Embossed Paper Web With Closed-Line Linear Protuberances
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current embossing techniques for tissue paper products primarily focus on technical and functional aspects, failing to adequately address the need for aesthetically pleasing and high-performance materials that meet advanced commercial and technical requirements.
Innovation Solution
An embossed paper web with at least two tissue paper plies, featuring a background embossing pattern of linear protuberances extending in closed lines, with convexities facing outward and a density of 6 to 30 convexities/cm², and rectangular protuberances arranged in intercalated groups, enhancing both aesthetic appeal and functional properties.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If traditional embossing patterns with uniform distributions of frusto-cone or frusto-pyramid shaped protuberances are used, then the product achieves adequate thickness and sufficient softness and absorption capacities, but the aesthetic appeal and visual attractiveness are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The embossing pattern is segmented into multiple types of protuberances (circular, rectangular, triangular, star-shaped) with different geometries, densities, and distributions rather than using uniform frusto-cone shapes. This segmentation creates visual variety and aesthetic appeal while maintaining functional performance through the combined effect of different protuberance types.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the embossing pattern have different local qualities - some areas have higher density of protuberances, some have specific shapes oriented in particular directions, and some have varying heights. This local variation in quality provides both aesthetic interest and optimized functional properties in different zones of the tissue product.
2Ease of manufacture
If simple geometrical embossing patterns are used, then the manufacturing process remains simple and cost-effective, but the product fails to meet advanced commercial and technical requirements for aesthetic appeal
Solution Approach 1:
The embossing pattern functions as a composite structure combining multiple protuberance types (circular, rectangular, triangular, star-shaped) with different geometries, sizes, and distributions within a single pattern system. This composite approach delivers enhanced aesthetic and functional performance while remaining manufacturable through conventional embossing techniques.
3Shape
If protuberances are made with sharp edges and corners for structural definition, then the embossing pattern provides clear visual boundaries, but the softness and comfort of the tissue product is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The embossing pattern predominantly uses protuberances with curved surfaces (circular, oval, and rounded rectangular shapes) rather than sharp-edged geometries. This curvature eliminates sharp edges and corners that would reduce softness, while still providing clear visual boundaries and effective structural definition for the embossed pattern.
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 solution provides a product with improved softness, absorption capacity, and visual appeal, meeting the increasing demands for tissue paper products by creating a web material with enhanced cushioned regions and decorative potential.
Implementation Method 1
The protuberances of the embossing roller generate corresponding protuberances or projections in the paper ply. This is referred to as rubber-to-steel embossing, as the embossing roller is typically made of steel.
Implementation Method 2
a pressure roller with an outer surface coated in a yielding material, typically rubber
Implementation Method 3
the two plies are joined to one another by making the protuberances of one ply correspond with the protuberances of the other ply, after a glue has been applied to the protuberances of one of the two plies
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4~5
Figure 6A~7
AI summary
The embossed paper web material comprises at least two plies (V1, V2), at least one of which is provided with a background embossing pattern constituted by linear protuberances (1P), extending according to closed lines projecting toward the inside of the web material. The portions of ply delimited by said closed lines form convexities (1C) facing the outside of the web material, which are distributed with a density equal to or greater than 6 convexities/cm2 and preferably between 10 and 30 convexities/cm2.