Softness Measurement Device Using Rotating Probe and Vibration Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for determining the softness of sanitary papers and textiles are subjective, time-consuming, and lack standardization, making it difficult to achieve objective and manufacturer-independent assessments.
Innovation Solution
A device and method utilizing a vertically positioned element that rotates relative to a stationary sample, applying a defined penetration force and recording vibrations with a sensor to analyze the sound spectrum, allowing for the objective evaluation of softness through a performance parameter.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If panel tests with qualified test persons are used to evaluate softness, then subjective perception of softness can be assessed, but the method is very time-consuming and expensive due to the large number of persons involved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical human touch-based evaluation system with an automated measurement system consisting of a probe, actuator, and evaluation unit. The probe measures mechanical properties (force, displacement, vibration) of the tissue sample, and the evaluation unit objectively determines softness from these measurements, eliminating the need for human panelists while maintaining measurement accuracy.
2Measurement precision
If the Kawabata evaluation system is used to measure multiple parameters, then a comprehensive assessment can be derived, but the test is very complex and rarely leads to reproducible assessment of softness
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the essential measurement components needed for softness evaluation from the complex Kawabata system. Instead of measuring tensile strength, shear strength, flexural strength, compressibility, thickness, and mass per unit area, the invention focuses on measuring force, displacement, and vibration characteristics during probe penetration, simplifying the system while maintaining softness assessment capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the complex mechanical Kawabata evaluation system with an automated measurement system using a probe, actuator, and evaluation unit that objectively determines softness from mechanical measurements, eliminating the complexity of manual multi-parameter testing while achieving reproducible results.
3Measurement precision
If surface softness analysis using a turntable and pickup is used, then surface roughness can be measured, but the method does not adequately capture volume properties that dominate softness perception during folding and crumpling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from static surface measurement to dynamic measurement during probe penetration. The system measures force, displacement, and vibration characteristics as the probe dynamically penetrates the tissue sample, capturing both surface and volume properties. The vibration characteristics specifically provide information about the tissue's internal structure and volume properties that are lost in static surface measurements.
4Adaptability or versatility
If manufacturer-specific evaluation criteria are used in panel tests, then each manufacturer can assess their own products, but softness evaluations cannot be transferred from one manufacturer to another, lacking standardization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal measurement system with standardized measurement conditions, probe parameters, and evaluation algorithms that can be used by any manufacturer. The system measures objective mechanical properties (force, displacement, vibration) that are independent of manufacturer-specific criteria, enabling transferable and comparable softness evaluations across different manufacturers while maintaining adaptability to various tissue types.
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
Enables rapid, reproducible, and manufacturer-independent assessment of softness, correlating well with subjective perception and facilitating standardization across different manufacturers.
Implementation Method 1
a vibration sensor (116) is arranged in the region where the vibrations are generated between the sample (P) and the element (106), with the vibration sensor (116) recording the sound generated when the element (106) operating on the sample (P) rotates about the axis (124)
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to an apparatus and a method for determining the softness of a hygienic paper or textile with at least one ply, wherein an element (106) is arranged relative to a positionally fixed sample (P), with at least one ply, of the hygienic paper or textile such that it can move and is designed such that it can be adjusted with respect to the sample (P) with a penetration force (F) acting on the sample (P) being specified, wherein in the region of the oscillations being produced between sample (P) and the element (106), an oscillation sensor (116) is arranged which registers the noises produced during the relative movement of the element (106) acting on the sample (P).