WO2004098369A1 - Tampon de nettoyage multicouche et procede de fabrication de celui-ci - Google Patents

Tampon de nettoyage multicouche et procede de fabrication de celui-ci Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2004098369A1
WO2004098369A1 PCT/IL2004/000380 IL2004000380W WO2004098369A1 WO 2004098369 A1 WO2004098369 A1 WO 2004098369A1 IL 2004000380 W IL2004000380 W IL 2004000380W WO 2004098369 A1 WO2004098369 A1 WO 2004098369A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
layer
swab
carrier layer
absorbent
absorbent layer
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/IL2004/000380
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Eran Joseph
Michael Levkovitch
Yosef Aharoni
Original Assignee
Albaad Massuot Yitzhak Ltd.
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Albaad Massuot Yitzhak Ltd. filed Critical Albaad Massuot Yitzhak Ltd.
Publication of WO2004098369A1 publication Critical patent/WO2004098369A1/fr

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Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L13/00—Implements for cleaning floors, carpets, furniture, walls, or wall coverings
    • A47L13/10—Scrubbing; Scouring; Cleaning; Polishing
    • A47L13/20—Mops
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L13/00—Implements for cleaning floors, carpets, furniture, walls, or wall coverings
    • A47L13/10—Scrubbing; Scouring; Cleaning; Polishing
    • A47L13/16—Cloths; Pads; Sponges

