Abstract: In a process for making disposable diapers, a first web is continuously fed in its longitudinal direction. Tape fastener members extending in the longitudinal direction are fed to the first web so as to straddle respective lines corresponding to the side edges of the respective backsheets. Each of the tape fastener members has its longitudinally opposite end portions folded in a Z-shape or an inverted Z-shape. Top sections of these Z-shape and inverted Z-shape are coated on their undersides with a first self adhesive and bottom sections of these Z-shape and inverted Z-shape are coated on their undersides with a second self-adhesive. The tape fastener member is bonded to the first web by means of the second self-adhesive. The first web and the tape fastener members are simultaneously cut along the lines.

Abstract: Method of making a gas matrix composite ultrasound transducer comprises aligning piezoelectric rods or fibers substantially parallel to each other on an adhesive side of a plurality of curable adhesive-faced sheets, stacking the sheets so as to maintain the gaps between the rods or fibers, curing the adhesive, cutting the cured structure perpendicular to the rods or fibers into narrow slices, and applying a conductive layer to each cut face to form electrical contacts with both ends of the rods or fibers.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for application of adhesive tape to semiconductor devices are discolsed. A first adhesively coated tape material length is supplied to a first die associated with a cutting and application mechanism. A second length of adhesively coated tape material is also provided to a second die of the cutting and application mechanism. A plurality of LOC leadframes is supplied sequentially through the application structure to apply a first decal cut from the first tape material to a first die site at a first location and to apply a second decal cut from the second tape material to a second die site at a second location.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing a hearing device including providing a hearing aid housing having an opening, providing an electric/acoustic transducer, providing a support plate forming a blind hole having a membrane as a base, inserting the transducer into the blind hole, bringing the housing and support plate together such that a portion of the transducer enters through the opening in the housing, bonding the housing to the support plate, and trimming excess portion of the support plate.

Abstract: A process (100) for forming an article (20) includes delivering an article web (120) which provides an interconnected plurality of article-segments (104). At least one selected article-segment (104) can include at least one wing-panel component or member (142), which has been operatively joined to its corresponding, selected article-segment (104) and configured to extend beyond at least one laterally-opposed side edge of said article web (120) in an intermediate portion (76) of the corresponding article-segment (104). The process (100) can also include a substantially continuous severing of the article web (120) and the at least one wing-panel member (142) to provide a contoured composite web. The contoured composite web can include at least one contoured wing-panel (142). In addition, a contoured side-edge (64) of the contoured wing-panel (142) can be configured to extend substantially continuously from a cooperatively contoured side-edge (74) of the article web.

Abstract: A fully automated method and apparatus is disclosed to laminate various structural articles with a layer of resin impregnated fiber tape. The tape laying member removes a releasable backing layer from the tape being employed, then deposits the unbacked tape on the surface of the structural article, and finally severs the end of the tape being deposited. An automated cut and restart procedure is employed in the present tape laying member to increase tape throughput.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided for high speed manufacture of swatch bearing sheets wherein each sheet is directed through various operating stations via a single set of sheet engaging members. Individual sheets are removed from a stack of sheets at a feeding station. The sheets are aligned into a predetermined position for feeding to the sheet engaging members. A single set of sheet engaging members directs each sheet through an adhesive applying station where glue spots are placed on the sheets at predetermined locations. Each sheet is then advanced by the same set of sheet engaging members through one or more swatch applying stations where swatches are applied to the glue spots on the sheets. The sheets are then discharged from direction via the sheet engaging members at a disengaging station. The sheets are then fed through a pressing station to firmly adhere the swatches to the glue spots on the sheets.

