Cellulose Tampon Wrapper Multi-Temperature Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional packaging methods for tampons are not environmentally friendly and lack efficient sealing mechanisms, leading to potential tampon exposure and user convenience issues.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for packaging tampons using a cellulose-based wrapper that involves a series of heating steps to form sealed ends with a unique opening mechanism, utilizing complementary heating jaws and temperature control to ensure robustness and flexibility, while incorporating a heat-sealable material and hydrophobic layer for enhanced protection and user experience.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional packaging methods are used for tampons, then the packaging process is simple, but the environmental impact is negative and sealing reliability is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by using a multi-temperature heating process with four distinct temperature stages (first temperature for initial heating, second temperature for overlay bonding, third temperature for first sealing, fourth temperature for second sealing) to achieve reliable sealing of the wrapper. This systematic temperature control ensures proper sealing reliability while using environmentally friendly cellulosic materials.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite materials by combining cellulosic fibers (environmentally friendly material) with heat-sealable coatings or laminates. This composite structure maintains the environmental benefits of cellulosic materials while adding the necessary thermal sealing properties to achieve reliable sealing, thus resolving the contradiction between environmental friendliness and sealing reliability.
2Reliability
If a cellulose-based wrapper with multi-temperature heating is used, then environmental friendliness and sealing reliability are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the heating process into four distinct temperature stages, each performed by separate heating elements or heating zones. This segmentation allows each heating element to be optimized for its specific temperature range and function, making the overall complex process manageable and controllable through modular components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by applying different temperatures to different locations or stages of the wrapping process. The first and second heating elements apply lower temperatures for initial heating and overlay bonding, while the third and fourth heating elements apply higher temperatures for sealing. This localized temperature control ensures optimal sealing reliability without requiring all parts of the system to operate at maximum complexity.
3Manufacturing precision
If multiple heating steps are applied, then sealing quality is improved, but the manufacturing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies continuity of useful action by implementing a continuous multi-temperature heating process where the wrapping material passes through four sequential heating zones without interruption. Each heating zone operates simultaneously as the material progresses, ensuring continuous production flow. This maintains high sealing quality through proper temperature sequencing while minimizing manufacturing time by avoiding batch processing or repeated heating cycles.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The method provides a robust, flexible, and environmentally friendly packaging solution that maintains tampon integrity and user convenience by ensuring secure sealing and easy opening, reducing environmental impact through the use of sustainable materials.
Implementation Method 1
heating with a first heating element the overlaying portion of the wrapping sheet at a first temperature; heating with the first or a second heating element the overlaying portion of the wrapping sheet at a second temperature; a first sealing step comprising pressing a third heating element against one longitudinal end of the wrapping sheet and heating at a third temperature; a second sealing step by heating at a fourth temperature
Implementation Method 2
a first sealing step comprising pressing a third heating element against one longitudinal end of the wrapping sheet and heating at a third temperature thereby forming a wrapper with a first sealed end; a second sealing step by heating at a fourth temperature and pressing said open-end of the wrapper
Data Source
Figure 1A~2B
Figure 3A~4B
Figure 5A~7
AI summary
The disclosure pertains to method for packaging a tampon pledget (10), said method comprising the following step: a. providing a wrapping sheet (50) preferably consisting essentially of cellulosic fibers to a holding mean (52) so that a portion of the wrapping sheet (50) is secured to the holding mean (52); b. deforming said wrapping sheet (50) around the holding mean (52) to the point where a transversal end (42,46) of the wrapping sheet (50) overlays the other transversal end (42,46) of the wrapping sheet (50); c. heating with a first heating element (60) the overlaying portion of the wrapping sheet (50) at a first temperature (T1); d. heating with the first or a second heating element the overlaying portion of the wrapping sheet (50) at a second temperature (T2); e. a first sealing step comprising pressing a third heating element (64) against one longitudinal end of the wrapping sheet (50) and heating at a third temperature (T3) thereby forming a wrapper (50) with a first sealed end (74,75) and a second open end; f. removing the wrapping sheet (50) from the holding mean (52); g. inserting a tampon pledget (10) through said open end of said wrapper (50); h. a second sealing step by heating at a fourth temperature (T4) and pressing said open-end of the wrapper (50).