Definitions

  • the present invention is generally in the field of multi-layered articles, and in particular disposable such articles, generally referred to as rags, swabs, wipes, pads, cloths, etc. and which for sake of convenience, herein after in the specification and claims, are collectively referred to as swabs. More specifically the invention is concerned with such articles formed with a high liquid absorbent capacity.
  • a variety of swabs are available for a variety of purposes.
  • a multi-layered swab of the concerned type is typically used as a floor mop used in conjunction with a suitable implement, or for cleaning or treating other surfaces or, in other cases, may be used also for hygienic purposes, e.g. as baby wipes, etc.
  • Swabs of this type comprise at least one carrier layer and at least one absorbent layer, which by different means are attached to the at least one carrier layer.
  • the at least one absorbent layer is imbedded or attached to the at least one carrier layer and has a significantly increased liquid absorbent capability than the at least one carrier layer, however it is typically of poor strength and thus requires to be carried by or attached to the carrier layer.
  • the at least one carrier layer often has a larger surface area than the absorbent layer, to thereby facilitate attaching the multi-layered swab to a support pad of a cleaning implement, etc., e.g. by different fasteners such as hook and pile (VelcroTM), snap fasteners, clamps, etc.
  • swabs comprises two layers of carrier material made of a thermo-bondable material, embedding between them an absorbent layer made of pulp material, wherein the carrier layers are adhered to one another together with said pulp layer in between.
  • the above type of swabs has several deficiencies.
  • a continuous online manufacturing process typically comprises preparation of the carrier layers, adding the pulp, adhering the carrier layers and collecting on a collecting reel (spool).
  • the disadvantage resides in that only at a later stage the material can then be moistened, cut into the size of the individual swabs, folded and packed.
  • Another disadvantage resides in that the collected material wound over the collecting spool is significantly thicker at its central portion (corresponding with the area of the absorbent material).
  • an overlapping fold i.e.
  • portions of the swab vacant of pulp material overlap portions of the swab comprising pulp material yields a reel of significant size which is less suitable for online manufacturing owing to its weight, its ability to withstand high speed of operation and further to the fact that such a reel ends fast.
  • the swabs of the above disclosed type are manufactured in a so-called off-line process, i.e. not fitted for a continuous simultaneous feed of the carrier layer and the absorbent layer.
  • a multi-layered swab comprising at least one sheet of carrier layer and at least one sheet of absorbent layer attached to said at least one carrier layer, wherein the carrier layer is foldable with respect to the absorbent layer.
  • the carrier layer comprises edge portions that are particularly adapted for securing the swab to a mop, for example.
  • the carrier layer envelopes the absorbent layer.
  • the carrier layer is integrally formed with the absorbent layer.
  • the absorbent layer is a non-pulp material and the swab is manufactured in a continuous, on-line process.
  • the absorbent layer is made of a sheet of material having high absorbing capacity whilst the carrier layer is made of a sheet of material having increased wear resistance and increased strength with respect to the absorbent layer.
  • multi-layered denotes also a single sheet with each face having different qualities, obtained e.g. by integrating two layers of material, etc.
  • the at least one absorbent layer may applied over a part of the at least one carrier layer leaving exposed said edge portion of the carrier layer., and optionally the carrier layer may comprise two said edge portions which are exposed with respect to said at least one absorbent layer.
  • the edge portions may be comprised on transversely opposed ends of said at least one carrier layer.
  • the at least one carrier layer may be made from a suitable at least partially hydrophilic material, and the at least one carrier layer may be manufactured according to a process based on one of thermo-bonding or spun bonding techniques.
  • the at least one carrier layer may comprise a weight density of between about 13 g/m to about 35 g/m .
  • the at least one absorbent layer comprises cellulosic fibers, for example, about 50% to about 100% of cellulosic fibers.
  • the cellulosic fibers may comprise any one of viscose, jute fibers, flax fibers, hemp fibers, pulp fibers or cotton fibers, or any combination of such fibers.
  • the swab may be adapted for use as a floor mop.
  • the at least one edge portion is folded over said at least one absorbent layer to at least partially envelope the same with said at least one carrier layer.
  • the carrier layer preferably comprises two said edge portions which may be folded with respect to said at least one absorbent layer.
  • the edge portions may be comprised on transversely opposed ends of said at least one carrier layer.
  • the edge portions of the carrier layer may be folded over the at least one absorbent layer in an overlapping manner, so as to form a C-shaped pattern enveloping said absorbent layer, and the edge portions of the at least one carrier layer may be attached to one another.
  • an outside surface of the swab is abrasive and/or comprises at least one of protuberances, depressions or openings.
  • the carrier layer comprises a plurality of openings providing fluid communication between said absorbent layer and an outside of said carrier layer.
  • the openings are preferably comprised in raised nozzle-like projections with respect to an outside surface of said carrier layer.
  • the openings may be arranged in single file along imaginary lines substantially parallel to a longitudinal edge of the swab.
  • Such a carrier layer may be made from about 60% to about 100% of thin fibers, typically made from polypropylene, and from about 0% to about 40% absorbent fibers, typically made from viscose.
  • the carrier layer further comprises relative thick fibers arranged substantially on an outer surface thereof, and the thick fibers are typically made from polypropylene.
  • the openings may be arranged in single file along imaginary lines substantially parallel to a longitudinal edge of the swab.
  • the swab may be adapted for use as any one of a wet wipe, dish-washing wipe, a cleaning wipe, a body cleaning wipe, a personal care wipe, a make-up removal wipe, a medical wipe, a polish wipe, a general home care wipe, a furniture wipe.
  • the at least one absorbent layer comprises a sheet of material folded in an overlapping manner.
  • the at least one absorbent layer may comprise a nonwoven material.
  • the at least one absorbent layer comprises a suitable absorbent material, for example including any one of or suitable combination of any one of the following: synthetic fibers such as polyester, polypropylene, co-polyester,; or cellulose fibers.
  • the cellulosic fibers may comprise any one of viscose, jute fibers, flax fibers, hemp fibers, pulp fibers or cotton fibers, or any combination of such fibers,
  • the at least one absorbent layer comprises about 70% to about 90% polyester and about 10% to about 30% co-polyester.
  • the at least one absorbent layer comprises about 20% to about 80%, e.g.
  • the at least one absorbent layer comprises about 20% to about 40%, e.g. about 36%, polypropylene, about 20% to about 40%, e.g. 32%, cellulose fibers such as viscose, and about 20% to about 40%, e.g. 32%, polyester.
