Tear resistant wiper
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing disposable wet wipes are prone to tears and punctures due to frictional and mechanical forces during dispensing and use, compromising their durability and ability to maintain moisture content.
Innovation Solution
The development of tear-resistant wet wipes featuring a repeating pattern of closely spaced, thin linear embossed elements along the leading edge, with specific embossment parameters and patterns on both edges to enhance strength and durability, and a fibrous base sheet material that retains integrity when wet.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple wet wipes are provided in a resealable dispenser to maintain moisture content, then the moisture content of the wipes is maintained over extended periods, but the dispensing process subjects the wipes to frictional and mechanical forces that can result in tears and punctures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different embossing patterns to different regions of the wipe: a first emboss pattern with closely spaced thin linear elements along the leading edge for tear resistance, and a second emboss pattern with larger discrete elements in the central area for flexibility. This local differentiation allows the wipe to have enhanced strength where needed while maintaining overall flexibility and moisture retention.
2Ease of operation
If the wipe material is made softer to provide a pleasing tactile feel, then the tactile properties are improved, but the strength and durability needed for converting and dispensing deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical parameters of the wipe material by applying embossing patterns that create localized structural modifications. The embossed elements alter the material's mechanical properties in specific regions, providing enhanced strength at the edges and central areas while maintaining the overall softness and tactile comfort of the wipe material.
3Strength
If the embossed area of the first pattern is increased to enhance edge strength, then the tear resistance is improved, but the flexibility and comfort of the wipe deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent limits the embossed area of the first pattern to between 5-30% of the total wipe area, concentrating the reinforcement at the leading edge where it is most needed for tear resistance. The second emboss pattern with larger discrete elements occupies the central area with less embossed coverage, maintaining flexibility and comfort in the regions that contact the user's skin.
Data Source
AI summary
An improved tear resistant wiper is provided having a repeating pattern of thin, closely spaced curvilinear embossed elements adjacent the leading edge of the wipe and which pattern extends inwardly less than a third of the length of the wipe. The linear emboss elements have a high aspect ratio and narrow width in order to obtain a high density of embossments such that discrete unembossed regions within the leading edge region are small and yet the overall unembossed area still occupies at least 70% of the surface area.