By Driven Web Feeding Means Patents (Class 156/495)
  • Patent number: 6969441
    Abstract: In the invention, a method is provided for producing a composite nonwoven fabric. A polymer is extruded into heated continuous filaments, possibly elastic, from the die head to a first chilled roller, wherein the extruder is configured to provide the continuous filaments to the chilled roller in a canted direction that is at a tangent or angle to the surface of the first chilled roller. The filaments are conveyed in a downward direction by way of chilled rollers to a nip. In a next step, the nonwoven web is sprayed with an adhesive and is laminated on the continuous filaments in the nip to form a composite nonwoven fabric. The continuous filaments move vertically downward approximately in line with the lamination process, facilitating automatic re-threading of filaments when they are broken or interrupted in their travel downward onto the chilled rolls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2005
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Howard M. Welch, Charles J. Morell, Michael C. Cook, James R. Fitts, Jr., Donald V. Willitts, Marion C. Morris, Ronald H. Wideman, John A. Brewer, Mark M. Mleziva, Kenneth M. Salter, Raymond J. May, Lavada Boggs, Leslie D. Dobbins
  • Patent number: 6901986
    Abstract: The present invention involves a carbon fiber-filled sheet molding compound and method of manufacturing the same. The invention comprises providing chopped automotive carbon fibers, a predetermined resin paste, a first carrier film, and a second carrier film. The method further involves coating substantially completely one side of one of the first and second carrier films with the predetermined resin paste to define a coated side, depositing the chopped automotive carbon fibers onto the coated side, and covering the deposited carbon fibers with the second carrier film to define a compactible carbon-filled laminate. The method further includes compacting the carbon-filled laminate to admix the resin paste with the carbon fibers between the films, whereby to form the automotive carbon fiber-filled sheet molding compound.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2005
    Assignee: Patent Holding Company
    Inventor: Frank W. Bradish
  • Patent number: 6883575
    Abstract: A fiber glass mat containing a novolac resin having an acid solubility of at least about 35 wt. percent is especially useful for bonding to a light weight fibrous or foam web or board, such as a polymer fiber web. A method of making the mat by wet laying a slurry containing the fiber and the novolac resin particles and then further adding an aqueous solution or slurry containing a crosslinking agent for the novolac resin and a laminate containing the fiber glass mat are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2005
    Assignee: Johns Manville International, Inc.
    Inventor: Alan Michael Jaffee
  • Publication number: 20040167493
    Abstract: An arrangement for applying elastic elements (1a, 1b, 1c) to a continuous material web (7) includes a first roll device (4, 5; 4, 5′) for advancing the elastic elements (1a, 1b, 1c) in series and at a first predetermined speed (v1) and a second roll device (6; 11, 12) for advancing the material web (7) at a second predetermined speed (v2). The second speed (v2) exceeds the first speed (v1) and the arrangement includes an abutment surface (6; 10a) arranged at a distance (d) from the first roll device (4, 5; 4, 5′) which is less than the combined thickness of the elastic elements (1a, 1b, 1c) and the material web (7), an elongation of the elastic elements (1a, 1b, 1c) in their longitudinal direction being realized as they pass between the first roll device (4, 5; 4, 5′) and the said abutment surface (6; 10a).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 17, 2004
    Publication date: August 26, 2004
    Applicant: SCA Hygiene Products AB
    Inventors: Christian Jarpenberg, Kenneth Henriksson, Anders Norder
  • Patent number: 6748996
    Abstract: A rotation device includes: an endless guide; and a plurality of moving sections that move while being guided by the guide, wherein an interval between the moving sections can be changed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2004
    Assignee: Zuiko Corporation
    Inventors: Masaki Nakakado, Yuzo Ichiura, Satoshi Tanaka, Ikuo Tachibana
  • Patent number: 6732778
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2004
    Assignee: Kao Corporation
    Inventors: Yoshinobu Machida, Makoto Kokubo
  • Patent number: 6698488
    Abstract: The apparatus for sticking a tape onto a semiconductor wafer comprises a winding tape roll for winding a tape wound around a tape roll, a taper roller having a diameter which is tapered or reduced toward both ends thereof, a wafer table mounting thereon a semiconductor wafer which is taken out from a wafer carrier station and positioning the wafer thereon, an orientation flat cutter and a circumferential cutter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2004
    Assignee: Oki Electric Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Mutsuo Ishinoda
  • Patent number: 6662843
    Abstract: Method an apparatus and a system in which reclosable bags and components thereof are formed are disclosed. The reclosable bags 2001 are made from base web material that has transversely applied fastener tape segments thereon. The web material is used in a vertical form, fill and seal bag forming method. The method includes the steps of supplying a continuous strip of tape, having male and female fasteners profiler across the web for sealing thereon. In one embodiment a continuous strip of barrier material, and a continuous strip of fastener having first and second interlocked fastener profile strips are positioned on the continuous strip of tape; and secured thereon, the barrier tape is folded to obtain a fold and two opposing barrier tape fastener strip connecting portions; and, the fold is slit to form two separate continuous strips of barrier material strips and two continuous strips of tape. In another embodiment a coating is applied to the tape itself to prevent sealing of the folded slit tape to itself.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2003
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventor: James R. Johnson
  • Patent number: 6539997
    Abstract: The present invention provides an adhesive transfer device comprising a frame and first and second cooperating structures each having a substrate engaging surface, the first cooperating structure being a nip roller rotatably mounted to the frame. The selected substrate and the adhesive carrying substrate can be advanced between the cooperating structures with the substrate engaging surfaces thereof cooperating to apply pressure to the substrates. This causes the first portion of the pressure-sensitive adhesive layer to adhere to the selected substrate and the second portion of the pressure-sensitive adhesive layer to adhere to a pick-up portion of the substrate engaging surface of the nip roller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2003
    Assignee: Xyron, Inc.