  • the at least one absorbent layer comprises about 20% to about 40%, e.g. 30%, polyester, and 80% to 60%, e.g. 70%, viscose.
  • the at least one absorbent layer comprises about 100% cotton.
  • the at least one absorbent layer comprises a weight density of between about 40 g/m 2 to about 300 g/m 2 , preferably between about 80 g/m 2 to about 120 g/m .
  • the absorbent layer comprises a weight density of between about 20 g/m 2 to about 150 g/m 2 and preferably about 40 g/m 2 to about 80 g/m 2 ., for example, particularly for embodiments in which the absorbent layer is folded,
  • the absorbent layer is attached to the carrier layer by an adhesive agent applied there between e.g. hot glue, etc.
  • the absorbent layer is attached to the carrier layer by spunlace technology using jets of liquid applied over the layers to cause intermesh of fibrous material.
  • the liquid used for generating said jets of liquid is a moisturizing agent e.g. a cleaning liquid, a treating liquid or a preparation, etc. attachment between the sheets may be at designated portions or about substantial portions or between all overlapping portions thereof.
  • the absorbent layer is attached to the carrier layer by any suitable heat welding or ultrasonic welding technique.
  • the absorbent layer is significantly thicker than the carrier layer and in accordance with other embodiments, thickness of the absorbent layer is obtained by folding it in an overlapping manner so as to obtain increased though uniform thickness.
  • the at least one absorbent layer may be produced using any suitable technology including any one of through air bonding technology, spunlace technology, needle punch technology, airlaid technology and wetlaid technology, for example.
  • the absorbent layer is folded about a side edge thereof, forming a U-shaped pattern.
  • the absorbent layer is formed in a C-shaped pattern, about a center- line thereof, with edges of the folded layer facing the carrier layer.
  • the absorbent material is folded in a C-shaped pattern, about a center-line thereof, with edges of the folded sheet facing towards or away from the carrier layer.
  • the absorbent layer may be folded over again as many times as desired.
  • the absorbent material comes in rolls, and typically only a maximum roll size can be accommodated in the apparatus that manufactures the swabs according to the invention, by using thinner material the roll is used less quickly than when using a thicker material. This has the advantage of enabling the apparatus to operate for much longer before having to replace such rolls.
  • the absorbent layer is applied over the carrier layer leaving margins along both longitudinal edges of said carrier layer, said margins useful for attaching the swab over an appliance, e.g. a cleaning mop.
  • the swab is folded such that the margins of the carrier layer are folded over the absorbent layer in an overlapping manner, forming a C-shaped pattern enveloping an inverted C-shaped pattern of the absorbent layer.
  • the invention further offers, in accordance with one of its embodiments, a thickened swab comprising an absorbent layer enveloped within a closed enveloping carrier layer.
  • Such swabs are suitable for use without a mop, i.e. manually, e.g. as hygienic swabs, surface wiping swabs, etc.
  • the absorbent layer may comprise an active material or agent.
  • the active agent may comprise any suitable physical form, for example a liquid having any desired viscosity, moist or dry paste, powder, gel, solid block or any combination thereof, and may be water-based, oil-based, or comprise a water-in oil emulsion or an oil-in -water emulsion, for example.
  • the active agent may be adapted for enabling a specific function, and thus may comprise, for example, a cleaning agent, medical agent, disinfectant, sterilizing agent, sanitizing agent, anti-bacterial agent, polishing agent, detergent, dish-washing agent, body cleaning agent, make up remover agent, body care agent, skin moisturizing agent and so on.
  • the at least one carrier layer and the at least one absorbent layer have distinct colors.
  • the at least one carrier layer is made of a liquid permeable material.
  • one or both of the carrier layer and the absorbent layer are made of nonwoven material.
  • the multi-layered swab comprises a first layer and a second layer integrally attached to said first layer, wherein a first portion of said swab is folded over a second portion of said swab, wherein said first layer is facing an outside of said swab, and wherein one of said first layer and said second layer is an absorbent layer and wherein another one of said first layer and said second layer is a carrier layer,
  • the carrier layer may comprise a plurality of openings providing fluid communication between said absorbent layer and an outside of said carrier layer.
  • the openings may be comprised in raised nozzle-like projections with respect to an outer surface of said carrier layer.
  • Such a carrier layer is made from about 60% to about 100% of thin fibers, e.g. polypropylene, and from about 0% to about 40% absorbent fibers, e.g. viscose.
  • the absorbent layer may further comprise relative thick fibers arranged substantially on one of an outer surface or an inner surface thereof, and such thick fibers may be made from polypropylene.
  • the carrier layer and the absorbent layer may be integrated with one another into a uniform sheet.
  • Percentage compositions of materials are given herein generally as percentages by weight.
  • the invention is further concerned with a method for manufacturing a multi- layered swab, comprising the following steps: (a) obtaining a continuous sheet of carrier layer;
  • step (d) cutting the continuous multi-layered material obtained in step (c) into swabs.
  • an active material is applied to the swab at any point in the process as required.
  • at least one of the carrier layer and the absorbent layer is folded during the production process.
  • an active material is applied to the swab at any point in the process as required and, at least one of the carrier layer and the absorbent layer is folded during the production process.
  • At least one absorbent layer may be attached to the at least one carrier layer by an adhesive agent applied to one or both the absorbent layer and the carrier layer.
  • the at least one absorbent layer and the at least one carrier layer are made of the same material, whereby attaching the absorbent layer to the carrier layer is carried out by spunlace technology, using jets of liquid, which optionally may be a moisturizing agent.
  • the carrier layer may be made of a liquid permeable material.
  • the carrier layer and the absorbent layer have distinct colors.
  • one or both of the carrier layer and the absorbent layer are made of nonwoven material.
  • the absorbent layer is embedded between two, at least partially overlapping, carrier layers.
  • the absorbent layer comprises a sheet of material folded in an overlapping manner.
  • the absorbent layer is folded about a side edge thereof, forming a U-shaped pattern.
  • the absorbent layer is folded in a C-shaped pattern, about a center-line thereof, with edges of the folded layer facing the carrier layer.
  • the absorbent material is folded in a C-shaped pattern, about a center-line thereof, with edges of the folded sheet facing away from the carrier layer.
  • the carrier layer is applied over the absorbent layer leaving margins of the carrier layer, at least along one or both longitudinal edges thereof.
  • the margins of the carrier layer may be folded over the absorbent layer in an overlapping manner, forming a C-shaped pattern enveloping an inverted C-shaped pattern, and the method may comprise after step (c) the steps of folding the margins of the carrier material.
