Abstract: The present invention provides compressed paper webs that maintain a substantial amount of their absorptive capacity and wet strength when compressed. The compressed webs bounce back to a portion of their uncompressed state when wetted. The present compressed webs allow more towels to be added to a dispenser without substantially sacrificing the absorbent capacity or the strength of the towels.

Abstract: A system and method for collecting data on usage of towels or other folded web products. The system includes one or more product dispensers having a respective sensor arrangement associated therewith for determining product usage. For example, a plurality of piezoelectric transducers may be situated about the throat of a product dispenser to generate a detection signal as sheets are withdrawn by a user. Detection signals produced by the transducers are fed to signal condition circuitry, the output of which is fed to a local processor. Selected benchmark information is derived by the local processor, and is transmitted, such as by wireless techniques, to a central data collection unit. The central data collection unit includes a processor which compares the benchmark information against predetermined data to produce the desired usage information.

Abstract: A system and method for collecting data on individual and aggregate use of various washroom products. The system includes one or more product dispensers having a sensor associated therewith for determining product usage. The sensor communicates usage information to local transmitter which responsively generates a data signal. The data signal is transmitted, such as by wireless techniques, to a central data collection unit. The central data collection unit receives and stores the data signal for later analysis. In exemplary embodiments, usage from a plurality of dispensers can be monitored by a single data collection unit.

Abstract: An improved folded absorbent paper product includes a first, central panel; a second panel, unitary with the first panel and folded over a first side of said first panel; a third panel, unitary with the first panel, and folded over a second side of the first panel; a fourth panel, unitary with the second panel, and folded so as to be positioned between the first and second panels; and a fifth panel that is unitary with the third panel and folded so as to be positioned between said first and third panels. Advantages of the improved product include an optimization of weight to space considerations, the fact that exposed edges are kept out of view, an ability to work in a gravity feed dispenser in any of four possible orientations, and an assurance of double ply strength at intended gripping locations. A method of dispensing and of use is also disclosed.

Abstract: An apparatus for determining the weight of liquid flowing to or from a test site is described. The apparatus comprises, in combination:a vessel for containing liquid, the vessel being supported solely by a balance;an indicator for indicating the weight sensed by the balance;a test surface to receive a specimen to be tested, the test surface including the test site;a conduit operatively connecting the vessel to the test site for directing a flow of liquid between the vessel and test site;an adjuster for vertically positioning the test site;Wherein the vessel is supported by the balance through a spring, which serves to maintain the surface of the liquid in the vessel at a constant elevation as liquid flows into and out of the vessel.

Abstract: A catamenial tampon is provided for precluding the bypass of menstrual fluid in use while simultaneously being easy to remove after use. The tampon comprises a generally cylindrical absorbent body having a ring slidably engaged around the body, the ring also being attached to the insertion end of the absorbent body. The ring comprises material which will expand when in place within the vagina to preclude menstrual fluid bypass. A withdrawal string is attached to the cylindrical body whereby, when the tampon is being removed by force exerted on the cylindrical body by means of the withdrawal string, the cylindrical body is disengaged from the ring and removed from the tampon followed by the attached ring.