Abstract: Methods of applying tape to a surface. An embodiment of the invention provides a method of applying a tape to a surface, comprising the steps of: providing a tape, wherein the tape includes a tape backing and an adhesive on the tape backing, and wherein the tape is on a liner; cutting the tape to provide a first length of tape, a second length of tape, and a removable portion of the tape located between the first length of tape and the second length of tape wherein a portion of the first end of the removable portion is cut at an angle oblique to the length of the tape; removing the removable portion of the tape from the liner; separating the first length of tape from the liner; and applying the first length of tape to a surface.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing reinforced tags using a press is disclosed which includes providing a continuously moving web of tag material. A web of reinforcing material is also provided and die cut into reinforcing patches. The reinforcing material has a pressure sensitive adhesive thereon. A first portion of the patches is adhered to a first major surface of the continuously moving web of tag material so it extends beyond said first major surface. A second portion of the patches is contacted with a stationary curved surface which folds the patches as they move along the folder so that the second portion is folded around an edge of the tag material and adheres to a second major surface of the web of tag material. A hole is then cut in each tag unit at a location such that it extends through the patch at a point where it is adhered to two major surfaces of each tag unit. The web of tag material is then cut into the individual tag units.

Abstract: The present invention provides a strip tape mounting device that stabilizes an upper portion of a bag that will be attached to a strip tape, while preventing the bag from being crushed. The strip tape mounting device of the present invention includes an attaching mechanism that attaches an attachment portion of a bag to the strip tape by compression, the bag being manufactured by a bag manufacturing unit that manufactures bags that are filled with articles. The strip tape mounting device also includes a transfer unit that holds the bag below the attachment portion of the bag and transports the bag to the attaching mechanism, and a retaining plate that supports the bag so that the bag is supported in a predetermined posture.

Abstract: There is disclosed a method of constructing a laminated composite bidirectional panel from commercially available transparent/see-through materials, which may be used as shades for openings, such as doors and windows, to advance an aesthetically pleasing appearance in which, changeable decorative images of varying configurations and colors are incorporated between layers of laminations to promote the mood of a particular season, occasion, or event.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing a disposable undergarment includes moving a web of body panel material in a longitudinal machine direction and cutting the web of body panel material along the longitudinal machine direction to thereby form a rear body panel web and a front body panel web each having a maximum rise and a minimum rise respectively. The maximum rise of each of the rear and front body panel webs is greater than the minimum rise of a corresponding one of the rear and front body panel webs. The method further includes shifting at least one of the rear and front body panel webs in the longitudinal machine direction and thereby aligning the maximum rises of the rear and front body panel webs. The method further includes separating the rear and front body panels in a lateral cross direction, such that the maximum rises of each of the rear and front body panel webs are spaced apart in the lateral cross direction and form a gap therebetween in a non-overlapping relationship.

Abstract: An apparatus for fabricating the refastenable absorbent garment includes a web perforator adapted to perforate a base web in a cross direction and a construction drum positioned downstream of the web perforator and adapted to receive the perforated base web. A landing material cutter is adapted to cut a landing material and fastener material in the cross direction. A landing member rotator is positioned adjacent the construction drum and downstream of the landing material cutter. The landing member rotator is adapted to separate successive pieces of the landing material with the fastener material attached thereto at the cross direction landing material cut, rotate the pieces of landing material with the fastener member attached thereto and apply the piece of landing material and fastener material to the base web on the construction drum.

Abstract: Rolls easy to be produced are provided. The invention provides a roll which is composed of a main tape cylindrically wound up. The main tape is provided with a first and second holes, respectively, in its winding terminating position and winding initiating position. First and second adhesive tapes are stuck over the holes, respectively. In the bottoms of the first and second holes, adhesive layers of the first and second adhesive tapes are exposed. Therefore, the main tape is stuck on a core at its winding initiating position and on the roll itself at its winding terminating position. Information may be printed on a surface of the first adhesive tape.

Abstract: Method for making a stem web material having a plurality of stems extending from discrete regions (patches or stripes) of the web, comprising: a) providing a web (e.g. nonwoven, woven or knit textile fabric; paper; microporous membrane, polymer film; etc.); b) providing discrete quantities of a polymer at a temperature above its softening point or in molten state; c) fusing the discrete quantities of polymer to the web; and d) forming a plurality of stems in each of the discrete quantities of polymer material. The stems can be formed by pressing the web on which the patches or stripes of polymer are deposited against a tool having a surface with a plurality of stem-forming holes. The stems can be given enlarged ends by bringing the surface of the stem web close to a heated surface.