  • the method my further comprise the step of attaching together overlapping portions of said margins of the carrier material, and/or the step of attaching together said absorbent layer and said carrier material.
  • the method may comprise after step (d) packing the swab.
  • the active material includes at least one of a cleaning agent, a detergent, an antibacterial agent, a disinfectant agent, a polishing agent, a medicament, personal care agent, body moisturizing agent, and a body cleaning soap.
  • the at least one absorbent layer may comprise said active agent.
  • the active agent may be in any suitable form, including liquid, powder, solid, gel, paste or any combination thereof.
  • the at least one absorbent layer comprises a suitable absorbent material, for example including any one of or suitable combination of any one of the following: synthetic fibers such as polyester, polypropylene, co-polyester,; or cellulose fibers such as viscose or cotton,
  • the at least one absorbent layer comprises about 70% to about 90% polyester and about 10% to about 30% co-polyester.
  • the at least one absorbent layer comprises about 20% to about 80%, e.g. about 50%, polyester or polypropylene and about 80% to about 20%, e.g., 50%, cellulose fibers such as viscose or cotton fibers.
  • the at least one absorbent layer comprises about 20% to about 40%, e.g.
  • the at least one absorbent layer comprises about 20% to about 40%), e.g. 30%, polyester, and 80% to 60%, e.g. 70%, viscose.
  • the at least one absorbent layer comprises about 100%) cotton.
  • the at least one absorbent layer comprises a weight density of between about 40 g/m 2 to about 300 g/m 2 , preferably between about 80 g/m 2 to about 120 g/m .
  • the absorbent layer comprises a weight density of between about
  • the at least one absorbent layer may be produced using any suitable technology including any one of through air bonding technology, spunlace technology, needle punch technology, airlaid technology and wetlaid technology.
  • the at least one absorbent layer may comprise about 30% to about 70% cellulosic fibers and about 30% to about 70% polypropylene.
  • the cellulosic fibers may comprise any one of viscose, jute fibers, flax fibers, hemp fibers, pulp fibers or cotton fibers, or any combination of such fibers.
  • the carrier layer comprises suitable openings.
  • the carrier layer may be made from about 60% to about 100% of thin fibers and from about 0% to about 40% absorbent fibers.
  • the thin fibers may be made from polypropylene, and the absorbent fibers may be made from viscose.
  • the absorbent layer may further comprise relative thick fibers arranged substantially on an outer surface thereof, and the thick fibers may be made from polypropylene.
  • the carrier layer may be made from about 60% to about 100% of thin fibers and from about 0% to about 40% absorbent fibers. At least one carrier layer comprises a weight density of between about 13 g/m 2 to about 35 g/m 2 .
  • step (c) comprises welding the at least one absorbent layer to the at least one carrier layer by any one of heat welding and ultrasonic welding, wherein said welding is carried out along at least one weld line.
  • the at least one weld line is arranged longitudinally.
  • such welding may be effected along particular patterns including lines, broken or full, spots, or in any desired shape.
  • such welding comprises welding all such layers along the width of the swab.
  • the present invention is directed to a method for manufacturing a multi-layered swab, comprising the following steps:
  • step (d) cutting the continuous multi-layered material obtained in step (c) into swabs; wherein at least one of said absorbent layer and said carrier layer is subjected to a longitudinal folding operation.
  • the method further comprises the step of providing an active material to at least one of said carrier layer and said absorbent layer.
  • Application of the active agent typically but not exclusively by moistening the swabs, may take place at any stage along or after the manufacturing process.
  • the liquid used for generating the bonding liquid jets may be a moisturizing agent.
  • FIG. 1 schematically illustrates an embodiment of a continuous process for manufacturing a swab according to an embodiment of the present invention
  • Figs. 2 to 6 are schematic sections of swabs according to various embodiments of the present invention, wherein:
  • Figs. 2A, 3A, 4A, 5A and 6A illustrate the swabs after applying and attaching the absorbent layer to the carrier layer, at an unfolded position
  • Figs. 2B, 3B, 4B, 5B, and 6B illustrate the swabs at a folded position
  • Fig. 7 illustrates a floor mop appliance fitted with a swab in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figs. 8A-8D are schematic sections illustrating swabs in accordance with other embodiments of the present invention.
  • Figs. 9A and 9B illustrate a preferred embodiment of a swab in plan view and end view, respectively.
  • Figs. 10 A illustrates in fragmented detail plan view an opening of the embodiment of Figs. 9A, 9B.
  • Fig. 10B shows a section of the opening of Fig. 10A, taken along A-A.
  • Fig. 11 illustrates in cross-sectional view another embodiment of the invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
  • a roll of carrier sheet layer 20 is mounted on a dispensing spool with a leading edge fed between a pair of positioning rollers 22, for deploying the sheet at a continuously and fixed rate.
  • the carrier layer is made of a wear-resistant material having a minimal thickness suitable for carrier and supporting a layer of absorbent material.
  • a roll of absorbent sheet layer 26 is provided over a second spool and is introduced between a pair of deploying rollers 28.
  • the absorbent layer 26 is made of a material, or in a fashion, having increased absorbing capacity and at its initial stage is a flat sheet of material as illustrated in Section 1 (Fig. 1).
  • the carrier sheet layer 20 is advanced over a plurality of support rollers 30A, 30B and 30C (and optionally over a conveyer belt) and is advanced essentially flat.
  • the absorbent sheet layer 26 extends through a folding station generally designated 34 imparting the sheet a C-shaped fold as illustrated in Section 2 (Fig. 1) and further after passing support roller 36, the absorbent sheet obtains a complete C-shaped fold as in Section 3.
  • the absorbent layer 26 is centrally applied over the carrier sheet layer 20 and is positioned in place by setting roller 40 parallely extending over support roller 30B, wherein the absorbent layer 26 bears against the carrier layer 20 as in Section 4.
  • spunlace attaching unit 46 wherein strong jets of liquid are applied via a plurality of nozzles 48, resulting in fibrous engagement of the sheets, as illustrated in Section 5.
  • Spunlace technology is typically used with nonwoven sheet material.
  • the multi-layered sheet progresses to a folding and cutting station (not shown) wherein margins 50A and 50B of the carrier layer 20 are folded and then, the sheet is cut into sized swabs ready for packaging.
  • a folding and cutting station not shown
  • an adhesive material e.g. hot- melt gluing material, etc.
  • nozzles 64 Fig. 1
  • the layers may be welded together by means of ultrasonic or heat welding techniques.
  • the liquid applied in the form of jets may be, for example, a liquid such as a moisturizing agent, a cleaning agent, a body cleaning soap or gel, a disinfecting agent, a surface treating agent, a medicament, etc., depending on the purpose of the swab.
  • a liquid such as a moisturizing agent, a cleaning agent, a body cleaning soap or gel, a disinfecting agent, a surface treating agent, a medicament, etc., depending on the purpose of the swab.
