EP0851951B9 - Process for preparing a multi-layer, web-type tissue product - Google Patents

Abstract

The disclosure pertains to a web-type tissue product with at least one unembossed substantially freely mobile middle layer, the layers of the tissue product being preferably joined to one another by join embossing common to those layers. The individual layers are smooth or provided with an embossed pattern extending substantially over the entire surface. The join embossing takes the form of embossed strips (4, 5) on both sides immediately adjacent to the edges (2, 3 ) of the multilayered web (1) and covering part of the web width (6). In a preferred embodiment, a number of pre-embossed outer layers (18, 20) are joined with a joining embossed pattern identical or similar in appearance to the layers' embossed pattern.

Description

The invention relates to a method for producing an at least three-layer web-shaped tissue product, that between its outer layers at least one unprinted essentially free has movable inner layer.

Under an essentially freely movable inner layer or middle layer is in the frame of the present invention, one or more between the two outer sides of the flat, multi-layer tissue product forming outer layers, lying (s) Inner layer (s) defined in the event of crumpling or shear stress of the tissue product allows the outer layers to be relative to the inner layer (s) can move against each other over a certain distance without losing cohesion of the product is changed or the product is even destroyed.

This relative displaceability of the outer layers relative to the inner layer (s) conveys the haptic impression of increased softness (subjective impression of softness) especially increased softness of the tissue product products where this relative mobility is not guaranteed, for example single-ply products whose basis weight is the sum of the basis weights corresponds to the individual layers of the multi-layer tissue product, since such layers Products always have increased bending stiffness.

A relative mobility of the layers against each other within the meaning of the definition is given if the layers of the individual layers are attached to each other in certain areas or zones of the total area of the tissue product is limited, for example Zones parallel, along the cut edges of a roll product and these of the layer attachment serving area in comparison to the total area of the tissue product / section accounts for less than 50%.

The haptic impression of improved softness can be demonstrated by: generates a shear stress, for example by moving against each other Fingers of one hand holding the tissue product between the thumb and the remaining 4 fingers holds.

Tissue product in the sense of the present invention means e.g. Toilet paper, Towels and kitchen towels, especially a corresponding one at least three-ply toilet paper, but also facial tissues and facial tissues.

DE A 1953878 relates to a paper laminate with high absorbency and high tensile strength in the moist state, which is characterized in that the Laminate consists of a layer of compressed, multi-layer cellulose wadding, which is waterproof on at least one side with the help of a binder with a layer Silk crepe paper is laminated coated as well as a manufacturing process these paper laminates, with at least one layer of creped, waterproof Tissue paper to form the outer layer of the paper laminate and one layer multilayer cellulose wadding pressed together by rolling between a pair of rollers after a dispersion of a Binder has been applied to at least one layer of the materials, and on one side that comes to rest against the other material during rolling.

DE-A-2455895 relates to a method for producing a multi-layer, absorbent paper wipe, taking on at least one side a relatively inextensible middle layer of tissue paper a continuous pattern of a water-resistant, reinforcing synthetic resin, whereby this pattern covered between 15 and 50% of the entire surface and in certain Spaces on both sides of the middle layer an outer layer of one highly stretchable, creped tissue paper on the outer layers mentioned shaped embossing points is glued.

DE-B-2149103 relates to a multi-layer composite material for absorbent paper towels, which is characterized in that an inner layer from a creped absorbent cellulose wadding that at least in the material plane is extensible in one direction, sandwiched with at least one outer Position on a creped absorbent that is less extensible in one direction Cell wadding is connected, the or each outer layer being connected to the middle one Position protruding, spaced embossments and on at least some of these embossments with the inner layer by adhesive is connected in such a way that there are unbound between the connection points Zones. From Figure 1 and there in particular the reference numerals 7 to 10 respectively 17 to 20 shows that the layer adhesion is given by two gluing units is. It is not possible with this that the central position is designed to be freely movable. A similar situation can be found in US-A-37 38 905.

DE-A-4414238 relates to a household or hygiene paper consisting of at least one, preferably two to four layers of tissue paper, the paper with an embossing, in particular for layer attachment, which is characterized by is that the household or hygiene paper after its embossing and if necessary, arrest of layers is recalendered. Except for this special post-calendering this document sets the subject of the present invention as claimed, not close, but especially not the unstamped freely movable Central location.

GB-A-2255745 is a paper product consisting of at least two layers known, in which the layers are at least partially embossed and knurled are connected, dyes arranged in the manner between the layers are that a color is visible at points where the first layer with the second layer comes into contact. According to a preferred embodiment, the above is Laminate formed from three layers, the outer layers being embossed and the Middle layer is not embossed, the outer layers with the middle layer by a suitable Adhesive are connected. The middle layer does not result from this publication either to be freely movable.

From DE-A-1961528 a method for producing laminated and embossed webs is known, two webs being embossed separately, each with a pattern of one to 30 bumps per cm ² with a height of 0.25 mm, that at least some of the bumps is applied by one of the above-mentioned strips of adhesive, so that the above-mentioned strips are arranged in such a way that the bumps face each other and are offset from one another such that an air volume is formed in the space and that laminating pressure is used to combine the above-mentioned strips is supported while the surveys are supported on one of the above-mentioned tracks. However, as can be seen in particular from the exemplary embodiments and figures, the layer is also arrested here by appropriate gluing, so that inevitably no freely movable middle layer can result.

DE-A-3942536 and EP-A-0436170 relate to an embossed, multi-layer Household or tissue paper, with at least a portion of its plies under formation a rough and a smooth side embossed in one or more layers independently of each other are and the independently shaped layers by knurling are flush with each other that the outer sides of the outer Layers are smooth.

EP-A-0264676 relates to a process for the production of absorbent paper webs, which has two outer layers and at least one inner layer, at least one of these paper webs of mechanical treatment, for example embossing, Corrugation or folding, these webs are exposed to each other in an embossing station using adhesive and / or using mechanical means interconnected and the multilayer product thus obtained then a winding station is fed.

According to the only embodiment for such a multi-layer tissue product However, the middle layer is also fed in at the embossing station an embossing roller is assigned to a counter roller.

A disadvantage of most of the aforementioned tissue products that have a continuous Having embossing on all layers is that the embossing knobs on the tissue product can be felt on the other side, which is not considered advantageous by the end user becomes. Furthermore, such pimples are considered by the end user as little viewed softly.

In the case of tissue products, there is usually a demand for softness, in particular after softness of the body and the softness of the surface Foreground, with a certain to meet the usage requirements necessary minimum tensile strength must be present.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a multi-ply web-shaped tissue product of the type mentioned at the outset, with the disadvantages of tissue products known type can occur and as mentioned above, fixed are.

The present invention therefore relates to a method for producing a multilayer, web-shaped tissue product according to expression 1.

• Eine verbrauchersignifikante Verbesserung der Weichheit (hand feel), insbesondere der Knüllweichheit, durch eine leichte Beweglichkeit der Einzellagen relativ gegenüber den durch Lagenhaftung miteinander verbundenen Bereichen.
• Die Beweglichkeit der Einzellagen relativ zueinander wird im erfindungsgemäßen Fall gewährleistet durch eine Verringerung der mechanischen Reibung, die bei Relativbewegungen zwischen geprägten Lagen auftritt, indem die Prägenoppen der zuvor geprägten Außenlage des Tissueprodukts auf der im Vergleich zu einer Prägung glatten Oberfläche der ungeprägten Mittellage entlang gleiten können, ohne miteinander zu verhaken. Den extremen Gegensatz hierzu würden Lagen darstellen, die gemeinsam geprägt werden, wobei durch den Prägevorgang selbst die Prägenoppen der einzelnen Lagen sich bereits im Eingriff miteinander befinden. In einem solchen Falle wirken Relativbewegungen höhere Reibkräfte entgegen, als beim Gleiten der Prägenoppen auf der relativ glatten Oberfläche einer ungeprägten Mittellage. Höherer Reibwiderstand der Lagen gegeneinander wird haptisch als Verringerung der Weichheit, insbesondere der Knüllweichheit, erlebt.
• Vermeidung eines beim Gebrauch unangenehmen Durchfühlens (Hindurchfühlens) gegeneinander gerichteter Prägenoppen, indem diese sich auf der/den ungeprägten Mittellage(n) abstützen.
• Erhöhung der Tuchdicke des Tissueprodukts durch das Abstützen der Prägenoppen auf der ungeprägten Mittellage.
• Verbesserung der Gleichförmigkeit des Wicklungsaufbaus durch Vergleichmäßigung der Dicke trotz produktüblicher Toleranzen der Prägung infolge des Abstützens der Prägenoppen auf der ungeprägten Mittellage bei nicht registerhaltiger Prägung mit der Folge eines verbesserten optischen Erscheinungsbildes, wenn das Tissueprodukt als Rollenprodukt vorliegt.
• Festigkeitssteigerung durch Nichtprägen der Mittellage(n) (Vermeidung Festigkeitsverlust durch Prägen).
• Der Sandwichaufbau des Tissueprodukts ermöglicht die Realisierung von Funktionalkonzepten, etwa die Zusammenführung verschiedener Tissuequalitäten, d.h. beispielsweise weiche Außenlagen und eine oder mehrere feste, ungeprägte Mittellage(n).
• Weiterhin sind verschiedene Prägedesigns auf beiden Außenseiten des Tissueprodukts in Kombination mit einer/mehreren ungeprägten Mittellagen möglich.
• Eine Vielzahl verschiedener Lagenverhaftungsmethoden, wie konventioneller Rändelung (edge-embossing), Breiträndelung (wide track edge-embossing), zonenweise Lagenverleimung (structural laminating), deren Kombination sowie eine Motivprägung zur Lagenverhaftungserzeugung (spot-embossing), gegebenenfalls in Kombination mit Verleimung, gegebenenfalls aus dekorativen Gründen mit farbigem Leim, sind anwendbar. Dies allerdings nur solange wie die Lagenverhaftungserzeugung auf vorgegebene Bereiche oder Zonen des Tissueprodukts begrenzt bleibt und dadurch auf flächig möglichst großen Nachbarbereichen die Beweglichkeit der verschiedenen Einzellagen relativ zueinander beim Knüllen des Tissueprodukts oder einer sonstigen Scherbeanspruchung erhalten bleibt. Dieser Bereich der im wesentlichen freien Beweglichkeit der Lagen ist bevorzugt der flächige Innenbereich des mehrlagigen bahnförmigen Tissueprodukts oder eines Abschnitts hiervon, und das Produkt ist unabhängig von der Art der Lagenverhaftungserzeugung einer zuvor angebrachten Prägung der Außenlagen und besitzt eine oder mehrere nicht geprägte Innenlagen.

