ROLLED PAPER PRODUCT ARRAYS AND PROPERTIES

Abstract

Array of the present disclosure may comprise packages comprising larger diameter rolls. These packages may weigh the same or less than packages comprising traditional sized rolls and/or these packages may have aisle facing faces that are the same as or smaller than packages comprising traditional sized rolls. The larger diameter rolls may have surprising properties versus traditional rolls: they may be weaker, softer, less firm, generate more lint, etc. than traditional rolls.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/968,533, filed Jan. 31, 2020, the substance of which is incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosure relates to rolled paper products in packages in arrays.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Rolled products, rolled absorbent products, and rolled fibrous products such as paper towels, toilet tissue, disposable shop towels, and wipes, for example, are sometimes packaged as a plurality of rolls. In some instances, the packages may have two or more rolls stacked in a side-by-side fashion with another two or more rolls. In some configurations, individually wrapped packages of the two or more rolls, or stacks of rolls, may be packaged. Individually wrapped packages or naked rolls may be stacked or positioned together into a generally cuboid-shaped bundle. In some configurations, packages of the present disclosure may comprise rolls that have a larger diameter than traditional rolls that are presently available.

There are, however, several challenges with offering packages comprising large rolls. One is consumer concern over managing such packages—packages comprising large diameter roll packages may be perceived as heavier and bulkier. This can be overcome by selling single rolls, but this may be too inefficient for the consumer and may communicate paying a premium per roll. So, there is a desire to engineer the right number of large rolls into the package that communicates value without creating too burdensome of a package or container. Further, arrangement of the large rolls to accomplish an aisle facing package face that is the same as, or smaller, than the aisle facing package face of traditional roll packages may help the consumer to believe that the large roll package is manageable. Placement of the large roll packages among, such as between, the traditional roll packages may also help the consumer accept that large roll offering as manageable.

There may also be a misconception that the large rolls are firmer and, thus, heavier. To combat this, the large rolls may be made of equal firmness to the traditional rolls, or even less firm than the traditional rolls. This firmness may be at the package level (i.e., how the roll feels through the package), as well as at the naked roll level. Caution, however, must be taken not to make the large rolls too light, as this may communicate a lack of quality and/or value. A roll that is less firm near the core and more firm at the outer circumference may be desirable to overcome this—providing a firmer, but lighter than expected large roll.

Another misconception with the large roll may be that it is stronger and, thus, possibly too coarse (i.e., that it is industrial). This may be overcome by making the large rolls only as strong as, or weaker than, the traditional rolls. Additionally, texturing and perforating the large roll substrate may play an important role.

Further, large rolls may offer retailers an advantage as large rolls enable a display space to be economized Greater details about each of these considerations are disclosed below.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A is a simplified perspective view of a package of absorbent paper product.

FIG. 1B is a simplified perspective view of a rolled paper product.

FIG. 1C is a simplified perspective view of a package of absorbent paper product.

FIG. 1D is a simplified perspective view of a package including individually wrapped inner packages of absorbent paper product.

FIG. 2A is a simplified front side view of an array of packages on a retail store shelf.

FIG. 2B is a simplified top view of the array of packages of FIG. 2A.

FIG. 2C is a simplified front side view of an array of packages on a retail store shelf.

FIG. 2D is a simplified top view of the array of packages of FIG. 2C.

FIG. 2E is a simplified front side view of an array of packages on a retail store shelf.

FIG. 2F is a simplified top view of the array of packages of FIG. 2E.

FIG. 3A is a simplified top view of an array of packages displayed on retail store shelves (200′ and 200″) with an aisle 5 between them.

FIG. 3B is a simplified side view of the array of packages displayed on retail store shelf 200′ from FIG. 3A, from the perspective of looking at the retail store shelf 200′ from the aisle 5.

FIG. 3C is a simplified side view of the array of packages displayed on retail store shelf 200″ from FIG. 3A, from the perspective of looking at the retail store shelf 200″ from the aisle 5.

FIG. 3D is a simplified side view of the array of packages displayed on retail store shelf from the perspective of looking at the retail store shelf from an aisle.

FIG. 3E is a simplified side view of the array of packages displayed on retail store shelf from the perspective of looking at the retail store shelf from an aisle.

FIG. 3F is a simplified side view of the array of packages displayed on retail store shelf from the perspective of looking at the retail store shelf from an aisle.

FIG. 4 is a simplified front side view of an array of packages on a retail store shelf.

FIG. 5 is a schematic representation of a rolled paper product roll for use in measuring a rolled paper product roll's Roll Density as measured according to the Roll Density Test Method described herein.

FIG. 6 is a schematic representation of the testing device used in the Roll Firmness measurement.

FIG. 7 is a pallet of Traditional Roll Packages and Large Roll Packages.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The following term explanations may be useful in understanding the present disclosure:

“Fibrous structure” as used herein means a structure (web) that comprises one or more fibers. Non-limiting examples of processes for making fibrous structures include known wet-laid fibrous structure making processes, air-laid fibrous structure making processes, meltblowing fibrous structure making processes, co-forming fibrous structure making processes, and spunbond fibrous structure making processes. Such processes typically include steps of preparing a fiber composition, oftentimes referred to as a fiber slurry in wet-laid processes, either wet or dry, and then depositing a plurality of fibers onto a forming wire or belt such that an embryonic fibrous structure is formed, drying and/or bonding the fibers together such that a fibrous structure is formed, and/or further processing the fibrous structure such that a finished fibrous structure is formed. The fibrous structure may be a through-air-dried fibrous structure and/or conventionally dried fibrous structure. The fibrous structure may be creped or uncreped. The fibrous structure may exhibit differential density regions or may be substantially uniform in density. The fibrous structure may be pattern densified, conventionally felt-presses and/or high-bulk, uncompacted. The fibrous structures may be homogenous or multilayered in construction.

After and/or concurrently with the forming of the fibrous structure, the fibrous structure may be subjected to physical transformation operations such as embossing, calendering, selfing, printing, folding, softening, ring-rolling, applying additives, such as latex, lotion and softening agents, combining with one or more other plies of fibrous structures, and the like to produce a finished fibrous structure that forms and/or is incorporated into a sanitary tissue product.

“Sanitary tissue product” as used herein means a wiping implement for post-urinary and/or post-bowel movement cleaning (referred to as “toilet paper,” “toilet tissue,” or “toilet tissue product”), for otorhinolaryngological discharges (referred to as “facial tissue” or “facial tissue product”) and/or multi-functional absorbent and cleaning uses (referred to as “paper towels,” “paper towel products,” “absorbent towels,” “absorbent towel products,” such as paper towel or “wipe products”).

The sanitary tissue products of the present invention may comprise one or more fibrous structures and/or finished fibrous structures.

The sanitary tissue products of the present invention may exhibit a basis weight between about 10 g/m² to about 120 g/m² and/or from about 15 g/m² to about 110 g/m² and/or from about 20 g/m² to about 100 g/m² and/or from about 30 to 90 g/m². In addition, the sanitary tissue product of the present invention may exhibit a basis weight between about 40 g/m² to about 120 g/m² and/or from about 50 g/m² to about 110 g/m² and/or from about 55 g/m² to about 105 g/m² and/or from about 60 to 100 g/m².

The sanitary tissue products of the present invention may exhibit a total dry tensile strength of greater than about 59 g/cm (150 g/in) and/or from about 78 g/cm (200 g/in) to about 394 g/cm (1000 g/in) and/or from about 98 g/cm (250 g/in) to about 335 g/cm (850 g/in). In addition, the sanitary tissue product of the present invention may exhibit a total dry tensile strength of greater than about 196 g/cm (500 g/in) and/or from about 196 g/cm (500 g/in) to about 394 g/cm (1000 g/in) and/or from about 216 g/cm (550 g/in) to about 335 g/cm (850 g/in) and/or from about 236 g/cm (600 g/in) to about 315 g/cm (800 g/in). In one example, the sanitary tissue product exhibits a total dry tensile strength of less than about 394 g/cm (1000 g/in) and/or less than about 335 g/cm (850 g/in). Two or more sanitary tissue products within an array of sanitary tissue products according to the present invention may exhibit different total dry tensile strengths.

In one example, one sanitary tissue product in an array of sanitary tissue products according to the present invention exhibits a total dry tensile strength of greater than 216 g/cm (550 g/in) and another sanitary tissue product within the array exhibits a total dry tensile strength of less than 216 g/cm (550 g/in).

In another example, the sanitary tissue products of the present invention may exhibit a total dry tensile strength of greater than about 315 g/cm (800 g/in) and/or greater than about 354 g/cm (900 g/in) and/or greater than about 394 g/cm (1000 g/in) and/or from about 315 g/cm (800 g/in) to about 1968 g/cm (5000 g/in) and/or from about 354 g/cm (900 g/in) to about 1181 g/cm (3000 g/in) and/or from about 354 g/cm (900 g/in) to about 984 g/cm (2500 g/in) and/or from about 394 g/cm (1000 g/in) to about 787 g/cm (2000 g/in).

The sanitary tissue products of the present invention may exhibit a total wet tensile strength of less than about 78 g/cm (200 g/in) and/or less than about 59 g/cm (150 g/in) and/or less than about 39 g/cm (100 g/in) and/or less than about 29 g/cm (75 g/in).

The sanitary tissue products of the present invention may exhibit a density of less than about 0.60 g/cm³ and/or less than about 0.30 g/cm³ and/or less than about 0.20 g/cm³ and/or less than about 0.10 g/cm³ and/or less than about 0.07 g/cm³ and/or less than about 0.05 g/cm³ and/or from about 0.01 g/cm³ to about 0.20 g/cm³ and/or from about 0.02 g/cm³ to about 0.10 g/cm³. The sanitary tissue products of the present invention may be in any suitable form, such as in a roll, in individual sheets, in connected, but perforated sheets, in a folded format or even in an unfolded.

The sanitary tissue products of the present invention may comprise additives such as softening agents, temporary wet strength agents, permanent wet strength agents, bulk softening agents, lotions, silicones, and other types of additives suitable for inclusion in and/or on sanitary tissue products. In one example, the sanitary tissue product, for example a toilet tissue product, comprises a temporary wet strength resin. In another example, the sanitary tissue product, for example an absorbent towel product, comprises a permanent wet strength resin.

