Structured Surface Hook Caps for Peel Strength

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing hook and loop fastening systems in disposable absorbent articles, such as diapers and sanitary napkins, face challenges with low peel strength, which can lead to inadvertent separation and affect the reliability of the attachment, thereby compromising user confidence in the product's performance.

Innovation Solution

A method is introduced to modify the shape of distal caps on upstanding elements in mechanical fasteners by passing an implement between adjacent rows, allowing the overhanging portions to be turned in a different direction, thereby enhancing the peel strength when engaged with loop materials. This method involves a thermoplastic backing with multiple rows of upstanding elements, where an implement contacts and alters the orientation of the distal caps, creating a structured surface with improved engagement characteristics.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional hook and loop fastening systems are used, then the fastening system can provide basic attachment functionality, but the peel strength is low which leads to inadvertent separation and reduced reliability

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveattachment reliabilityVSAvoidpeel strength
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the geometric parameters of the hook elements by modifying the orientation of distal caps through mechanical deformation. Implements are passed between adjacent rows to turn overhanging portions of distal caps, changing their spatial configuration from extending outward to turning downward or sideways. This parameter change in cap orientation directly increases peel strength while maintaining attachment reliability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates asymmetric hook elements by selectively orienting distal caps in different directions. Rather than uniform symmetric caps, the implementation process creates caps that extend in varied orientations, with some turning downward and others maintaining original extension. This asymmetric configuration enhances interlocking with loop materials, improving both peel strength and overall attachment performance

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

2Strength

If the shape of distal caps is modified to improve peel strength, then engagement strength increases, but the manufacturing process becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepeel strengthVSAvoidprocess complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs self-service by using the implements to simultaneously perform multiple functions: they guide, deform, and orient the distal caps in a single pass. The implements are designed to automatically engage with the overhanging portions and turn them in the desired direction without requiring separate positioning or fixing steps. This self-service approach simplifies the overall process despite the complexity of shape modification

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring the implements with specific geometries that match the desired final shape of the distal caps. The implements are designed beforehand to perform the deformation action in a single pass, eliminating the need for multiple subsequent shaping operations. This preliminary design of the implements reduces overall process complexity while achieving the desired cap orientation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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 modified structured surface exhibits increased peel strength when engaged with loop materials, enhancing the reliability and performance of the fastening system, reducing the likelihood of inadvertent separation and improving user confidence in the attachment's effectiveness.

Implementation Method 1

an implement is passed between two adjacent rows, wherein the implement contacts the overhanging portion of at least some of the distal caps in the two adjacent rows such that at least part of the overhanging portion is turned in a second direction

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectDeformation: Deformation

Data Source

PatentEP2582261B2Method of making a structured surface and article therefrom
Publication Date: 2019.11.27 3M INNOVATIVE PROPERTIES CO
  • EP2582261B2 patent drawingFigure 1A~2D
  • EP2582261B2 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP2582261B2 patent drawingFigure 5~7

AI summary

A method of making a structured surface is disclosed. The method includes providing a thermoplastic backing with multiple rows of upstanding elements. The upstanding elements include stems with proximal ends attached to the thermoplastic backing and distal caps, and each distal cap has an overhanging portion that extends beyond the stem in a first direction. For at least some of the multiple rows, an implement is passed between two adjacent rows, wherein the implement contacts the overhanging portion of at least some of the distal caps in the two adjacent rows such that at least part of the overhanging portion is turned in a second direction, different from the first direction. A structured surface that can be prepared by the method is also provided along with a fastening laminate that includes a carrier and the structured surface and an absorbent article that includes the fastening laminate. A tool useful for carrying out the method is also provided.