This multilayer, web-shaped tissue product has the following advantages over the prior art:

• A consumer-significant improvement in the softness (hand feel), in particular the softness of the balls, due to the slight mobility of the individual layers relative to the areas connected by layer adhesion.
• The mobility of the individual layers relative to one another is ensured in the case according to the invention by a reduction in the mechanical friction which occurs in the case of relative movements between embossed layers by the embossing knobs of the previously embossed outer layer of the tissue product being able to slide along the surface of the unembossed embossed middle layer which is smooth compared to an embossing without getting caught. The extreme contrast to this would be layers that are embossed together, whereby the embossing process itself means that the embossing knobs of the individual layers are already in engagement with one another. In such a case, relative movements counteract higher frictional forces than when the embossed knobs slide on the relatively smooth surface of an unembossed middle layer. The higher frictional resistance of the layers to one another is experienced haptically as a reduction in the softness, in particular the softness of the balls.
• Avoidance of embarrassing embossing knobs directed against one another during use (by leaning against the non-embossed middle layer (s).
• Increasing the tissue thickness of the tissue product by supporting the embossed knobs on the unembossed middle layer.
• Improvement of the uniformity of the winding structure by equalization of the thickness in spite of the usual tolerances of the embossing due to the support of the embossing knobs on the non-embossed middle layer in the case of non-register embossing, with the result of an improved visual appearance if the tissue product is available as a roll product.
• Strength increase by not embossing the middle layer (s) (avoid loss of strength through embossing).
• The sandwich structure of the tissue product enables the implementation of functional concepts, such as the merging of different tissue qualities, ie, for example, soft outer layers and one or more firm, unembossed middle layer (s).
• Furthermore, different embossing designs are possible on both outer sides of the tissue product in combination with one / more unembossed middle layers.
• A variety of different layer attachment methods, such as conventional knurling (edge-embossing), wide knurling (wide track edge-embossing), zone-by-layer layer gluing (structural laminating), their combination as well as a motif embossing to generate layer attachment (spot embossing), if necessary in combination with gluing, if necessary for decorative reasons with colored glue, are applicable. This, however, only as long as the generation of layer attachment is limited to predetermined areas or zones of the tissue product and thus the mobility of the various individual layers relative to one another is maintained when the tissue product is crumpled or any other shear stress is applied to adjacent areas that are as large as possible. This area of substantially free movement of the layers is preferably the flat inner region of the multi-layer web-shaped tissue product or a section thereof, and the product is independent of the type of layer attachment generation of a previously applied embossing of the outer layers and has one or more non-embossed inner layers.

According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the multilayer, web-shaped tissue product specified in such a way that at least one of the External layers, in the case of a roll product usually the external layer, the observer facing outer layer, applied to at least part of its surface Has (layer) embossing that is independent of the layer liability generation is.

According to another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the multi-ply web-like tissue product determined in such a manner that the outer layers have the same or different (layer) embossing or an embossed pattern on at least a part of the surface, wherein a same embossing of both outer layer over the entire surface is particularly preferred.

According to a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, this is Multi-layer, web-shaped tissue product designed so that the intensity of the embossing the outer layers are the same or different for each outer layer, with a similar one Embossing intensity is particularly preferred for both outer layers.

Another embodiment of the tissue product is characterized in that that each of the two outer layers has at least two superimposed embossings e.g. micro and macro embossing, possibly motif embossing, to create certain functional properties such as softness and volume (bulk) in combination with one that consumers find interesting optical appearance.

It is particularly preferred in the case of the multilayer, web-shaped Tissue product to arrange the layers so that the outside of the embossed outer layers soft and the inside of the embossed outer layers rough are.

According to a further preferred embodiment of the present invention the multilayer, web-shaped tissue product connects the layers, for example by mechanical action, optionally also by gluing generated layer adhesion, on a part of the total surface of the tissue product is limited and thus creates sufficiently large zones in which one Mobility of the individual layers relative to one another with appropriate stress is possible and this gives the impression of increased softness (subjective impression of softness, especially increased softness of crumple) with a sufficient for use Has bond strength. The distribution of areas with layer adhesion can zone-shaped, for example stripe-shaped, narrow, as with conventional knurling inside the "tissue surface" of the tissue product of the tissue product section parallel run to the edge, with one or more such knurled zones being common.

The strip-shaped area, which has a layer adhesion, can according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention also an enlarged Have width, such as with a knurled width with a strip width from 5 to 40 mm per strip or together 10 to 80 mm. Two such Stripes are then parallel to the cut edge of the multi-layer, web-shaped tissue product in direct connection to the cutting edge and range accordingly Width from the cut edge to the inside of the surface of the tissue product.

In a particularly preferred embodiment of the multilayer, web-shaped tissue product becomes the knurling pattern of knurling, in particular the wide knurling, the embossing pattern of the layer embossing. This Compensation of the layer embossing pattern and connection embossing pattern can lead to identity and register accuracy are driven, which leads to an optically complete disappearance the connection embossing leads in the pattern of the layer embossing. For practice, however a further adjustment is already sufficient, in which the zone of arrest compared to the layer embossing it is no longer noticeable and none of them Bead negatively influencing optics and haptics by the connection embossing occurs.

A particularly advantageous embodiment of a trained multilayer, web-shaped tissue product, which consists of at least two previously embossed Outer layers and one or more non-embossed inner layers are built up, is characterized in that there is an embossing pattern of a connection embossing which the layers are stitched together and the pattern or patterns of the outer layers of the Tissue product, which is produced by knobs (embossed knobs in tissue paper resulting from embossing) are formed. These are in an approximately rectangular or arranged parallelogram-shaped, in particular square or rhombic, the rows and columns of which are approximately oblique to the edges of the web (Cut edge of the tissue product) are aligned. It's about the optical Appearance advantageous if shape and arrangement of the embossed knobs of layer embossing and connection embossing in the outer layers of the tissue product largely match. It is particularly advantageous in terms of what can be achieved Cohesion of the individual tissue layers through the embossing, if one provides in the aforementioned embodiment that that through the connection embossing Knobs made of tissue, an edge length determined on the end face in the case of a polygonal cross-section (nub is the same as a truncated pyramid) or diameter in the case of a round cross-section (knob equals truncated cone) of 0.4 to 2.0 mm, preferably from 0.5 to 1.6 mm, particularly preferably from 0.7 to 1.5 mm. The The front and foot surfaces of the knobs produced (shown) in the tissue can be regular Show shape, e.g. n-angular, diamond-shaped, rhombus-shaped, square, square, round or oval etc., in addition, the stimulating and foot surfaces of the knobs be designed irregularly in the form of any pattern.

In a further embodiment of the multilayer, web-shaped Tissue product, the zones with layer adhesion are relatively small, i.e. punctual (spot embossing, if necessary with structural laminating) before, these zones with layer adhesion evenly distributed over the entire area of the tissue product are that in the resulting gaps the mobility of the previously shaped Outer layers relative to the unembossed middle layer (s) are preserved and these zones without layer adhesion similar to an air cushion to that described Improve softness and improve the impression of volume.

In a further preferred embodiment, the multilayer, web-shaped tissue product post-smoothed or calibrated. Through smoothing, i.e. under constant pressure or by calibration, i.e. through a constant roughness with the help of a smoothing tool, the roughness peaks of the previous ones Embossing (s) eliminated, whereby the surface softness (surface softness) in addition to the improvement in softness according to the invention (body softness) is increased. The thickness of the tissue product is primarily determined by calibration equalized, which contributes to an improvement in the winding structure. With the thickness improvement goes hand in hand with an improvement in softness that however, in many cases falls short of the improvement in softness due to smoothing.

According to another preferred embodiment of the present invention the embossing of at least one of the outer layers in such a way that this is achieved by at least one an embossing station takes place in which an embossing gap is formed in that a masculine nub-bearing roller with a steel surface of a counter roller with a rubber surface, a plastic surface, a paper surface or is assigned to a steel surface.

According to a further preferred embodiment, the multilayer, web-shaped Tissue product in such a way that the embossing of at least one of the outer layers is independent from each other by two embossing stations arranged one behind the other or one above the other takes place in which an embossing gap is formed in that a masculine Knob-bearing roller with a steel surface of a counter roller with a rubber surface, a plastic surface, a paper surface or a steel surface assigned.

According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, this multilayer, web-shaped tissue product in the outer layers the same or a different tissue quality as the inner layer (s), the two Outer layers particularly preferably the same and the inner layer (s) next to the Characteristic of not being embossed, a tissue quality that differs from the outer layers exhibit.