  • the carrier layer 20 and the absorbent layer 26 be made of the same material.
  • the absorbent layer 26 may be applied in between two carrier layers 20 fully or partially overlapping one another. This arrangement may be useful where increased strength is required, e.g. as a floor mop in particular for rough surfaces, etc.
  • Additional layer design options are possible, including for example, providing the carrier layer 20 and the absorbent layer 26 with distinct colors and making the carrier layer 20 a liquid permeable material to admit liquid penetration from the absorbent layer 26 through the carrier layer 20.
  • the carrier layer 20 may be perforated for the latter purpose.
  • Figs. 2A-6B there are illustrated several embodiments of swabs in accordance with of the present invention, showing sections of swabs in a folded and unfolded position.
  • FIG. 2A an absorbent layer A2 is applied over a carrier layer C2 with attachment therebetween formed either by applying adhesive material or by spunlace attachment, as represented at portions marked F. As seen, the absorbent layer A2 is significantly thicker than the carrier layer C2. In Fig. 2B the carrier layer C2 is folded in a C-shaped fashion over the absorbent layer A2.
  • an absorbent layer A3 is folded in a C-shaped pattern about a center- line thereof, with edges of the folded layer facing a carrier layer C3 with adhesive material applied at portions marked F.
  • additional adhesive material may be applied at central portions identified as Fc.
  • the carrier layer C3 is folded over the absorbent layer A3 in an inverted C-shaped fashion i.e. enveloping the C- shaped pattern of the absorbent layer A3.
  • an absorbent layer A4 is folded in a C-shaped pattern and is applied over a carrier layer C4 such that edges of the folded sheet face away from the carrier layer C4.
  • the absorbent layer A4 is attached to the carrier layer C4 at F and preferably, although not compulsory, overlapping portions of the absorbent layer are adhered to one another at 04.
  • an absorbent layer A5 is folded about its side edge, forming a U-shaped pattern and adhered or attached to a carrier layer C5 at the portions marked F.
  • Fig. 5B The folded position of this embodiment is illustrated in Fig. 5B wherein the carrier layer C5 envelops the adhesive layer A5.
  • the absorbent layer is disposed symmetrically over the carrier layer, leaving side margins of reduced thickness, i.e. the thickness of the carrier layer.
  • inventions comprise at least one carrier layer and at least one absorbent layer attached thereto.
  • the carrier layer comprises at least one edge portion or margin that is foldable over at least a part of the absorbent layer.
  • the absorbent layer is applied over a part of the at least one carrier layer leaving exposed the edge portion of the carrier layer.
  • the carrier layer comprises two edge portions which are exposed with respect to said at least one absorbent layer, the edge portions being comprised on transversely opposed ends of the carrier layer.
  • the edge portions of the carrier layer are foldable over the at least one absorbent layer in an overlapping manner, so as to form a C- shaped pattern enveloping said absorbent layer.
  • the carrier layer C is at least partially hydrophilic, and may be manufactured using thermo-bonding or spun bonding as known in the art per se.
  • the weight density of such carrier layers for heavy duty applications such as for
  • the absorbent layer A typically comprises a high percentage of cellulosic fibers, 50% to about 100%, such as for example viscose, jute fibers, flax fibers, hemp fibers, pulp fibers or cotton fibers, or any combination of such fibers, which provide high absorbance and retention of liquids.
  • the absorbent layer may be manufactured using any suitable method, including for example methods based on any one of airlaid, wetlaid, spunlace (hydro-entanglement) or needle-punch technologies.
  • the absorbent layer may comprise a weight density rated in 9 9 9 the range of about 40 g/m to about 300 g/m , preferably between about 80 g/m
  • Figs. 6A and 6B differ from the previous embodiments in that the absorbent layer A6 is positioned asymmetrically adjacent an edge of the carrier layer C6 (see Fig. 6A) whilst in the folded position it assumes the position as illustrated in Fig. 6B.
  • This arrangement may be useful for different types of mop appliances.
  • a swab generally designated 100 comprising an absorbent C-like layer 102 received within an enveloping carrying layer 104 with its flaps 106 and 108 attached to one another at 110, e.g. by adhering.
  • the absorbent layer 102 is of increased absorbing capacity whilst the enveloping layer 104 is a carrier layer which may be designed as to allow liquid permeation in one way only, i.e., only into the enclosed space holding the absorbent layer 102.
  • the embodiment of Fig. 8B discloses a swab 116 with a U-like absorbent material 118 received within the enveloping carrier 120. In this embodiment the absorbent material 118 is attached at 124 to the carrier layer 120.
  • Fig. 8C discloses a swab 130 in which the absorbent material 132 is a thickened sheet received within an enveloping carrier 134 with its edges 136 and 138 attached to one another at 140 as disclosed hereinabove.
  • a swab generally designated 200 comprises an absorbent C-like layer 202 wherein the longitudinal edges 203 may optionally be further folded inwardly (not shown).
  • the absorbent layer 202 is received within an enveloping carrying layer 204 with its flaps 206 and 208 attached to one another at 210, e.g. by adhering.
  • the absorbent layer 202 is of increased absorbing capacity relative to the carrier layer whilst the enveloping layer 204 is a carrier layer.
  • the absorbent layer 202 is preferably attached at 224 to the carrier layer 204.
  • the volume or thickness of the absorbent layer 202 is preferably greater than that of the carrier layer 204.
  • the carrier layer 204 preferably comprises a plurality of openings 230 arranged over the surface thereof.
  • the openings 230 penetrate the thickness of the layer 204 and thus provide further fluid communication between the absorbent layer 202 and the outside of the carrier layer 204.
  • the openings 230 are arranged in single file along a plurality of spaced lines which are substantially parallel to the longitudinal edges 229 of the swab 200.
  • any other arrangement may be provided instead for the disposition of the openings 230.
  • the apertures are of any suitable shape and preferably oval, each having the major axis substantially parallel to the longitudinal edges 229. Furthermore, and as illustrated in Fig.
  • the openings 230 are formed as raised nozzle-like projections 240 from the outer surface 235 of the carrier layer 204.
  • This structure for the carrier layer 204 provides a number of advantages.
  • the projections 240 enhance the abrasive action of the surface 235 of the swab 200 as this is passed over a surface that is to be cleaned or otherwise treated with the material absorbed by the absorbent layer 202, which readily releases this material through the openings 230.
  • the projections 240 also provide some stiffness to the carrier layer 204, which help in maintaining the shape of the swab 200.
  • the swab 200 being stiffer along the longitudinal direction L than in the transverse direction T, and also substantially stiffer than a sheet of the material of the carrier layer.
  • the fold along the two longitudinal edges 229, and the mutually attached overlapping flaps 206, 208 provide a degree of stiffness, particularly in the longitudinal direction L, which is far greater than the stiffness of the material of the carrier layer 204 on its own.