Abstract: A method and material for covering exposed insulation surfaces to protect them from moisture and other environmental factors. The covering typically includes a first, exposed layer of a metal-containing foil, a second layer of a metal-containing foil, a layer of a polymer disposed between the first two layers of foil, a third layer of a metal-containing foil, and a second layer of polymer disposed between the second and third layers of foil. A layer of a pressure sensitive adhesive is applied to one of the exposed layers of foil, and the pressure sensitive adhesive layer is covered with a release liner prior to application. The foil provides the necessary moisture and weather seal while the polymer provides the necessary strength and puncture resistance. The overall thickness of the laminate typically is less than 100 microns, permitting it to be easily cut and manipulated at the job site while providing an effective, long lasting weather seal.

Abstract: A method for manufacturing a friction plate in which a plurality of frictional material segments are adhered to a substantially annular core plate. The method previously registers the frictional material segments to adhesion positions, and presses the core plate to which adhesive agent is applied and the frictional segments to perform temporary adhesion. Further, an apparatus for manufacturing a friction plate in which a plurality of frictional material segments are adhered to a substantially annular core plate. The apparatus comprises a member for registering the frictional material segments while holding the frictional material segments in a state arranged in the adhesion positions.

Abstract: A method is provided for continuous mass production of winged absorbent articles, including T-shaped absorbent articles, by attachment of wing portions to the chassis of the absorbent article which comprises a topsheet, a backsheet and a core sandwiched between the topsheet and the backsheet. The method comprises feeding at least one web of wing-making material, which may be at least partly elasticated, simultaneously attaching landing zones in spaced apart relationship on a surface of the web, attaching tape tabs on the edge of the web, folding the web longitudinally in a generally Z-fold configuration, feeding the chassis of the absorbent article in the general direction of the web, severing individual folded wing portions from said web and attaching the winged portions to the chassis at predetermined spaced intervals.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for cutting and placing limp pieces of material on an article component. The apparatus, which is particularly constructed for positioning the relative placement of two cut piece, includes a vacuum conveyor which holds the article component in a regular and secure position prior to and during placement of a cut piece onto the component. A cut piece is formed and transferred to a conveyor on a single, constant speed anvil roll without the need for intervening rolls.

Abstract: In order to manufacture a friction plate for a wet clutch including a core plate and a friction member bonded to at least one of annular flat surfaces of the core plate, each friction member including friction member segments, an oil groove being provided between adjacent friction member segments, there is adopted a method including: a step of making a plurality of cuts in at least one band-shaped friction member material in a lengthwise direction to form a plurality of friction member strips; a step of retaining the friction member strips with distances corresponding to the oil grooves being formed between adjacent friction member strips; a step of cutting off a portion of a tip end of at least one of the friction member strips which are located at opposite ends to thereby secure the oil grooves between the friction member segments on the annular flat surface; and a step of superposing friction member segment correspondence portions forming the tip ends of the plurality of friction member strips to the annul

Abstract: An apparatus for applying a cutting edge tape or a reinforcing tape to a substrate by feeding and cutting lengths of tape and advancing the lengths to a vacuum wheel applicator, the feed section of the apparatus comprising a feed roll, an anvil vacuum roll, and a rotary knife adjacent to the anvil vacuum roll, and means for adjusting the speed of the feed roll and the speed of the anvil vacuum roll to vary the length of the tape advanced to the applicator.

Abstract: The fundamental technique of the method for making cellular cores is to make stacks of components which are configured such that cutting slices off the stacks produces cellular cores and, when needed, components used in stacks used to produce cellular cores. One of the basic components used in the stacks is termed a ribbed ply which is a ply (thin sheet of material such as wood) with a number of ribs (long thin strips of material such as wood) attached to the ply, parallel to each other. If the spaces between the ribs are filled with filler material such as foam plastic, the cells in the cellular core will be filled with the filler material. The filler material is introduced as layers of the material stacked alternately with plies and adhesively attached. Slices of such a stack, sliced parallel to the grain of the plies (if wood) are called ribbed fillers. Stacking ribbed fillers and plies produces a stack having a cross section which, when sliced, produces filled cell cellular cores.