Tissue quality of a tissue paper layer is understood in the sense of the present invention such a quality that is selected from the group of tissue qualities, which differ in terms of their composition according to the type of fiber raw materials used distinguish, for example, the origin of the pulp from softwood or hardwood from annual plants, according to the chemical digestion process used, for example the sulfite or sulfate process, the type of feed to the tissue manufacturing process as dry pulp (in sheet form or flash dried) or as so-called Pump pulp (in a consistency between 10 and 20%, as with integrated Pulp and tissue factories usual) or which are based on the manufacturing process differentiate, such as the production by the conventional tissue manufacturing process on a Yankee cylinder machine of the usual type or Generation using the TAD (through air drying) process. The selected tissue qualities can be layered or unlayered, creped or uncreped become. The fiber raw material on which the selected tissue quality is based can originate from native fibers or from recovered fibers (recycled fibers, waste paper), he can share in suitable for tissue production synthetic fibers or parts of chemically modified natural fibers contain as well as in its entirety or in part fiber materials from the group of Wood pulp, i.e. for example ground wood, TMP (thermo mechanical pulp), CTMP (chemi-thermo-mechanical pulp), HTCTMP (high temperature chemi-thermo-mechanical pulp).

The multi-layer, web-shaped tissue products also count all those whose outer and / or inner layer (s) are made of tissue qualities were selected, the one or more of the aforementioned features in any Combination included, with certain properties of those used Tissue qualities during the manufacturing process of preliminary or finished products can be influenced in a targeted manner by adding chemical auxiliaries. So for example, the strength of the tissue quality used can be added of dry and / or wet strength agents or the softness by using suitable Plasticizers (softeners), optionally in combination with creping aids and the use of softness-enhancing crepe technology or the absorbency for liquids by adding absorption aids to a desired level can be set.

Such qualities in the multi-layer, web-shaped tissue products according to the invention are tissue papers in which the outer and / or inner layer (s) can be selected from different basis weights in the range from 12 to 40 g / m ² , preferably 14 to 23 g / m ² , but especially from the range of 15 to 21 g / m ² per individual layer.

According to a particularly preferred embodiment of the present invention, at least one of the layers, preferably one of the inner layer, in the multilayer, web-shaped tissue product should contain at least 50% by weight, preferably at least 80% by weight, in particular up to 100% by weight, of recycled paper or Waste paper included. Typical basis weight ranges of these paper qualities both for the inner and for the outer layers are basis weights of 12 to 40 g / m ² , preferably 14 to 23 g / m ² , in particular 15 to 21 g / m ² per individual layer.

According to a further preferred embodiment of the present invention multi-layer, web-shaped tissue product the tissue quality of Inner layer or at least one of the inner layers a larger, the same or smaller Have firmness as the corresponding tissue quality of the outer layers. typical Strengths of the inner layers are about 0.5 to 30 N / 50 mm, preferably 1.0 to 10 N / 50 mm, and more preferably 2.0 to 8.0 N / 50 mm in the machine direction and 0.5 to 6.0 N / 50 mm, preferably 0.6 to 4.0 N / 50 mm and in particular at 0.8 to 3.0 N / 50 mm in the cross machine direction. Typical strengths of the outer layers , on the other hand, are lower, for example 0.8 to 20 N / 50 mm, preferably 1.0 to 8.0 N / 50 mm and in particular at 1.5 to 7 N / 50 mm in the machine direction and 0.5 up to 4.0 N / 50 mm, preferably 0.6 to 3.5 N / 50 mm and in particular at 0.8 to 2.5 N / 50 mm in the cross machine direction.

However, it is very particularly preferred in connection with the multi-layer web-shaped tissue product provides additional cohesion via a connection embossing by at least one on the surfaces, in particular of the end face (s) of the knurled wheel knobs present, which preferably is round or angular. In this context it is it is preferred in the multi-ply web-shaped tissue product according to the invention to proceed in such a way that an additional cohesion of the layers over one on at least part of the web applied glue, preferably in the area the wide knurling. This gluing is not carried out over the entire area, but only to a maximum of 50% of the surface so as not to restrict the free movement of the middle layer hinder.

The object of the present invention is a method for producing a multilayer, web-shaped tissue product, which is characterized in that that between two outer layers, one of which on at least one of the outer layers (Layer) embossing at least over part of its surface in one of the layer adhesion generation upstream, independent process step applied is arranged, at least one unembossed middle layer, which is essentially free is mobile.

A method for producing the multi-layer, web-shaped tissue product provides that both outer sides at least one over have (layer) embossing covering part of the surface of the respective outer layer, which is applied independently, before the layer adhesion generation, where the outer layers have the same or different pattern (embossing pattern) Receive embossing, using a similar embossing pattern especially for the (layer) embossing of the outer layers over their entire surface is preferred.

According to a further preferred embodiment of the method according to the invention it is provided that the embossing intensity of the embossing of the two outer layers is the same or can be set differently for each outer layer, with a procedural Possibility to independently define the embossing intensity for each individual outer layer to be able to set them, but to set them the same for both outer layers, is very particularly preferred.

According to a further preferred embodiment of the production method according to the invention two embossments on each of the two outer layers superimposed, the embossing pattern of the superimposed layer embossing procedural are essentially predeterminable, with the successive method steps the embossing an outer layer first a micro-embossing and then receive a macro embossing, the macro embossing if appropriate is an embossed motif.

Via a suitable combination of the selected embossing pattern / embossing process Overlying layer embossments of the outer layers are functional product properties, such as firmness, softness, volume with one for the consumer interesting optical appearance of the tissue product can be influenced, whereby the procedural trick to leave the middle layer (s) unembossed in interaction with only a portion of the total area of the tissue product (Section) limited connection of the layers to each other (Layer adhesion area (e)), the essentially free mobility of the unembossed Inner layer relative to the previously embossed outer layers guarantees what the desired consumer-significant improvement in softness (softness of crumpling) leads, as a subsequent consumer test shows.

According to a further preferred embodiment of the method according to the invention the arrangement takes place in such a way that the outer sides of the embossed outer layers soft and the inside of the embossed outer layers are rough. This means that the outer layers merge when embossed to the finished product so that the layers are embossed in the tissue paper of the outer layers produced embossed nubs from the outside of the later Tissue product after the unembossed middle layer (s) to be aligned. The as rough Perceived embossed nubs are supported on the unembossed middle layer, see above that the opposing embossed knobs or approximately opposite one another Do not hook the embossed knobs together, but instead when subjected to stress Shear or bending forces acting on the outer layers are relative despite being embossed can move to each other by embossing the outer layers on the unembossed Can slide along the middle layer.

This requirement is met according to a preferred embodiment of the invention Procedure corresponded to the fact that the connection of the layers and the resulting resulting layer adhesion by mechanical action, possibly supported by additional gluing, the area being subjected to mechanical action (Connection stamping) if necessary in connection with additional gluing on part of the total surface of the resulting tissue product (Section or demolition) remains limited and thus macroscopically large enough Creates zones in which the individual layers can move relative to one another appropriate stress is possible, which gives the impression of the finished product increased softness (subjective impression of softness), especially increased Wrinkle-softness arises when the bond strength is sufficient for use.

This method according to the invention leaves a desired distribution of the areas with mechanical action to generate layer attachment, in which the Areas with mechanical action according to a given pattern, based on the surface of the tissue product (sections), taking into account aspects how durability of the ply connection during manufacture and during later use, simplicity of manufacture, good visual appearance, etc. are arranged. According to a further preferred embodiment of the invention The areas for the generation of layer arrest are being processed by means of mechanical action, optionally with additional gluing, zoned, For example, narrowly arranged in strips so that these zones inside the later surface of the tissue (tissue product / section) runs parallel to the edge, the method providing for the creation of one or more such zones.

It is very particularly preferred that in the process of the invention strip-shaped area in which layer adhesion by mechanical action, if necessary supported by additional glueing, produced, to be carried out broadly, strips with widths of 5 to 40 mm per strip or taken together Strips of 10 to 80 mm are produced (so-called wide knurling). To ensure, that these strips with layer adhesion parallel to the cutting edge of the resulting multilayer, web-shaped tissue product in direct connection to the Cut edge run and inside the surface of the tissue product (section) protrude, sees such a process for mechanical action (for example in the form of wide knurling) before that after passing through the multi-layer processing machine widths Tissue webs with their previously embossed outer layers and one or several unembossed middle layers through a special connection embossing station (Wide knurling station) in which a relatively wide connecting embossing track (wide knurling track / zone) is generated due to mechanical action, a winding process follows which a so-called "trunk" is wrapped with a tissue web length accordingly the number of sections prescribed for the tissue product, the last section is attached to the circumference of the trunk by gluing the end sheets. This tribe, whose Length corresponding to the width of the processing machine is shown in a subsequent Work in narrow rolls using a knife or saw cut accordingly the desired tissue product width in such a way that the knife cut in essentially in the middle of the previously created connection embossing track (wide knurled track) comes to lie. This means that due to the procedure used, automatically one strip-shaped area with layer adhesion directly from each cut edge must run parallel to each of the outer cut edges of the tissue product (Section) runs, whereby tissue product is equal to rolls. Each of the two strip-shaped Areas with layer adhesion have a when using this wide knurling Width of 5 to 40 mm according to the invention, taken together 10 to 80 mm, wherein the method according to the invention has an essentially matching width of both Has marginal zones (with layer adhesion).

Layer adhesion through mechanical action in the manner explained above is, for example produced by a method with the help of a connection stamping station at through the tissue web according to the invention, consisting of several tissue layers a further embossing gap is made, which is formed from two rotating steel rollers, of which a harder steel roller carries masculine embossed nubs, while the other, softer steel roller has a smooth surface and in which the masculine Nub-bearing roller in this way against the smooth surface of the counter-roller is pressed that the tissue layers located between the rollers of the tissue web in the press nip at the points where embossed knobs of the knobs bear Steel roller is deformed, with its knobs in all tissue layers map so that the tissue layers leaving the press nip now themselves Wear pimples.

