A sheet-like absorbent material, a roll, and a dispenser

Abstract

Web-shaped absorbent material (1) for a dispenser (100), wherein the web-shaped absorbent material (1) has a longitudinal extent along a longitudinal direction (L) and a transverse extent along a transverse direction (W) that is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (L), wherein the web-shaped absorbent material (1) has a first elongation (MDstr) in the longitudinal direction (L) and a second elongation (CDstr) in the transverse direction (W), and wherein an elongation ratio between the first elongation (MDstr) and the second elongation (CDstr) is in a range of 3.0-4.0, wherein the web-shaped absorbent material (1) has a first tensile strength (MDts) in the longitudinal direction (L) and a second tensile strength (CDts) in the transverse direction (W), wherein a strength ratio between the first tensile strength (MDts) and the second tensile strength (CDts) is in a range of 1.8-2.0, wherein the web-shaped absorbent material (1) has a basis weight per layer in the range of 16.0-17.0 g / m² 2 exhibits.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The disclosure relates to a sheet-like absorbent material for a dispenser. The disclosure also relates to a roll of sheet-like absorbent material and a dispenser for dispensing sheet-like absorbent material. BACKGROUND

[0002] Dispensers for dispensing web-shaped tissue material for wiping or cleaning purposes are widely used. Web-shaped tissue material or web-shaped absorbent material, such as paper tissue or nonwoven material, comes in a variety of shapes and sizes. Typically, the web-shaped absorbent material can be provided in the form of a folded stack or in the form of a roll.

[0003] For example, for some applications it is desirable to provide the sheet-like absorbent material in the form of a center-fed roll, that is, a roll in which the sheet-like absorbent material is provided to be fed from the center of the roll by pulling the sheet-like absorbent material in a direction that is at least partially parallel to the center axis of the roll.

[0004] For example, for some applications it is desirable to provide the web-shaped absorbent material in the form of a roll, wherein the web-shaped absorbent material is supplied from an outer periphery of the roll by pulling the web-shaped absorbent material in a tangential direction of the roll at least partially perpendicular to the central axis of the roll.

[0005] The web-shaped absorbent material may, for example, be perforated web-shaped absorbent material, wherein the perforation lines may be arranged transversely to the length of the web in order to divide the web-shaped material into individual products or sheets.

[0006] Dispensers for dispensing perforated, sheet-like absorbent material may be provided with a dispensing element, for example an opening such as a spout, through which the sheet-like absorbent material is arranged to be dispensed.

[0007] For example, for reasons of efficiency and convenience in dispensing the sheet-like absorbent material from the dispenser through an opening, it may be desirable to separate sheets of the sheet-like absorbent material one at a time.

[0008] As another example, for example, for reasons of efficiency and convenience, when dispensing the sheet-like absorbent material from the dispenser through an opening and after separating at least one sheet from the sheet-like absorbent material, it may be desirable for a sheet end to be accessible and extend from the dispensing opening so that a user can thereafter grasp and withdraw a new sheet.

[0009] In view of the above, attempts are being made to develop improved technology involving sheet-like absorbent material and / or dispensers. SUMMARY

[0010] An object of the disclosure is to provide a solution that satisfies one or more of the above-mentioned needs and / or at least provides a suitable alternative.

[0011] In accordance with a first aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a sheet-like absorbent material according to claim 1.

[0012] Thus, a sheet-shaped absorbent material for a dispenser is provided, wherein the sheet-shaped absorbent material has a longitudinal extent along a longitudinal direction and a transverse extent along a transverse direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, wherein the sheet-shaped absorbent material has a first extensibility in the longitudinal direction and a second extensibility in the transverse direction, and wherein a stretch ratio between the first extensibility and the second extensibility is in a range of 3.0-4.0.

[0013] By providing a sheet-like absorbent material as disclosed herein, an improved sheet-like absorbent material is achieved that is suitably adapted to improve dispensing of the sheet-like absorbent material from the dispenser. For example, it has been recognized that the stretch ratio of the stretch capacities in the various directions as disclosed herein results in improved separation of the sheets of the sheet-like absorbent material. In particular, it has been recognized that single-sheet separation occurs more frequently during dispensing when the stretch ratio satisfies the range disclosed herein. When dispensing through an opening of the dispenser, for example, through a spout, the sheet-like absorbent material may be compressed and / or twisted as it is pulled through the opening.By configuring the sheet-like absorbent material in accordance with the stretch ratio disclosed herein, it has been found that separation of individual sheets occurs more frequently. For example, it has been found that when the stretch ratio is outside the range defined herein, such as below the range, a higher degree of multiple-sheet dispensing occurs. In particular, sheets below the range are separated more frequently, so that a user receives two or more joined sheets in one dispensing operation. This can lead to a reduction in unnecessary waste of the sheet-like absorbent material. A similar effect has been found when the stretch ratio is above the range disclosed herein.As a further example, it has been determined that by configuring the sheet-like absorbent material as disclosed herein, such as with the stretch ratio disclosed herein, a length of a sheet end extending from the dispensing opening after dispensing is long enough for a user to grasp the sheet-like absorbent material to perform a new dispensing operation.

[0014] The extensibility disclosed here means the extensibility to break, i.e., how much the absorbent sheet material can be stretched in a specific direction before it breaks. The extensibility can be expressed as a percentage. For example, for a sheet of absorbent material with a specific length, measured in a specific direction, it can be determined how much the material can be stretched in the same direction, relative to the given length, until it breaks. The extensibility is defined here in accordance with the ISO 12625-4:2016 standard.

