature in the form of a handle loop 68. The hanger feature
allows the package to be hung as alternative to sitting the package
on a counter, floor, or other flat home surface. Other hanger
features beyond just a handle loop are contemplated by the present
invention. And an optional hanger feature could be added to any of
the other package embodiments shown and described herein.
[0047] Another exemplary package embodiment 70 is shown in FIGS.
10A and 10B. Package 70 includes a first package component 71 in
the form of a flexible polymeric film and a second package
component 72 that is relatively more rigid than the film to help
provide structural integrity to the package. Package component 72
can be made from board stock or from a molded polymeric piece, for
example. Package component 71 comprises or is otherwise configured
to provide a re-closable access 73. As shown in FIG. 10B,
re-closable access 73 is provided with a tongue and groove closure
mechanism 74. In this and similar package embodiments, the package
can completely enclose the stack of fibrous structure sheets to
help protect them prior to dispensing and use. Besides a tongue and
groove closure mechanism, peelable labels or over labels (covering
package openings) can also be used on flexible or inflexible
packages of the present invention. The peelable labels can carry
low-tack adhesives that enable a label to be peeled away from a
package substrate for dispensing and resealed to the package
substrate multiple times.
[0048] In an alternative package embodiment, the package can be
made solely from flexible material such as, for example, package
component 71. In this alternative embodiment, Since package
component 71 can be made from a flexible (or adaptable) material, a
user can decrease the size of the package as fibrous sheet stacks
are removed from the package and the re-closable access is placed
into its closed position. Decreasing the size of the package can
provide a number of different benefits, including, decreasing the
amount of space the package takes up, facilitating dispensing of
remaining fibrous structure sheets, and acting as a visual reminder
to purchase more packages of fibrous structure sheets at an
upcoming shopping trip.
[0049] Many of the above-described package embodiments include
features to keep the sheet stack top and bottom covered when the
fibrous structure sheets are not being dispensed. In another
package embodiment 80 (shown in FIG. 11), the package has a
sidewall 81 that substantially covers or encloses the entire sheet
stack (for example, covers some or all of every one of the
plurality of individual sheets). In this and similar embodiments,
the package comprises an adaptation feature that allows a user to
modify the configuration of the package as the sheet stack
decreases in size. This modification is the result of an
affirmative action/manipulation by a user and is distinguished from
an automatic configuration change simply due to fewer fibrous
structure sheets being present within the package. Thus, the
package size (height, width, length, volume, etc.) can decrease as
the sheet stack decreases.
[0050] Exemplary adaptation features include a fold line and a line
of weakness (for example, perforation line or score line). As
sheets are dispensed from the package, a user can remove portions
of the package sidewall, or fold or roll down portions of the
package sidewall. In this manner, the package sidewall can support
and protect the sheets and be manipulated for a type of "dosed"
dispensing. Package 80 is shown having a perforation line 82
disposed in sidewall 81. As fibrous structure sheets 83 are removed
from package 80, a user can decrease the size of the package by
removing portions of sidewall 81 by tearing them off via
perforation line 82. A benefit of manipulating a package sidewall
versus removing a portion of it however is that the sidewall can be
repositioned to its original configuration and loaded with a refill
stack of fibrous structure sheets.
[0051] The package embodiments shown in the figures generally
illustrate how they would look once purchased and placed in an
intended dispensing location. Thus, the package embodiments may
also include secondary packaging at point of sale that is intended
to protect the primary package and the fibrous structure sheets
during transit to and from a store and on a store shelf. See, for
example, item 29 in FIG. 2, which is in the form of a peelable film
that is affixed to a portion of package sidewall 25. Exemplary
secondary packaging material includes polyolefin and cellophane
films. A consumer will remove a portion or all of the secondary
packaging material to prepare the primary packages for
dispensing.
[0052] The present invention is also directed to methods of
dispensing fibrous structure sheets. Exemplary dispensing methods
are shown in FIGS. 12-15. It should be understood that while the
dispensing methods could be practiced with exemplary package
embodiments shown in the package figures herein, other alternative
package embodiments could also be employed to practice the
dispensing methods. It should also be understood that while the
below description uses terms like "first", "second" and so forth,
that the steps can be conducted in various orders and/or
simultaneously unless explicitly communicated otherwise.
[0053] A first exemplary dispensing method 100 is provided in FIG.
12. Method 100 includes a first step 102 of providing a primary
package comprising a package base, a package top, and a sidewall,
wherein the package contains a plurality of fibrous structure
sheets stacked adjacent one another and being in a non-planar
configuration, and wherein the primary package comprises secondary
packaging material disposed on at least some of an exterior of the
primary package; a second step 104 of removing the secondary
packaging material; a third step 106 of displacing at least a
portion of at least one of the package base, the package top, and
the sidewall to provide access to one of the plurality of fibrous
structure sheets; and a fourth step 108 following step 106 of
repositioning the displaced package base, package top, and/or
sidewall.
