Abstract: A method of making a microneedle array structure (20) comprising a plurality of simultaneously formed microneedles (24), each microneedle (24) having a protrusion (32) and a passageway (34) extending therethrough. The method comprises the steps of pressing an embossable sheet material between a complimentary tools and radiantly heating the sheet material using radiant energy from a radiant energy source. One tool is relatively-radiantly-transparent, and another tool and/or the sheet material is relatively-radiantly-absorptive.

Abstract: The invention relates to a adhesive article comprising at least one backing layer with a first and second surface and a pressure sensitive adhesive layer adhered first surface of the backing layer in a pattern, wherein the pattern of the adhesive layer has an adhesive free area of less than about 25% and wherein the adhesive article has a water vapor transmission rate of greater than about 2000 g/m2/24 hour. The invention also relates to a method of forming an adhesive article comprising (a) providing a release liner, (b) applying pressure sensitive adhesive in a pattern wherein the free adhesive area is less than 25%, and (c) applying a backing layer to the pressure sensitive adhesive.

Abstract: A method of embossing a sheet material includes: heating at least a portion of the sheet directly or indirectly with radiant energy from a radiant energy source; pressing a tool against the heated portion of the sheet, thereby patterning a surface of the sheet; and separating the sheet and the tool. The radiant energy may travel through a solid material that is relatively transparent to radiation, on its way to being absorbed by a relatively-absorptive material. The relatively-transparent material may be an unheated portion of the sheet, and the relatively-absorptive material may be either the tool or the heated portion of the sheet. Alternatively, the relatively-transparent material may be the tool, and the relatively-absorptive material may be all or part of the sheet. The method may be performed as one or more roll-to-roll operations.

Abstract: The invention relates to a adhesive article comprising at least one backing layer with a first and second surface and a pressure sensitive adhesive layer adhered first surface of the backing layer in a pattern, wherein the pattern of the adhesive layer has an adhesive free area of less than about 25% and wherein the adhesive article has a water vapor transmission rate of greater than about 2000 g/m2/24 hour. The invention also relates to a method of forming an adhesive article comprising (a) providing a release liner, (b) applying pressure sensitive adhesive in a pattern wherein the free adhesive area is less than 25%, and (c) applying a backing layer to the pressure sensitive adhesive. The present invention provides pattern coated adhesive bandages that strongly adhere to human skin while permitting water vapor transmission there through. Accordingly the present invention also provides methods of facilitating the healing of wounds using the pattern coated adhesive bandage.

Abstract: Fastening systems for releasably securing two components together include tab and landing members. In a first arrangement, a Z-fold tab member has combined mechanical and adhesive engagement. A second arrangement includes adjacent adhesive and cohesive contact portions. A third arrangement contoured apertures and mechanical engaging elements. A fourth arrangement includes apertures and mechanical engaging elements sized and arranged so that each aperture receives a plurality of mechanical engaging elements. A fifth arrangement includes tab and landing members that cooperate to provide a color indicia of secure adhesive engagement.

Abstract: The invention relates to a adhesive article comprising at least one backing layer with a first and second surface and a pressure sensitive adhesive layer adhered first surface of the backing layer in a pattern, wherein the pattern of the adhesive layer has an adhesive free area of less than about 25% and wherein the adhesive article has a water vapor transmission rate of greater than about 2000 g/m2/24 hour. The invention also relates to a method of forming an adhesive article comprising (a) providing a release liner, (b) applying pressure sensitive adhesive in a pattern wherein the free adhesive area is less than 25%, and (c) applying a backing layer to the pressure sensitive adhesive. The present invention provides pattern coated adhesive bandages that strongly adhere to human skin while permitting water vapor transmission there through. Accordingly the present invention also provides methods of facilitating the healing of wounds using the pattern coated adhesive bandage.

Abstract: A fastening system for releasably securing a diaper provides both mechanical and adhesive or cohesive securement. Tab members comprise a facestock layer, a contact layer of adhesive or cohesive overlying at least a portion of the facestock layer, and mechanical fastening elements projecting from at least a portion of the contact layer. The facestock layer includes extensible and substantially nonextensible polymeric portions. A landing member includes complementary mechanical fastening elements and a contact surface or cohesive for engagement with the tab adhesive or cohesive. A method is also disclosed for making the fastening system.