[0015] Optionally, the stretch ratio between the first stretchability and the second stretchability is in a range of 3.2-4.0, such as 3.2-3.8, 3.4-3.8, 3.5-3.7 or 3.55-3.65.

[0016] Optionally, the first stretch range is within a range of 15.0-18.0%, such as 15.0-17.0% or 15.5-16.5%. It has further been recognized that the first stretch range disclosed herein can lead to improved output, for example, more frequent single-sheet separation and / or a correspondingly long sheet tail after output.

[0017] Optionally, the second stretchability is in a range of 4.00-4.80%, such as 4.00-4.50% or 4.20-4.50%.

[0018] It has further been recognized that the range of second stretch capability disclosed herein may result in improved output, for example, more frequent single sheet separation and / or a correspondingly long sheet tail after output.

[0019] Optionally, the sheet-like absorbent material has a first tensile strength in the longitudinal direction and a second tensile strength in the transverse direction, wherein the strength ratio between the first tensile strength and the second tensile strength is in a range of 1.8-2.0. Furthermore, it has been recognized that by designing the sheet-like absorbent material with the strength ratio disclosed herein, further improved dispensing can be achieved, for example, in the form of more frequent single-sheet separation and / or a correspondingly long sheet tail after dispensing. The tensile strength of the sheet-like absorbent material is defined herein in accordance with ISO 12625-4:2016 and can be expressed in N / m.

[0020] Optionally, the strength ratio between the first tensile strength and the second tensile strength is in a range of 1.85-1.95, such as 1.90.

[0021] Optionally, the first tensile strength is in a range of 230-290 N / m, such as 250-280 N / m or 260-270 N / m. It has further been recognized that the first tensile strength range disclosed herein can result in improved dispensing, such as more frequent single-sheet separation and / or a reasonably long sheet tail after dispensing.

[0022] Optionally, the second tensile strength is in a range of 100-150 N / m, such as 120-150 N / m, 130-150 N / m, or 135-145 N / m. It has further been recognized that the second tensile strength range disclosed herein can lead to improved dispensing, for example, more frequent single-sheet separation and / or a correspondingly long sheet tail after dispensing.

[0023] Optionally, the web-shaped absorbent material has a basis weight per layer in a range of 16.0-17.0 g / m 2The range of basis weight per layer disclosed here can lead to improved output, for example, more frequent single-sheet separation and / or a correspondingly long sheet tail after output. The basis weight per layer is defined here in accordance with the ISO 12625-6:2016 standard.

[0024] Optionally, the sheet-like absorbent material comprises a plurality of substantially transverse tear lines distributed sequentially along the longitudinal extent of the sheet-like absorbent material and defining a plurality of connected sheets, each transverse tear line being a weakened portion of the sheet-like absorbent material having an extension in the transverse direction. With the sheet-like absorbent material disclosed herein, sheets are more frequently severed individually at the transverse tear lines. Furthermore, at least one of the transverse tear lines, a plurality of the transverse tear lines, or each of the transverse tear lines can optionally be configured such that a tensile force in the longitudinal direction required to tear the sheet-like absorbent material at the respective transverse tear line is in a range of 6.0-9.0 N, such as 7.0-8.0 N, for example 7.2-7.8 N.The pulling force can be an average force measured over several consecutive output events.

[0025] Optionally, the ratio between a transverse length, measured in the transverse direction, and a longitudinal length, measured in the longitudinal direction, of each sheet is in a range of 0.45-1, such as 0.5-0.65. It has been further recognized that the length ratio disclosed herein, in combination with at least one of the other ratios disclosed herein, such as in combination with the stretch ratio, can result in improved dispensing, for example, more frequent single-sheet separation and / or a reasonably long sheet tail after dispensing.

[0026] Optionally, the transverse length of the web-shaped absorbent material, measured in the transverse direction, is in a range of 125-180 mm. The transverse length range disclosed here can lead to improved output, for example, more frequent single-sheet separation and / or a reasonably long sheet tail after output.

[0027] In accordance with a second aspect of the disclosure, a roller according to claim 11 is provided.

[0028] Thus, a roll of sheet-like absorbent material is provided in accordance with any example of the first aspect, wherein the sheet-like absorbent material is rolled such that the longitudinal direction of the sheet-like absorbent material corresponds to a tangential direction of the roll. The roll may be adapted to feed the sheet-like absorbent material from a center of the roll and / or from an outer periphery of the roll. The advantages and technical benefits of the second aspect of the disclosure correspond to the advantages and technical benefits of the first aspect of the disclosure, and vice versa.

[0029] In accordance with a third aspect of the disclosure, a dispenser according to claim 12 is provided.

[0030] Therefore, a dispenser for dispensing sheet-like absorbent material is provided, the dispenser comprising a storage compartment configured to store the sheet-like absorbent material and an opening configured to dispense the sheet-like absorbent material from the storage compartment to an exterior of the dispenser, the dispenser further comprising the sheet-like absorbent material in accordance with any example of the first aspect of the disclosure or the roll in accordance with any example of the second aspect of the disclosure, and wherein the sheet-like absorbent material or the roll is provided in the storage compartment. The advantages and technical advantages of the third aspect of the disclosure are analogous to the advantages and technical advantages of the first and second aspects of the disclosure, and vice versa.

[0031] Optionally, the opening is a spout opening. It has been recognized that dispensing the sheet-like absorbent material disclosed herein through a spout can result in improved dispensing, for example, more frequent single-sheet separation and / or a reasonably long sheet tail after dispensing.