The intensity of the deformation in the tissue (formed pimple) as well as its plastic and elastic content depend on moisture, composition, structure and physical properties of the tissue on the one hand and the specific surface pressure on the other hand, in the area of the knobs by pressing against each other the rolls is produced. The surface pressure that can be generated is in turn one Function of the number of knobs per unit area, the distribution pattern of the knobs, the Stud geometry, in particular the size and shape of the end face of the studs as well the formation of the nub flanks and the effective contact pressure.

The pimpled steel roller of the connection embossing station becomes narrow sections divided, one speaks from a certain ratio of coat length Roll diameter of wheels. These narrow roller sections serve exclusively the layer arrest of the individual tissue layers of a multi-layer tissue and these pimple-bearing "wheels" do not cover the entire width of the tissue web but are zoned as separate individual wheels to certain points of the Tissue web limited, so we usually speak of so-called knurled wheels.

These knurling wheels (wide knurling wheels) carrying the connecting embossed knobs are higher Hardness are usually hung individually and press against a mostly continuous softer one Steel roller with a smooth surface and thereby form an embossing gap in the due to the mechanical action of the steel knobs on all tissue layers in every tissue layer Knobs are formed (shown) that slide into each other while doing so interlock with each other, whereby besides mechanical hooking of roughness peaks of the tissue inside the knobs formed with high surface pressure "Welding" individual fibers together for the surface connection with each other comes into consideration. By further increasing the surface pressure becomes extreme optionally an essentially desired additional perforation of the tissue layers achieved, which further improves the layer adhesion, this perforation on the end faces of the embossing knobs or a part of these end faces, in particular the edges of which are limited. This creates an undesirable roughness The outside of the tissue product is optionally smoothed by subsequent smoothing eliminated.

This zone-by-zone connection stamping by knurling can be made sufficiently firm design to ensure the cohesion of the tissue layers, both across all stages of the manufacturing process that follow the knurling as well if the tissue product is used as intended by the end user.

According to a particularly preferred embodiment of the method according to the invention you choose the embossing pattern for the layer embossing of the outer layers and the connection embossing, especially with wide knurling, identical or at least something similar, that an extensive visual invisibility of the connection stamping Superimposition of the two embossments exists.

In a further preferred embodiment of the method according to the invention the embossing is carried out in such a way that through the process of embossing the connection Knobs appear in the tissue, which are in an approximately rectangular or parallelogram-shaped, arranged in particular square or rhombic grid are, whose rows and columns are approximately the same oblique to the edges of the web (Cut edge of the tissue product) are arranged.

It is advantageous in terms of visual appearance if shape and Arrangement of the embossed knobs of layer embossing and connection embossing in the outer layers of the tissue product largely match. It is very special advantageous in terms of the achievable cohesion of the individual tissue layers by the connection embossing, if one in the aforementioned embodiment provides that the knobs produced by the connection embossing from tissue have a Edge length, determined on the end face, with polygonal cross-section (nub = truncated pyramid) or diameter with round cross section (nub = truncated cone) of 0.4 to 2.0 mm, preferably 0.5 to 1.6 mm, particularly preferably 0.7 to 1.5 mm, exhibit. The front and foot surfaces of the knobs produced (shown) in the tissue can show regular shape, for example n-angular, diamond-shaped, rhombus-shaped, square, square, round or oval etc. In addition, these can be frontal and Buttocks of the nubs also irregularly in the form of any pattern be designed.

According to a further preferred embodiment of the method according to the invention the mechanical influence is possibly connected with the layer adhesion is produced with gluing, on small areas, measured on the total area of a portion of the tissue product rather limited punctiform areas that be evenly distributed over the entire area of the tissue product so that in the resulting gaps the mobility of the previously shaped outer layers relative to the unembossed middle layer (s) is preserved and these zones without layer adhesion similar to an air cushion to the described softness improvement and lead to an improvement in the impression of volume.

According to a further preferred embodiment of the method according to the invention there is a smoothing or calibration, which leads to a further improvement of the impression of softness and the winding structure.

According to a further preferred embodiment of the production method according to the invention the finished product is created by a time sequence to be determined several process steps through the mechanical setup of the processing line (Processing machine or system) can be realized.

• Bereitstellen geeigneter Rohtissuequalitäten, einlagig oder mehrlagig doubliert;
• separates Abrollen von Mutterrollen aus einlagigem oder mehrlagig doubliertem Rohtissue;
• getrenntes Führen der Tissuerollen für Außen- und Innenlage(n);
• getrenntes Regeln von Geschwindigkeit und Bahnspannung, getrennt für Außen-und Innenlage(n) und für jeden Verfahrensschritt, geführt von einem ersten Lagenprägewerk und davon abhängig von der Verbindungsprägestation, gegebenenfalls Verleimung;
• Breitstrecken einzelner Bahnen, gegebenenfalls des Verbundes, zur Vermeidung von Faltenbildung durch Querkontraktion;
• separates, gegebenenfalls gemeinsames Prägen der Außenlagen zur Erzeugung einer Lagenprägung;
• Zuführen der ungeprägten Mittellage(n);
• Vereinigen der Lagen und Verbinden der gegebenenfalls vollflächig oder über einen Teil ihrer Oberfläche geprägten Außenlagen mit der/den ungeprägten Mittellage(n) durch mechanische Einwirkung (Verbindungsprägung), gegebenenfalls in Verbindung mit zusätzlicher Verleimung, wobei die mechanische Einwirkung durch konventionelles Rändeln oder bevorzugt durch Breiträndeln, erfolgt;
• gegebenenfalls Bedruckung;
• gegebenenfalls Einführen von Wickelkernen (Hülsen);
• gegebenenfalls Befestigung des ersten Abschnittes am Wickelkern durch Erstblatt-Beleimung;
• Unterteilen der Tissueverbundbahn in Abschnitte (Einzelblätter) des Tissue-Rollenproduktes durch Perforier-Querschneiden;
• Wickeln der Tissue-Verbundbahn zu Stämmen mit der im Endprodukt gewünschten Anzahl von Abschnitten auf einem vorgegebenen Durchmesser;
• Abschlagen des Stammes bei erreichter Abschnittzahl;
• Verleimung des Endblattes.

The following process steps are typical for the first quasi-continuous part of the manufacturing process according to the invention:

• Provision of suitable raw tissue qualities, single-layer or multi-layer relined;
• separate unrolling of mother rolls from single-layer or multi-layer doubled raw tissue;
• separate management of the tissue rolls for the outer and inner layer (s);
• separate regulation of speed and web tension, separate for outer and inner layer (s) and for each process step, guided by a first layer embossing plant and depending on the connection embossing station, possibly gluing;
• Wide stretching of individual webs, possibly of the composite, to avoid wrinkling by transverse contraction;
• separate, if necessary joint embossing of the outer layers to produce a layer embossing;
• Feeding the unembossed middle layer (s);
• Combining the layers and joining the outer layers, which may be embossed over the entire surface or over part of their surface, with the unembossed middle layer (s) by mechanical action (connection stamping), if appropriate in conjunction with additional gluing, the mechanical action by conventional knurling or preferably by wide knurling , he follows;
• possibly printing;
• if necessary introduction of winding cores (sleeves);
• if necessary, attachment of the first section to the winding core by first sheet gluing;
• Dividing the tissue composite web into sections (single sheets) of the tissue roll product by means of perforating cross cuts;
• Winding the tissue composite web into stems with the desired number of sections in the end product on a predetermined diameter;
• Cutting off the trunk when the number of sections has been reached;
• Gluing the end sheet.

• Ausstoßen und Transportieren der Stämme;
• Speichern von Stämmen in einem Stämmespeicher;
• Teilen der Stämme gemäß der von der Stammlänge (Rohtissuebahnbreite auf der Mutterrolle) und der Röllchenbreite (Fertigprodukt) möglichen Nutzenzahl durch Abtrennen mittels Messer- oder Sägeschnitt, wobei der Trennschnitt erfindungsgemäß mittig, jeweils in einer in Papierlaufrichtung ausgerichteten Zone mit Lagenverhaftung, bevorzugt mit einer Verbindungsprägung, insbesondere bevorzugt mittig in einer Breiträndelzone, erfolgt;
• Sammeln, Transportieren, Stapeln, Verpacken der Röllchen, Zusammenführen zu Großgebinden, gegebenenfalls Stapeln auf Transportpaletten entsprechend der Bedürfnisse des Marktes.

The process steps used in the discontinuous part of the process according to the invention essentially include:

• Ejecting and transporting the trunks;
• Storing logs in a log store;
• Dividing the logs according to the number of benefits possible from the log length (raw tissue web width on the parent roll) and the roll width (finished product) by cutting using a knife or saw cut, the separating cut according to the invention being centered, in each case in a zone oriented in the paper running direction with layer adhesion, preferably with an embossed connection , particularly preferably in the middle in a wide knurled zone;
• Collecting, transporting, stacking, packing the rolls, merging them into large containers, if necessary stacking on transport pallets according to the needs of the market.

Experiments to develop the process technology according to the invention have shown that an unexpectedly high control engineering effort must be made, provided Tissue layers of different working capacities (force / stretch behavior) separated unrolled and then processed together. This was particularly evident when merging several individual layers, if, as according to the invention different raw tissue qualities are provided for the different layers to be selected. The raw tissue webs provided as outer layers point an embossing made in an upstream process step, and these become then together with the unstamped inner layer (s) Process subjected to, where appropriate, supported by mechanical action by gluing, a layer adhesion between the layers is generated, so that, for example, by means of embossing or non-embossing Differences in length (elongation) of the individual layers in the composite are no longer compensated can be. Without such an individual regulation of speed and Pull each single web (tissue layer) in connection with appropriate spreading every web, starting from the unwinding through each individual process step representative station up to the winding, it turns out a production of end products with an unembossed middle layer as less desirable.