“Array” means a display of packages in a retail store, often on the same side of an aisle or across an aisle from each other, comprising disposable, fibrous, rolled products of different constructions (such that the products are compositionally and/or structurally different e.g., different fibers or different fiber blends, different chemistries, different embossments, different properties, etc.). The packages may have the same brand and/or sub-brand and/or the same trademark registration and/or having been manufactured by or for a common manufacturer and the packages may be available at a common point of sale (e.g., oriented in proximity to each other in a given area of a retail store). An array is marketed as a line-up of products normally having like packaging elements (e.g., packaging material type, film, paper, dominant color, design theme, etc.) that convey to consumers that the different individual packages are part of a larger line-up. Arrays often have the same brand, for example, “Bounty,” and same sub-brand, for example, “Essentials.” A different product in the array may have the same brand “Bounty” and the sub-brand may be different or the different product may not have a sub-brand. Alternatively, different products in the same array may have the same brand, e.g., “Charmin,” but may have different identifiers: one product in the array may have “Ultra Soft” and the other product in the array may have “Ultra Strong.” The differences between “Charmin Ultra Soft” and “Charmin Ultra Strong” or the differences between “Bounty” and “Bounty Essentials” may include product form, application style, or other structural elements intended to address the differences in consumer needs or preferences. Furthermore, the packaging is distinctly different in that “Charmin Ultra Strong” is packaged in a predominately red packaging and “Charmin Ultra Soft” is packaged in a predominately blue packaging. “On-line Array” means an Array distributed by a common on-line source.

“Ply” or “plies” as used herein means an individual finished fibrous structure optionally to be disposed in a substantially contiguous, face-to-face relationship with other plies, forming a multiple ply (“multi-ply”) sanitary tissue product. It is also contemplated that a single-ply sanitary tissue product can effectively form two “plies” or multiple “plies”, for example, by being folded on itself.

“Indicia” as used herein means an identifier and/or indicator and/or hint and/or suggestion, of the nature of a property of something, such as an intensive property of a sanitary tissue product. “Textual indicia” as used herein means a text indicia, such as a word and/or phrase that communicates to a consumer a property about the sanitary tissue product it is associated with. In one example, a sanitary tissue product, such as a toilet tissue product, is housed in a package comprising a textual indicia; namely, the word “Strong.”

“Brand name” as used herein means a single source identifier, in other words, a brand name identifies a product and/or service as exclusively coming from a single commercial source (i.e., company). An example of a brand name is Charmin®, which is also a trademark. Brand names are nonlimiting examples of textual indicia. The sanitary tissue products of the present invention may be marketed and/or packaged under a common brand name (i.e., the same brand name, such as Charmin). In addition to the brand name, a product descriptor may also be associated with the sanitary tissue products, such as “Ultra Strong” and/or “Ultra Soft” for example).

“Non-textual indicia” as used herein means a non-text indicia that communicates to a consumer through a consumer's senses. In one example, a non-textual indicia may communicate, even intuitively communicate, to a consumer through sight (visual indicia), through touch (texture indicia), sound (audio indicia) and/or through smell (scent indicia).

“Basis Weight” as used herein is the weight per unit area of a sample reported in lbs/3000 ft² or g/m². The basis weight is measured herein by the basis weight test method described in the Test Methods section herein.

“Dry Tensile Strength” (or simply “Tensile Strength” as used herein) of a fibrous structure of the present invention and/or a sanitary tissue product comprising such fibrous structure is measured according to the Tensile Strength Test Method described herein.

“Softness” as used herein means the softness of a fibrous structure according to the present invention and/or a sanitary tissue product comprising such fibrous structure, which is determined according to a human panel evaluation wherein the softness of a test product is measured versus the softness of a control or standard product. The resulting number is a relative measure of softness between the two fibrous structures and/or sanitary tissue products. The softness is measured herein by the softness test method described in the Test Methods section herein. “Absorbency” as used herein means the characteristic of a fibrous structure according to the present invention and/or a sanitary tissue product comprising such fibrous structure, which allows it to take up and retain fluids, particularly water and aqueous solutions and suspensions. In evaluating the absorbency of paper, not only is the absolute quantity of fluid a given amount of paper will hold significant, but the rate at which the paper will absorb the fluid is also. Absorbency is measured herein by the Horizontal Full Sheet (HFS) test method described in the Test Methods section herein.

“Lint” as used herein means any material that originated from a fibrous structure according to the present invention and/or sanitary tissue product comprising such fibrous structure that remains on a surface after which the fibrous structure and/or sanitary tissue product has come into contact. The lint value of a fibrous structure and/or sanitary tissue product comprising such fibrous structure is determined according to the Lint Test Method described herein.

“Texture” as used herein means any pattern present in the fibrous structure. For example, a pattern may be imparted to the fibrous structure during the fibrous structure-making process, such as during a through-air-drying step. A pattern may also be imparted to the fibrous structure by embossing the finished fibrous structure during the converting process and/or by any other suitable process known in the art.

“Color” as used herein, means a visual effect resulting from a human eye's ability to distinguish the different wavelengths or frequencies of light. The apparent color of an object depends on the wavelength of the light that it reflects. While a wide palette of colors can be employed herein, it is preferred to use a member selected from the group consisting of orange, purple, lavender, red, green, blue, yellow, and violet. The method for measuring color is described in the Color Test Method described herein.

“Rolled product(s)” as used herein include fibrous structures, paper, and sanitary tissue products that are in the form of a web and can be wound about a core. For example, rolled sanitary tissue products can be convolutedly wound upon itself about a core or without a core to form a sanitary tissue product roll and can be perforated into the form of discrete sheets, as is commonly known for toilet tissue and paper towels.

FIG. 1A shows a simplified perspective illustration of a package 100 of absorbent paper product 104. As shown in FIG. 1B, the absorbent paper product 104 may be configured as rolled paper product 106, rolled product, rolls of product, and/or rolls. “Rolled products” or “rolled paper products” or “rolls of product” or “rolls” within the present disclosure may include products made from cellulose fibers, nonwoven fibers, other suitable fibers, and combinations thereof. In some configurations, rolled products can be made of, or partially made of recycled fibers. Disposable rolled products or disposable rolled absorbent products or disposable rolled paper products may comprise paper towels, facial tissues, toilet tissues, shop towels, wipes, and the like, which may be made from one or more webs of fibers, such as cellulose fibers or nonwoven fibers, for example. Rolled paper products may comprises an absorbent towel substrate, a sanitary tissue substrate, or a cellulosic fiber containing substrate. With continued reference to FIG. 1B, each roll 106a of rolled paper product 106 may be wound about a paper, cardboard, paperboard, or corrugate tube to form a core 108 through each roll 106a. Each core 108 may define a longitudinal axis 110 extending therethrough. In some configurations, the rolls 106a of rolled paper product 106 may not include the paper, cardboard, paperboard, or corrugate tube, but instead, the rolls of product may be wound about itself to form a roll while still forming a core defined through each roll. The void area in the center of each roll where the product winds about itself can be considered a “core” for purposes of this disclosure, although such rolls may be referred to as “coreless” rolls.

Rolled paper products 106 may have a “Roll Height” 130 (see FIG. 1B) and a “Roll Diameter” 112 (see FIG. 1B). It is to be appreciated that rolled paper products 106 herein may be provided in various different sizes, and may comprise various different roll diameters 112. For example, in some configurations, the roll diameter 112 of the rolled paper product 106 may be from about 4 inches to about 8 inches, specifically reciting all 0.05 inch increments within the above-recited ranges and all ranges formed therein or thereby. In some configurations, the roll diameter 112 of the rolled paper product 106 may be from about 6 inches to about 14 inches, specifically reciting all 0.05 inch increments within the above-recited ranges and all ranges formed therein or thereby. It is also to be appreciated that the rolled paper product 106 may comprise various different roll densities, which may be measured according to the Roll Density Test Method described herein. For example, in some configurations, the rolled paper product 106 may comprise a roll density greater than or equal to about 0.03 g/cm³ and less than or equal to about 0.32 g/cm³, specifically reciting all 0.01 g/cm³ increments within the above-recited ranges and all ranges formed therein or thereby. In some configurations, the rolled paper product 106 may comprise a roll density greater than or equal to about 0.05 g/cm³ and less than or equal to about 0.20 g/cm³, specifically reciting all 0.01 g/cm³ increments within the above-recited ranges and all ranges formed therein or thereby.

The packages 100 that house the absorbent paper product 104 may be formed from various types of material and may be configured in various shapes and sizes. In some configurations, the packages 100 may be formed from a poly film material that may comprise polymeric films, polypropylene films, and/or polyethylene films. In some configurations, the packages 100 may be formed from cellulose, such as for example, in the form of paper and/or cardboard. The package 100 may have a preformed shape into which absorbent paper products 104 are inserted and/or may be formed by wrapping a material around one or more absorbent paper products 104 to define a shape that conforms with the shapes of individual products and/or arrangements of products. As shown in FIG. 1A, the package 100 may also include a seal 114, such as an envelope seal, for example, formed thereon. As shown in FIG. 1A, the package 100 may include a top side 116 and a bottom side 118. The package 100 may also include a front panel 120 and a rear panel 122, wherein the front and rear panels 120, 122 are connected with and separated by opposing first and second sides 124, 126. The front panel 120, the rear panel 122, the first side 124, and/or the second side 126 may be substantially planar, curved, or convex as shown in FIG. 1A and may also define an outer surface 128 of the package 100. Note, “panel” may alternatively be referred to herein as “face” (e.g., front face). The panel configured to face a customer when she walks down an aisle of a retail store may be referred to as an “aisle facing” face or panel of the package 100. Packages 100 may have a “Package Height” 210 (see FIG. 2A), a “Package Width” 212 (see FIG. 2A), and a “Package Depth” 214 (see FIG. 2B). At least one of the panels or faces of the packages in an array may have an indicia 300 indicating a common brand name, sub-brand name, identifier, and/or common manufacturer. Referring to FIG. 2A, each of the first package 201, second package 202, and third package 203 may comprise common brand names 300, but comprise different sub-brand names and/or different identifiers 301, 302, and 303. The brand names may be indicia on the viewable surface of the package or, alternatively, may be embossed as part of the texture of the roll substrate. Each of the first package 201, second package 202, and third package 203 may be manufactured and/or marketed by the same company (e.g., The Procter & Gamble Company).