[0032] Optionally, the spout opening has a smallest opening diameter measured perpendicular to a dispensing direction and ranging from 5 to 15 mm, such as 5 to 10 mm or 6 to 9 mm. The sheet-like absorbent material disclosed herein in combination with a spout having a smallest diameter disclosed herein can result in improved dispensing, for example, more frequent single-sheet dispensing and / or a reasonably long sheet tail after dispensing.

[0033] Optionally, during the dispensing of the web-shaped absorbent material during a plurality of consecutive dispensing operations, sheets are separated from the web-shaped absorbent material such that only a single sheet, that is, a single individual sheet, is separated during at least 85%, at least 90%, at least 95%, or at least 99% of the dispensing operations of the plurality of consecutive dispensing operations. In some examples, the plurality of consecutive dispensing operations correspond to at least 10 consecutive dispensing operations, such as at least 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, or 100 consecutive dispensing operations.

[0034] Optionally, when dispensing the sheet-like absorbent material, sheets are separated such that after each separation a sheet end is produced which extends from the opening, wherein in at least 75% of the cases in which sheets are separated, the sheet end after each separation has a length in a range of 21-50 mm, measured along the longitudinal direction of the sheet-like absorbent material from one end of the opening to an outer end of the sheet end. In some examples, the sheet-like absorbent material is dispensed such that the sheets are separated at least 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, or 100 times, wherein in at least 75% of the cases in which the sheets are separated, the sheet end after each separation has a length in a range of 21-50 mm, measured along the longitudinal direction of the sheet-like absorbent material from an end of the opening to an outer end of the sheet end.

[0035] Further advantages and advantageous features of the disclosure are disclosed in the following description and in the dependent claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0036] With reference to the accompanying drawings, a more detailed description of the embodiments of the disclosure given as examples follows.

[0037] In the drawings: Fig. 1 is a schematic view of a sheet-shaped absorbent material in accordance with an example of the disclosure, Fig. Figure 2a is a schematic view of a roller in accordance with an example of the disclosure, Fig. Figure 2b is a schematic view of a roller in accordance with an example of the disclosure, Fig. 3 is a perspective view of a dispenser in accordance with an example of the disclosure, Fig. 4 is a dispensing opening in a perspective view in accordance with an example of the disclosure, and Fig. 5 is a dispensing opening in a schematic view in accordance with an example of the disclosure.

[0038] The drawings show schematic, non-limiting examples of the present disclosure and are therefore not necessarily to scale. It is understood that the examples shown and described are only exemplary and that the invention is not limited to these examples. It should also be noted that some details in the drawings may be exaggerated in order to better describe and illustrate the disclosure. Throughout the description, like reference numerals refer to like elements unless otherwise indicated. Some reference numerals may be omitted from some figures for clarity. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

[0039] The examples contained herein relate to an improved sheet-like absorbent material that is suitably adapted to improve dispensing of the sheet-like absorbent material from a dispenser. For example, when dispensing a sheet-like absorbent material from a dispenser through an opening, such as a spout, it may be desirable to individually separate sheets of the sheet-like absorbent material from one another. As another example, when dispensing the sheet-like absorbent material from the dispenser through an opening and after at least one sheet has been separated from the sheet-like absorbent material, it may be desirable to have a sheet end accessible and extending from the dispensing opening so that a user can thereafter grasp and withdraw a new sheet.At least one of the foregoing objects can be achieved, at least in part, by the sheet-like absorbent material, roll, and / or dispenser design disclosed herein.

[0040] During dispensing through a dispenser opening, such as a spout, the sheet-like absorbent material may be compressed and / or twisted as it is pulled through the opening. By configuring the sheet-like absorbent material in accordance with the examples disclosed herein, it has been found that individual sheet separation occurs more frequently. For example, it has been recognized that when the stretch ratio meets the range defined herein, fewer multi-sheet dispensing occurs. In particular, when the range is met, sheets are individually separated more frequently. This may consequently lead to a reduction in unnecessary waste of the sheet-like absorbent material.

[0041] Additionally or alternatively, it has been found that by constructing the sheet-like absorbent material in accordance with the examples disclosed herein, for example, with the stretch ratio disclosed herein, a length of a sheet end protruding from the opening of the dispenser after dispensing is long enough for a user to grasp the sheet-like absorbent material to perform a new dispensing.

[0042] Fig. 1 shows a web-shaped absorbent material 1 in a schematic view in accordance with an example.

[0043] The web-shaped absorbent material 1 has a longitudinal extension along a longitudinal direction L and a transverse extension along a transverse direction W. The transverse direction W is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction L.

[0044] The longitudinal direction L of the web-shaped absorbent material 1, as disclosed herein, may correspond to a machine direction of the web-shaped absorbent material 1, and / or the transverse direction W of the web-shaped absorbent material 1 may be referred to as a transverse direction of the web-shaped absorbent material 1. The machine direction may be defined as the direction along which the material 1 is manufactured in a machine, i.e., along its running direction.

[0045] For example, a dispensing direction D1 of the web-shaped absorbent material 1 when dispensed from a dispenser 100 may, in some examples, correspond to the machine direction, for example, when the web-shaped absorbent material 1 is rolled into a roll 10 and the dispensing direction corresponds to a tangential direction T of the roll 10. However, in other examples, the direction of dispensing may be perpendicular to the machine direction, for example, when the web-shaped absorbent material 1 is in the form of a center-fed roll 10.