[0054] A second exemplary dispensing method 110 is shown in FIG.
13. Method 110 includes a first step 112 of providing a package
comprising a plurality of fibrous structure sheets that are stacked
adjacent one another and that are in a non-planar configuration to
define an interior void, a package base comprising an extension
that is disposed within the interior void of a lowermost one of the
plurality of fibrous structure sheets, and a package top comprising
an extension capable of being fitted into the interior void of
another one of the plurality of fibrous structure sheets; a second
step 114 of removing the package top; and a third step 116 of
removing some of the plurality of fibrous structure sheets and
placing them onto the package top extension to create two separate
stacks of fibrous structure sheets from the same package to enable
different time and/or location dispensing of the plurality of
fibrous structure sheets.
[0055] A third exemplary dispensing method 120 is illustrated in
FIG. 14. Method 120 includes a first step 122 of providing a
package comprising a first package configuration, and a plurality
of stacked fibrous structure sheets that are in a first sheet
configuration disposed within the package; a second step 124 of
dispensing a first sheet from the plurality of stacked fibrous
structure sheets and manipulating the first sheet from the first
sheet configuration to a second sheet configuration for use; a
third step 126 of affirmatively manipulating the package from the
first package configuration to a second package configuration; and
a fourth step 128 of dispensing a second sheet from the plurality
of stacked fibrous structure sheets and manipulating the second
sheet from the first sheet configuration to a third sheet
configuration for use.
[0056] A fourth exemplary dispensing method 130 is shown in FIG.
15. Method 130 includes a first step 132 of providing a package
comprising a plurality of fibrous structure sheets in a stacked
configuration, a re-closable access, and a first package
configuration; a second step 134 of opening the re-closable access
to dispense one or more of the plurality of fibrous structure
sheets; and a third step 136 of closing the re-closable access.
Conducting step 136 also changes the package into a second package
configuration that is different from the first package
configuration.
Test Methods
[0057] Unless otherwise specified, all tests described herein
including those described under the Definitions section and the
following test methods are conducted on samples that have been
conditioned in a conditioned room at a temperature of 23.degree.
C..+-.1.0.degree. C. and a relative humidity of 50%.+-.2% for a
minimum of 24 hours prior to the test. All plastic and paper board
packaging articles of manufacture, if any, must be carefully
removed from the samples prior to testing. The samples tested are
"usable units." "Usable units" as used herein means sheets, flats
from roll stock, pre-converted flats, fibrous structure, and/or
single or multi-ply products. Except where noted all tests are
conducted in such conditioned room, all tests are conducted under
the same environmental conditions and in such conditioned room.
Discard any damaged product. Do not test samples that have defects
such as wrinkles, tears, holes, and like. All instruments are
calibrated according to manufacturer's specifications.
Basis Weight Test Method
[0058] Basis weight of a fibrous structure is measured on stacks of
twelve usable units using a top loading analytical balance with a
resolution of .+-.0.001 g. The balance is protected from air drafts
and other disturbances using a draft shield. A precision cutting
die, measuring 8.890 cm.+-.0.00889 cm by 8.890 cm.+-.0.00889 cm is
used to prepare all samples.
[0059] With a precision cutting die, cut the samples into squares.
Combine the cut squares to form a stack twelve samples thick.
Measure the mass of the sample stack and record the result to the
nearest 0.001 g.
[0060] The Basis Weight is calculated in g/m.sup.2 as follows:
Basis Weight=(Mass of stack)/[(Area of 1 square in
stack).times.(No. of squares in stack)]
Basis Weight (g/m.sup.2)=Mass of stack (g)/[79.032
(cm.sup.2)/10,000 (cm.sup.2/m.sup.2).times.12]
Report result to the nearest 0.1 g/m.sup.2. Sample dimensions can
be changed or varied using a similar precision cutter as mentioned
above, so as at least 645 square centimeters of sample area is in
the stack.
CRT Absorbency
[0061] This test incorporates the following CRT equipment
absorbency calculation methods
[0062] The Slope of the Square Root of Time (SST 2-15) Test
Method.
[0063] The Time Integrated CRTMax (TIR.005) Test Method
[0064] CRT Capacity Test Method
[0065] The SST method and CRTMax TIR method both measure rate over
a wide spectrum of time to capture a view of the product pick-up
rate over the useful lifetime. In particular, the SST method
measures the absorbency rate via the slope of the mass versus the
square root of time from 2-15 seconds. The CRTMAX TIR measures time
integrated absorbency rate using a 0.005 g/sec threshold stop
criteria.