It is to be appreciated that the packages 100 may include various quantities of absorbent paper products 104 that may be arranged in various orientations within the package 100. For example, as shown in FIG. 1A, an individually wrapped package 100 may include four rolls of rolled paper product 106 inside a package 100, wherein two rolls 106a are stacked on another two rolls 106a. The longitudinal axis 110 of each of the cores 108 of each stack of at least two rolls 106a may be generally parallel and aligned with each other and adjacent stack(s) of at least two rolls 106a can lie in generally the same plane as the other stack(s) of at least two rolled paper products 106. In another example, shown in FIG. 1C, an individually wrapped package 100 may include nine rolls 106a of rolled paper product 106 arranged in stacks inside the package 100. It is to be appreciated that multiple rolls 106a of rolled paper product 106 can be enclosed in a package 100 constructed from a polymer film or other suitable material that may be sealed to form individually wrapped packages 100. In some configurations, individually wrapped packages 100 of the two or more rolls 106a, or stacks of rolls 106a, may be bundled and/or bound together within an overwrap 130 forming a package 100 to define a large count package 100a, such as shown in FIG. 1D. In some configurations, large count packages 100a may contain a plurality of “naked,” (i.e., unwrapped) rolls 106a of rolled paper product 106. In some configurations, the individually wrapped packages or naked rolls may be stacked or positioned together into a generally cuboid-shaped package 100, such as disclosed in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2012/0205272 A1, which is incorporated by reference herein. It is to be appreciated that packages 100 can each comprise one or more rolls 106a of rolled paper product 106, such as for example, two, three, four, six, eight, nine, ten, twelve, or fifteen rolls of rolled paper product.

Arrays of the Present Disclosure

As shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, a retail store shelf 200 in a retail setting 1 (e.g., Target, Walmart, Meijer, etc.) may comprise an array 10 of disposable, fibrous, rolled products (e.g., rolled paper products 106, roll(s) of rolled paper products 106a) of the present disclosure. The array 10 may comprise a first package 201 comprising a first front face 120 disposed as aisle 5 (i.e., the path a customer walks adjacent to the shelf 200) facing. The first package 201 may comprise a first plurality (i.e., 2 or more rolls) of disposable, fibrous, rolled products 106. The first plurality of disposable, fibrous, rolled products 106 may comprise a first average Roll Diameter 112 of 5.85 inches or less for toilet paper, or 6.60 inches or less for paper towels (referred to herein as “Traditional Diameters Rolls” and the packages containing them as “Traditional Roll Packages”). Still referring to FIGS. 2A and 2B, on the same shelf 200, a second package 202 may comprise a second front face 120 disposed as aisle facing. The second package 202 may comprise a single, disposable, fibrous, rolled product 106 or a second plurality (i.e., 2 or more rolls) of disposable, fibrous, rolled products 106 having a second average Roll Diameter 112 of 5.90 inches or greater for toilet paper, or 6.70 inches or greater for paper towels (referred to herein as “Large Diameters Rolls” and the packages containing them as “Large Roll Packages”).

Further, for toilet paper, the second average Roll Diameter (for Large Diameter Rolls) may be greater than 6.00, 6.20, 6.40, or 6.60 inches, and the second average Roll Diameter (for Large Diameter Rolls) may be 22.00, 20.00, 18.00, 16.00, 14.00, 12.00, 10.00, 8.00, 7.00, or less inches, specifically reciting all 0.1 inch increments within the above-recited ranges and all ranges formed therein or thereby. For toilet paper, the second average Roll Diameter (for Large Diameter Rolls) may be from 6.00 inches to about 22.00 inches, from about 6.20 inches to about 12.00 inches, from about 6.40 inches to about 12.00 inches, or from about 6.60 inches to about 8.00 inches, specifically reciting all 0.1 inch increments within the above-recited ranges and all ranges formed therein or thereby.

Further, for paper towels, the second average Roll Diameter (for Large Diameter Rolls) may be greater than 6.80, 7.00, 7.20, or 7.40 inches, and the second average Roll Diameter (for Large Diameter Rolls) may be 22.00, 20.00, 18.00, 16.00, 14.00, 12.00, 10.00, 8.00, or less inches, specifically reciting all 0.1 inch increments within the above-recited ranges and all ranges formed therein or thereby. For paper towels, the second average Roll Diameter (for Large Diameter Rolls) may be from 6.60 inches to about 22.00 inches, from about 6.80 inches to about 18.00 inches, from about 7.00 inches to about 12.00 inches, or from about 7.20 inches to about 8.00 inches, specifically reciting all 0.1 inch increments within the above-recited ranges and all ranges formed therein or thereby.

As shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, the first front face 120 of the first package 201 (comprising Traditional Diameter Rolls) may have a larger “Surface Area” (Package Length 212×Package Height 210) than the second front face 120 of the second package 202 (comprising Large Diameter Rolls)—this may communicate to the consumer that the second package 202 is manageable for handling even though the second package comprises larger diameter rolls than the first package. A second front face 120 of the second package 202 having a smaller Surface Area is not essential, however, as there are other ways to communicate that the second package of Large Diameter Rolls is manageable—described in more detail below.

Still referring to FIGS. 2A and 2B, the first front face 120 of the first package 201 may be formed by more rolls (2 rolls of the first package 201) than the second front face 120 (1 roll of the second package 202). Despite having Traditional Diameter Rolls forming its first front face 120, the first package 201 (a Traditional Roll Package) may be wider 212 than the second front face 120 of the second package 202 (a Large Roll Package) formed by Large Diameter Rolls. The second package 202 may, however, have a Package Depth 214 greater than the Package Depth 214 of the first package 201. A first shelf column 220 may comprise more packages than a second shelf column 222.

Referring to FIG. 2A, the first, second, and third packages may have the same Package Height 210. Alternatively, referring to FIG. 4, the first package 100 (comprising Traditional Diameter Rolls) may have a Package Height 210 than the second package 100′ (comprising Large Diameter Rolls). Referring to FIG. 2A, the first disposable, fibrous, rolled products rolls 106a may be are oriented 90 degrees (A) from the second disposable, fibrous, rolled products rolls 106a′ as they are oriented in the first 201 and second packages 202 on the retail store shelf. Referring further to FIG. 4, the first disposable, fibrous, rolled products rolls 106a (Traditional Diameter Rolls) may be oriented in the same direction the second disposable, fibrous, rolled products rolls 106a′ (Large Diameter Rolls) as they are oriented in the first 100 and second packages 100′ on the retail store shelf.

Referring to FIG. 2A, the array 10 may comprise a third package 203 comprising a third front face 120 disposed as aisle facing. The third package may comprise a third plurality of disposable, fibrous, rolled products rolls 106a (Traditional Diameter Rolls) having a third average Roll Diameter 112. The average Roll Diameter 112 of the rolls 106 of the third package 203 may be smaller than the second package and the third front face 120 of the third package 203 may have a greater Surface Area than the second front face 120 of the second package 202. Further, the third front face 120 of the third package 203 may have a smaller Surface Area than the first front face 120 of the first package 201, even when the front face 120 of the third package 203 comprises more rolls (3 rolls in FIG. 2B) than the front face 120 of the first package 201. Each of the packages illustrated in FIGS. 2A and B may have the same paper composition and/or the same belt design and/or the same emboss design and/or the same basis weight.

As shown in FIGS. 2C and 2D, the first front face 120 of the first package 201 (comprising Traditional Diameter Rolls) may have a larger Surface Area than the second front face 120 of the second package 202 (comprising Large Diameter Rolls)—as above, this may communicate to the consumer that the second package 202 is manageable for handling even though the second package comprises larger diameter rolls than the first package and even when the second front face 120 of the second package comprises multiple Large Diameter Rolls (2 rolls forming the front face 120 of the second package 202 in FIG. 2C).

Still referring to FIGS. 2C and 2D, the first front face 120 of the first package 201 may be formed by more rolls (4 rolls of the first package 201) than the second front face 120 (2 rolls of the second package 202). Despite having Traditional Diameter Rolls forming its first front face 120, the first package 201 (a Traditional Roll Package) may be wider 212 than the second front face 120 of the second package 202 (a Large Roll Package) formed by Large Diameter Rolls. This may seem counter-intuitive as larger rolls seem to lend themselves to a bigger packages and taking up more space. The second package 202 may, however, have a Package Depth 214 greater than the Package Depth 214 of the first package 201. A first shelf column 220 may comprise more packages than a second shelf column 222.

Referring to FIG. 2C, the first, second, and third packages may have the same Package Height 210.

Again referring to FIG. 2C, the array 10 may comprise a third package 203 comprising a third front face 120 disposed as aisle facing. The third package 203 may comprise a third plurality of disposable, fibrous, rolled products rolls 106a (Traditional Diameter Rolls) having a third average Roll Diameter 112. The average Roll Diameter 112 of the rolls 106 of the third package 203 may be smaller than the second package and the third front face 120 of the third package 203 may have a greater Surface Area than the second front face 120 of the second package 202. Further, the third front face 120 of the third package 203 may have a larger Surface Area than the first front face 120 of the first package 201, even when the third package 203 comprises rolls having a smaller average Roll Diameter 112 than the rolls of the first package 201.

Each of the packages illustrated in FIGS. 2C and D may be manufactured and/or marketed by the same company and each of the packages of FIGS. 2C and D may have the same brand name; further each of the packages illustrated in FIGS. 2C and D may have the same paper composition and/or the same belt design and/or the same emboss design and/or the same basis weight.

As shown in FIGS. 2E and 2F, the first front face 120 of the first package 201 (comprising Traditional Diameter Rolls) may have a larger Surface Area than the second front face 120 of the second package 202 (comprising Large Diameter Rolls)—as above, this may communicate to the consumer that the second package 202 is manageable for handling even though the second package 202 comprises larger diameter rolls than the first package 201 and even when the second front face 120 of the second package 202 comprises multiple Large Diameter Rolls (4 rolls forming the front face 120 of the second package 202 in FIG. 2E).

Still referring to FIGS. 2E and 2F, the first front face 120 of the first package 201 may be formed by more rolls (8 rolls of the first package 201) than the second front face 120 (4 rolls of the second package 202). Despite having Traditional Diameter Rolls forming its first front face 120, the first package 201 (a Traditional Roll Package) may be wider 212 than the second front face 120 of the second package 202 (a Large Roll Package) formed by Large Diameter Rolls. The second package 202 may, however, have a Package Depth 214 greater than the Package Depth 214 of the first package 201. A first shelf column 220 may comprise more packages than a second shelf column 222.

Referring to FIG. 2E, the first, second, and third packages may be different Package Heights 210 (such that at least one or at least two, or more of the packages of the array is a different Package Height than other packages in the array), or alternatively, each of the packages of an array may have the same Package Height 210.

Again referring to FIG. 2E, the array 10 may comprise a third package 203 comprising a third front face 120 disposed as aisle facing. The third package 203 may comprise a third plurality of disposable, fibrous, rolled products rolls 106a (Traditional Diameter Rolls) having a third average Roll Diameter 112. The average Roll Diameter 112 of the rolls 106 of the third package 203 may be smaller than the second package and the third front face 120 of the third package 203 may have a greater Surface Area than the second front face 120 of the second package 202. Further, the third front face 120 of the third package 203 may have a smaller Surface Area than the first front face 120 of the first package 201, even when the third package 203 comprises more rolls than the rolls of the first package 201, and even when the third front face 120 of the third package 203 is formed from more rolls than the first front face 120 of the first package 201.