[0046] As in Fig. 1, the web-shaped absorbent material 1 preferably has a rectangular shape, that is to say with a longitudinal length Ltot, measured along the longitudinal direction L, which is significantly longer than a transverse length W1, measured along the transverse direction W.

[0047] The web-shaped absorbent material 1 has a first extensibility MDstr in the longitudinal direction L and a second extensibility CDstr in the transverse direction W. Furthermore, the stretch ratio between the first extensibility MDstr and the second extensibility CDstr is in a range of 3.0-4.0. Accordingly, MDstr / CDstr is in a range of 3.0-4.0.

[0048] In some preferred examples, the stretch ratio between the first stretchability MDstr and the second stretchability CDstr is in a range of 3.2-4.0, such as 3.2-3.8, 3.4-3.8, 3.5-3.7 or 3.55-3.65.

[0049] As in Fig. 1, the web-shaped absorbent material 1 preferably comprises a plurality of substantially transverse tear lines TR distributed one behind the other along the longitudinal extent of the web-shaped absorbent material 1 and defining a plurality of bonded sheets 11-14. In the example shown, only four bonded sheets 11-14 are shown. However, it should be noted that the web-shaped absorbent material 1 is likely to comprise more bonded sheets before consumption begins, such as dozens or hundreds of bonded sheets.

[0050] In the example shown, each transverse tear line TR is a weakened section of the web-shaped absorbent material 1 with an extension in the transverse direction W.

[0051] A weakened portion here may mean a portion, such as along a line, where the sheet-like absorbent material 1 is weaker compared to other portions adjacent to the weakened portion. For example, the weakened portion may be configured such that when a user pulls on the sheet-like absorbent material 1, the sheet-like absorbent material will tear at the weakened portion, preferably providing a single product, i.e., a sheet, to the user. At least one of the transverse tear lines TR, several of the transverse tear lines TR, or each of the transverse tear lines TR may be configured such that a tensile force in the longitudinal direction L required to tear the sheet-like absorbent material 1 at the respective transverse tear line TR is in a range of 6.0-9.0 N, such as 7.0-8.0 N, for example, 7.2-7.8 N.The pulling force can be an average force measured over several consecutive output events.

[0052] At least one first transverse tear line TR, for example, each transverse tear line TR, may be a perforated line. For example, the design of the perforations of the respective perforated transverse tear lines TR may be identical.

[0053] A perforation can be defined as multiple openings or passages, for example, pinholes or slits, provided along a line and separated by sections of the absorbent web. The weakness of the perforation can be varied, for example, by changing the length of the openings or passages and / or the length of the sections of material between the openings or passages.

[0054] Although perforations may be used to achieve a weakened portion as disclosed herein, it should be noted that a weakened portion may additionally or alternatively be achieved in other ways, such as by one or more notches along the weakened portion or by providing less material, i.e., a lower grammage, in the web-shaped absorbent material.

[0055] At least one first transverse tear line TR, for example, each transverse tear line TR, may extend along the entire width W1 of the web-shaped absorbent material 1. In other examples, at least one first transverse tear line TR, for example, each transverse tear line TR, may extend along at least 80% or 90% of the entire width W1 of the web-shaped absorbent material 1.

[0056] In some examples, at least a first transverse tear line TR, for example, each transverse tear line TR, may extend with a slight inclination with respect to the transverse direction W. For example, a transverse tear line TR may be inclined with respect to the transverse direction W by an angle α in a range of 0.5-5 degrees. This may be a consequence of the manufacturing process. In the Fig. In the schematic example shown in Figure 1, the angle α for a transverse tear line TR is exaggerated.

[0057] The first elongation MDstr can be greater than the second elongation CDstr. For example, the first elongation MDstr can be in a range of 15.0–18.0%, such as 15.0–17.0% or 15.5–16.5%. Additionally or alternatively, the second elongation CDstr can be in a range of 4.00–4.80%, such as 4.00–4.50% or 4.20–4.50%.

[0058] The web-shaped absorbent material 1 can have a first tensile strength MDts in the longitudinal direction L and a second tensile strength CDts in the transverse direction W, wherein a strength ratio between the first tensile strength MDts and the second tensile strength CDts can be in a range of 1.8-2.0. Accordingly, MDts / CDts can be in a range of 1.8-2.0.

[0059] In some examples, the strength ratio between the first tensile strength MDts and the second tensile strength CDts may be in a range of 1.85-1.95, such as 1.90.

[0060] The first tensile strength MDts may be greater than the second tensile strength CDts. For example, the first tensile strength MDts may be in a range of 230–290 N / m, such as 250–280 N / m or 260–270 N / m. Additionally or alternatively, the second tensile strength CDts may be in a range of 100–150 N / m, such as 120–150 N / m, 130–150 N / m, or 135–145 N / m.

[0061] In some examples, the sheet-like absorbent material 1 may have a basis weight per layer in a range of 16.0-17.0 g / m 2 Each sheet 11-14 may comprise one or more layers arranged one above the other, such as two layers or two or more layers, for example, ten layers. Accordingly, a sheet 11-14 may be defined by one or more layers of web-shaped absorbent material arranged one above the other.

[0062] In some examples, the ratio between a transverse length W1, measured in the transverse direction W, and a longitudinal length L1, measured in the longitudinal direction L, of each blade 11-14 may be in a range of 0.45-1, such as 0.5-0.65. Accordingly, W1 / L1 may be in a range of 0.45-1, such as 0.5-0.65.