Overview
[0066] The absorption (wicking) of water by a fibrous sample is
measured over time. A sample is placed horizontally in the
instrument and is supported by an open weave net structure that
rests on a balance. The test is initiated when a tube connected to
a water reservoir is raised and the meniscus makes contact with the
center of the sample from beneath, at a small negative pressure.
Absorption is controlled by the ability of the sample to pull the
water from the instrument for approximately 20 seconds. Rate is
determined as the slope of the regression line of the outputted
weight vs sqrt (time) from 2 to 15 seconds.
Apparatus
[0067] Conditioned Room--Temperature is controlled from 73.degree.
F.+2.degree. F. (23.degree. C.+1.degree. C.). Relative Humidity is
controlled from 50%+2%
[0068] Sample Preparation--Product samples are cut using
hydraulic/pneumatic precision cutter into 3.375 inch diameter
circles for SST, CRT Max and 3 inch diameter circles for CRT
capacity.
[0069] Capacity Rate Tester (CRT)--The CRT is an absorbency tester
capable of measuring capacity and rate. The CRT consists of a
balance (0.001 g), on which rests on a woven grid (using nylon
monofilament line having a 0.014'' diameter) placed over a small
reservoir with a delivery tube in the center. This reservoir is
filled by the action of solenoid valves, which help to connect the
sample supply reservoir to an intermediate reservoir, the water
level of which is monitored by an optical sensor. The CRT is run
with a -2 mm water column, controlled by adjusting the height of
water in the supply reservoir.
[0070] Software--LabView based custom software specific to CRT
Version 4.2 or later.
[0071] Water--Distilled water with conductivity <10 .mu.S/cm
(target <5 .mu.S/cm) @ 25.degree. C.
Sample Preparation
[0072] For this method, a usable unit is described as one finished
product unit regardless of the number of plies. Condition all
samples with packaging materials removed for a minimum of 2 hours
prior to testing. Discard at least the first ten usable units from
the roll. Remove two usable units and cut one 3.375-inch (SST,
CRTMax) or 3.0 inch (CRT Capacity) circular sample from the center
of each usable unit for a total of 2 replicates for each test
result. Do not test samples with defects such as wrinkles, tears,
holes, etc. Replace with another usable unit which is free of such
defects
Sample Testing
Pre-Test Set-Up
[0073] 1. The water height in the reservoir tank is set -2.0 mm
below the top of the support rack (where the towel sample will be
placed). [0074] 2. The supply tube (8 mm I.D.) is centered with
respect to the support net. [0075] 3. Test samples are cut into
circles of 33/8'' SST, CRTMax) or 3'' (CRT Capacity) diameter and
equilibrated at Tappi environment conditions for a minimum of 2
hours. [0076] 4.
Test Description
[0076] [0077] 1. After pressing the start button on the software
application, the supply tube moves to 0.33 mm below the water
height in the reserve tank. This creates a small meniscus of water
above the supply tube to ensure test initiation. A valve between
the tank and the supply tube closes, and the scale is zeroed.
[0078] 2. The software prompts you to "load a sample". A sample is
placed on the support net, centering it over the supply tube, and
with the side facing the outside of the roll placed downward.
[0079] 3. Close the balance windows, and press the "OK" button--the
software records the dry weight of the circle. [0080] 4. The
software prompts you to "place cover on sample". The plastic cover
is placed on top of the sample, on top of the support net. The
plastic cover has a center pin (which is flush with the outside
rim) to ensure that the sample is in the proper position to
establish hydraulic connection. Four other pins, 1 mm shorter in
depth, are positioned 1.25-1.5 inches radially away from the center
pin to ensure the sample is flat during the test. The sample cover
rim should not contact the sheet. Close the top balance window and
click "OK". [0081] 5. The software re-zeroes the scale and then
moves the supply tube towards the sample. When the supply tube
reaches its destination, which is 0.33 mm below the support net,
the valve opens (i.e., the valve between the reserve tank and the
supply tube), and hydraulic connection is established between the
supply tube and the sample. Data acquisition occurs at a rate of 5
Hz, and is started about 0.4 seconds before water contacts the
sample. [0082] 6. The test runs for at least 20 seconds. For CRTMax
test is stopped when rate of increase of water absorbed falls below
0.005 g/s otherwise test stops at 300 seconds. For CRT Capacity the
test is stopped when rate of increase of water absorbed falls below
0.0015 g/s otherwise test stops at 300 secs. After this, the supply
tube pulls away from the sample to break the hydraulic connection.