Abstract: The printed web of paper, from which label booklets are formed, is provided in a punching unit with punch cuts, which form at least one row of punched areas and non-punched areas, wherein the punched areas remain joined to the non-punched areas respectively along a line running in the transverse direction of the web of paper. In the folding unit each punched area is deflected out of the plane of the web of paper by a blast of compressed air, is folded over contrary to the running direction by means of a pressure roller and pressed onto the associated non-punched area. In the laminating unit a transparent web of plastic provided with a self-adhesive coating on its underside is laminated over the folded web of paper and pressed so that a multilayered web is formed, which on its underside lies on a support web, which is provided with an anti-adhesive coating on its side facing the web of paper.

Abstract: A prefastened absorbent garment is manufactured with its longitudinal axis in the machine direction. A web of garment chassis material extending in the machine direction is overlaid with a side panel web laying substantially within the garment chassis borders. The side panel web is attached to the chassis web and has fasteners thereon. The side panel web can be split in two and folded to place its fasteners in proximity to complementary fasteners disposed at the opposing end of the garment on the chassis web when the chassis web is folded.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method of achieving low tension, highly conformable elasticized areas in a nonwoven web construction such as may be suitable for the waistbands or leg openings of disposable absorbent pant garments, cuffs on sleeves of medical garments, or the like. A web, or webs, of nonwoven material which make up the substrate for the elasticized area are provided to be very light weight and flexible and provide the minimal amount of substrate to which an elastomeric liquid barrier material is affixed. The absorbent, or liquid retention, section of an absorbent garment article made according to the present invention will have its own barrier layer facing the backsheet, in order that the backsheet may be composed of a light and conformable material.

Abstract: A process for manufacturing an absorbent article includes continuously feeding a first web (1) along a travelling path, said first web(1) including a first and a second opposing strip (9, 10) extending in the longitudinal direction and a first panel portion (11) located therebetween, continuously feeding a second web (2) along a travelling path, said second web (2) including a third and a fourth opposing strip (25, 26) and a second panel portion (20) located therebetween, cutting the first panel portion (11) into a number of first panels (14, 15), cutting the second panel portion (20) into a number of second panels (25, 26), forming a joint web (3) by placing the second web (2) over the first web (1), cutting the joint web (3) along attachment lines thereby forming the absorbent articles (4).

Abstract: The apparatus of attaching a polarizing plate includes a base body, a first cutting out module, a first protection sheet strip module and a first polarizing plate attaching module. The first cutting out module cuts out a first polarizing plate from a first mother polarizing plate. The first cutting out module is disposed on the base body. The first protection sheet strip module strips a first protection sheet from the first polarizing plate. The first polarizing plate is stripped off the first protection sheet to be a first stripped polarizing plate. The first protection sheet strip module is disposed on the base body. The first polarizing plate attaching module attaches the first stripped polarizing plate to a first face of a liquid crystal display unit cell of an assembled substrate. The first polarizing plate attaching module is disposed on the base body.

Abstract: A tape applicator. A preferred embodiment of the invention provides a tape applicator having a tape head, a x-axis actuator for moving the tape head in the x-axis direction, and a y-axis actuator for moving the tape head in the y-axis direction. The tape head preferably includes: i) a base; ii) a tape roll holder attached to the base; iii) a tape application roller attached to the base for applying the tape to a surface; iv) a cutter attached to the base for cutting tape to form a removeable portion of a tape; and v) a remover attached to the base for removing the removeable portion of the tape. The present invention also relates to methods of applying tape to a surface.

Abstract: A master processing apparatus for use with a pair of removable feed rolls carrying a supply of stock material includes a frame and a master processing assembly operable to cause adhesive bonding between the stock materials and a master. The apparatus includes a cutting assembly and a movable feed tray. A master engaging structure engages the master as it is being processed.