Each of the packages illustrated in FIGS. 2E and F may be manufactured and/or marketed by the same company and each of the packages of FIGS. 2E and F may have the same brand name; further each of the packages illustrated in FIGS. 2E and F may have the same paper composition and/or the same belt design and/or the same emboss design and/or the same basis weight.

Alternatively, some of the packages illustrated in FIGS. 2E and F, while being manufactured and/or marketed by the same company and having the same brand identifier (e.g., 300), may have different paper composition and/or different belt design and/or different emboss design and/or different basis weight and/or different identifiers (e.g., 301-303) such that, for example, “soft” toilet paper is differentiated from “strong” toilet paper.

Referring to FIG. 2A, the first plurality of disposable, fibrous, rolled product rolls 106a (Traditional Diameter Rolls) may have a first average Roll Firmness, and the second plurality of disposable, fibrous, rolled product rolls 106a′ (Large Diameter Rolls) may have a second average Roll Firmness, where the second average Roll Firmness is equal to or greater (i.e., less firm) than the first average Roll Firmness.

Referring to FIG. 2A, the first plurality of disposable, fibrous, rolled products 106 (Traditional Diameter Rolls) may have a first Package Roll Firmness, and the second plurality of disposable, fibrous, rolled products 106′ (Large Diameter Rolls) may have a second Package Roll Firmness, where the second Package Roll Firmness is equal to or greater (i.e., less firm) than the first Package Roll Firmness.

Referring to FIG. 2A, the second plurality of disposable, fibrous, rolled product rolls 106a′ (Large Diameter Rolls) may have an Inner Roll Firmness and an Outer Roll Firmness, where the Inner Roll Firmness is greater (i.e., less firm) than the Outer Roll Firmness.

Referring to FIG. 2A, the first plurality of disposable, fibrous, rolled product rolls 106a (Traditional Diameter Rolls) may have a first average Total Dry Tensile Strength, and the second plurality of disposable, fibrous, rolled product rolls 106a′ (Large Diameter Rolls) may have a second average Total Dry Tensile Strength, where the second average Total Dry Tensile Strength is equal to or less (i.e., less strong) than the first Total Dry Tensile Strength.

Referring to FIG. 2A, the first plurality of disposable, fibrous, rolled product rolls 106a (Traditional Diameter Rolls) may have a first average Total Wet Tensile Strength, and the second plurality of disposable, fibrous, rolled product rolls 106a′ (Large Diameter Rolls) may have a second average Total Wet Tensile Strength, where the second average Total Wet Tensile Strength equal to or is less (i.e., less strong) than the first Total Wet Tensile Strength.

Referring to FIG. 2A, the first and/or second pluralities of disposable, fibrous, rolled products 106 (Large and Traditional Diameter Rolls) may be 2-ply.

Referring to FIG. 2A, the second package 202 (Large Roll Package) may be placed between (left and right) the first 201 and third 203 packages—from a front view perspective of the shelf by the customer.

Referring to FIG. 3C, a second package 100′ (Large Roll Package) is placed between (up and down) the first and third packages (Traditional Roll Packages).

Referring to FIG. 2A, the first package 201 (Traditional Roll Package) may comprise more rolls 106a than the second package 202 (Large Roll Package). The second package may comprise 2 to 8, 3 to 6, or 4 Large Diameter Rolls; and the second package may be 2 to 6 rolls deep, or may be 3-5 rolls deep, or may be 4 rolls deep; and the second package may be 1 to 6 rolls wide, or 2-5 rolls wide, or 3-4 rolls wide.

Referring to FIG. 2A, the first package 201 (Traditional Roll Package) may be heavier (i.e., may have more mass) than the second package 202 (Large Diameter Package). When the second package of larger diameter rolls weighs less than the first package of smaller diameter rolls, this communicates that the second package is manageable. This may be surprising to the consumer, especially if the second package communicates that it has a roll equivalency that is the same as or greater than the second package. This feature may be combined with a second package having a smaller second front face as described above.

Referring to FIG. 2A, the first plurality of disposable, fibrous, rolled product rolls 106a (Traditional Diameter Rolls) may have a first average Basis Weight, and the second plurality of disposable, fibrous, rolled product rolls 106a′ (Large Diameter Rolls) may have a second average Basis Weight, where the second average Basis Weight is less than or equal to the first average Basis Weight.

Referring to FIG. 2A, the first plurality of disposable, fibrous, rolled product rolls 106a (Traditional Diameter Rolls) may comprise a first average Roll Density, and the second plurality of disposable, fibrous, rolled product rolls (Large Diameter Rolls) may comprise a second average Roll Density, where the first average Roll Density is greater than the second average Roll Density.

Referring to FIG. 2A, the first plurality of disposable, fibrous, rolled product rolls 106a (Traditional Diameter Rolls) may comprise a first average Lint value, and the second plurality of disposable, fibrous, rolled product rolls 106a′ (Large Diameter Rolls) may comprise a second average Lint value, where the second average Lint value is greater than the first average Lint value.

Referring to FIG. 2A, the first plurality of disposable, fibrous, rolled product rolls 106a (Traditional Diameter Rolls) may comprise a first average Softness value, and the second plurality of disposable, fibrous, rolled product rolls 106a′ (Large Diameter Rolls) may comprise a second average Softness value, where the second average Softness value is greater than the first average Softness value.

Referring to FIGS. 1-4 and 7, the disposable, fibrous, rolled product rolls 106a (Large and Traditional Diameter Rolls) may be textured and/or perforated.

FIG. 3A illustrates a top view of an array of packages 100 on each side of an aisle 5 on a first shelf 200′ and a second shelf 200″. FIGS. 3B and 3C illustrate side views of the array of FIG. 3A. Packages 100 may be Traditional Roll Packages and packages 100′ may be Large Roll Packages. It may be desirable that packages 100′ in FIG. 3B comprise paper towels and that packages 100′ in FIG. 3C comprise toilet paper. Each of the packages illustrated in FIGS. 3A-C may be manufactured and/or marketed by the same company and each of the packages of FIG. 3B may have the same brand name and each of the packages of FIG. 3C may have the same brand name; further, each of the packages illustrated in FIG. 3B may have the same paper composition and/or the same belt design and/or the same emboss design and/or the same basis weight; and each of the packages illustrated in FIG. 3C may have the same paper composition and/or the same belt design and/or the same emboss design and/or the same basis weight.

FIG. 3D illustrates a side view of an array 10 of packages 100 on a shelf, illustrating the front faces of the packages that face an aisle (e.g., 5) and, thus, can be viewed by a consumer standing in the aisle looking at the shelf 200. Packages 100 may be Traditional Roll Packages and packages 100′ may be Large Roll Packages. Each of the packages illustrated in FIG. 3D may be manufactured and/or marketed by the same company and each of the packages of FIG. 3D may have the same brand name 300; as such, each of the packages of FIG. 3D may have the same (just at a different scale) front face package indicia 304, represented here as the brand identifier 300 in a middle portion of the front faces and an arc in the lower right corner of each front face. Each of the front face package indicia of FIG. 3D may have substantially the same or identical coloring and design work. The arrangement of the packages of FIG. 3D is unique in that the Large Roll Packages 100′, which have a smaller front face Surface Area, may be used to frame (packages 202 and 204 in shelf columns 225 and 228 frame in packages 201 and 203 in shelf columns 226 and 227) in the Traditional Roll Packages 100, which have a larger front face Surface Area. Different brands or different products may be adjacent to the Large Roll Packages 100′, such that the Large Roll Packages 100′ act as a buffer to the inventive array 10. Alternatively, as illustrated in FIG. 3E, the Large Roll Packages 100′ may be used to break up (packages 202 in shelf column 225 breaks up packages 201 and 203 in shelf columns 226 and 227) the Traditional Roll Packages 100. Further each of the packages illustrated in FIG. 3D may have the same paper composition and/or the same belt design and/or the same emboss design and/or the same basis weight; and each of the packages illustrated in FIG. 3E may have the same paper composition and/or the same belt design and/or the same emboss design and/or the same basis weight.

An alternative to the arrays 10 of FIGS. 3D and 3E, which each have substantially the same or identical front face package indicia 304, the Traditional Roll Packages 100 of FIG. 3F may have substantially the same or identical coloring and design work, while the Large Roll Packages 100′ may have a different front face package indicia 304′ because the front face Surface Area of the Large Roll Packages 100′ may not be large enough (even though the Large Roll Packages 100′ comprise the larger average roll diameter rolls than the Traditional Roll Packages) to support the front face package indicia 304 of the Traditional Roll Packages 100 or there may be a desire to differentiate the front face package indicia 304 of Large Roll Packages 100′ from the front face package indicia 304 of Traditional Roll Packages 100. Each of the packages illustrated in FIG. 3F may be manufactured and/or marketed by the same company and each of the packages of FIG. 3F may have the same brand name 300 even though the packages of the array may have different front face package indicia 304; further each of the packages illustrated in FIG. 3F may have the same paper composition and/or the same belt design and/or the same emboss design and/or the same basis weight.

Large Roll Packages may also comprise extension hangers (attached to the package or contained within the package) so that the Large Diameter Rolls may be used on the existing hardware used for Traditional Diameter Rolls.

FIG. 7 illustrates an array of Large Roll Packages 100′ and Traditional Roll Packages 100 on a pallet 700 to form a “Pallet Array.” Pallet Arrays may be used for sending retail stores the necessary assortment of packages that includes Large Roll Packages 100′ so that inventive arrays such as the ones described and illustrated by FIGS. 2A-4 may be formed by the retailer.

Further, Pallet Arrays such as the one illustrated by FIG. 7 may be especially useful for being placed at the retailer in a locations where customers wanting to purchase such items may pick the package directly from the pallet 700. This eliminates the need for the retailer to unload the pallet to create an array on a shelf 200. Rather, the Pallet Array may be used in place of a shelf, providing the customers ready access to the Large Roll Packages. The Pallet Arrays may be placed such that an aisle (e.g., 5) is formed between the Pallet Arrays.

Beyond the advantages described above, Large Roll Packages can help retailers save space. For instance, shelf space or end of aisle displays can be economized by providing for denser product displays, which Large Roll Packages accommodate as Large Diameter Rolls having the same paper type and the same Roll Firmness as Traditional Diameter Rolls, are denser per volume as they have more paper and fewer cores. So, by providing more paper per volume of display space, the retailer's display space is economized

Test Methods

If the method does not define a number of replicates to test, the “average” of each of the below described parameters for a roll is achieved by testing each roll within a most-outer package on a retail shelf and taking the average value.