The control strategy for a preferred embodiment of the production method of a multilayer, web-shaped tissue product according to the invention with an unembossed Middle position, which is essentially free to move, has to meet the requirement that the speed of each individual layer of the multi-layer tissue product to be produced at the inlet of the connection embossing station (knurling or wide knurling if necessary) is the same and this to the transport speed of the connection embossing station (Peripheral speed of the driven embossing roller) in such a ratio stands that the tensile stress in each of the supplied tissue webs (Single layers) almost takes the value zero, so that different length changes individual layers as a result of different force / elongation behavior, for example the embossed outer layers compared to the unembossed middle layer (s), be avoided before entering the connection embossing station.

The control strategy of a method for producing a tissue product according to the invention therefore provides for the speed of the leading drive to the "leading" first layer embossing station (peripheral speed of the driven Embossing roller) for one of the two embossed outer layers (Circumferential speed of the parent roll) to adjust the drive so that a desired tensile stress that can be predetermined for this tissue web is constantly maintained can be.

The speed of the master drive of this first layer embossing station continues the subsequent connection embossing station (knurling if necessary wide knurling station) with a small positive difference regulated in a feedforward control that the tension occurring in this tissue web (layer) between the first layer embossing unit and the following stamping station almost takes the value zero. A positive difference means one compared to that of the leading embossing station only slightly higher speed of the connection stamping station, which is sufficient the tissue web without significant stretching and without wrinkling or undesirable To keep sagging taut and to transport.

The control strategy of a method for producing a tissue product according to the invention further provides that the web tension of each further tissue web, the forms a layer of the tissue product (via the one already described Outside location), over the speed of the upstream station is regulated, guided by the speed of the connection (knurling, if necessary Breiträndel) station.

This means that the peripheral speed of the unwinding (s) for the unembossed (s) Inner layer (s) depending on the (circumferential) speed of the connection stamping (Knurling, if necessary wide knurling) station is regulated so that the occurring web tension remains essentially constant and almost the value zero accepts. The speed of this unwinding (s) becomes the same as before described criteria, chosen slightly smaller than that of the connection stamping station.

In the case of the second embossed outer layer (n, if several outer layers are common the speed of the drive of the upstream Position embossing station depending on the speed of the connection embossing station regulated so that the transport speed of the tissue web (s) essentially remains constant and with that of the connection embossing station (knurled if necessary Wide knurling station) essentially coincides with the peripheral speed the layer embossing station is selected to be slightly smaller than that of the connecting embossing station, so that there is a tension between these two stations (Web tension) that almost reaches zero.

The layer embossing station of the second embossed outer layer (s) then takes the lead the upstream associated unwinding in such a way that on the drive the unwinding, the peripheral speed depending on that of the layer embossing station is adjusted so that a desired for the tissue web (s) can be specified Tension can be kept constant.

The transport (peripheral) speed of all on the connection embossing station The following stations are conventionally based on the state of the art regulated.

The use of several separate unwinds and in particular a high control engineering To date, effort has been unusual in conventional processing plants. A facility for Manufacture of tissue products of the aforementioned type contains Means for unwinding mother rolls 21, 22, 23 and means for determining and regulating the web tension 44, 45, 46 and transport speed (Peripheral speed of driven rolls / parent rolls) for each, if necessary Tissue web individually, if necessary from station to station between unrolling, first Layer embossing, subsequent connection embossing and, if necessary, further subsequent ones Stations, possibly via controllable individual drives and means for and Guiding the tissue webs 18, 19, 20, consisting of a first (layer) embossing station 24 from at least two separate embossing mills, for the tissue webs 18, 20, one further (connection) embossing station 25, which forms an embossing gap in which several narrow embossing rollers 26, optionally knurled wheels or preferably wide knurled wheels, a counter roller 27 are assigned and means for spreading the individual Tissue webs and the tissue product web, if necessary, between each station, optionally a smoothing unit, optionally a printing station and a reeling station 28 contains.

Such a device preferably contains at least one first layer embossing station 24 a pair of rollers, in which a roller with a steel surface, the masculine Noppen carries, a roller with a rubber surface, a plastic surface, a paper surface or is assigned to a steel surface.

The smoothing unit itself may be designed so that the tissue web once through the gap (or several columns in a row) of a pair of rollers, if necessary several pairs of rollers is performed, in which first a smooth roller with a Steel surface of a smooth counter roll with a plastic surface and then mirror image of a smooth roller with a plastic surface of a smooth counter roller with a steel surface (soft smoothing).

Furthermore, the smoothing can also be done so that a smooth roller with a Steel surface is assigned to a smooth counter roll with a steel surface.

The printing unit is used, for example, to apply a pattern, a lettering, Logos etc.

Feeding the tissue webs from the unwinds to the embossing stations (Embossing station 24) in the case of the outer layers as well as all other tracks including the non-embossed middle (inner) layer (s) to the connecting embossing station 25 and the guidance of the tissue product web takes place through further subsequent stations in a preferred embodiment of a device for producing an inventive Tissue product preferably via means that speed and the stretching behavior of the embossed tissue webs compared to the unembossed ones Path (s) as a function of the speed of a first layer embossing station and that of the connection embossing (knurling, possibly wide knurling) station regulate, for example through individual unrolling with appropriate train regulations, Web guides including spreader devices.

It is further preferred that the first layer embossing stations exclusively for embossing serve the outer layers, that is, the middle layer (s) remains un-embossed (stay).

For the purposes of the present invention, one device is preferred in which the further Connection embossing station 25 is a knurling station in which a knurling wheel roller or a large number of knurled wheels, possibly wide knurled wheels, at least one Counter roll with a steel surface, a rubber surface, a plastic surface or paper surface. In this part of the facility, the Knurling wheel roller particularly preferred on knurling wheels that have a wide knurling Knurling over a width of 10 mm to 80 mm, preferably 20 mm to 60 mm, create per track. This means that these wide knurled wheels in the longitudinal direction of the Tissue product web oriented flat zones ("traces") with one over all tissue product layers create effective layer adhesion by using the knurled wheel knobs mechanical impact on the tissue when the device is operating in the tissue webs map and in this way in every tissue layer of the tissue product web accordingly shaped nubs left behind by friction, if necessary mechanical interlocking, securing the layer bond.

In this context, it is particularly preferred that this part of the device is designed to produce a tissue product according to the invention so that the Knobs of these wide knurled wheels (Figures 4, 7, 8, 9) on at least part of their Surface, especially their end face, have depressions. These recesses are especially designed so that they have a variety of polygons or Circles, preferably rectangles or parallelograms.

Such depressions are held so that they are particularly in the form of fine There are notches in the knurled knurled surface. Compared to those described above Knurled knobs with a smooth surface have knurled knobs with a recess surprisingly for the person skilled in the art, the advantage of a significantly greater layer attachment generate, with the tissue webs to be connected in the grooves due to the many edges and notches in the pressing of the different tissue layers a much higher fiber composite can be achieved.

Typical geometries 31 for existing on the end faces 30 of the knurled knobs Wells are both just narrow wells with rectangular or V-shaped Cross-section, possibly with rounded lower edges, but also a combination of narrow with wider recesses, but the one reduced by recesses smooth surface of the embossing knobs should be kept as low as possible. A good additional layer attachment can be achieved with a design with narrow recesses, preferably crosswise arranged depressions can be achieved. This Wells should be less than 50%, preferably less than 30% of those not deepened Make out the surface.

All other details of a preferred embodiment of a device for generation of a tissue product according to the invention, in particular details of the knurling device such as arrangement of knurled (embossed) knobs, knob geometry, dimensions, Design and fine structure of the knob end face 30 of the individual knurled wheel knobs as well as the inclination of the net structure to the edges of the end face the corresponding detailed descriptions of preferred embodiments for tissue products and processes according to the invention.

Another preferred embodiment of a device for generating a Tissue product contains a sizing agent, Adhesive or optionally hotmelts for punctiform or thread-like application, if necessary according to a pattern at least in the area of wide knurling for support the generation of layer attachment by mechanical action.

The invention will now be described with reference to figures in the drawing are shown schematically, explained further.

Figur 1

die Aufsicht auf die Oberfläche eines Abschnitts einer bereits längs geschnittenen Schmalbahn eines ausgebildeten mehrlagigen Tissueprodukts,

Figur 2

einen Teil eines Stammes eines gewickelten, mehrlagigen Tissueprodukts, welcher dazu vorgesehen ist, durch Trennschnitte in aufgerollte Bahnen eines ausgebildeten Tissueprodukts unterteilt zu werden,

Figur 3

ein Beispiel einer Einrichtung, welche für die Herstellung eines ausgebildeten mehrlagigen bahnförmigen Tissueprodukts vorgesehen ist,

Figur 4

eine Aufsicht auf die Stirnfläche einer einzelnen Rändelnoppe mit dem hierauf befindlichen Muster aus Vertiefungen (beispielhaft, schematisch, in starker Vergrößerung),

Figur 5

ein Beispiel einer alternativen Einrichtung, welche für die Herstellung des ausgebildeten, bahnförmigen Tissueprodukts vorgesehen ist und

Figur 6

ein Beispiel einer weiteren Einrichtung, welche für die Herstellung eines ausgebildeten, bahnförmigen Tissueprodukts vorgesehen ist.

Figur 7A

eine Aufsicht auf einen vergrößerten Ausschnitt der Oberfläche der Prägewalze zur Erzeugung einer erfindungsgemäßen Lagenprägung der Tissueprodukt-Außenlagen, darstellend das Muster der Prägenoppen mit abgerundeter Fußzone,

Figur 7 B

einen Schnitt A-A aus Figur 7A, darstellend die Form der Prägenoppen mit ebener Stirnfläche und abgerundeter Fußzone

Figur 8 A

eine Aufsicht auf einen vergrößerten Ausschnitt der Oberfläche einer alternativen Prägewalze zur Erzeugung einer erfindungsgemäßen Lagenprägung der Tissueprodukt-Außenlagen, das ein alternatives Muster alternativer Prägenoppen mit scharfkantigem Fuß darstellt, die auf Abstand zueinander stehen.

