Multi-apex emboss elements for tissue products
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Solution Overview
Problem
High aspect ratio embossing patterns in premium tissue products often result in tissue bunching and wrinkling due to increased machine direction stretch, limiting the use of embossing patterns and requiring shorter elements that compromise softness and emboss definition.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating multi-apex emboss elements with channels running the length of elongated emboss elements, dividing the apex into sections, which reduces web tension and absorbs stretch, allowing for high aspect ratio embossing without bunching and minimizing adhesive load.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If high aspect ratio embossing patterns are used, then softness and emboss definition are improved, but tissue bunching and wrinkling occur due to increased machine direction stretch
Solution Approach 1:
The embossing element apex is divided into multiple sections by channels running the length of the element. This segmentation allows each section to independently accommodate stretch and tension, preventing the web from bunching or wrinkling while maintaining the high aspect ratio geometry for softness and definition.
Solution Approach 2:
The channels are positioned specifically at the apex of the embossing elements where tension and stretch are most concentrated. This local modification provides targeted relief in the critical stress zone without compromising the overall emboss pattern geometry or softness properties.
2Shape
If high aspect ratio embossing elements are used, then softness is improved, but adhesive load increases
Solution Approach 1:
The channels divide the apex into multiple smaller contact sections, reducing the total continuous surface area available for adhesive application. This segmentation maintains the high aspect ratio geometry for softness while decreasing the overall adhesive load required for bonding.
3Stability of the object's composition
If shorter embossing elements are used, then bunching and wrinkling are reduced, but softness and emboss definition are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the apex with channels, the patent enables use of long high aspect ratio elements without the bunching and wrinkling problems that normally force use of shorter elements. The segmentation provides tension relief along the length of the element, maintaining tissue uniformity while preserving the softness and definition benefits of long elements.
Data Source
AI summary
Products having improved emboss definition, emboss visibility, and perceived softness are described. The tissue products comprise an emboss pattern including multi-apex, high aspect ratio embossing elements that do not suffer from the prior art issues of bunching, puckering and folding. When included in a multi-ply product, the embossed tissue also possesses less adhesive than prior art patterns resulting in a product with improved softness and drape.