  • the openings 230 in particular the projections 240, the arrangement of the openings in parallel lines, which are also parallel to the longitudinal edges 229, and the oval shape of the openings also contribute to this stiffness.
  • the swab 200 when held in the palm of the hand, with one of the transverse edges 250 accommodated at the base of the fingers, and with the thumb holding the swab 200 against the fingers, the swab 200 may be easily bent along the transverse direction, as the index and little finger are moved, but offers some resistance longitudinally, thereby preventing the swab from becoming squashed under moderate pressure from the fingers. In this position, the swab 200 is clamped between the thumb and the fingers, but at the same time a portion of the swab projects from the tips of the fingers. Accordingly, this projecting portion has sufficient stiffness to facilitate manipulation of the swab over different surfaces, such as for example glasses, crockery, furniture, parts of the body, and so on.
  • the swab 200 has features that improve the general stiffness thereof compared to regular dish cloth or the like, which while relatively flexible and thus capable of reaching difficult corners are difficult to grip.
  • a scouring capability is provided in the swab 200, but being less stiff than traditional scourers the swab 200 provides a balance between the requirements for gripping and flexibility.
  • the carrier layer 204 is made from about 60% to about 100%) of thin fibers, and from about 0% to about 40% of absorbent fibers, for example as described in US 2003/0194937, the contents of which are incorporated herein,
  • the thin fibers typically have a thickness of less than 5dtex, and may be made from polypropylene, or any other suitable material that provides high tensile strength.
  • the absorbent fibers may include natural or synthetic fibers, including for example viscose.
  • the outer surface 235 includes an abrasive rough layer of thick fibers. These fibers are substantially thicker than the thin fibers, and are made from a similar material, such as for example polypropylene.
  • the thick fibers may be provided in different thicknesses, ranging for example between 5dtex to 20 dtex.
  • the outer surface 235 is relatively rough and abrasive, while the inner surface of the carrier layer may be smooth and also optionally absorbent.
  • the carrier layer 204 may be manufactured as a roll of material, for example as described in US 2003/0194937. Then, the apertures 230 and projections 240 are formed in the carrier layer 204 prior to forming the swabs 200 according to the present invention.
  • the carrier layer may optionally be bonded to the absorbent layer.
  • the carrier layer may be bonded to the absorbent layer via one or a plurality of weld lines or spot bonds.
  • the weld lines may be longitudinal weld lines, substantially parallel to the edges 229.
  • the weld lines may be transverse to the edges 229, or indeed at any angle thereto, and may be straight or any other shape, continuous or broken, parallel one to another or set at any mutual angle between one and another.
  • any suitable pattern may be formed on the swab 200 using such weld lines and spot bonds.
  • Such weld lines or spot bonds may be formed by directly applying heat to the carrier layer and absorbent layer wherever it is wished to form the weld lines or spot bonds, for example using a heated wheel having a periphery of appropriate characteristics so that when the rim of the wheel is heated and rolled over the aforesaid layers the desired weld pattern is formed.
  • ultrasonic welding techniques may be used for producing the desired weld pattern.
  • the heat weld pattern is applied during the continuous manufacturing process described above with respect to Fig. 1, mutatis mutandis.
  • the presence of such heat weld lines and/or spot bonds enhances the mechanical integrity of the swab 200, and may improve its stiffness depending on the particular pattern and distribution of the weld lines and spot bonds.
  • the stiffness of the swab 200 along direction L will be greater than in the absence of such weld lines.
  • the weld lines may have any suitable width, ranging, for example, from about 0.5mm to about 5mm or greater, according to the use to which the swab 200 is intended.
  • the spot bonds may also be of any desired shape and of any desired size, for example at least some of the spot bonds may be substantially disclike, having a diameter that may range from about 0.5mm to about 5mm or more.
  • the weld lines or spot bonds extend through the thickness of the swab 200 and thus includes both carrier layers on either side of the absorbent layer, as well as any and all of the folded layers of the absorbent layer where applicable.
  • at least some of the weld lines or spot bonds may only bond the absorbent layer to the carrier layer at one side thereof and not the carrier layer on the other side thereof.
  • a different weld pattern may be applied on each of the two sides of the swab 200.
  • the swab 200 may further comprise a stiffening layer or coating (not shown) bonded to the inside of said carrier layer 204 and/or to the absorbent layer 202.
  • a stiffening layer or coating may comprise, for example, a thermoplastic material that can be applied to the carrier layer 204 or the absorbent layer 202 using any suitable thermo bonding technique.
  • a thermoplastic material may comprise, for example, a thermoplastic polymer such as for example polypropylene, polyethylene and polyethylene copolymer, or polyethylene terephthalate, or a hot melt adhesive.
  • the stiffening layer or coating may be in the form of a grid or net of the thermoplastic material, optionally comprising additional thermoplastic material at the nodes thereof.
  • the absorbent layer 202 is preferably made from a nonwoven material. More preferably, the material for the absorbent layer 202 is manufactured using so-called "through air bonding" techniques, which are known per se in the art, and which provide the layer with low density fiber network structure, having a low ratio of mass per unit volume, this volume including the volume of the fibers and the volume of the spaces between the fibers.
  • Such a low density structure for the absorbent layer which thus comprises a plurality of cavities, provides a capacity for forming bubbles when a suitable detergent or surfactant is used as the active material and mixed with water in the cavities.
  • the capacity to form bubbles is advantageous when the swab is used for applications dealing with the body - such as for example cleaning the body.
  • Such materials manufactured using through air bonding techniques may include, for example, a material comprising about 10% to about 50% co-polyester or bi- component fibers, and the remainder polyester, manufactured by SHALAG SHAMIR, Kibbutz Shamir, Israel
  • the absorbent layer 202 is highly hydrophilic, and has a composition of about 10%) to 50%, and preferably between about 15%) and 25% of a copolyester and the remainder may be polyester.
  • the copolyester may be in the form of fibers, and advantageously have a melting point of less than 110°C, and thus can bond the absorbent layer 202 to the carrier layer 204 via these fibers by the application of moderate heat to the layers, for example at the aforesaid weld lines or spot bonds.
  • the absorbent layer 202 may be relatively thick, having a weight density of about 80g/m 2 to about 120 g/m 2 , or even up to about 200 g/m 2 or about 300 g/m , for example, and may be provided as a single sheer, for example as illustrated in any one of Figs. 2A, 2B, 8C, mutatis mutandis, or folded over to provide greater thickness, as illustrated in any one of Figs. 3 A to 6B, 7, 8 A, 8B or 9, mutatis mutandis, for example.