Figur 8 B

einen Schnitt B-B aus Figur 8 A, darstellend die Form alternativer Prägenoppen (Pyramidenstümpfe) mit ebener Stirnfläche und scharfkantigem Fuß,

Figur 9 A

den kombinierten Querschnitt/Aufsicht auf ein Breiträndelrad mit Durchmesser und Breitenkennzeichnung.

Figur 9 B

den vergrößerten Ausschnitt des Details B aus der Oberfläche des Breiträndelrades nach Figur 9 A, darstellend die Anordnung und Form der Rändelprägenoppen zur Erzeugung einer Verbindungsprägung für ein erfindungsgemäßes Tissueprodukt,

Figur 9 C

den weiter vergrößerten Ausschnitt des Details C aus Figur 9 B, beispielhaft darstellend die Feinstruktur der rautenförmigen Stirnfläche einer Rändelprägenoppe für Breiträndelung bei Kombination mit Feinrändelung, entstanden durch das Einarbeiten linienförmiger Vertiefungen in die zunächst ebene Oberfläche der Stirnfläche dieser Rändelprägenoppen, so daß ein kreuzrasterförmiges Netz scharfkantiger Vertiefungen die Stimfläche überzieht.

Show it

Figure 1

the top view of the surface of a section of a narrow web of a multi-layer tissue product that has already been cut longitudinally,

Figure 2

a part of a trunk of a wound, multi-layered tissue product which is intended to be divided into rolled webs of a formed tissue product by separating cuts,

Figure 3

an example of a device which is intended for the production of a trained multi-layer web-shaped tissue product,

Figure 4

a top view of the end face of an individual knurled knob with the pattern of depressions on it (exemplary, schematic, in high magnification),

Figure 5

an example of an alternative device which is intended for the production of the formed, web-shaped tissue product and

Figure 6

an example of a further device which is provided for the production of a trained, web-shaped tissue product.

Figure 7A

1 shows a plan view of an enlarged section of the surface of the embossing roller in order to produce a layer embossing of the outer product layers according to the invention, showing the pattern of the embossing knobs with a rounded foot zone,

Figure 7B

7 shows a section AA from FIG. 7A, illustrating the shape of the embossing knobs with a flat end face and a rounded foot zone

Figure 8 A

a top view of an enlarged section of the surface of an alternative embossing roller for producing a layer embossing of the outer product layers according to the invention, which shows an alternative pattern of alternative embossing knobs with a sharp-edged foot, which are spaced apart.

Figure 8B

8 shows a section BB from FIG. 8 A, illustrating the shape of alternative embossed knobs (truncated pyramids) with a flat end face and a sharp-edged foot,

Figure 9 A

the combined cross-section / top view of a wide knurled wheel with diameter and width marking.

Figure 9B

9 the enlarged section of detail B from the surface of the wide knurled wheel according to FIG. 9 A, illustrating the arrangement and shape of the knurled embossed knobs for producing a connection embossing for a tissue product according to the invention,

Figure 9C

The further enlarged detail of the detail C from FIG. 9B, exemplifying the fine structure of the diamond-shaped end face of a knurled embossed knob for wide knurling in combination with fine knurling, was created by incorporating line-shaped depressions in the initially flat surface of the end face of these knurled embossed knobs, so that a cross-lattice-shaped network has sharp edges Depressions cover the end face.

Tissue narrow web 1, of which in FIG. 1 a section with a view of the entire surface embossed surface of an outer layer of the cut to the final product width Tissues is shown consists of several, e.g. three or more, preferably three to four layers, which are preferably in common with one another by means of these layers, additional embossing in areas 4, 5 are stapled together. This Connection stamping is in the form of on both sides directly on the cut edges 2, 3 the multi-layer web subsequent embossing strips 4, 5, which are a part take the web width 6. With usual narrow web widths of around 90 to 120 mm corresponding to the width of the final product, for example a toilet paper roll (corresponding to its section / sheet width), the width of the embossing strips 4, 5 in Sum e.g. with about 10 to 80 mm, preferably 20 to 60 mm, can be selected. at larger web widths, e.g. 120 to 300 mm (e.g. kitchen rolls) and more the embossing strips 4, 5 are also made wider.

In the case shown, this is in the embossing strips 4, 5 of the layers of the narrow tissue web 1 stitching connection stamping available embossing pattern Studs 7 formed, which are in an approximately rectangular or parallelogram Grids are arranged, the rows and columns of which are approximately equally slanted the cutting edges 2, 3 of the narrow tissue web 1 are aligned. It is the one in FIG Course of the lines by dash-dotted lines 9 and the course of the columns dashed lines 8 indicated; the angles denoted by 10 which the lines 8 with the cutting edges 2, 3, and the angles designated 11, which the lines 9 with the cutting edges 2, 3 include, are approximately the same. Approximate The equality of this angle is for a straight run of the tissue web in connection embossing (Knurling, if necessary, wide knurling) cheap. A slightly helical one Course of the embossing knobs successive in the circumferential direction is equally advantageous.

Of the individual layers of the web-shaped tissue product, which in particular through the connection stamping (knobs 7) in the form of the two stamping strips 4 and 5 are stapled together, the outer layers (webs) are each with one essentially embossing pattern running over the entire surface, whereas at least one of the inner layers is not embossed. In the interest of good optics as well good grip (softness, especially crunchy softness) and volume and an approximately equal total thickness of the web-shaped over the entire web width Tissue product can be seen advantageously an embossing extending over the entire surface of the individual outer layers of the tissue narrow web 1. This is also the case with the Figure 1 realized example. In this example, the layer embossing patterns are largely identical to the embossing pattern of the connection embossing, which in addition to the technical advantage that the multi-layer tissue narrow web everywhere has approximately the same properties, also has the advantage that the embossing strips 4, 5 visually hardly differ from the embossing pattern between these embossing strips Lift off the lying zone without layer attachment 14.

If you choose e.g. the mutual distances 12 which exist between the lines 8, and the mutual distances 13 that exist between the lines 9 are different large, this is for an even engagement of the knobs of the connection embossing rollers (Knurled if necessary wide knurled wheels) in the to combine Tissue layers and thus for a smooth running of the connection stamping process advantageous. If there are only slight differences between the distances 12 and 13, resulting in an approximately square or rhombic grid, in which the knobs forming the embossing pattern of the connection embossing are arranged this is largely similar to the appearance of the embossed pattern in the middle located zone 14 on the one hand, where only the surface embossing of an outer layer of the narrow tissue web can be seen, and the embossing pattern of those present in the embossing strips 4, 5 Connection stamping on the other hand. The embossment recognizable in the supervision (Embossed knobs in the tissue are schematically marked as black dots) in the embossing strip 4, 5 accordingly represents the superimposition of two independently of one another embossments created, namely that also present in the central zone 14 Layer embossing and the connection embossing with which the individual layers, which form the narrow-gauge web 1 with one another, are stapled together.

The dimensions of the individual knobs that form the embossing pattern become advantageous chosen so that the edge length or the diameter of the end face of this Knobs on the tissue web in the range of 0.5 to 5 mm, preferably 1 to 2.5 mm, is particularly preferably less than 1.5 mm.

In the manufacture of the web-shaped tissue product, one proceeds by making several embossed tissue outer webs together with at least one unembossed tissue inner web, the width of each of which is a multiple of the width of the narrow tissue web to be produced together through an axially divided connection station, preferably an embossing gap, in which the stitching of these tissue webs to a multi-layer "tissue product web" through a connection embossing is brought about. The connection stamping forms several spaced apart Embossing strips in place 16. The multilayer thus stapled together Tissue product web is then wound up into a log 15, one of which is shown in FIG Part is shown. Processing machine widths wound into a log Tissue product web embossing strips 16 are provided which pass through zones 14 are separated. The trunk 15 is then cut by which are guided with saws and knives approximately in the middle of the embossing strips 16, as indicated by dash-dotted lines 17, into a number of rolls with fewer divided axial length. These have those for the use of the tissue product intended width and contain a wound tissue narrow web length, which results from the section (sheet) length determined by the perforation cut and the given number of sheets.

In the device with 3 unwinds shown schematically in FIG. 3, three single-layer tissue webs 18, 19, 20 each separated from so-called mother rolls 21, 22, 23 unwound from one another, and the tissue webs 18 and 20 through an embossing station 24 in which these tissue webs are individually embossed with a layer can be. This device can emboss each of these webs be made independently of each other according to pattern and intensity, or the webs can also be embossed by lifting off the associated embossing rollers stay. The layer can be embossed over the entire surface or in certain areas, which are distributed according to a predefinable pattern, restrict the surface of the tissue layers, or it can be embossed in a spot-embossing manner become. Then these embossed or unembossed tissue webs 18, 19, 20 together through a further embossing station 25 where these tissue webs when passing an embossing gap that is between several narrow embossing rollers, optionally knurled or wide knurled wheels 26 and a counter roller 27 are formed is run through, the stitching of the tissue webs 18, 19, 20 into one three-layer "tissue product web" is accomplished. This three-layer tissue product web is then fed to a take-up station 28, where this tissue product web, the Width is a multiple of the axial length of the finished paper rolls to be produced, is wound into logs, as shown in Figure 2. As related mentioned with Figure 2, this wide tissue product web is then accordingly the dash-dotted lines 17 in individual finished narrow rolls, the dimensions correspond to the intended use.

