Abstract: An apparatus for forming a continuous web of material from a block of material is disclosed. The block is preferably a cylindrical block having a base and a generally vertical central axis extending generally orthogonally from the base. The apparatus comprises a rotatable platen such that the block may be rotatably supported, and a milling cutter for displacing portions of the block defining a displaced portion near the base of the block. A blade is positioned generally parallel to the central axis of the block, the blade positioned to cut into the block a predetermined distance from the central axis. The blade has a portion operatively disposed within the displaced portion of the block. The apparatus also comprises a drive mechanism for rotating the platen; as well as a linear drive mechanism for linearly decreasing the predetermined distance of the blade from the central axis.

Abstract: A universal and self-contained monitor for collecting data on consumer consumption of products dispensable by portions. The monitor comprises a supporting member capable of supporting a dispensable product thereon, a weight sensor in operative communication with the supporting member, and a recorder. The tested dispensable product has a product weight. The weight sensor measures the product weight as the portions of the tested dispensable product are removed therefrom. The recorder is in communication with the weight sensor for receiving and recording the product weight. Optionally, the monitor further comprises a consumer input device for receiving data generated by a user regarding usage and acceptability of the tested dispensable product. The results of the product weight measurements and the data generated by a user may be uploaded to a computer to create a data file.

Abstract: A monitor for collecting data on consumer consumption of disposable sheet products is disclosed. The monitor comprises a working surface capable of supporting a stack of sheets thereon, a weight sensor, and a recorder. The stack of sheets comprises a plurality of sheets individually removable from the stack. The stack has a stack weight, and each sheet has a sheet weight. The weight sensor is in operative communication with the working surface for measuring the stack weight as the sheets are removed from the stack. The recorder is in communication with the weight sensor for receiving and recording the stack weight. Optionally, the monitor further comprises a consumer input device for receiving data generated by a consumer regarding usage and acceptability of the product being tested. The results of the stack weight measurements and the data generated by a user may be uploaded to a computer to create a data file.