Unless otherwise indicated, all tests described herein including those described under the Definitions section and the following test methods are conducted on samples, fibrous structure samples and/or sanitary tissue product samples and/or handsheets that have been conditioned in a conditioned room at a temperature of 73° F.±4° F. (about 23° C.±2.2° C.) and a relative humidity of 50%±10% for 2 hours prior to the test. Further, all tests are conducted in such conditioned room. Tested samples and felts should be subjected to 73° F.±4° F. (about 23° C.±2.2° C.) and a relative humidity of 50%±10% for 2 hours prior to testing.

“Basis Weight” Method:

Basis Weight is measured by preparing one or more samples of a certain area (m²) and weighing the sample(s) of a fibrous structure according to the present invention and/or a sanitary toilet tissue product comprising such fibrous structure on a top loading balance with a minimum resolution of 0.01 g. The balance is protected from air drafts and other disturbances using a draft shield. Weights are recorded when the readings on the balance become constant. The average weight (g) is calculated and the average area of the samples (m²). The basis weight (g/m²) is calculated by dividing the average weight (g) by the average area of the samples (m²).

“Total Dry Tensile Strength” Test Method:

One (1) inch by five (5) inch (2.5 cm×12.7 cm) strips of fibrous structure and/or sanitary toilet tissue product are provided. The strip is placed on an electronic tensile tester Model 1122 commercially available from Instron Corp., Canton, Mass. in a conditioned room at a temperature of 73° F.±4° F. (about 28° C.±2.2° C.) and a relative humidity of 50%±10%. The crosshead speed of the tensile tester is 2.0 inches per minute (about 5.1 cm/minute) and the gauge length is 4.0 inches (about 10.2 cm). The Dry Tensile Strength can be measured in any direction by this method. The “Total Dry Tensile Strength” or “TDT” is the special case determined by the arithmetic total of MD and CD tensile strengths of the strips and the output is the peak load.

“Total Wet Tensile Strength” Test Method:

An electronic tensile tester (Thwing-Albert EJA Materials Tester, Thwing-Albert Instrument Co., 10960 Dutton Rd., Philadelphia, Pa., 19154) is used and operated at a crosshead speed of 4.0 inch (about 10.16 cm) per minute and a gauge length of 1.0 inch (about 2.54 cm), using a strip of a fibrous structure and/or sanitary tissue product of 1 inch wide and a length greater than 3 inches long. The two ends of the strip are placed in the upper jaws of the machine, and the center of the strip is placed around a stainless steel peg (0.5 cm in diameter). After verifying that the strip is bent evenly around the steel peg, the strip is soaked in distilled water at about 20° C. for a soak time of 5 seconds before initiating cross-head movement. The initial result of the test is an array of data in the form load (grams force) versus crosshead displacement (centimeters from starting point).

The sample is tested in two orientations, referred to here as MD (machine direction, i.e., in the same direction as the continuously wound reel and forming fabric) and CD (cross-machine direction, i.e., 90° from MD). The MD and CD wet tensile strengths are determined using the above equipment and the “Total Wet Tensile Strength” or “TWT” is determined by taking the sum of these two values and the output is the peak load.

“Softness” Test Method:

Ideally, prior to softness testing, the samples to be tested should be conditioned according to Tappi Method #T4020M-88. Here, samples are preconditioned for 24 hours at a relative humidity level of 10 to 35% and within a temperature range of 22° C. to 40° C. After this preconditioning step, samples should be conditioned for 24 hours at a relative humidity of 48% to 52% and within a temperature range of 22° C. to 24° C. Ideally, the softness panel testing should take place within the confines of a constant temperature and humidity room. If this is not feasible, all samples, including the controls, should experience identical environmental exposure conditions.

Softness testing is performed as a paired comparison in a form similar to that described in “Manual on Sensory Testing Methods”, ASTM Special Technical Publication 434, published by the American Society For Testing and Materials 1968 and is incorporated herein by reference. Softness is evaluated by subjective testing using what is referred to as a Paired Difference Test. The method employs a standard external to the test material itself. For tactile perceived softness two samples are presented such that the subject cannot see the samples, and the subject is required to choose one of them on the basis of tactile softness. The result of the test is reported in what is referred to as Panel Score Unit (PSU). With respect to softness testing to obtain the softness data reported herein in PSU, a number of softness panel tests are performed. In each test ten practiced softness judges are asked to rate the relative softness of three sets of paired samples. The pairs of samples are judged one pair at a time by each judge: one sample of each pair being designated X and the other Y. Briefly, each X sample is graded against its paired Y sample as follows:

1. a grade of plus one is given if X is judged to may be a little softer than Y, and a grade of minus one is given if Y is judged to may be a little softer than X;

2. a grade of plus two is given if X is judged to surely be a little softer than Y, and a grade of minus two is given if Y is judged to surely be a little softer than X;

3. a grade of plus three is given to X if it is judged to be a lot softer than Y, and a grade of minus three is given if Y is judged to be a lot softer than X; and, lastly:

4. a grade of plus four is given to X if it is judged to be a whole lot softer than Y, and a grade of minus 4 is given if Y is judged to be a whole lot softer than X.

The grades are averaged and the resultant value is in units of PSU. The resulting data are considered the results of one panel test. If more than one sample pair is evaluated then all sample pairs are rank ordered according to their grades by paired statistical analysis. Then, the rank is shifted up or down in value as required to give a zero PSU value to which ever sample is chosen to be the zero-base standard. The other samples then have plus or minus values as determined by their relative grades with respect to the zero base standard. The number of panel tests performed and averaged is such that about 0.2 PSU represents a significant difference in subjectively perceived softness.

“Lint” Value Test Method:

The amount of lint generated from a finished fibrous structure is determined with a Sutherland Rub Tester. This tester uses a motor to rub a weighted felt 5 times over the finished fibrous structure, while the finished fibrous structure is restrained in a stationary position. This finished fibrous structure can be is referred to throughout this method as the “web”. The Hunter Color L value is measured before and after the rub test. The difference between these two Hunter Color L values is then used to calculate a lint value. This lint method is designed to be used with white or substantially white fibrous structures and/or sanitary toilet tissue products. Therefore, if testing of a non-white tissue, such as blue-colored or peach-colored tissue is desired, the same formulation should be used to make a sample without the colored dye, pigment, etc., using bleached kraft pulps.

i. Sample Preparation

Prior to the lint rub testing, the samples to be tested should be conditioned according to Tappi Method #T4020M-88. Here, samples are preconditioned for 24 hours at a relative humidity level of 10 to 35% and within a temperature range of 22° C. to 40° C. After this preconditioning step, samples should be conditioned for 24 hours at a relative humidity of 48 to 52% and within a temperature range of 22° C. to 24° C. This rub testing should also take place within the confines of the constant temperature and humidity room.

The Sutherland Rub Tester may be obtained from Testing Machines, Inc. (Amityville, N.Y., 1701). The web is first prepared by removing and discarding any product which might have been abraded in handling, e.g. on the outside of the roll. For products formed from multiple plies of webs, this test can be used to make a lint measurement on the multi-ply product, or, if the plies can be separated without damaging the specimen, a measurement can be taken on the individual plies making up the product. If a given sample differs from surface to surface, it is necessary to test both surfaces and average the values in order to arrive at a composite lint value. In some cases, products are made from multiple-plies of webs such that the facing-out surfaces are identical, in which case it is only necessary to test one surface. If both surfaces are to be tested, it is necessary to obtain six specimens for testing (Single surface testing only requires three specimens). Each specimen should be folded in half such that the crease is running along the cross direction (CD) of the web sample. For two-surface testing, make up 3 samples with a first surface “out” and 3 with the second-side surface “out”. Keep track of which samples are first surface “out” and which are second surface out.

Obtain a 30″×40″ piece of Crescent #300 cardboard from Cordage Inc. (800 E. Ross Road, Cincinnati, Ohio, 45217). Using a paper cutter, cut out six pieces of cardboard of dimensions of 2.5″ 6″. Puncture two holes into each of the six cards by forcing the cardboard onto the hold down pins of the Sutherland Rub tester.

Center and carefully place each of the 2.5×6″ cardboard pieces on top of the six previously folded samples. Make sure the 6″ dimension of the cardboard is running parallel to the machine direction (MD) of each of the tissue samples. Center and carefully place each of the cardboard pieces on top of the three previously folded samples. Once again, make sure the 6″ dimension of the cardboard is running parallel to the machine direction (MD) of each of the web samples.

Fold one edge of the exposed portion of the web specimen onto the back of the cardboard. Secure this edge to the cardboard with adhesive tape obtained from 3M Inc. (¾″ wide Scotch Brand, St. Paul, Minn.). Carefully grasp the other over-hanging tissue edge and snugly fold it over onto the back of the cardboard. While maintaining a snug fit of the web specimen onto the board, tape this second edge to the back of the cardboard. Repeat this procedure for each sample.

Turn over each sample and tape the cross direction edge of the web specimen to the cardboard. One half of the adhesive tape should contact the web specimen while the other half is adhering to the cardboard. Repeat this procedure for each of the samples. If the tissue sample breaks, tears, or becomes frayed at any time during the course of this sample preparation procedure, discard and make up a new sample with a new tissue sample strip.

There will now be 3 first-side surface “out” samples on cardboard and (optionally) 3 second-side surface “out” samples on cardboard.

ii. Felt Preparation

Obtain a 30″×40″ piece of Crescent #300 cardboard from Cordage Inc. (800 E. Ross Road, Cincinnati, Ohio, 45217). Using a paper cutter, cut out six pieces of cardboard of dimensions of 2.25″×7.25″. Draw two lines parallel to the short dimension and down 1.125″ from the top and bottom most edges on the white side of the cardboard. Carefully score the length of the line with a razor blade using a straight edge as a guide. Score it to a depth about half way through the thickness of the sheet. This scoring allows the cardboard/felt combination to fit tightly around the weight of the Sutherland Rub tester. Draw an arrow running parallel to the long dimension of the cardboard on this scored side of the cardboard.

Cut the six pieces of black felt (F-55 or equivalent from New England Gasket, 550 Broad Street, Bristol, Conn. 06010) to the dimensions of 2.25″×8.5″×0.0625″. Place the felt on top of the unscored, green side of the cardboard such that the long edges of both the felt and cardboard are parallel and in alignment. Make sure the fluffy side of the felt is facing up. Also allow about 0.5″ to overhang the top and bottom most edges of the cardboard. Snugly fold over both overhanging felt edges onto the backside of the cardboard with Scotch brand tape. Prepare a total of six of these felt/cardboard combinations.

For best reproducibility, all samples should be run with the same lot of felt. Obviously, there are occasions where a single lot of felt becomes completely depleted. In those cases where a new lot of felt must be obtained, a correction factor should be determined for the new lot of felt. To determine the correction factor, obtain a representative single web sample of interest, and enough felt to make up 24 cardboard/felt samples for the new and old lots.