  • the absorbent layer 202 may be any one of Figs. 3 A to 6B, 7, 8 A, 8B or 9, mutatis mutandis, for example.
  • the absorbent layer 202 may be
  • the material for the absorbent layer 202 is manufactured using so-called "spunlace" techniques, which are known per se in the art.
  • a material for the absorbent layer 202 is preferably highly hydrophilic, and has a composition of about 30%) to about 70% viscose, and about 70% to about 30% polypropylene.
  • a suitable material for the absorbent layer 202 is LIDRO, 58g/m 2 by JACOB-HOLM (France) SAS, Soultz, France, comprising about 40% Lyocell and about 60% polypropylene.
  • Typical dimensions for such a swab 200 adapted for use as a hand-held swab are about 12cm by about 9cm.
  • FIG. 11 A further embodiment of the invention is illustrated in Fig. 11, and comprises all of the elements of the embodiment of Figs. 9A to 10B, as described herein and with the following differences, mutatis mutandis.
  • the swab 200' does not comprise a separate absorbent layer, such as layer 202, and the activity and function of the same is provided by the internal facing portion 202' of the carrier layer 204', which is folded over itself and bonded together at 210' and/or along a longitudinal centerline of the swab 200'.
  • the outer surface 235' is relatively rough and abrasive, while the inner surface of the carrier layer may be smooth and also absorbent.
  • the carrier layer 204' may be manufactured as a roll of material, for example as described in US 2003/0194937. Then, the apertures 230' and projections 240' are formed in the carrier layer 204' prior to forming the swabs 200' according to the present invention.
  • the carrier layer 204 is made from about 60% to about 100% of thin fibers, and from about 0% to about 40%) of absorbent fibers, for example as described in US 2003/0194937.
  • the outer surface 235 includes an abrasive rough layer of thick fibers, such as for example polypropylene, and the thick fibers may be provided in different thicknesses, ranging for example between 5dtex to 20 dtex.
  • the layer 202' may comprise thin fibers typically having a thickness of less than 5 dtex, and may be made from polypropylene, or any other suitable material that provides high tensile strength.
  • the layer 202' may further comprise absorbent fibers that may include natural or synthetic fibers, including for example viscose.
  • a further embodiment of the invention (not illustrated), comprises all of the elements of the embodiment of Figs. 9A to 10B or of Fig 11, as described herein and with the following differences, mutatis mutandis.
  • the carrier layer 204 of Figs 9A-10B, or the carrier layer 204' of Fig. 11 is turned inside out, so that the thick fibers of polypropylene which provide the abrasive action and also stiffness, are on the inside of the swab, while the thin fibers of polypropylene and possibly the absorbent fibers, are on the outside of the swab.
  • This arrangement maintains the stiffness and water retaining capacity of the earlier embodiments, but provides a soft external surface which is preferable to an abrasive surface when contacting the skin.
  • Apertures and projections similar to apertures 230, 230', and projections 240, 240' may be provided, and these projections may be extending inwardly or outwardly from the carrier layer.
  • a further embodiment of the invention (not illustrated), comprises all of the elements of the embodiment of Figs. 9A to 10B or of Fig 11, as described herein and with the following differences, mutatis mutandis.
  • the carrier layer 204 of Figs 9A-10B, or the carrier layer 204' of Fig. 11 is not abrasive on the outside, so that there are no thick fibers of polypropylene which would otherwise provide the abrasive action and also stiffness.
  • the carrier layer comprises thin fibers of polypropylene and possibly the absorbent fibers. This arrangement provides a soft external surface which is preferable to an abrasive surface when contacting the skin.
  • such a swab also comprises a stiffening layer or coating bonded to the inside of said carrier layer and/or to the absorbent layer.
  • a stiffening layer or coating may comprise, for example, a thermoplastic material that can be applied to the carrier layer or the absorbent layer using any suitable thermo bonding technique.
  • a thermoplastic material may comprise, for example, a thermoplastic polymer such as for example polypropylene, polyethylene and polyethylene copolymer, or polyethylene terephthalate, or a hot melt adhesive.
  • the stiffening layer or coating may be in the form of a grid or net of the thermoplastic material, optionally comprising additional material at the nodes thereof.
  • the absorbent layer comprises an active agent or material that it is wished to apply to an external surface.
  • the external surface may comprise, for example, glass, ceramic, crystal, crockery, wood, vinyl, the floor, furniture, baths, sinks, the body, and so on, depending on the purpose of the swab.
  • This agent may be in any suitable form, including liquid, powder, solid, gel, moist or dry paste, and so on, or any combination thereof, and may comprise a moisturizing agent, a cleaning agent, a body cleaning soap or gel, a disinfecting agent, a surface treating agent, a medicament, etc., depending on the purpose of the swab.
  • the agent when the swab is immersed in water or any other suitable liquid, the agent is at least partially dissolved or carried by the water to the surface being treated, via the carrier layer, and/or the optionally open longitudinal ends of the swab, and/or any openings that may be provided on the surface of the carrier layer.
  • a swab made of a uniform sheet of material folded about itself (and preferably, where at least edges of the swab, at the folded position, are attached to one another) and having an outside face and an inside face, said inside face having increased absorbing capacity and said outside face having mechanical properties such as abrasiveness, one-way liquid transfer, etc.
  • a one-way liquid transfer layer (e.g. in the form of a mesh of material) is useful for controlled/slow release of a substrate absorbed by the absorbing layer, e.g. a medicament or treating agent, a cleaning agent, etc.
  • a swab according to any embodiment of the present invention may be used for a variety of different products, examples of which are, dish-washing swabs/wipes, surface cleaning/treating swabs e.g. for home/garden and car cleaning and treating, medical or cosmetic treating, etc.
  • the swab may contain a suitable preparation or agent, e.g. a dish washing or cleaning agent, a medical or treating preparation, either in liquid or dry form.
  • the swab according to any embodiment of the invention may be provided in any suitable form and/or size according to the intended use or purpose thereof.
  • the swab may be adapted for use as a sanitary napkin, or as a floor mop, or as a dish-washing wipe, or as a cleaning wipe, or as a body cleaning wipe, for example.
  • the swab according to any embodiment is thus relatively inexpensive to manufacture, compared with sponges and scourers, for example, and is thus economically disposable after one or several uses. Accordingly, build up of bacteria and dirt, which is common when sponges and scourers are used repeatedly over a long period, is avoided.
  • the swab may be manufactured of two sheets each having a different color. Colors may be useful for indicating the purpose or type of the swab. An outside abrasive surface may be obtained e.g.
  • the swab may be wetted at any stage and to any extend. According to some embodiments the swab may be a priory dry and be wetted at a later stage, whilst according to other embodiments the swab may be pre-moisturized or soaking wet.

