Discrete cells comprising a leg and/or a concavity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current fibrous structures face a challenge in balancing superior product performance with consumer-desired aesthetics, as existing papermaking belts and embossing processes often compromise between smoothness and visual appeal, leading to products that may not meet both criteria effectively.
Innovation Solution
The development of fibrous structures featuring discrete cells with specific geometric patterns, including cells with legs and concavities, arranged to form complex patterns that enhance both performance properties like softness, strength, and absorbency, while also providing a visually appealing texture.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional papermaking belts and embossing processes are used, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but product performance and aesthetics cannot be simultaneously optimized
Solution Approach 1:
The papermaking belt surface is segmented into discrete cells with multiple legs and concavities, creating distinct regions that independently contribute to different product properties. This segmentation allows optimization of performance and aesthetics through localized structural features rather than uniform complex patterns.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the fibrous structure are given different local qualities through the cell geometry - some regions provide strength through denser fiber arrangement, while others provide softness through more open structures. This local differentiation enables simultaneous optimization of multiple performance properties without requiring overall structural complexity.
2Ease of operation
If discrete cells with legs and concavities are implemented, then cloth-like feel and liquid uptake are improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cell geometry parameters (leg length, concavity depth, cell spacing) are optimized to create rapid liquid uptake and cloth-like feel. By carefully controlling these geometric parameters within specific ranges, the patent achieves superior liquid interaction properties without requiring overly complex manufacturing processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The concave regions and curved leg structures create surface geometry that enhances liquid capillary action and wicking. The curved surfaces naturally guide liquid flow and increase contact area, improving liquid uptake without requiring additional mechanical components or complex manufacturing steps.
Data Source
AI summary
Belts and fibrous structures may include discrete cells including one or more legs and/or one or more concavities in certain patterns or Cell Groups. The cells may be discrete knuckles or pillows and the fibrous structures may further include an emboss.