[0063] The longitudinal length L1 of each sheet 11-14, measured in the longitudinal direction L, may be a maximum longitudinal length L1 measured in the longitudinal direction L, for example, when the transverse tear line(s) TR is / are slightly inclined, as mentioned above. The longitudinal length L1 of an individual sheet 11-14 may be measured between two adjacent transverse tear lines TR before and / or after the sheet has been separated from the web-shaped absorbent material 1 comprising a plurality of connected sheets 11-14.

[0064] In some examples, a transverse length W1 of the web-shaped absorbent material 1, measured in the transverse direction W, may be in a range of 125-180 mm.

[0065] It should be noted that the elongation and tensile strengths disclosed herein relate to the properties of the web-shaped absorbent material, excluding the properties of the transverse tear lines TR.

[0066] In some examples, the thickness of the sheet-like absorbent material 1, measured in a thickness direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction L and the transverse direction W, is in a range of 0.8-1.2 mm, such as 0.9-1 mm, for example 0.95 mm.

[0067] Fig. Figure 2a shows a roll 10 of web-shaped absorbent material 1 in a schematic side view in accordance with an example of the disclosure, and Fig. Figure 2b shows a roll 10 of web-shaped absorbent material 1 in a schematic side view in accordance with an example of the disclosure. The rolls 10 in the Fig. 2a-b can be the same role or different roles.

[0068] The sheet-like absorbent material 1 in accordance with any example herein may be as shown in the Fig. 2ab shown such that the longitudinal direction L of the web-shaped absorbent material 1 corresponds to a tangential direction T of the roll 10. Accordingly, the width direction W of the web-shaped absorbent material 1 extends along a direction parallel to a central axis A of the roll 10.

[0069] The roll 10 as disclosed herein may have a core (not shown) around which the web-shaped absorbent material 1 is wound. Alternatively, the web-shaped absorbent material 1 may be wound without a core.

[0070] Fig. Figure 2a illustrates an embodiment of a centrally fed roll in which the web-shaped absorbent material 1 is to be fed from the center of the roll 10, as indicated by an arrow F1, by pulling the web-shaped absorbent material 1 in a direction that is at least partially parallel to the central axis A of the roll.

[0071] Fig. Figure 2b shows another embodiment of the roll, in which it is intended to feed the web-shaped absorbent material 1 from an outer circumference of the roll 10, which is indicated by an arrow F2, by pulling the web-shaped absorbent material 1 in the tangential direction T of the roll 10 at least partially perpendicular to the central axis A of the roll.

[0072] The sheet-like absorbent material disclosed herein need not necessarily be provided as a roll, but in some examples, may be packaged / folded in other ways. For example, the sheet-like absorbent material may be folded in a zigzag pattern to form a stack with sections of the sheet-like absorbent material provided sequentially one above the other.

[0073] Fig. 3 shows a dispenser 100 for dispensing sheet-like absorbent material 1 in accordance with an example disclosed herein. The dispenser 100 comprises a storage compartment 110 configured to store the sheet-like absorbent material 1, and an opening 120 configured to dispense the sheet-like absorbent material 1 from the storage compartment 110 to an exterior of the dispenser 100. The storage compartment 110 is therefore enclosed by a housing 112 of the dispenser 100. The housing 112 is preferably arranged such that it can be opened so that the sheet-like absorbent material 1 can be provided in the storage compartment 110 and so that refilling of the sheet-like absorbent material 1 is enabled.

[0074] The dispenser 100 further comprises the sheet-shaped absorbent material 1 in accordance with each example disclosed herein or the roll 10 in accordance with each example disclosed herein, wherein the sheet-shaped absorbent material 1 or the roll 10 is provided in the storage compartment 110.

[0075] In the examples where the web-shaped absorbent material 1 is provided as a roll 10 in the storage compartment 110, the roll 10 may be supported on a support axis (not shown) that coincides with the central axis A of the roll. In other examples, the roll 10 may be supported in the storage compartment 100 at its outer peripheral surface on a support surface (not shown) of the dispenser 100, such as a cradle-like frame.

[0076] The dispensers 100 disclosed herein may be configured to accommodate more than one roll 10. For example, the dispenser 100 may be configured to automatically insert a new roll as soon as a previous roll in the storage compartment 110 no longer contains web-shaped absorbent material 1.

[0077] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 3, the opening 120 can be a spout opening. The spout opening 120 can have a circular, elliptical, or oval circumferential profile, viewed in a sectional plane perpendicular to the dispensing direction D1 of the web-shaped absorbent material 1.

[0078] In the example shown, the output direction D1 corresponds substantially to a horizontal axis. In other examples, the output direction may extend along a vertical axis, such that the output is substantially downward or upward. In other examples, the output direction may extend in a direction that is inclined with respect to a horizontal axis and a vertical axis.

[0079] The dispenser 100 can be configured to be mounted on a stationary object, for example, a wall, so that it can be attached to a vertical wall.

[0080] By designing the sheet-like absorbent material 1 and / or the dispenser 100 in accordance with the examples set forth herein, sheets can be separated from the sheet-like absorbent material 1 during the dispensing of the sheet-like absorbent material 1 during a plurality of successive dispensing operations such that only a single sheet is separated during at least 85%, at least 90%, at least 95%, or at least 99% of the dispensing operations of the plurality of successive dispensing operations.

[0081] The dispensers 100 disclosed herein are typically suitable for wiping products, in particular for wiping people or objects. The user may be the general public or a group of people. The products suitable for wiping people or objects typically belong to the product categories toilet paper, cleaning roll, kitchen roll, or paper towel roll, etc., and are described here as a sheet-like absorbent material 1. These products typically comprise cellulosic fibers and could fall into the categories of tissue (ISO 12625-1:2019) and / or nonwovens (ISO 9092:2011).