In the course of this manufacturing process, additional processing can also be carried out or carry out manipulations, e.g. sticking the individual to trunks 15 roll-up tissue product web on winding cores 29 (not shown here), the Attach the end located in the trunk 15 with glue, if desired printing on the tissue product web, for example after it has become a multilayer Web has been stapled by connection stamping, or laying around of paper loops around the finished logs. To the additional processing steps also includes a division of the tissue product web into sections desired length (single sheets of tissue product) through perforated cross section.

In order to control the stamping process of the connection stamping, one advantageously sees one adjustable pressure of the embossing rollers, if necessary knurling or wide knurling wheels 26 to the counter roller 27. For this you can e.g. a pneumatically working, adjustable Use pressure device.

FIG. 4 shows the top view of a truncated pyramid-shaped knurled knob with a square one End face 30 reproduced, the at least partially depressions 31st having. In this exemplary embodiment, the depressions 31 are network-like designed as fine depressions each in a rectangular shape, the depressions are aligned obliquely to the boundary edge of the end face and on the end face create a checkerboard pattern.

In the device with 2 unwinds shown in FIG. 5, a three- or four-layer, web-shaped tissue product can be produced in such a way that each offered two outer layers of a mother roll 35 in two layers, however embossed separately, and one or two middle layers can be created without being embossed. This is done in such a way that in the device shown in Figure 5, three tissue webs 32, 33 and 34 of so-called mother rolls 35 and 36 provided unwound and the tissue webs 32 and 33 each passed through an embossing station 37 in which these tissue webs are separately embossed can. In contrast, tissue web 34, which is both single-ply and two-ply can be designed doubled, between the two layer embossing rollers passed through the first embossing station 37 without embossing this layer (s), and this one together with the two embossed outer layers 32, 33 further, downstream connection stamping station (not shown here) similar to 25 fed in Figure 3, in which the desired on part of the total area of the tissue web limited connection stamping (knurling or wide knurling if necessary) is generated, the individual layers by mechanical action with each other connects, the latter possibly being supported by additional gluing can. On the way to the first ply embossing station 37 and on to the connecting embossing station are both in the position to be shaped and in the non-shaped position each deflection rollers in the form of dancer rollers 35A, 36A (corresponding to the reference numbers 44, 45, 46 in Figure 6) are provided, which are used by embossing or to compensate for different tensile forces resulting from non-embossing and the necessary control impulses for the respective speed control Find. Wrinkling can be prevented, which would otherwise lead to deterioration the optics would lead.

In the device shown in FIG. 6 with 3 separate unrolls, both a three- as well as a four-layer tissue product are produced, two of which or three layers are embossed separately and one or two middle layer (s) are obtained unembossed. Here the outer layers 38 and 40 of the tissues are each over a system of dancer rollers 44 or 46 and deflection rollers from the corresponding mother rollers 41 or 43 fed to a first stamping station 47 with two stamping mills. Beyond that happens a tissue layer 39, which in turn has a pulley system with a dancer roller 45 is unwound from a parent roll 42, the embossing station without embossing and then fed to a connection embossing mill analogous to 25 in FIG. 3. Depending on what is to be manufactured Tissue product, the parent rolls 41, 42 and 43 are either single ply or specified in two layers. The mother roll 41 can thus be specified in one layer, then the parent roll 42 is one or two layers and the parent roll 43 is one layer. Furthermore, the mother roll 41 can be specified in two layers, and then the Mother rolls 42 and 43 each in one layer. If the parent roll 41 is specified in one layer is, the parent roll 42 will also be in one layer and then the parent roll 43 are available in two layers.

Figure 7 A shows the flat development of an enlarged section of the surface a particularly preferred embodiment of a metallic embossing roller (steel) for producing a layer embossing of the outer layers of tissue product according to the invention under supervision. The drawing shows the pattern of the embossed knobs in vertical supervision with its square end face 48 and from the corners of the end faces originating side edges, each knob formed as a truncated pyramid whose end face is essentially flat and whose end edges are sharp-edged, whose foot zone is rounded, however, so that the foot zones are arranged side by side Merging embossing knobs gently into one another. The embossing knobs are on the embossing roller surface arranged in rows so that the same edges of the end faces next neighboring embossed knobs, seen in the direction of fall over the knobs flanks, come to lie on parallel lines that are at an angle to one another Surface line of the substantially cylindrical embossing roller are aligned. The Center points of the end faces of successive ones in the circumferential direction of the embossing roller Embossing knobs are arranged on the same circumferential line, the Diagonals of the square faces of the embossing knobs in the direction of rotation of the embossing roller each with a circumferential line and transversely with a surface line. The alignment of the embossing knobs to a surface line of the embossing roller is in the preferred embodiment shown 45 °, but may differ. By the regular arrangement of the embossed knobs is defined in a grid pattern in which the Reference numeral 49 the length of the side edges of the substantially square end faces the embossed knobs, the reference number 50 to equal the distance between two parallels Face edges on a line perpendicular to the next adjacent embossed knobs represents, these parallels at a characteristic angle of preferably 45 ° are inclined against a surface line of the embossing roller. The reference number 51 represents the grid spacing of the next adjacent embossing knobs, which are on parallel circumferential lines A-A is a reference line along which a section is perpendicular is led to the flat development of the roller surface, in which 3 on the oblique reference line successive embossed knobs are cut so that the contour of the knobs is visible in a side view.

FIG. 7B shows the contour of three embossing knobs from the surface of an embossing roller, whose flat development is shown in detail in Figure 7 A, along the cutting line A-A. In Figure 7 B is the sharp-edged transition from the flanks to the end face and the rounding of the knobbed foot is clearly recognizable, the reference number 52 the knob height and the reference numeral 53 the flank angle along the falling line as Represents the angle between the fall line and the normal intersecting it.

FIG. 8 A shows, analogously to FIG. 7 A, the flat development of an enlarged section the surface of an alternative embodiment of a metallic embossing roller (Steel) to produce an alternative layer embossing according to the invention Tissue product outer layers under supervision. The drawing again represents the pattern of the Embossing knobs in a vertical view and also shows square faces analogous to reference numeral 48 in FIG. 7 A. The embossed knobs are as truncated pyramids trained, in contrast to Figure 7 A but with a square foot, sharp-edged limited and not as in Figure 7 A with rounded feet. The individual embossed knobs are measured at a short distance as the distance 54 between parallel ones Edges of the foot surfaces of two adjacent embossed knobs isolated from each other on the cylindrical base of the embossing roller. The end faces of the embossed knobs are covered designed on the level processing essentially level so that it is in reality Partial areas from a corresponding to the outermost circumference of the knob-bearing embossing roller form curved cylinder surface. The reference number 56 indicates the edge length the square face of the embossed knobs, the reference number 55 indicates the edge length of the square base of the truncated pyramids on. Analogous to FIG. 7 A, the center points of the end faces are also in FIG. 8 A of successive embossing knobs in the circumferential direction of the embossing roller each arranged the same circumferential line, the diagonals of the square End faces of the embossing knobs in the direction of rotation of the embossing roller, each with a circumferential line and coincide with a generatrix, the distance between two circumferential lines marked in this way represent the grid spacing of the Forms grid, which is marked with the reference number 57. Parallels to that Section line B-B and the lines perpendicular to it also form with a surface line analogous to FIG. 7A, an angle of the preferred embodiment shown of the knob embossing pattern is essentially 45 °, but possibly from it can deviate.

FIG. 8B shows the contour of three embossing knobs from the surface of an embossing roller, whose flat development is shown in detail in Figure 8 A, along the cutting line B-B. In Figure 8 B is the sharp-edged transition from the flanks to the end face and the likewise sharp-edged transition of the one which, in contrast to FIG. 7B, is not rounded Base of the nubs to the bottom of the nub-bearing, which is cylindrical in reality Embossing roller recognizable. The reference number 58 denotes the nub height, the reference number 59 the flank angle of the equilateral pyramids of the embossed knobs in analogy to 63 from FIG. 7 B, where both the angle 59 is greater than the angle 53 and the knob height 58 from FIG. 8 B exceeds the knob height 52 from FIG. 7 B.

FIG. 9A shows schematically the combined cross section (top) and a top view (below) on a wide knurled wheel, the reference numeral 60 being a generatrix of the outermost Cylinder surface of the knurled knurled wheel as a reference line represents, whose distance to the lower boundary surface line is indicated by arrows which mark the diameter of the knob-bearing wide knurled wheel. The wide knurled wheel consists of an annular casing 61, which by suitable Means 62 is attached to an axis of rotation 63 (not shown here). The inner one The diameter of the annular knurled wheel casing is 66, the width of the knurled wheel casing is identified by reference numeral 68, an inner part 64, the same on both sides, slightly drawn in, to a smaller width, as by reference number 67 shown. Reference numeral 65 indicates the diameter of the circular center line on which all holes are located, which are used to fasten the knurled wheel casing are provided on a shaft serving as an axis of rotation. Detail B as a detail the outer surface of the knob-bearing wide knurled wheel casing is B in FIG. 9 shown further enlarged.

Figure 9B shows the flat development of a surface section with knurled (wheel) knobs in high magnification, which is analogous to the layer embossing Process by creating one through all tissue layers of the tissue product deformation of the tissue web that becomes effective, embossing knobs in the tissue trains that mechanically connect the individual layers. Detail B shows the diamond-shaped end faces 69 of the knurled knobs made of hardened steel, the are arranged in the particularly preferred embodiment shown here, that there is a diamond-shaped grid, the knurled knobs in a row one after the other follow that the resulting connecting lines of the same or parallel Edges of the knob end faces to a surface line on the outer circumference of the knurled wheel at an angle 71 in one main direction and at one opposite 71 smaller angle 71 A to the other main direction compared to that used as a reference Surface line are shown. This minimal oblique alignment of the knurled knob pattern compared to the direction of rotation of the knurled wheel has proven to be particularly effective proven to prevent wrinkling in the tissue during production. The distance 70 that is between parallel reference lines of the same edges of the End faces of successive knurled knobs to those of neighboring knurled knobs is particularly preferred embodiment shown equal. The distance 69 A parallel edges of the diamond-shaped end faces of each one Knurled knob 69 is the same and has in a particularly preferred embodiment a value less than 2 mm.