As described below and before any rubbing has taken place, obtain Hunter L readings for each of the 24 cardboard/felt samples of the new and old lots of felt. Calculate the averages for both the 24 cardboard/felt samples of the old lot and the 24 cardboard/felt samples of the new lot. Next, rub test the 24 cardboard/felt boards of the new lot and the 24 cardboard/felt boards of the old lot as described below. Make sure the same web lot number is used for each of the 24 samples for the old and new lots. In addition, sampling of the web in the preparation of the cardboard/tissue samples must be done so the new lot of felt and the old lot of felt are exposed to as representative as possible of a tissue sample. Discard any product which might have been damaged or abraded. Next, obtain 48 web samples for the calibration. Place the first sample on the far left of the lab bench and the last of the 48 samples on the far right of the bench. Mark the sample to the far left with the number “1” in a 1 cm by 1 cm area of the corner of the sample. Continue to mark the samples consecutively up to 48 such that the last sample to the far right is numbered 48.

Use the 24 odd numbered samples for the new felt and the 24 even numbered samples for the old felt. Order the odd number samples from lowest to highest. Order the even numbered samples from lowest to highest. Now, mark the lowest number for each set with a letter “F” (for “first-side”). Mark the next highest number with the letter “S” (for second-side). Continue marking the samples in this alternating “F”/“S” pattern. Use the “F” samples for first surface “out” lint analyses and the “S” samples for second-side surface “out” lint analyses. There are now a total of 24 samples for the new lot of felt and the old lot of felt. Of this 24, twelve are for first-side surface “out” lint analysis and 12 are for second-side surface “out” lint analysis.

Rub and measure the Hunter Color L values for all 24 samples of the old felt as described below. Record the 12 first-side surface Hunter Color L values for the old felt. Average the 12 values. Record the 12 second-side surface Hunter Color L values for the old felt. Average the 12 values. Subtract the average initial un-rubbed Hunter Color L felt reading from the average Hunter Color L reading for the first-side surface rubbed samples. This is the delta average difference for the first-side surface samples. Subtract the average initial un-rubbed Hunter Color L felt reading from the average Hunter Color L reading for the second-side surface rubbed samples. This is the delta average difference for the second-side surface samples. Calculate the sum of the delta average difference for the first-side surface and the delta average difference for the second-side surface and divide this sum by 2. This is the uncorrected lint value for the old felt. If there is a current felt correction factor for the old felt, add it to the uncorrected lint value for the old felt. This value is the corrected Lint Value for the old felt.

Rub and measure the Hunter Color L values for all 24 samples of the new felt as described below. Record the 12 first-side surface Hunter Color L values for the new felt. Average the 12 values. Record the 12 second-side surface Hunter Color L values for the new felt. Average the 12 values. Subtract the average initial un-rubbed Hunter Color L felt reading from the average Hunter Color L reading for the first-side surface rubbed samples. This is the delta average difference for the first-side surface samples. Subtract the average initial un-rubbed Hunter Color L felt reading from the average Hunter Color L reading for the second-side surface rubbed samples. This is the delta average difference for the second-side surface samples. Calculate the sum of the delta average difference for the first side surface and the delta average difference for the second-side surface and divide this sum by 2. This is the uncorrected lint value for the new felt.

Take the difference between the corrected Lint Value from the old felt and the uncorrected lint value for the new felt. This difference is the felt correction factor for the new lot of felt. Adding this felt correction factor to the uncorrected lint value for the new felt should be identical to the corrected Lint Value for the old felt. Note that the above procedure implies that the calibration is done with a two-surfaced specimen. If it desirable or necessary to do a felt calibration using a single-surfaced sample, it is satisfactory; however, the total of 24 tests should still be done for each felt.

iii. Care of 4 Pound Weight

The four pound weight has four square inches of effective contact area providing a contact pressure of one pound per square inch. Since the contact pressure can be changed by alteration of the rubber pads mounted on the face of the weight, it is important to use only the rubber pads supplied by the manufacturer (Brown Inc., Mechanical Services Department, Kalamazoo, Mich.). These pads must be replaced if they become hard, abraded or chipped off. When not in use, the weight must be positioned such that the pads are not supporting the full weight of the weight. It is best to store the weight on its side.

iv. Rub Tester Instrument Calibration

The Sutherland Rub Tester must first be calibrated prior to use. First, turn on the Sutherland Rub Tester by moving the tester switch to the “cont” position. When the tester arm is in its position closest to the user, turn the tester's switch to the “auto” position. Set the tester to run 5 strokes by moving the pointer arm on the large dial to the “five” position setting. One stroke is a single and complete forward and reverse motion of the weight. The end of the rubbing block should be in the position closest to the operator at the beginning and at the end of each test. Prepare a test specimen on cardboard sample as described above. In addition, prepare a felt on cardboard sample as described above. Both of these samples will be used for calibration of the instrument and will not be used in the acquisition of data for the actual samples.

Place this calibration web sample on the base plate of the tester by slipping the holes in the board over the hold-down pins. The hold-down pins prevent the sample from moving during the test. Clip the calibration felt/cardboard sample onto the four pound weight with the cardboard side contacting the pads of the weight. Make sure the cardboard/felt combination is resting flat against the weight. Hook this weight onto the tester arm and gently place the tissue sample underneath the weight/felt combination. The end of the weight closest to the operator must be over the cardboard of the web sample and not the web sample itself. The felt must rest flat on the tissue sample and must be in 100% contact with the web surface. Activate the tester by depressing the “push” button.

Keep a count of the number of strokes and observe and make a mental note of the starting and stopping position of the felt covered weight in relationship to the sample. If the total number of strokes is five and if the end of the felt covered weight closest to the operator is over the cardboard of the web sample at the beginning and end of this test, the tester is calibrated and ready to use. If the total number of strokes is not five or if the end of the felt covered weight closest to the operator is over the actual web sample either at the beginning or end of the test, repeat this calibration procedure until 5 strokes are counted the end of the felt covered weight closest to the operator is situated over the cardboard at the both the start and end of the test. During the actual testing of samples, monitor and observe the stroke count and the starting and stopping point of the felt covered weight. Recalibrate when necessary.

v. Hunter Color Meter Calibration

Adjust the Hunter Color Difference Meter for the black and white standard plates according to the procedures outlined in the operation manual of the instrument. Also run the stability check for standardization as well as the daily color stability check if this has not been done during the past eight hours. In addition, the zero reflectance must be checked and readjusted if necessary. Place the white standard plate on the sample stage under the instrument port. Release the sample stage and allow the sample plate to be raised beneath the sample port. Using the “L-Y”, “a-X”, and “b-Z” standardizing knobs, adjust the instrument to read the Standard White Plate Values of “L”, “a”, and “b” when the “L”, “a”, and “b” push buttons are depressed in turn.

vi. Measurement of Samples

The first step in the measurement of lint is to measure the Hunter color values of the black felt/cardboard samples prior to being rubbed on the web sample. The first step in this measurement is to lower the standard white plate from under the instrument port of the Hunter color instrument. Center a felt covered cardboard, with the arrow pointing to the back of the color meter, on top of the standard plate. Release the sample stage, allowing the felt covered cardboard to be raised under the sample port.

Since the felt width is only slightly larger than the viewing area diameter, make sure the felt completely covers the viewing area. After confirming complete coverage, depress the L push button and wait for the reading to stabilize. Read and record this L value to the nearest 0.1 unit. If a D25D2A head is in use, lower the felt covered cardboard and plate, rotate the felt covered cardboard 90° so the arrow points to the right side of the meter. Next, release the sample stage and check once more to make sure the viewing area is completely covered with felt. Depress the L push button. Read and record this value to the nearest 0.1 unit. For the D25D2M unit, the recorded value is the Hunter Color L value. For the D25D2A head where a rotated sample reading is also recorded, the Hunter Color L value is the average of the two recorded values.

Measure the Hunter Color L values for all of the felt covered cardboards using this technique. If the Hunter Color L values are all within 0.3 units of one another, take the average to obtain the initial L reading. If the Hunter Color L values are not within the 0.3 units, discard those felt/cardboard combinations outside the limit. Prepare new samples and repeat the Hunter Color L measurement until all samples are within 0.3 units of one another.

For the measurement of the actual web sample/cardboard combinations, place the web sample/cardboard combination on the base plate of the tester by slipping the holes in the board over the hold-down pins. The hold-down pins prevent the sample from moving during the test. Clip the calibration felt/cardboard sample onto the four pound weight with the cardboard side contacting the pads of the weight. Make sure the cardboard/felt combination is resting flat against the weight Hook this weight onto the tester arm and gently place the web sample underneath the weight/felt combination. The end of the weight closest to the operator must be over the cardboard of the web sample and not the web sample itself. The felt must rest flat on the web sample and must be in 100% contact with the web surface.

Next, activate the tester by depressing the “push” button. At the end of the five strokes the tester will automatically stop. Note the stopping position of the felt covered weight in relation to the sample. If the end of the felt covered weight toward the operator is over cardboard, the tester is operating properly. If the end of the felt covered weight toward the operator is over sample, disregard this measurement and recalibrate as directed above in the Sutherland Rub Tester Calibration section.

Remove the weight with the felt covered cardboard. Inspect the web sample. If torn, discard the felt and web sample and start over. If the web sample is intact, remove the felt covered cardboard from the weight. Determine the Hunter Color L value on the felt covered cardboard as described above for the blank felts. Record the Hunter Color L readings for the felt after rubbing. Rub, measure, and record the Hunter Color L values for all remaining samples. After all web specimens have been measured, remove and discard all felt. Felts strips are not used again. Cardboards are used until they are bent, torn, limp, or no longer have a smooth surface.

vii. Calculations

Determine the delta L values by subtracting the average initial L reading found for the unused felts from each of the measured values for the first-side surface and second-side surface sides of the sample as follows.

For samples measured on both surfaces, subtract the average initial L reading found for the unused felts from each of the three first-side surface L readings and each of the three second-side surface L readings. Calculate the average delta for the three first-side surface values. Calculate the average delta for the three second-side surface values. Subtract the felt factor from each of these averages. The final results are termed a lint for the first-side surface and a lint for the second-side surface of the web.