Abstract: Improved aperturing of a web can be obtained by providing pins with an extended tapered section that is substantially convex in shape. When the tapered section is longer than the penetration depth of the pins into the receiving recesses of a female roll, frictional forces in the nip between layers are reduced. Pins with extended tapered sections can be used in devices for producing apertured composite web assemblies comprising sections of absorbent matter attached to a nonwoven web or other carrier layer.

Abstract: A process for placement of indicator elements in a disposable wearing article includes a step in which indication sheets each having a pair of indicator elements are placed on an outer web, a step in which the indication sheets are joined to the outer web, a step in which an inner web is placed upon and joined to the outer web to form a composite web, a step in which the composite web is divided into first and second composite webs and thereby the paired indicator elements are divided into the individual indicator elements, a step in which the first and second composite webs are separated from each other, a step in which a liquid-absorbent laminated panel is joined to respective upper surfaces of the first and second composite webs and a step in which the first and second composite webs and the panel are cut together to obtain individual articles.

Abstract: A framing device, used for displaying items such as photographs, certificates and the like, includes a translucent sheet-like material having an outward side and an inward side, both having a common continuous edge. An adhesive is applied along the inward side adjacent to the continuous edge in such a manner that a portion of such edge remains adhesive-free. A sheet of backing material has a first side and a second side and the first side of such foam is positionally secured by the adhesive and with respect to the translucent material. And a release liner is attached to the second side of the backing material. The adhesive-free portion of the edge and the sheet of backing material define a slot permitting insertion and removal of an item to be displayed.

Abstract: A curable preform in an uncured state has a tensile strength of greater than one pound per square inch and a film shape of a disk, washer, U-shaped piece, strip, and polygon and is sized to engage a fastener head underside. The preform is composed of a curable liquid precursor having a polymer powder mixed therethrough. The preform is well suited to efficiently secure a fastener adhesively to an object.

Abstract: A method of forming a disposable, refastenable absorbent article is disclosed. The method includes directing a first material parallel to and spaced apart from a second material. A pair of lines of perforations is formed across the width of the first material. A pair of attachment members is then secured to the first material such that each bridges across one of the pair of lines of perforations. An absorbent assembly is secured across the first and second materials to form a subassembly. The subassembly is then folded and the first and second materials are bonded together by first and second seam lines. The first and second materials are then separated at locations outward from each of the first and second seam lines to form a disposable, refastenable absorbent article.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for making a friction clutch plate includes cutting a supply of friction material into a plurality of individual shaped segments. The cut segments are moved in a first horizontal linear direction to a position adjacent a shuttle assembly. At least a first cut segment is engaged by the shuttle assembly which transfers the first cut segment in a second horizontal linear direction which is substantially perpendicular to the first horizontal linear direction. The first cut segment is deposited in a first indexing fixture. The remaining cut segments are sequentially moved in the first horizontal linear direction to the position adjacent the shuttle assembly. At least a second cut segment is engaged by the shuttle assembly and is transferred in a third horizontal linear direction which substantially perpendicular to the first horizontal linear direction.

Abstract: A method and apparatus that produces shaped and laminate articles and recovers the excess material or flash as a part of the manufacturing process. The apparatus uses a combination of rotary die and anvil roller assemblies in successive multiple stations to cut and separate each raw material into final product portions and recyclable flash portions as each raw material enters the apparatus. The apparatus separately reclaims each raw material flash portion and delivers the flash of each material in a recyclable form to an auxiliary recycling operation. In recovering the flash, the apparatus does not adversely affect the speed or quality of production of the final shaped or laminated product. To ease removal of the flash, the apparatus applies lubricant to the blades of the rotary die. To avoid damage to web material, the apparatus uses vacuum belts to convey the web material and web product through the apparatus.