Landscapes

  • Cleaning Implements For Floors, Carpets, Furniture, Walls, And The Like (AREA)

Abstract

La présente invention concerne un tampon multicouche possédant une ou plusieurs feuilles de couche porteuse (20) et une ou plusieurs feuilles de couche absorbantes (26) attachées à la couche porteuse. Cette couche absorbante est constituée d'une feuille de matériau possédant une capacité d'absorption élevée alors que la couche porteuse est constituée d'une feuille de matériau possédant une résistance à l'usure élevée et une résistance élevée par rapport à la couche absorbante. La couche porteuse est pliable par rapport à la couche absorbante. Dans certains modes de réalisation de l'invention, la couche porteuse possède des paries bord qui sont conçus particulièrement pour fixer ce tampon à un balai à laver (72, 74), par exemple. Dans d'autres modes de réalisation de l'invention, la couche porteuse enveloppe la couche absorbante. Habituellement, la couche absorbante est un matériau sans pâte et le tampon est fabriqué dans un processus en ligne continu.
PCT/IL2004/000380 2003-05-08 2004-05-06 Tampon de nettoyage multicouche et procede de fabrication de celui-ci WO2004098369A1 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
IL15580203A IL155802A0 (en) 2003-05-08 2003-05-08 A multi-layer article and a method for manufacturing same
IL155802 2003-05-08

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2004098369A1 true WO2004098369A1 (fr) 2004-11-18

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WO (1) WO2004098369A1 (fr)

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CN104207737A (zh) * 2014-08-13 2014-12-17 上海锵达纺织有限公司 一种汉麻非织造抹布及其生产工艺

Citations (12)

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3896518A (en) * 1973-03-16 1975-07-29 Landstingens Inkopscentral Impregnated laminated pad for mops
EP0097036A2 (fr) * 1982-06-14 1983-12-28 The Procter & Gamble Company Chiffon d'essuyage industriel fortement absorbant
US4436780A (en) * 1982-09-02 1984-03-13 Kimberly-Clark Corporation Nonwoven wiper laminate
US4437271A (en) * 1979-03-14 1984-03-20 Minnesota Mining And Manufacturing Company Surface treating pad having a renewable surface
US4473611A (en) * 1982-11-26 1984-09-25 Lever Brothers Company Porous polymeric material containing a reinforcing and heat-sealable material
US4515703A (en) * 1981-06-01 1985-05-07 Lever Brothers Company Article carrying active material
EP0315432A2 (fr) * 1987-11-06 1989-05-10 Irish Wire Products Plc Coussin de savon
EP0562919A1 (fr) * 1992-03-19 1993-09-29 Minnesota Mining And Manufacturing Company Article de polissage, procédé de manufacture et l'article en soi
US5320900A (en) * 1993-08-10 1994-06-14 E. I. Du Pont De Nemours And Company High absorbency cleanroom wipes having low particles
US5525397A (en) * 1993-12-27 1996-06-11 Kao Corporation Cleaning sheet comprising a network layer and at least one nonwoven layer of specific basis weight needled thereto
US5639532A (en) * 1995-01-19 1997-06-17 Wells; Donald R. Multilayer cleansing kit and towel system
US6464815B1 (en) * 2000-05-05 2002-10-15 Wallace J. Beaudry Method of manufacturing laminated pad

Patent Citations (12)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3896518A (en) * 1973-03-16 1975-07-29 Landstingens Inkopscentral Impregnated laminated pad for mops
US4437271A (en) * 1979-03-14 1984-03-20 Minnesota Mining And Manufacturing Company Surface treating pad having a renewable surface
US4515703A (en) * 1981-06-01 1985-05-07 Lever Brothers Company Article carrying active material
EP0097036A2 (fr) * 1982-06-14 1983-12-28 The Procter & Gamble Company Chiffon d'essuyage industriel fortement absorbant
US4436780A (en) * 1982-09-02 1984-03-13 Kimberly-Clark Corporation Nonwoven wiper laminate
US4473611A (en) * 1982-11-26 1984-09-25 Lever Brothers Company Porous polymeric material containing a reinforcing and heat-sealable material
EP0315432A2 (fr) * 1987-11-06 1989-05-10 Irish Wire Products Plc Coussin de savon
EP0562919A1 (fr) * 1992-03-19 1993-09-29 Minnesota Mining And Manufacturing Company Article de polissage, procédé de manufacture et l'article en soi
US5320900A (en) * 1993-08-10 1994-06-14 E. I. Du Pont De Nemours And Company High absorbency cleanroom wipes having low particles
US5525397A (en) * 1993-12-27 1996-06-11 Kao Corporation Cleaning sheet comprising a network layer and at least one nonwoven layer of specific basis weight needled thereto
US5639532A (en) * 1995-01-19 1997-06-17 Wells; Donald R. Multilayer cleansing kit and towel system
US6464815B1 (en) * 2000-05-05 2002-10-15 Wallace J. Beaudry Method of manufacturing laminated pad

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CN104207737A (zh) * 2014-08-13 2014-12-17 上海锵达纺织有限公司 一种汉麻非织造抹布及其生产工艺

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