By taking the average of the lint value on the first-side surface and the second-side surface, the lint is obtained which is applicable to that particular web or product. In other words, to calculate lint value, Formula 4 below is used:

$\begin{array}{cc}\mathrm{Lint}\mathrm{Value}=\frac{\begin{array}{c}\mathrm{Lint}\mathrm{Value},\mathrm{first}\text{-}\mathrm{side}+\\ \mathrm{Lint}\mathrm{Value},\mathrm{second}\text{-}\mathrm{side}\end{array}}{2}& \mathrm{Formula}4\end{array}$

For samples measured only for one surface, subtract the average initial L reading found for the unused felts from each of the three L readings. Calculate the average delta for the three surface values. Subtract the felt factor from this average. The final result is the “Lint” value for that particular web or product.

Color Test Method:

Color-containing surfaces are tested in a dry state and at an ambient humidity of approximately 500%.+−.2%. Reflectance color is measured using the Hunter Lab LabScan XE reflectance spectrophotometer obtained from Hunter Associates Laboratory of Reston, Va. The spectrophotometer is set to the CIELab color scale and with a D50 illumination. The Observer is set at 10° and the Mode is set at 45/0°. Area View is set to 0.125″ and Port Size is set to 0.20″ for films; Area View is set to 1.00″ and Port Size is set to 1.20″ other materials. The spectrophotometer is calibrated prior to sample analysis utilizing the black and white reference tiles supplied from the vendor with the instrument. Calibration is done according to the manufacturer's instructions as set forth in LabScan XE User's Manual, Manual Version 1.1, August 2001, A60-1010-862.

If cleaning is required of the reference tiles or samples, only tissues that do not contain embossing, lotion, or brighteners should be used (e.g., Puffs® tissue). Any sample point on the externally visible surface of the element containing the imparted color to be analyzed should be selected. Sample points are selected so as to be close in perceived color. A single ply of the element is placed over the spectrophotometer's sample port. A single ply, as used within the test method, means that the externally visible surface of the element is not folded. Thus, a single ply of an externally visible surface may include the sampling of a laminate, which itself is comprised of more than one lamina. The sample point comprising the color to be analyzed must be larger than the sample port to ensure accurate measurements. A white tile, as supplied by the manufacturer, is placed behind the externally visible surface. The L*, a*, and b* values are read and recorded. The externally visible surface is removed and repositioned so that a minimum of six readings are obtained for the externally visible surface. If possible (e.g., the size of the imparted color on the element in question does not limit the ability to have six discretely different, non-overlapping sample points), each of the readings is to be performed at a substantially different region on the externally visible surface so that no two sample points overlap. If the size of the imparted color region requires overlapping of sample points, only six samples should be taken with the sample points selected to minimize overlap between any two sample points. The readings are averaged to yield the reported L*, a*, and b* values for a specified color on an externally visible surface of an element.

In calculating the color space volume, V, maximum and minimum L*, a*, and b* values are determined for a particular set of elements to be color matched. The maximum and minimum L*, a*, and b* values are used to calculate V according to Formula 2 presented above.

Absorbency Test Method (Horizontal Full Sheet (HFS)):

The Horizontal Full Sheet (HFS) test method determines the amount of distilled water absorbed and retained by a sanitary toilet tissue product of the present invention. This method is performed by first weighing a sample of the sanitary toilet tissue product to be tested (referred to herein as the “Dry Weight of the paper”), then thoroughly wetting the sanitary toilet tissue product, draining the wetted sanitary toilet tissue product in a horizontal position and then reweighing (referred to herein as “Wet Weight of the paper”). The absorptive capacity of the sanitary toilet tissue product is then computed as the amount of water retained in units of grams of water absorbed by the sanitary toilet tissue product. When evaluating different sanitary toilet tissue product samples, the same size of sanitary toilet tissue product is used for all samples tested.

The apparatus for determining the HFS capacity of sanitary toilet tissue product comprises the following: an electronic balance with a sensitivity of at least ±0.01 grams and a minimum capacity of 1200 grams. The balance should be positioned on a balance table and slab to minimize the vibration effects of floor/benchtop weighing. The balance should also have a special balance pan to be able to handle the size of the sanitary toilet tissue product tested (i.e.; a paper sample of about 11 in. (27.9 cm) by 11 in. (27.9 cm)). The balance pan can be made out of a variety of materials. Plexiglass is a common material used.

A sample support rack and sample support cover is also required. Both the rack and cover are comprised of a lightweight metal frame, strung with 0.012 in. (0.305 cm) diameter monofilament so as to form a grid of 0.5 inch squares (1.27 cm²). The size of the support rack and cover is such that the sample size can be conveniently placed between the two.

The HFS test is performed in an environment maintained at 23±1° C. and 50±2% relative humidity. A water reservoir or tub is filled with distilled water at 23±1° C. to a depth of 3 inches (7.6 cm).

The sanitary toilet tissue product to be tested is carefully weighed on the balance to the nearest 0.01 grams. The dry weight of the sample is reported to the nearest 0.01 grams. The empty sample support rack is placed on the balance with the special balance pan described above. The balance is then zeroed (tared). The sample is carefully placed on the sample support rack. The support rack cover is placed on top of the support rack. The sample (now sandwiched between the rack and cover) is submerged in the water reservoir. After the sample has been submerged for 60 seconds, the sample support rack and cover are gently raised out of the reservoir.

The sample, support rack and cover are allowed to drain horizontally for 120±5 seconds, taking care not to excessively shake or vibrate the sample. Next, the rack cover is carefully removed and the wet sample and the support rack are weighed on the previously tared balance. The weight is recorded to the nearest 0.01 g. This is the wet weight of the sample.

The gram per sanitary toilet tissue product sample absorptive capacity of the sample is defined as (Wet Weight of the paper−Dry Weight of the paper).

“Roll Density” Test Method

For this test, the rolled paper product roll is the test sample. Remove all of the test rolled paper product rolls from any packaging and allow them to condition at about 23° C.±2 C.° and about 50%±2% relative humidity for 24 hours prior to testing. Rolls with cores that are crushed, bent or damaged should not be tested.

The Roll Density is calculated by dividing the mass of the roll by its volume using the following equation:

$\mathrm{Roll}\mathrm{Density}\left(\frac{g}{{\mathrm{cm}}^3}\right)=\frac{\mathrm{Mass}\left(g\right)}{\begin{array}{c}\mathrm{Roll}\mathrm{Width}\left(\mathrm{cm}\right)·\pi \\ [\mathrm{Outer}\mathrm{Radius}{\left(\mathrm{cm}\right)}^2-\mathrm{Inner}\mathrm{Radius}{\left(\mathrm{cm}\right)}^2\end{array}}$

FIG. 9 visually describes the measurement of a rolled paper product roll 10 where Z is the center axis of the roll, where the outer radius r₂ in units of cm is measured using the Roll Diameter Test Method described herein, the inner radius r₁ in units of cm is measured using a caliper tool inside the core, the roll width W is measured using a ruler or tape measure in units of cm and the mass in units of g is the weight of the entire roll including core.

In like fashion analyze a total of ten (10) replicate sample rolls. Calculate the arithmetic mean of the 10 values and report the Roll Density to the nearest 0.001 g/cm³.

“Roll Diameter” Test Method

For this test, the actual rolled paper product roll is the test sample. Remove all of the test rolled paper product rolls from any packaging and allow them to condition at about 23° C.±2 C.° and about 50%±2% relative humidity for 24 hours prior to testing. Rolls with cores that are crushed, bent or damaged should not be tested.

The diameter of the test rolled paper product roll is measured directly using a Pi® tape of appropriate length or equivalent precision diameter tape (e.g. an Executive Diameter tape available from Apex Tool Group, LLC, Apex, N.C., Model No. W606PD) which converts the circumferential distance into a diameter measurement, so the roll diameter is directly read from the scale. The diameter tape is graduated to 0.01 inch increments. The tape is 0.25 inches wide and is made of flexible metal that conforms to the curvature of the test sanitary tissue product roll but is not elongated under the loading used for this test.

Loosely loop the diameter tape around the circumference of the test rolled paper product roll, placing the tape edges directly adjacent to each other with the surface of the tape lying flat against the test rolled paper product roll. Pull the tape snug against the circumference of the test rolled paper product roll, applying approximately 100 g of force. Wait 3 seconds. At the intersection of the diameter tape, read the diameter aligned with the zero mark of the diameter tape and record as the Roll Diameter to the nearest 0.01 inches. The outer radius of the rolled paper product roll is also calculated from this test method.

In like fashion analyze a total of ten (10) replicate sample rolled paper product rolls. Calculate the arithmetic mean of the 10 values and report the Roll Diameter to the nearest 0.01 inches.

“Roll Firmness” Test Method for Toilet Tissue Roll and Paper Towel Roll Samples

Roll Firmness is measured on a constant rate of extension tensile tester with computer interface (a suitable instrument is the MTS Alliance using Testworks 4.0 Software, as available from MTS Systems Corp., Eden Prairie, Minn.) using a load cell for which the forces measured are within 10% to 90% of the limit of the cell. The roll product is held horizontally, a cylindrical probe is pressed into the test roll, and the compressive force is measured versus the depth of penetration. All testing is performed in a conditioned room maintained at 23° C.±2C° and 50%±2% relative humidity.

Referring to FIG. 6, the upper movable fixture 2000 consist of a cylindrical probe 2001 made of machined aluminum with a 19.00±0.05 mm diameter and a length of 38 mm. The end of the cylindrical probe 2002 is hemispheric (radius of 9.50±0.05 mm) with the opposing end 2003 machined to fit the crosshead of the tensile tester. The fixture includes a locking collar 2004 to stabilize the probe and maintain alignment orthogonal to the lower fixture. The lower stationary fixture 2100 is an aluminum fork with vertical prongs 2101 that supports a smooth aluminum sample shaft 2101 in a horizontal position perpendicular to the probe. The lower fixture has a vertical post 2102 machined to fit its base of the tensile tester and also uses a locking collar 2103 to stabilize the fixture orthogonal to the upper fixture.

The sample shaft 2101 has a diameter that is 85% to 95% of the inner diameter of the roll and longer than the width of the roll. The ends of sample shaft are secured on the vertical prongs with a screw cap 2104 to prevent rotation of the shaft during testing. The height of the vertical prongs 2101 should be sufficient to assure that the test roll does not contact the horizontal base of the fork during testing. The horizontal distance between the prongs must exceed the length of the test roll.

Program the tensile tester to perform a compression test, collecting force and crosshead extension data at an acquisition rate of 100 Hz. Lower the crosshead at a rate of 10 mm/min until 5.00 g is detected at the load cell. Set the current crosshead position as the corrected gage length and zero the crosshead position. Begin data collection and lower the crosshead at a rate of 50 mm/min until the force reaches 10 N. Return the crosshead to the original gage length.