[0082] Fig. 4 shows an example of a spout 122 with a spout opening 120 in perspective view in accordance with an example, and Fig. Figure 5 shows an example of a grommet 122 with a grommet opening 120 in a schematic sectional view in accordance with an example. The grommet 122 and the grommet opening 120 in the Fig. 4 and Fig. 5 can be found, for example, in the Fig. 3 shown dispenser 100 can be used.

[0083] As shown, the spout opening 120 can have a smallest opening diameter x, which, measured perpendicular to a discharge direction D1, lies in a range of 5-15 mm, such as 5-10 mm or 6-9 mm. As mentioned above, the spout opening 120 can have a circular, elliptical, or oval circumferential profile, viewed in a sectional plane perpendicular to the discharge direction D1 of the web-shaped absorbent material 1.

[0084] The sectional view of the nozzle 122 in Fig. 5 is perpendicular to the dispensing direction D1. As shown, the spout 122 may have a first section 123 with a tapered profile that tapers toward a second section 124 having the smallest diameter x, followed by a third section 125 with a tapered profile that tapers away from the second section 124. Other embodiments are also conceivable, such as providing the spout opening 120 with a substantially constant diameter along its longitudinal extent.

[0085] When the web-shaped absorbent material 1 is dispensed through the spout 122 by pulling the web-shaped absorbent material 1 outside the dispenser 100, a counterforce acts on the web-shaped absorbent material 1 in the spout 122 until the sheets 11-14 are separated by tearing the web-shaped absorbent material 1 along the transverse tear lines TR. Accordingly, a maximum tensile force can be measured at the moment a sheet is separated.

[0086] By designing the web-shaped absorbent material 1 and / or the dispenser 100 in accordance with the examples disclosed herein, sheets are separated during the dispensing of the web-shaped absorbent material 1 such that after each separation, a sheet end S1 extending from the opening 120 is produced, wherein in at least 75% of cases, sheets are separated, wherein the sheet end S1 has a length L2 in a range of 21-50 mm after each singulation, measured along the longitudinal direction L of the web-shaped absorbent material 1 from an end E1 of the opening 120 to an outer end E2 of the sheet end S1. The end E1 of the opening 120 can be defined by a cutting plane that runs perpendicular to the dispensing direction D1 and that crosses an outermost portion P1 of the spout 122 that encloses the spout opening 120.

[0087] The following table, Table 1, describes tests performed for various sheet absorbent materials, M1-M4, where sheet absorbent material M1 is a sheet absorbent material in accordance with an example of the present disclosure and the other materials M2-M4 are examples of prior art sheet absorbent materials. Table 1 M1 M2 M3 M4 Gr g / m 2 33,5 33,8 33,2 32,1 MDts N / m 267,5 328,3 309,2 205,2 CDts N / m 141 149,6 142 118,7 MDts / CDts 1,9 2,2 2,2 1,7 MDstr % 16,3 19,8 18,4 14,1 CDstr % 4,48 4,78 4,51 4,98 MDstr / CDstr 3,6 4,1 4,1 2,8 Th mm 0,95 0,968 0,952 1,014 M Ende % 78 68,8 66,5 42,2 Mehrblatt % 1 4,7 5,4 43 Zugkraft N 7,6 7,4 7,2 4,8 - Gr refers to the grammage per product, in this case with two layers, expressed in g / m 2 , - MDts refers to a first tensile strength in a longitudinal direction of the web-shaped absorbent material, expressed in N / m, - CDts refers to a second tensile strength in a transverse direction of the web-shaped absorbent material, expressed in N / m, - MDstr refers to a first extensibility in a longitudinal direction of the web-shaped absorbent material, expressed in %, - CDstr refers to a second extensibility of the web-shaped absorbent material in the transverse direction, expressed in %, and - Th refers to a thickness of the product, in this case with two layers, in a direction of the web-shaped absorbent material perpendicular to the longitudinal direction and the transverse direction, expressed in mm.

[0088] M End indicates the number of cases in which, out of a total number of consecutive outputs, sheets were separated during output so that a sheet end, as disclosed herein, with a length in a range of 21-50 mm was produced, expressed as a % of the total number of consecutive output operations.

[0089] Multisheet represents the number of times in a total number of consecutive issues in which the sheets were not individually separated from the web-like absorbent material. In other words, multisheet represents the number of times two or more contiguous sheets were separated from the web-like absorbent material.

[0090] As indicated in Table 1 above, the sheet-like absorbent material M1 in accordance with an example of the present disclosure resulted in a flat sheet having a length of 21-50 mm being produced in 78% of the dispensing operations of the total number of consecutive dispensing operations. As indicated in accordance with Table 1, the sheet-like absorbent material M1 in accordance with the example resulted in multi-layer dispensing in only 1% of the dispensing operations of the consecutive dispensing operations. This is in contrast to the other sheet-like absorbent materials M2-M4, for which a sheet end having a length of 21-50 mm was produced in 68.8%, 66.5%, and 42.2% of the dispensing operations of the total number of consecutive dispensing operations for the respective material.This also contrasts with the other web-shaped absorbent materials M2-M4, where multi-layer dispensing occurred in 4.7%, 5.5% and 43% of the total number of consecutive dispensing processes for the respective material.

