Enhanced System for Transferring Cut-Out Nonwoven Material Members
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
An improved method and system for transferring cut-out nonwoven material members for use in absorbent articles, featuring dynamically adjustable vacuum port pattern units and real-time control systems to ensure efficient and precise transfer.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent disclosed a method for transferring cut-out nonwoven material members for use in absorbent articles. However, the existing method had limitations in terms of efficiency, precision, and adaptability to varying nonwoven material shapes and sizes. The new inventive concept addresses these limitations by introducing dynamically adjustable vacuum port pattern units, real-time control systems, and advanced sensors to detect and adjust to the outline shape and position of the cut-out nonwoven material members.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The new inventive concept comprises a cutting station, a vacuum transfer roll, and a control unit. The vacuum transfer roll features a circumferential outer surface with at least one vacuum port pattern unit that can be dynamically adjusted to match the outline shape of the cut-out nonwoven material members. The control unit receives data on the outline shape of the cut-out nonwoven material members and adjusts the vacuum port pattern unit in real-time to optimize the transfer process. Additionally, sensors can be used to detect the position and orientation of the cut-out nonwoven material members on the vacuum transfer roll, allowing for precise transfer. The system can accommodate multiple outline shapes of the cut-out nonwoven material members, ensuring versatility and efficiency.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new inventive concept introduces the novel feature of dynamically adjustable vacuum port pattern units, which enables real-time adaptation to varying nonwoven material shapes and sizes. This feature, combined with advanced sensors and control systems, provides an inventive step over the original patent by ensuring efficient and precise transfer of cut-out nonwoven material members.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include the use of different types of sensors, such as optical or ultrasonic sensors, to detect the outline shape and position of the cut-out nonwoven material members. Additionally, the system could be integrated with other manufacturing processes, such as cutting or bonding, to create a more comprehensive production line.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The enhanced system for transferring cut-out nonwoven material members has significant commercial potential in the production of absorbent articles, such as diapers and sanitary products. The improved efficiency, precision, and adaptability of the system make it an attractive solution for manufacturers seeking to optimize their production processes and reduce costs.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61F13/15739 |
| A | A61 | A61F13/15723 |
| B | B26 | B26D7/1863 |
| B | B26 | B26F1/384 |
| B | B32 | B32B38/0004 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Nonwoven material processing and manufacturing, specifically focused on absorbent article production, involving cutting, transferring, and handling of nonwoven materials with specialized equipment
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A skilled engineer or technician with expertise in textile manufacturing, material handling systems, vacuum transfer technologies, and absorbent product production, typically holding a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, materials science, or related field with 3-5 years of industrial experience
Obviousness Rationale
A person having ordinary skill in the art would recognize that dynamically adjusting vacuum port patterns to match cut-out nonwoven material shapes is a predictable engineering solution to improve material transfer efficiency. The source patent establishes the foundational method of transferring nonwoven materials, and the PTD introduces incremental control system improvements that would be considered routine optimization by a skilled practitioner. The real-time sensor-based adjustment represents a logical extension of existing vacuum transfer technologies.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,399 |
|---|---|
| Title | Method for transferring one or more cut-out nonwoven material members for use in an absorbent article |
| Assignee(s) | Essity Hygiene and Health Aktiebolag |