[0083] 7. The wet sample is removed from the support net. Residual
water on the support net and cover are dried with a paper towel.
[0084] 8. Repeat until all samples are tested. [0085] 9. After each
test is run, a *.txt file is created (typically stored in the
CRT/data/rate directory) with a file name as typed at the start of
the test. The file contains all the test set-up parameters, dry
sample weight, and cumulative water absorbed (g) vs. time (sec)
data collected from the test. [0086] Calculating CRT Capacity g/sq
inch
[0086] Capacity (g/sq in)=0.14147.times.Final Weight (g water
absorbed) [0087] Where 0.14147 is the inverse of the area of the 3
inch circle and this multiplier converts values to a per square
inch basis
[0088] Calculation of Rate of Uptake
[0089] Take the raw data file that includes time and weight
data.
[0090] First, create a new time column that subtracts 0.4 seconds
from the raw time data to adjust the raw time data to correspond to
when initiation actually occurs (about 0.4 seconds after data
collection begins).
[0091] Second, create a column of data that converts the adjusted
time data to square root of time data (e.g., using a formula such
as SQRT( ) within Excel).
[0092] Third, calculate the slope of the weight data vs the square
root of time data (e.g., using the SLOPE( ) function within Excel,
using the weight data as the y-data and the sqrt(time) data as the
x-data, etc.). The slope should be calculated for the data points
from 2 to 15 seconds, inclusive (or 1.41 to 3.87 in the sqrt(time)
data column).
[0093] Calculation of Slope of the Square Root of Time (SST
2-15)
[0094] The start time of water contact with the sample is estimated
to be 0.4 seconds after the start of hydraulic connection is
established between the supply tube and the sample (CRT Time). This
is because data acquisition begins while the tube is still moving
towards the sample, and incorporates the small delay in scale
response. Thus, "time zero" is actually at 0.4 seconds in CRT Time
as recorded in the *.txt file.
[0095] The slope of the square root of time (SST) from 2-15 seconds
is calculated from the slope of a linear regression line from the
square root of time between (and including) 2 to 15 seconds
(x-axis) versus the cumulative grams of water absorbed. The units
are g/sec.sup.0.5.
[0096] Reporting Results
[0097] Report the average slope to the nearest 0.01
g/s.sup.0.5.
[0098] Calculation of Time Integrated Rate with 0.005 g/s threshold
(CRTMax TIR 0.005)
[0099] CRTMax TIR.0.005, aka "time integrated rate using a 0.005
g/sec threshold", is calculated by integrating the area under the
rate (g/sec, y-axis) vs. time (sec, x-axis) curve, starting at "CRT
time"=0.4, until the "Time Average Rate" is 0.005 g/sec or less
(referencing "Time Average Rate" beginning at CRT Time=1.4
sec).
CRT Max
TIR.0.005=.SIGMA.[(CA(i)-CA(i-1))*IR(i)]+[(CA(i)-CA(i-1))*(IR(i--
1)-IR(i))*0.5)]
Where:
[0100] i=CRT Time increment, starting at 0.4 sec, until the "CRT
Time" when Time Average Rate (at 1.4 seconds and after), is equal
to or below 0.005 g/sec. [0101] CA=cumulative water absorbed (g)
[0102] IR=instantaneous rate (g/sec)
Elongation/Tensile Strength/TEA/Tangent Modulus Test Method
[0103] Elongation (Stretch), Tensile Strength, TEA and Tangent
Modulus are measured on a constant rate of extension tensile tester
with computer interface (a suitable instrument is the EJA Vantage
from the Thwing-Albert Instrument Co. Wet Berlin, N.J.) using a
load cell for which the forces measured are within 10% to 90% of
the limit of the load cell. Both the movable (upper) and stationary
(lower) pneumatic jaws are fitted with smooth stainless steel faced
grips, with a design suitable for testing 1 inch wide sheet
material (Thwing-Albert item #733GC). An air pressure of about 60
psi is supplied to the jaws.
[0104] Eight usable units of fibrous structures are divided into
two stacks of four usable units each. The usable units in each
stack are consistently oriented with respect to machine direction
(MD) and cross direction (CD). One of the stacks is designated for
testing in the MD and the other for CD. Using a one inch precision
cutter (Thwing-Albert JDC-1-10, or similar) take a CD stack and cut
one, 1.00 in .+-.0.01 in wide by 3-4 in long stack of strips (long
dimension in CD). In like fashion cut the remaining stack in the MD
(strip's long dimension in MD), to give a total of 8 specimens,
four CD and four MD strips. Each strip to be tested is one usable
unit thick, and will be treated as a unitary specimen for
testing.