Abstract: A method of producing material in the form of a material web (4) that has discrete pieces of material (6) mounted thereon without the using of an adhesive agent and while using only one single anvil roll, and an arrangement (10) for carrying out the method and comprising an anvil roll (2) which rotates about its longitudinal axis and which is intended to be partially embraced by or be tangential to said web (4), said roll (2) carrying sequentially as seen in its direction of rotation at least one cutting means (1) for cutting discrete pieces from a material (6),and a bonding or fastening (5), such as ultrasound welding means, wherein the anvil roll (2) forms a counterpressure means for a coaction with the cutting means (1) and the bonding means (5), wherein said roll includes said holding means (7) for holding the cut discrete pieces of material (6) against the roll (2) prior to bonding or fastening said discrete pieces to said web by means of said bonding means (5).

Abstract: There is provided a process for forming profiled elastic laminates suitable for forming profiled elastic ear portions. The process comprises the steps of providing a continuous length of at least one elastic web material having a first width and a continuous length of a first extensible nonelastic web having a second width. The extensible web is extensible in at least the width dimension. The at least one elastic web material and the first extensible nonelastic web are joined to form a first laminate. The first laminate is cut into at least two adjacent continuous lengths of at least two nested profiled laminates. The nested profiled laminates each have at least one profiled edge. Adjacent profiled edges of adjacent profiled laminates are substantial negatives of each other. The adjacent profiled laminates are then physically separated from each other.

Abstract: A plastics floor covering (1) included a plurality of discrete plastics components (2, 3, 4) each having an upper surface and a lower surface (lower surface shown). The discrete components (2, 3, 4) are assembled together to form a predetermined design and are held in the assembled position to form a unitary floor covering (1) by at least one portion of a joining film (14) secured to the lower surface of each discrete component (2, 3, 4). The joining film (14) spans at least the edges of neighboring discrete components (2, 3, 4) and is coated with a thermally labile polymeric coupling agent. The joining film (14) is perforated in a preferred embodiment of the invention.

Abstract: The method includes selecting two or more types of ceramic materials (202, 204), each having a distinct set of electrical properties different from the other of the types of ceramic materials. A substrate pattern can also be selected. The substrate pattern can comprise at least two types of distinct substrate areas having the distinct sets of electrical properties of the ceramic materials. Each distinct area can be selected so as to have dimensions much smaller than a wavelength at a frequency of interest. The ceramic materials (202, 204) can thereafter be fired and then cut into a size and shape consistent with the distinct areas to form dielectric pieces (206, 208). The process continues by selectively arranging the dielectric pieces on a base plate (302) in accordance with the pattern to form the textured ceramic dielectric substrate.

Abstract: A method of forming a continuous composite structure includes the steps of predetermining relative proportions of a liquid resin forming material, a catalyst, and a inhibitor from respective reservoir (32, 33, 34) based on the ambient temperature and a porous blanket. The predetermined proportions are recirculated independently substantially continuously and coordinated at preselected rates. The predetermined proportions are simultaneously withdrawn and continuously mixed in a chamber (39) having a dispensing outlet (40). A pool (46) of the mixture is formed on the blanket (44) and a leading edge (68) is advanced substantially immediately into permanent contact with a preselected final surface and adhered thereto. Part of the catalyzed and inhibited resin forming material migrates through the blanket to form a continuous resin matrix therein.

Abstract: A web speed metering device to which a moving web is fed at a constant web infeed speed and from which the web periodically exits at a different speed that is correlated with the timing of a downstream operation performed on the moving web. The metering device is a rotatable member that is non-axisymmetric and that has a cross-sectional shape having a centroid that is offset from the axis of rotation of the rotatable member to change the web output speed as the web exits from the metering device. The metering device allows a web to be fed to a downstream cutting device and enables the web output speed to be regulated so that the web as it leaves the metering device can be cut transversely by a non-instantaneous cut that takes place over a predetermined machine-direction distance, such as a chevron-shaped cut.

Abstract: A label product such as a coupon is adhered to a release liner using a temporary adhesive. A layer of pressure sensitive laminate film, preferably transparent, is applied over the coupon, extending beyond the outer edges of the coupon so that the laminate is also adhered to the release liner. When the release liner is removed, the laminate can be applied directly to a product, without the base label common in conventional label products.