[0091] The tested material M1 was of the standard type, 2-ply embossed; the fiber blend was 98% RCF (SOP), 2% virgin pulp (70% Fibria, 30% Billerud).

[0092] The tested material M2 was a thick NCF (natural fiber). The fiber blend consisted of 32% NCF, 18% Multigrade, and 50% SOP.

[0093] The tested material M3 was of the NCF mid-range type (natural fiber). The fiber blend included 32% NCF, 18% Multigrade, and 50% SOP.

[0094] The tested material M4 was NCF thin (natural fiber). The fiber blend consisted of 32% NCF, 18% Multigrade, and 50% SOP.

[0095] The test for each sheet-like absorbent material M1-M4 was conducted on a center-feed dispenser, and the materials M1-M4 were provided as a roll in the dispenser. More than one roll of each material M1-M4 was used for the test. The tests can be performed manually or by a robot. In this example, the tests were performed by a robot with an arm and a gripper on the arm to grasp the sheet ends and dispense the sheet-like absorbent material.

[0096] The pulling force for each dispensing process, expressed in N, is also given in Table 1. The pulling force is an average pulling force for the dispensing processes. The pulling force for M1 was 7.6 N, the pulling force for M2 was 7.4 N, the pulling force for M3 was 7.2 N, and the pulling force for M4 was 4.8 N. The pulling force represents the force required to cut the transverse tear line, e.g., the perforation, and dispense at least one sheet from the dispenser manually or by the robot, for example, measured with a force gauge.

[0097] During some dispensing processes, no sheet end may be visible or accessible at all. Accordingly, depending on the situation, it may be necessary to open the dispenser to access the sheet-like absorbent material again.

[0098] The robot used for the tests was programmed to dispense rolls from a centrally fed dispenser.

[0099] A computer program with a connected camera and load cell was used to collect data on the final length and tensile force. During dispensing from the central feed dispenser, the number of single sheets and multiple sheets was determined using the images captured by the camera. The number of times a sheet is not visible or accessible can also be determined from the camera images.

[0100] At least the following devices were used for the test: - Universal Robots UR5, - Compatible live camera with at least HD quality, - load cell, - Compatible computer, and - A wall to mount the dispenser.

[0101] In preparation for the tests, the tested materials M1-M4 were kept under ambient conditions for at least 24 hours prior to testing.

[0102] The dispenser for the tests was mounted with the robot on a test wall in a robot cage. For each of the four different tests, the respective roll containing the various materials M1-M4 was inserted into the dispenser. If the roll had a core, it was removed, and then one end of the absorbent sheet was manually inserted through the dispenser's spout.

[0103] Afterwards, at least five sheets were manually separated before starting the robot test. This was done to minimize the effects of commissioning and ensure that all settings were satisfactory for the robot output to start.

[0104] The camera was also calibrated before testing began. After calibrating the camera and before testing began, manual measurements were compared with the camera measurements to ensure that the tail lengths measured from the camera images were within acceptable ranges, in this case within ± 5 mm of the manual measurements.

[0105] The output from the robot was a horizontal output, that is, along a horizontal axis.

[0106] The term "ply," as used herein, refers to distinguishable and typically separable cut webs of tissue paper obtained after processing ("converting") one or more base (raw) webs of tissue paper. Each individual ply may comprise one or more layers, for example, one, two, three, or four layers. In the case of nonwovens, the term "ply," as used herein, refers to distinguishable and typically separable cut webs of nonwoven fabric.

[0107] A “multi-ply tissue product” is defined as a tissue that preferably has 2-6 superimposed layers, for example 2-4 layers.

[0108] The term “nonwoven fabric” is common in the art and may also be further defined for the purposes of this disclosure in the manner described in ISO 9092:2011.

[0109] "Tissue paper" is defined as the base paper produced by a paper machine and comprising natural fibers. "Tissue paper ply" refers to the single-ply base tissue as it is obtained from the tissue machine. The tissue paper ply is produced by a process comprising the following steps: forming an aqueous suspension of pulp fibers, i.e., the so-called "web," depositing the aqueous suspension on a wire to form a wet web, dewatering, drying, and creeping the web.

[0110] In the context of tissue paper plies, the term "ply" refers to a layer within the web that has a specific fiber composition. The one or more layers are formed by applying one or more streams of pulp to a screen with a pressurized single- or multi-layer headbox. This technique is well known to those skilled in the art. It allows for the use of different fiber types in each layer of the web.

[0111] "Chemical pulp" is defined as a fibrous material, generally of plant origin, prepared for use in further manufacturing processes. "Chemical pulp fibers," as used here, include pulp fibers from chemical pulp, such as kraft, sulfate, or sulfite pulp, mechanical pulp, thermomechanical pulp, chemo-mechanical pulp, and / or chemo-thermo-mechanical pulp, abbreviated CTMP. Both hardwood and softwood pulps can be used. The fibers can also come from non-wood plants, such as cereal stalks, bamboo, jute, or sisal. The pulps used can be a primary fiber material ("virgin fibers"). Optionally, they can also be a secondary fiber material ("recycled fibers").

[0112] “RCF” is defined as recycled fibers or secondary fibers.

[0113] "SOP" is defined as derived from sorted office paper (SOP). Sorted office paper is defined as paper typically generated in offices and primarily comprises white and undyed wood-free paper that is essentially free of unbleached fibers. May contain a small proportion of carbon-free paper.

[0114] “NCF” is defined as paper grades where the color is determined solely by the pulp fiber without bleach, dye or pigment.