[0105] Program the tensile tester to perform an extension test,
collecting force and extension data at an acquisition rate of 20 Hz
as the crosshead raises at a rate of 2.00 in/min (5.08 cm/min)
until the specimen breaks. The break sensitivity is set to 80%,
i.e., the test is terminated when the measured force drops to 20%
of the maximum peak force, after which the crosshead is returned to
its original position.
[0106] Set the gage length to 1.00 inch. Zero the crosshead and
load cell. Insert the specimen into the upper and lower open grips
such that at least 0.5 inches of specimen length is contained in
each grip. Align specimen vertically within the upper and lower
jaws, then close the upper grip. Verify specimen is aligned, then
close lower grip. The specimen should be fairly straight between
grips, with no more than 5.0 g of force on the load cell. Add a
pre-tension force of 3 g. This tension is applied to the specimen
to define the adjusted gauge length, and, by definition is the zero
strain point. Start the tensile tester and data collection. Repeat
testing in like fashion for all four CD and four MD specimens.
Program the software to calculate the following from the
constructed force (g) versus extension (in) curve.
[0107] Eight samples are run on the Tensile Tester (four to the MD
and four to the CD) and average of the respective dry total
tensile, dry Fail TEA and dry Fail Stretch is reported as the Dry
Total Tensile, Dry Fail TEA and Dry Fail Stretch. Fail TEA is
defined as tensile energy absorbed (area under the load vs. strain
tensile curve) from zero strain to fail force point, with units of
g/in. Dry Fail Stretch is defined as the percentage strain measured
after the web is strained past its peak load point, where the force
drops to exactly 50% of its peak load force.
[0108] The dry Fail TEA is then divided by the basis weight of the
strip from which it was tested to arrive at the TEA of the present
invention, and is calculated as follows:
TEA=Fail TEA/Basis Weight of Strip (g/m.sup.2)
[0109] The MD and CD dry tensile strengths are determined using the
above equipment and calculations in the following manner.
[0110] Tensile Strength in general is the maximum peak force (g)
divided by the specimen width (1 in), and reported as g/in to the
nearest 1 g/in.
Average Tensile Strength=sum of tensile loads measures (MD)/(Number
of tensile stripes tested (MD)*Number of useable units or plys per
tensile stripe)
[0111] This calculation is repeated for cross direction
testing.
Dry Total Tensile=Average MD tensile strength+Average CD tensile
strength
[0112] The Dry Tensile value is then normalized for the basis
weight of the strip from which it was tested. The normalized basis
weight used is 24 g/m.sup.2, and is calculated as follows:
Normalized {DTT}={DTT}*24 (g/m.sup.2)/Basis Weight of Strip
(g/m.sup.2)
[0113] The various values are calculated for the four CD specimens
and the four MD specimens. Calculate an average for each parameter
separately for the CD and MD specimens.
EXAMPLES
[0114] The following Examples of the present disclosure describe
various embodiments of the disclosure. [0115] A. A method of
dispensing fibrous structure sheets, the method including the steps
of: [0116] a. providing a primary package including a package base,
a package top, and a sidewall, wherein the package contains a
plurality of fibrous structure sheets stacked adjacent one another
and being in a non-planar configuration, and wherein the primary
package comprises secondary packaging material disposed on at least
some of an exterior of the primary package; [0117] b. removing the
secondary packaging material; [0118] c. displacing at least a
portion of at least one of the package base, the package top, and
the sidewall to provide access to one of the plurality of fibrous
structure sheets; and [0119] d. thereafter repositioning the
displaced package base, package top, and/or sidewall. [0120] B. A
method of dispensing fibrous structure sheets, the method including
the steps of: [0121] a. providing a package including a plurality
of fibrous structure sheets that are stacked adjacent one another
and that are in a non-planar configuration to define an interior
void, a package base including an extension that is disposed within
the interior void of a lowermost one of the plurality of fibrous
structure sheets, and a package top including an extension capable
of being fitted into the interior void of another one of the
plurality of fibrous structure sheets; [0122] b. removing the
package top; and [0123] c. removing some of the plurality of
fibrous structure sheets and placing them onto the package top
extension to create two separate stacks of fibrous structure sheets
from the same package to enable different time and/or location
dispensing of the plurality of fibrous structure sheets. [0124] C.
