Patterned Nonwoven Webs for White-Look Texture Perception

The patent applies local quality by creating specific three-dimensional patterns (such as dots, lines, or geometric shapes) at localized regions of the nonwoven web rather than uniform texturing across the entire surface. This allows texture to be concentrated in specific areas that provide softness and comfort, while leaving other areas smoother to prevent skin marking and redness. The selective placement of textured regions optimizes both comfort and skin health.

The patent utilizes subtle color variations and optical effects to enhance texture perception in white or non-colored nonwoven webs. By incorporating slight shading differences, light reflection variations, or refractive index changes within the three-dimensional patterns, the texture becomes more visually discernible without adding obvious color. This allows the web to maintain its clean, aesthetic white appearance while providing enhanced texture perception through optical contrast rather than chromatic contrast.

The patent applies preliminary action by forming the three-dimensional patterns during the web formation process itself, before the nonwoven material undergoes subsequent manufacturing steps. By creating the textured patterns in the initial web structure using techniques such as patterned sieves, shaped fibers, or controlled fiber deposition, the texture is built-in from the start rather than added as a separate post-processing step. This integration reduces overall manufacturing complexity and eliminates the need for additional texturing equipment or processes.