Abstract: A sheet separator is so arranged as to cover both surfaces of an electrode plate, and a heating plate is applied along a to-be-bonded edge of the separator, thereby achieving bonding by thermal welding. The heating plate has a width corresponding to a width of a bonded portion of the separator. Then, by pressing a protrusion of the heating plate or a heating plate for cutting against substantially the central part of the bonded portion, local heat transfer takes place to sublime a resin component, whereby the separator is cut off. Thereupon, the pouch-shaped separator is attached to the electrode plate.

Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus for bonding a semiconductor chip to substrate using a non-conductive adhesive tape. The non-conductive adhesive tape may be a polyimide tape. The apparatus may include a tape provider having a reel on which the non-adhesive tape may be spooled, rollers, and a tape cutter which cuts the tape to a suitable size. A tape holder and a tape presser may also be provided to hold the tape in place while the tape cutter cuts the tape. A tape pick-up tool may be provided to transfer the cut tape to a die bonding area on the substrate. The tape holder and the tape pick-up tool may include a suction opening for providing a suction force. The apparatus may further include a die pick up tool for transferring a semiconductor chip from a semiconductor chip provider to the adhesive tape affixed to the substrate.

Abstract: A flexible material includes a plurality of separate resilient elements joined to a flexible, resiliently stretchable substrate. Such a material is suitable for providing protective war for human and animal bodies. Preferably, the elements includes a foam material such as a closed cell polyethylene foam and the substrate includes a knitted fabric. In an advantageous embodiment, a second flexible substrate is bonded over the elements to sandwich them between the two layers of substrate.

Abstract: A method for manufacturing shaped components for absorbent articles from web materials including the following steps. A first web of material is provided in a machine direction. The first web is cut into at least two shaped strips having alternating nested projecting portions defined by at least one shaping cut having a pattern extending in the machine direction and alternately extending in the cross machine direction to alternate distal points located between longitudinal side edges of the first web. At least a first and a second of the shaped strips are separated. A second web of material is provided in the machine direction. At least the first shaped strip is joined to the second web. The second web is repositioned in the cross machine direction a predetermined distance. At least the second shaped strip is joined to the second web. The resultant composite web is cut into separate shaped components.

Abstract: An article such as a soft cover portfolio, or desk folder includes a graphic image thereon by transferring an image from a source to a processor which is operable to control a printer to print multiple images on a sheet of polyvinyl chloride or the like. The printed images may be protected by laminating a transparent vinyl sheet over the image sheet and the images are then precut to final size. The individual images are applied directly to the article or to a member used in forming an article by RF sealing the image to the member. The image may be supported on a debossing die or placed on the member wich will form the article, then struck by the debossing die.

Abstract: This invention provides a process and apparatus (38) for the manufacture of disposable absorbent cores from a continuous web (40), wherein a plurality of first and second core elements (40a, 40b) are cut from the same continuous web (40). The object of the invention is achieved by rotating each of first and second core elements (40a, 40b) about axes perpendicular to the plane of the core element and subsequently combining a first core element (40a) and a second core element (40b) in proximal relationship to form the absorbent core. Preferably each of the first and second core elements (40a, 40b) are rotated through 90° in mutually counter-rotating directions.

Abstract: A method for manufacturing an absorbent article comprising the steps of continuously feeding out a long, extensible, continuous member (5) from a predetermined position, cutting the continuous member (5) into lengths (P1) each equivalent to a length of one sheet of the absorbent article at a predetermined position, and fixedly arranging the cut continuous member at a predetermined position of the absorbent article, wherein a predetermined pattern is preliminarily printed on the continuous member (5) at a printing pitch shorter than the cutting length (P1) of the continuous member, and the speed for feeding out is controlled such that the predetermined pattern is located at a predetermined part of the cut continuous member, thereby obtaining the absorbent article in which the predetermined pattern is arranged at a predetermined position.