A package of fibrous structure sheets, the package including:
[0125] a. a plurality of fibrous structure sheets that are folded
or otherwise manipulated from a first planar configuration to a
non-planar dispensing configuration, the plurality of fibrous
structure sheets stacked adjacent one another in their dispensing
configuration to form a sheet stack including a stack bottom and a
stack top; and [0126] b. a fiber-based disposable package including
a package base, a package top, and a sidewall; [0127] c. wherein
the package base covers the stack bottom and the package top covers
the stack top; and [0128] d. wherein at least a portion of at least
one of the package base, the package top, and the sidewall is
capable of being temporarily displaced to dispense one of the
fibrous structure sheets from the sheet stack and then repositioned
thereafter. [0129] D. The package of Example C, wherein the package
top is capable of being temporarily displaced to dispense one of
the fibrous structure sheets from the sheet stack and then
repositioned thereafter. [0130] E. The package of any of Examples C
and D, wherein the dispensing configuration is conical. [0131] F.
The package of any of the previous Examples, wherein the dispensing
configuration is pyramidal. [0132] G. The package of any of the
previous Examples, wherein the dispensing configuration comprises a
peak. [0133] H. The package of any of the previous Examples,
wherein the dispensing configuration comprises a pleat. [0134] I.
The package of any of the previous Examples, wherein each of the
plurality of fibrous structure sheets in their dispensing
configuration has a base and/or cross-sectional geometry that is
substantially similar to a geometry of at least one of the package
base and the package top. [0135] J. The package of any of the
previous Examples, wherein the fibrous structure sheets are capable
of taking on a use configuration that is different than both the
first planar configuration and the non-planar dispensing
configuration. [0136] K. The package of any of the previous
Examples, further including a secondary package material that can
be removed after purchasing the package and prior to dispensing the
fibrous structure sheets from the package. [0137] L. The package of
any of the previous Examples, wherein the fibrous structure sheets
are paper towels. [0138] M. The package of any of the previous
Examples, wherein the fibrous structure sheets have an absorbent
capacity of from about 0.1 grams per square inch to about 1.5 grams
per square inch according to the CRT absorbency test method
disclosed herein. [0139] N. A package of fibrous structure sheets,
the package including: [0140] a. a plurality of fibrous structure
sheets that are folded or otherwise manipulated from a first planar
configuration to a non-planar dispensing configuration, the
plurality of fibrous structure sheets stacked adjacent one another
in their dispensing configuration to form a sheet stack including a
stack bottom and a stack top; and [0141] b. a disposable package
including package components including a package base, a package
top, and a sidewall attached to the package base and/or the package
top; [0142] c. wherein the package base covers the stack bottom and
the package top covers the stack top; and [0143] d. wherein at
least a portion of at least one of the package base, the package
top, and a portion of the sidewall is capable of being moved from a
first location to a second location while still being attached to
other package components to dispense one of the fibrous structure
sheets from the sheet stack and then repositioned thereafter to the
first location. [0144] O. The package of Example N, wherein the
dispensing configuration is conical. [0145] P. The package of
Example N or O, wherein the dispensing configuration is pyramidal.
[0146] Q. The package of any of Examples N-P, wherein the
dispensing configuration comprises a peak. [0147] R. The package of
any of Examples N-Q, wherein the dispensing configuration comprises
a pleat. [0148] S. The package of any of Examples N-R, wherein each
of the plurality of fibrous structure sheets in their dispensing
configuration has a base and/or cross-sectional geometry that is
substantially similar to a geometry of at least one of the package
base and the package top. [0149] T. The package of any of Examples
N-S, wherein the fibrous structure sheets are capable of taking on
a use configuration that is different than both the first planar
configuration and the non-planar dispensing configuration. [0150]
U. The package of any of Examples N-T, further including a
secondary package material that can be removed after purchasing the
package and prior to dispensing the fibrous structure sheets from
the package. [0151] V. A package of fibrous structure sheets, the
package including: [0152] a. a plurality of fibrous structure
sheets that are folded or otherwise manipulated from a first planar
configuration to a non-planar dispensing configuration, the
plurality of fibrous structure sheets stacked adjacent one another
in their dispensing configuration to form a sheet stack including a
stack bottom and a stack top; and [0153] b. a package including a
package base that covers the stack bottom, a package top that
covers the stack top, and a sidewall; [0154] c. wherein the
sidewall has an opening; and [0155] d. wherein a clearance gap
exists between at least one of the package base and stack bottom
and the package top and stack top to permit dispensing the fibrous
structure sheets from the opening in the sidewall without
displacing the package base or the package top. [0156] W. The
package of Example V, wherein the dispensing configuration is
conical. [0157] X. The package of Example V or W, wherein the
dispensing configuration is pyramidal. [0158] Y. The package of any
of Examples V-X, wherein the dispensing configuration comprises a
peak. [0159] Z. The package of any of Examples V-Y, wherein the
dispensing configuration comprises a pleat. [0160] AA. The package
of any of Examples V-Z, wherein the fibrous structure sheets are
paper towels. [0161] BB. The package of any of Examples V-AA,
wherein the fibrous structure sheets have an absorbent capacity of
from about 0.1 grams per square inch to about 1.5 grams per square
inch according to the CRT absorbency test method disclosed herein.