Remove all of the test rolls from their packaging and allow them to condition at about 23° C.±2 C.° and about 50%±2% relative humidity for 2 hours prior to testing. Rolls with cores that are crushed, bent or damaged should not be tested. Insert sample shaft through the test roll's core and then mount the roll and shaft onto the lower stationary fixture. Secure the sample shaft to the vertical prongs then align the midpoint of the roll's width with the probe. Orient the test roll's tail seal so that it faces upward toward the probe. Rotate the roll 90 degrees toward the operator to align it for the initial compression.

Position the tip of the probe approximately 2 cm above the surface of the sample roll. Zero the crosshead position and load cell and start the tensile program. After the crosshead has returned to its starting position, rotate the roll toward the operator 120 degrees and in like fashion acquire a second measurement on the same sample roll.

From the resulting Force (N) verses Distance (mm) curves, read the penetration at 7.00 N as the Roll Firmness and record to the nearest 0.1 mm. In like fashion analyze a total of ten (10) replicate sample rolls. Calculate the arithmetic mean of the 20 values and report Roll Firmness to the nearest 0.1 mm.

The dimensions and values disclosed herein are not to be understood as being strictly limited to the exact numerical values recited. Instead, unless otherwise specified, each such dimension is intended to mean both the recited value and a functionally equivalent range surrounding that value. For example, a dimension disclosed as “40 mm” is intended to mean “about 40 mm.”

Every document cited herein, including any cross referenced or related patent or application and any patent application or patent to which this application claims priority or benefit thereof, is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety unless expressly excluded or otherwise limited. The citation of any document is not an admission that it is prior art with respect to any invention disclosed or claimed herein or that it alone, or in any combination with any other reference or references, teaches, suggests or discloses any such invention. Further, to the extent that any meaning or definition of a term in this document conflicts with any meaning or definition of the same term in a document incorporated by reference, the meaning or definition assigned to that term in this document shall govern.

While particular embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described, it would be obvious to those skilled in the art that various other changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. It is therefore intended to cover in the appended claims all such changes and modifications that are within the scope of this invention.

Claims

1. A retail store shelf array of disposable, fibrous, rolled products, comprising:

a first package comprising a first front face disposed as aisle facing, the first package comprising a first plurality of disposable, fibrous, rolled products, the first plurality of disposable, fibrous, rolled products comprising a first average Roll Diameter of 6.6 inches or less;

a second package comprising a second front face disposed as aisle facing, the second package comprising a second plurality of disposable, fibrous, rolled products, the second plurality of disposable, fibrous, rolled products comprising a second average Roll Diameter of 6.7 inches or greater;

wherein the first front face has a larger Surface Area than the second front face;

wherein the second plurality of disposable, fibrous, rolled products are paper towel rolls; and

wherein the first and second packages are manufactured by the same company and/or comprise the same brand name.

2. The array of claim 1, wherein the first front face is formed by more rolls than the second front face.

3. The array of claim 1, wherein the first package has a Package Length greater than the second package.

4. The array of claim 1, wherein the first package has a Package Height greater than the second package.

5. The array of claim 1, wherein the second package has a Package Depth greater than the first package.

6. The array of claim 1, wherein a first shelf column comprises a first number of first packages, and wherein a second shelf column comprises a second number of second packages, and wherein the first number is greater than the second number.

7. The array of claim 1, wherein the first plurality of disposable, fibrous, rolled products are paper towel rolls.

8. The array of claim 1, wherein the first and second disposable, fibrous, rolled products have the same average Roll Height.

9. The array of claim 1, wherein the first disposable, fibrous, rolled products are oriented 90 degrees from the second disposable, fibrous, rolled products as they are oriented in the first and second packages on the retail store shelf.

10. The array of claim 1, wherein the first and second disposable, fibrous, rolled products are oriented in the same direction as they are oriented in the first and second packages on the retail store shelf.

11. The array of claim 1, wherein the first and second packages have the same Package Height.

12. The array of claim 1, wherein the array comprises a third package comprising a third front face disposed as aisle facing, the third package comprising a third plurality of disposable, fibrous, rolled products, the third plurality of disposable, fibrous, rolled products comprising a third average Roll Diameter, wherein the third average Roll Diameter is less than the second average Roll Diameter, and wherein the third front face is larger than the second front face, and wherein the third package is manufactured by the same company and/or comprise the same brand name as the first and second packages.

13. The array of claim 1, wherein the first plurality of disposable, fibrous, rolled products comprise a first average Roll Firmness, wherein the second plurality of disposable, fibrous, rolled products comprise a second average Roll Firmness, and wherein the second average Roll Firmness is greater (less firm) than the first average Roll Firmness.

14. The array of claim 1, wherein the first plurality of disposable, fibrous, rolled products comprise a first average Total Dry Tensile Strength, wherein the second plurality of disposable, fibrous, rolled products comprise a second average Total Dry Tensile Strength, and wherein the second average Total Dry Tensile Strength is less (less strong) than the first Total Dry Tensile Strength.

15. The array of claim 1, wherein the first plurality of disposable, fibrous, rolled products comprise a first average Total Dry Tensile Strength, wherein the second plurality of disposable, fibrous, rolled products comprise a second Total Dry Tensile Strength, and wherein the second average Total Dry Tensile Strength is equal to the first average Total Dry Tensile Strength.

16. The array of claim 1, wherein the first plurality of disposable, fibrous, rolled products are 2-ply.

17. The array of claim 1, wherein the second plurality of disposable, fibrous, rolled products are 2-ply.

18. The array of claim 12, wherein the second package is placed between (left and right) the first and third packages.

19. The array of claim 12, wherein the second package is placed between (up and down) the first and third packages.

20. The array of claim 1, wherein the first package comprises more rolls than the second package.

21. The array of claim 1, wherein the second package comprises 2 rolls.

22. The array of claim 1, wherein the second package comprises 3 rolls.

23. The array of claim 21, wherein the second front face is 1 roll wide and wherein the package has a Package Depth 2 rolls deep.

24. The array of claim 22, wherein the second front face is 1 roll wide and wherein the package has a Package Depth 3 rolls deep.

25. The array of claim 1, wherein the first package weighs more than the second package.

26. The array of claim 20, wherein the first package weighs more than the second package.

27. The array of claim 1, wherein the first plurality of disposable, fibrous, rolled products comprise a first average Roll Firmness, wherein the second plurality of disposable, fibrous, rolled products comprise a second average Roll Firmness, and wherein the second average Roll Firmness is equal to the first average Roll Firmness.

28. The array of claim 1, wherein the first package has a first Package Firmness, wherein the second package comprises a second Package Firmness, and wherein the second Package Firmness is equal to the first Package Firmness.

29. The array of claim 1, wherein the first package has a first Package Firmness, wherein the second package comprises a second Package Firmness, and wherein the second Package Firmness is greater (less firm) than the first Package Firmness.

30. The array of claim 1, wherein the second plurality of disposable, fibrous, rolled products comprise a second Inner Roll Firmness and a second Outer Roll Firmness, and wherein the second Inner Roll Firmness is greater (less firm) than the second Outer Roll Firmness.

31. The array of claim 30, wherein the first plurality of disposable, fibrous, rolled products comprise a first Inner Roll Firmness and a first Outer Roll Firmness, and wherein the second Inner Roll Firmness is greater (less firm) than the first Outer Roll Firmness.

32. The array of claim 1, wherein the first plurality of disposable, fibrous, rolled products comprise a first average Basis Weight, and wherein the second plurality of disposable, fibrous, rolled products comprise a second average Basis Weight, wherein the second average Basis Weight is less than or equal to the first average Basis Weight.

33. The array of claim 1, wherein the first plurality of disposable, fibrous, rolled products comprise a first average Roll Density, and wherein the second plurality of disposable, fibrous, rolled products comprise a second average Roll Density, wherein the second average Roll Density is less than or equal to the first average Roll Density.

34. The array of claim 1, wherein the first plurality of disposable, fibrous, rolled products comprise a first average Softness value, and wherein the second plurality of disposable, fibrous, rolled products comprise a second average Softness value, wherein the second average Softness value is greater than or equal to the first average Softness value.

35. The array of claim 1, wherein the first plurality of disposable, fibrous, rolled products comprise a first average Lint value, and wherein the second plurality of disposable, fibrous, rolled products comprise a second average Lint value, wherein the second average Lint value is greater than or equal to the first average Lint value.

36. The array of claim 1, wherein the first and second packages comprise the same identifier selected from the group consisting of “soft,” “strong,” “ultra soft,” “ultra strong,” “tough,” and combinations thereof.

37. The array of claim 1, wherein the first and second packages comprise different identifiers and/or sub-brand names.

38. The array of claim 1, wherein the first plurality of disposable, fibrous, rolled products comprise a first average Total Wet Tensile Strength, wherein the second plurality of disposable, fibrous, rolled products comprise a second average Total Wet Tensile Strength, and wherein the second average Total Wet Tensile Strength is less (less strong) than the first Total Wet Tensile Strength.

39. The array of claim 1, wherein the first plurality of disposable, fibrous, rolled products comprise a first average Total Wet Tensile Strength, wherein the second plurality of disposable, fibrous, rolled products comprise a second Total Wet Tensile Strength, and wherein the second average Total Wet Tensile Strength is equal to the first average Total Wet Tensile Strength.

40. The array of claim 1, wherein the first and second plurality of disposable, fibrous, rolled products are textured.

41. The array of claim 1, wherein the first and second plurality of disposable, fibrous, rolled products are perforated.

42. The array of claim 1, wherein the second average Roll Diameter is greater than 6.8 inches.

43. The array of claim 1, wherein the second average Roll Diameter is greater than 7.0 inches.

44. The array of claim 1, wherein the second average Roll Diameter is greater than 7.2 inches.

45. The array of claim 1, wherein the second average Roll Diameter is greater than 7.4 inches.

46. The array of claim 1, wherein the second average Roll Diameter is less than about 14 inches.

47. The array of claim 1, wherein the second average Roll Diameter is less than about 12 inches.

48. The array of claim 1, wherein the second average Roll Diameter is less than about 10 inches.

49. The array of claim 1, wherein the second average Roll Diameter is less than 8 inches.

50. The array of claim 1, wherein the second average Roll Diameter is from 6.6 inches to about 14 inches.

51. The array of claim 1, wherein the second average Roll Diameter is from about 6.8 inches to about 12 inches.

52. The array of claim 1, wherein the second average Roll Diameter is from about 7.0 inches to about 10 inches.

53. The array of claim 1, wherein the second average Roll Diameter is from about 7.2 inches to about 8 inches.

54. The array of claim 1, wherein the first and second plurality of disposable, fibrous, rolled products are embossed.

55. The array of claim 1, wherein the first and second plurality of disposable, fibrous, rolled products are embossed with the brand name.

56. The array of claim 1, wherein the second package comprises a roll diameter extension hanger.