[0115] "Multigrade" is defined as recycled fiber from a variety of sources, such as newspapers, magazines, and cardboard. It is defined as a blend of different grades of recyclable paper, not limited by fiber content, and includes most types of clean, dry paper, including glossy paper, white ledger and computer paper, newspapers, magazines, catalogs, phone books, maps, laser-printed white ledger, window envelopes, sticky notes, and often also fluted and brown paper.

[0116] It is to be understood that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above and illustrated in the drawings; rather, those skilled in the art will recognize that many changes and modifications can be made within the scope of the appended claims. QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents submitted by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the convenience of the reader. This list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited non-patent literature

[0000] ISO 12625-4:2016

[0019]

Claims

[1] A web-shaped absorbent material (1) for a dispenser (100), wherein the web-shaped absorbent material (1) has a longitudinal extension along a longitudinal direction (L) and a transverse extension along a transverse direction (W) which is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (L), wherein the web-shaped absorbent material (1) has a first extensibility (MDstr) in the longitudinal direction (L) and a second extensibility (CDstr) in the transverse direction (W), and wherein an elongation ratio between the first extensibility (MDstr) and the second extensibility (CDstr) is in a range of 3.0-4.0, wherein the web-shaped absorbent material (1) has a first tensile strength (MDts) in the longitudinal direction (L) and a second tensile strength (CDts) in the transverse direction (W), wherein a strength ratio between the first tensile strength (MDts) and the second tensile strength (CDts) is in a range of 1.8-2.0, wherein the web-shaped absorbent material (1) has a basis weight per layer in a range of 16.0-17.0 g / m 2 has. [2] A web-shaped absorbent material (1) according to claim 1, wherein the stretch ratio between the first stretch capacity (MDstr) and the second stretch capacity (CDstr) is in a range of 3.2-4.0, such as 3.2-3.8, 3.4-3.8, 3.5-3.7 or 3.55-3.

65. [3] A web-shaped absorbent material (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first extensibility (MDstr) is in a range of 15.0-18.0%, such as 15.0-17.0% or 15.5-16.5%. [4] A web-shaped absorbent material (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second extensibility (CDstr) is in a range of 4.00-4.80%, such as 4.00-4.50% or 4.20-4.50%. [5] A sheet-like absorbent material (1) according to claim 1, wherein the strength ratio between the first tensile strength (MDts) and the second tensile strength (CDts) is in a range of 1.85-1.95, such as 1.

90. [6] A web-shaped absorbent material (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first tensile strength (MDts) is in a range of 230-290 N / m, such as 250-280 N / m or 260-270 N / m. [7] A web-shaped absorbent material (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second tensile strength (CDts) is in a range of 100-150 N / m, such as 120-150 N / m, 130-150 N / m or 135-145 N / m. [8] A web-shaped absorbent material (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the web-shaped absorbent material (1) comprises a plurality of substantially transverse tear lines (TR) distributed successively along the longitudinal extent of the web-shaped absorbent material (1) and defining a plurality of connected sheets (11-14), each transverse tear line (TR) being a weakened portion of the web-shaped absorbent material (1) having an extension in the transverse direction (W). [9] A web-shaped absorbent material (1) according to claim 8, wherein a ratio between a transverse length (W1) measured in the transverse direction (W) and a longitudinal length (L1) measured in the longitudinal direction (L) of each sheet is in a range of 0.45-1, such as 0.5-0.

65. [10] Web-shaped absorbent material (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a transverse length (W1) of the web-shaped absorbent material (1) measured in the transverse direction (W) is in a range of 125-180 mm. [11] Roll (10) of web-shaped absorbent material (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the web-shaped absorbent material (1) is rolled such that the longitudinal direction (L) of the web-shaped absorbent material (1) corresponds to a tangential direction (T) of the roll (10). [12] A dispenser (100) for dispensing web-shaped absorbent material (1), wherein the dispenser (100) has a storage compartment (110) configured to store the web-shaped absorbent material (1) and an opening (120) configured to dispense the web-shaped absorbent material from the storage compartment (110) to an exterior of the dispenser (100), wherein the dispenser (100) further comprises the web-shaped absorbent material (1) according to any one of claims 1-10 or the roll (10) according to claim 11, and wherein the web-shaped absorbent material (1) or the roll (10) is provided in the storage compartment (110). [13] Dispenser (100) according to claim 12, wherein the opening (120) is a spout opening. [14] Dispenser (100) according to claim 13, wherein the spout opening (120) has a smallest opening diameter (x), measured perpendicular to a dispensing direction (D1), which is in a range of 5-15 mm, such as 5-10 mm or 6-9 mm. [15] Dispenser (100) according to one of claims 12 to 14, when also dependent on one of claims 10 to 11, wherein, during the dispensing of the web-shaped absorbent material (1) during a plurality of successive dispensing operations, sheets are separated from the web-shaped absorbent material (1) such that during at least 85%, at least 90%, at least 95% or at least 99% of the dispensing operations of the plurality of successive dispensing operations, only a single sheet is separated. [16] Dispenser (100) according to any one of claims 12 to 15 when dependent on any one of claims 8 to 9, wherein, during dispensing of the web-shaped absorbent material (1), the sheets are separated such that after each separation a sheet end (S1) extending from the opening (120) is produced, wherein in at least 75% of the cases in which sheets are separated, the sheet end after each separation has a length in a range of 21-50 mm, measured along the longitudinal direction (L) of the web-shaped absorbent material (1) from one end of the opening (120) to an outer end of the sheet end (S1).

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