[0162] CC. The package of any of Examples V-BB, wherein the fibrous
structure sheets are capable of taking on a use configuration that
is different than both the first planar configuration and the
non-planar dispensing configuration. [0163] DD. A method of
dispensing fibrous structure sheets, the method including the steps
of: [0164] a. providing a package including a first package
configuration, and a plurality of stacked fibrous structure sheets
that are in a first sheet configuration disposed within the
package; [0165] b. dispensing a first sheet from the plurality of
stacked fibrous structure sheets and manipulating the first sheet
from the first sheet configuration to a second sheet configuration
for use; [0166] c. thereafter affirmatively manipulating the
package from the first package configuration to a second package
configuration; and [0167] d. thereafter dispensing a second sheet
from the plurality of stacked fibrous structure sheets and
manipulating the second sheet from the first sheet configuration to
a third sheet configuration for use. [0168] EE. The method of
Example DD, wherein the first sheet configuration is a non-planar
configuration. [0169] FF. The method of Example DD or EE, wherein
the first sheet configuration is a conical shape. [0170] GG. The
method of any of Examples DD-FF, wherein the first sheet
configuration is a pyramid shape. [0171] HH. The method of any of
Examples DD-GG, wherein the first sheet configuration comprises at
least one pleat. [0172] II. The method of any of Examples DD-HH,
wherein at least one of the second sheet configuration and the
third sheet configuration is substantially planar. [0173] JJ. The
method of any of Examples DD-II, wherein the package has a first
size associated with the first package configuration and a second
size associated with the second package configuration, and wherein
the second size is smaller than the first size. [0174] KK. The
method of any of Examples DD-JJ, wherein the step of affirmatively
manipulating package from the first package configuration to a
second package configuration comprises removing a portion of the
package. [0175] LL. The method of any of Examples DD-KK, wherein
the step of affirmatively manipulating package from the first
package configuration to a second package configuration comprises
folding, rolling, or bending a portion of the package. [0176] MM.
The method of any of Examples DD-LL, wherein the package comprises
a sidewall that in the first package configuration covers at least
some of all of the plurality of stacked fibrous structure sheets.
[0177] NN. The method of any of Examples DD-MM, further including a
step (e.) of affirmatively manipulating the package from the second
package configuration back to the first package configuration.
[0178] OO. A package of fibrous structure sheets, the package
including: [0179] a. a package including a first package
configuration and an adaptation feature; and [0180] b. a plurality
of stacked fibrous structure sheets that are in a dispensing
configuration disposed within the package; [0181] c. wherein the
plurality of sheets are capable of being transformed from the
dispensing configuration to a use configuration that is different
from the dispensing configuration; [0182] d. wherein some of the
plurality of sheets are accessible for dispensing when the package
is in the first package configuration; and [0183] e. wherein the
package is capable of being manipulated from the first package
configuration to a second package configuration via the adaptation
feature to make other of the plurality of sheets accessible for
dispensing. [0184] PP. The package of Example OO, wherein the
adaptation feature is located on a package sidewall. [0185] QQ. The
package of Example OO or PP, wherein the adaptation feature
comprises a fold line. [0186] RR. The package of any of Examples
OO-QQ, wherein the adaptation feature comprises a line of weakness.
[0187] SS. The package of any of Examples OO-RR, wherein the
dispensing configuration is non-planar. [0188] TT. The package any
of Examples OO-SS, wherein the dispensing configuration is conical.
[0189] UU. The package of any of Examples OO-TT, wherein the
dispensing configuration is pyramidal. [0190] VV. The package of
any of Examples OO-UU, wherein the dispensing configuration
comprises a peak. [0191] WW. The package of any of Examples OO-VV,
wherein the use configuration is substantially planar. [0192] XX.