FIG. 9 C shows the further enlarged detail of detail C from FIG. 9 B. This Detail shows the diamond-shaped end face of a single knurled knob, which in this strong magnification a fine structure similar to that of the knob arrangement the surface of the wide knurled wheel. This is a particularly preferred one Embodiment of the device according to the invention "Fine knurling" consists of a cross-shaped network of notch-like depressions with a V-shaped or rectangular cross-section, possibly with in the after the center of gravity of the knurled knob towards the lower part of the recess, rounded Edges, but with sharp edges towards the outside of the knurled wheel. As in Figure 9 C identifies, the two side edges 71 of the end face of a knurled knob are the same Length. The mesh-like depressions leave rows of essentially square ones or in a further embodiment (not shown here) diamond-shaped elevations left over as the remains of the originally essentially flat end face every single knurled knob remains when the recesses are finely engraved are. These resident areas of the knurled knob surface are analogous to the knobs even arranged in rows, the grid division by the reference numeral 73 as is immediately labeled. As Figure 9C also shows, the rows are the resident Partial surfaces of each knurled knob end face at an angle 74 to the edge of the end face inclined, what a perfect knurling without wrinkling in the tissue of is of particular importance.

The present invention is explained below by means of exemplary embodiments which in connection with the conduct of a consumer test.

In a consumer test, two different, commercially available 3-layer branded toilet paper against corresponding Prototypes of 3-ply toilet paper made according to the invention assessed.

A distinction was drawn between the two commercially available brand toilet papers, pattern A and pattern C. in the fiber used (recycled fibers from deinked waste paper) the way that for the toilet paper according to sample A the proportion of lower waste paper qualities was higher than that for the manufacture of pattern C toilet paper, externally recognizable by a significantly lower whiteness of the pattern A compared to the Pattern C.

Furthermore, the two commercially available branded toilet papers differed in basis weight in that toilet paper according to sample A had a basis weight of the individual layer of 17.5 g / m ² , those according to sample C had a basis weight of only 17.0 g / m ² and layer.

The structure of the two commercially available products in 3 layers by mechanical Exposure banded together in the longitudinal direction of the tissue paper web were, was similar, whereby for the production of the test goods differed from the usual production practice for better comparability because of the invention Wide knurling process was used to generate layer adhesion.

The two commercially available toilet paper were each state of the art fully embossed and equipped with an also fully embossed middle layer, whose embossed pattern matched that of the outer layers. Both toilet papers according to pattern A and pattern C showed the same embossing pattern as a full surface "Diamond embossing" analogous to FIG. 7A with the same embossing intensity.

In contrast, those were to be assessed in a monadic test setup Comparative prototypes of a corresponding toilet paper made from the identical raw tissue quality with samples A and C, each comparable Basis weight, but equipped with an unembossed middle layer (Pattern B and Pattern D). The outer layers of these prototype-like comparative products Pattern B and pattern D were comparable to patterns A and C. Surface embossing in a comparable intensity.

The patterns so described were a monadic in home test assessment (Blind test without branding), as in non-fiction books on experimental marketing analysis explained in more detail, subject.

• eine aus 100% Altpapier 3-Ig. Papierqualität mit folgenden Kenndaten:
  • Flächengewicht der einzelnen Lage 17,5 g/m2
  • alle Lagen verfügen über eine vollflächige Rautenprägung
  • die Lagenverhaftung wird durch eine Breiträndelung erzeugt (Muster A)
• eine 3-Ig. Tissue-Papier-Qualität wie in Muster A, bei der allerdings anstelle einer geprägten Mittellage eine ungeprägte Mittellage eingesetzt wird (Muster B)
• eine aus 100% Altpapier 3-Ig. Tissue-Papier-Qualität mit höherem Weißgrad als Muster A mit folgenden Kenndaten:
  • Flächengewicht der einzelnen Lagen 17,0 g/m2
  • alle Lagen verfügen über eine vollständige Rautenprägung
  • die Verhaftung der einzelnen Lagen zueinander erfolgt über eine Breiträndelung (Muster C)
• eine 3-lg. Tissue-Papier-Qualität wie in Muster C, bei der allerdings an Stelle einer geprägten Mittellage eine ungeprägte Mittellage eingesetzt wird (Muster D)

This included 2x2 structurally identical groups of 100 housewives, quoted in terms of age, occupation, household size, location awareness, brand usage, etc., who had used the corresponding toilet paper (sample A and sample C) within the past 12 months, during a test period of 5 days each Try the following samples for each toilet paper used:

• one made of 100% waste paper 3-Ig. Paper quality with the following characteristics:
  • Weight per unit area of 17.5 g / m2
  • all layers have a full diamond pattern
  • the layer attachment is generated by a wide knurling (pattern A)
• a 3 ig. Tissue paper quality as in pattern A, but with an unembossed middle layer instead of an embossed middle layer (pattern B)
• one made of 100% waste paper 3-Ig. Tissue paper quality with higher whiteness than sample A with the following characteristics:
  • Basis weight of the individual layers 17.0 g / m2
  • all layers have a full diamond pattern
  • the individual layers are arrested by means of a wide knurl (pattern C)
• a 3-lg. Tissue paper quality as in sample C, but with an embossed middle layer instead of an embossed middle layer (sample D)

A supported evaluation was carried out in connection with the product test in home and subject these to a significance check based on property profiles. Furthermore, a strengths / weaknesses analysis based on A spontaneous discussion is made by each subject in the following way was interviewed:

"I have the two toilet papers that you tested here again. Please say You now spontaneously remind me of what you think about this Liked toilet paper! "

After evaluation, sample B was considered significant by the test subjects Softer and more skin-friendly than sample A, 54% in favor of sample B. against 39% for pattern A, whereas 7% for patterns A and B for equally soft and looked skin-friendly.

In the same way, the aforementioned test was also carried out with the tissue paper qualities carried out according to sample C and according to sample D. There the tissue quality D viewed by 73% of consumers as significantly softer and more tear-resistant than pattern C, that is, pattern C was considered softer and also by 27% of consumers felt more tear-resistant.

Claims (11)

1. A process for producing a multiply, at least three ply layered sheet-like tissue products, characterised in that several, two or more tissue outer sheets (18,20) provided with an embossed pattern with protrusion, the width of the sheet is a multiple of the width of the narrow tissue sheet (1) to be produced, are directed together with at least one unembossed middle ply (19) through an axially divided embossing gap which is formed between at least two steel embossing rollers with protuberances, optionally edge-embossing wheels, optionally wide-track edge-embossing wheels (26), which are disposed side by side and axially aligned at a distance apart, and one or more counter roller(s) associated with these embossing rollers with protuberances, optionally edge-embossing wheels, optionally wide-track edge-embossing wheels, the counter rollers preferably having a rubber surface, plastics surface, paper surface or steel surface (27), and in that, after the fastening together of the plies carried out in the embossing gap, the multiply tissue product sheet thus formed is divided by cutting into several narrower tissue product sheets, which cutting is carried out in each case approximately in the centre of the strip-like connecting embossing pattern formed during this fastening together, wherein the division into several narrower tissue product sheets, which have the desired width for the use of the tissue product, is carried out after rolling up of the tissue product sheet that has been fastened together in the embossing gap.
2. A process according to Claim 1, characterised in that at least one of the outer plies (18,20) is provided with a like or different embossing on at least one part of its surface, relative to the second outer ply.
3. A process according to the preceding Claims, characterised in that the ply embossing of at least one of the outer plies (18,20) is effected by at least one ply embossing station (24), in which an embossing gap is formed by a roller having a steel surface being associated with a counter roller having a rubber surface, plastics surface, paper surface or a steel surface.
4. A process according to the preceding Claims, characterised in that the ply embossing of at least one of the outer plies (18,20) is effected by two ply embossing stations (24) arranged in series, in which the embossing gap is formed by a roller having a steel surface being associated with a counter roller having a rubber surface, optionally a plastics surface, paper surface or a steel surface.
5. A process according to the preceding Claims, characterised in that an unwind station is/are provided adjacent the first ply embossing station(s) (24).
6. A process according to the preceding Claims, characterised in that the arrangement of the plies in the tissue product is such that the embossed outer sides of the outer plies (18,20) are soft and the inner sides of the embossed outer plies (18,20) are rough.
7. A process according to the preceding Claims, characterised in that a connection of the plies is effected by edge-embossing, spot-embossing or edge-embossing, optionally wide-track edge-embossing, optionally additional gluing.
8. A process according to the preceding Claims, characterised in that when fastening together the tissue sheets strip-like embossing patterns are formed respectively of a width of 10 mm to 80 mm, preferably 20 mm to 60 mm.
9. A process according to the preceding Claims, characterised in that on at least one part of their surface (30) the embossing rollers with protuberances (26) have recesses (31) which produce a further connecting embossing.
10. A process according to Claim 9, characterised in that the further connecting embossing is effected by recesses (31) in the form of a plurality of polygons or circles, preferably rectangles or parallelograms.
11. A process according to the preceding Claims, characterised in that, following the further connecting embossing, a smoothing operation is effected by a soft-smoothing means, in which the tissue product sheet passes through one or more gaps, wherein a plurality of gaps are arranged in series, wherein firstly a roller having a steel surface is associated with a counter roller having a plastics surface and then in mirror image a roller having a plastics surface is associated with a counter roller having a steel surface.

Images