The package any of Examples OO-WW, wherein the package has a first
size associated with the first package configuration and a second
size associated with the second package configuration, and wherein
the second size is smaller than the first size. [0193] YY. The
package of any of Examples OO-XX, wherein the fibrous structure
sheets are paper towels. [0194] ZZ. The package of any of Examples
OO-YY, wherein the fibrous structure sheets have an absorbent
capacity of from about 0.1 grams per square inch to about 1.5 grams
per square inch according to the CRT absorbency test method
disclosed herein. [0195] AAA. A package of fibrous structure
sheets, the package including: [0196] a. a package including a
first component, a second component that is more rigid than the
first component, and a re-sealable member; and [0197] b. a
plurality of fibrous structure sheets disposed within the package,
each of the plurality of fibrous structure sheets being folded or
otherwise manipulated from a first planar configuration to a
non-planar dispensing configuration; [0198] c. wherein the
plurality of sheets are capable of being transformed from the
dispensing configuration to a use configuration that is different
from the dispensing configuration; [0199] d. wherein the plurality
of fibrous structure sheets are substantially completely enclosed
when the re-sealable member is in a closed position to help keep
them from becoming wet prior to dispensing; and [0200] e. wherein
the plurality of fibrous structure sheets can be dispensed from the
package when the re-sealable member is in an open position. [0201]
BBB. The package of Example AAA, wherein the first component
comprises at least one of a polymeric film and a nonwoven web.
[0202] CCC. The package of Example AAA or BBB, wherein the second
component comprises paper board stock. [0203] DDD. The package of
any of AAA-CCC, wherein re-sealable member comprises a tongue and
groove closure. [0204] EEE. The package of any of AAA-DDD, wherein
the re-sealable member comprises an over label including adhesive.
[0205] FFF. The package of any of AAA-EEE, wherein the dispensing
configuration is conical. [0206] GGG. The package of claim 53,
wherein the dispensing configuration is pyramidal. [0207] HHH. The
package of any of AAA-GGG, wherein the dispensing configuration
comprises a peak.
[0208] III. The package of any of AAA-HHH, wherein the dispensing
configuration comprises a pleat. [0209] JJJ. The package of any of
AAA-III, wherein the fiber structure sheets are capable of taking
on a use configuration that is different than both the planar
configuration and the dispensing configuration. [0210] KKK. A
package of fibrous structure sheets, the package including: [0211]
a. a package including a re-closable access; and [0212] b. a
plurality of fibrous structure sheets disposed within the package,
each of the plurality of fibrous structure sheets being folded or
otherwise manipulated from a first planar configuration to a
non-planar dispensing configuration; [0213] c. wherein the
plurality of sheets are capable of being transformed from the
dispensing configuration to a use configuration that is different
from the dispensing configuration; [0214] d. wherein the plurality
of sheets are dry; [0215] e. wherein the plurality of fibrous
structure sheets are enclosed when the re-closable access is in a
closed position; and [0216] f. wherein the plurality of fibrous
structure sheets can be dispensed from the package when the
re-closable access is in an open position. [0217] LLL. The package
of Example KKK, wherein the dispensing configuration is conical.
[0218] MMM. The package of Example KKK or LLL, wherein the
dispensing configuration is pyramidal. [0219] NNN. The package of
any of Examples KKK-MMM, wherein the dispensing configuration
comprises a peak. [0220] OOO. The package any of Examples KKK-NNN,
wherein the dispensing configuration comprises a pleat. [0221] PPP.
The package of any of Examples KKK-OOO, wherein the fiber structure
sheets are capable of taking on a use configuration that is
different than both the planar configuration and the dispensing
configuration. [0222] QQQ. The package any of Examples KKK-PPP,
wherein the fibrous structure sheets are paper towels. [0223] RRR.
The package of any of Examples KKK-QQQ, wherein the fibrous
structure sheets have an absorbent capacity of from about 0.1 grams
per square inch to about 1.5 grams per square inch according to the
CRT absorbency test method disclosed herein. [0224] SSS. A method
of dispensing fibrous structure sheets, the method including the
steps of: [0225] g. providing a package including a plurality of
fibrous structure sheets in a stacked configuration, a re-closable
access, and a first package configuration; [0226] h. opening the
re-closable access to dispense one or more of the plurality of
fibrous structure sheets; and [0227] i. closing the re-closable
access; [0228] j. wherein conducting the step (c.) also changes the
package into a second package configuration that is different from
the first package configuration.
[0229] In the interests of brevity and conciseness, any ranges of
values set forth in this specification are to be construed as
written description support for claims reciting any sub-ranges
having endpoints which are whole number values within the specified
range in question. By way of a hypothetical illustrative example, a
disclosure in this specification of a range of 1-5 shall be
considered to support claims to any of the following sub-ranges:
1-4; 1-3; 1-2; 2-5; 2-4; 2-3; 3-5; 3-4; and 4-5.
[0230] 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."
[0231] Every document cited herein, including any cross referenced
or related patent or application and any patent application or
patent to which this application claims priority or benefit
thereof, is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety
unless expressly excluded or otherwise limited. The citation of any
document is not an admission that it is prior art with respect to
any invention disclosed or claimed herein or that it alone, or in
any combination with any other reference or references, teaches,
suggests or discloses any such invention. Further, 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.
[0232] 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.
* * * * *