    Inventor: Paul Lemens
  • Patent number: 6520237
    Abstract: Strand coating methods and systems having an applicator head pivotally mounted adjacent a substrate, a coating material dispenser mounted on the applicator head, a strand guide mounted on the applicator head, wherein the strand guide and the coating material dispenser are adjustably positionable in unison relative to the substrate by pivoting the applicator head to vary the spacing of the strands relative to the substrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2003
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc
    Inventors: Edward W. Bolyard, Jr., Daniel D. Bourget, Mairi C. MacLean
  • Patent number: 6450228
    Abstract: A film and a method of applying the film to a handrail of an escalator or moving walkway are provided. The film can be a single or double layered film. Printed matter, e.g. advertising, can be applied to or between the films. An apparatus and related method for applying the film are also included and rely on the motion of the handrail to unroll a supply of the film, with one or more rollers pressing the film onto the handrail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2002
    Assignee: Ronald H. Hall
    Inventors: John McLeod, Ronald L. Bugg
  • Patent number: 6443935
    Abstract: In a method and device for applying a thread to a moving substrate, a thread is continuously dispensed to a pick-up point adjacent to the point of contact of two rotating wheels (2, 3) that are inclined towards each other. The peripheries of the wheels have fingers (7) which hook the thread and move it to one side or the other as the wheels rotate, and then deposit the thread extended between the fingers 180° from the pick-up point. Long spaces between the fingers (7) on one wheel or the other make it possible to lay the thread longitudinally (8b) or in a long diagonal line instead of merely in a lateral zigzag pattern. The method and device may be used to make an absorbent article, such as a diaper.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2002
    Assignee: SCA Molnlycke AB
    Inventors: Anders Gustafsson, Urban Widlund
  • Patent number: 6422281
    Abstract: The application discloses an adhesive transfer apparatus comprising a frame, a first feed roll carrying a supply, of an adhesive transfer substrate, and a second feed roll carrying a supply of an adhesive mask substrate. The adhesive transfer substrate has a layer of pressure-sensitive adhesive disposed on an adhesive carrying side thereof. The first and second feed rolls are rotatably mounted to the frame. The adhesive mask substrate has a bonding side to which the adhesive will bond. Tie first and second feed rolls are positioned such that The selected substrate can be inserted between the transfer substrate and the mask substrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2002
    Assignee: Xyron, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas C. Ensign, Jr., Joseph P. E. Velasquez, Jerry L. Hardy
  • Patent number: 6401786
    Abstract: A laminated stretch cushion strap assembly having a stretchable cover, a stretchable cushion filler and a stretchable bottom or bottom fabric. The cover includes a stretchable top fabric, a first adhesive web layer positioned on one side of the top fabric and a stretchable base layer positioned on the first adhesive layer on a side opposite that of the top fabric. The stretchable bottom fabric forms with the cover an enclosure. The stretchable cushion filler is adapted to be completely enclosed within the enclosure. The stretchable cushion filler has a first cushion layer, and adhesive for securing during lamination the cover to the stretchable cushion filler, and the cushion filler to the stretchable bottom fabric. The adhesive is a second adhesive web layer positioned between the stretchable base layer and the first cushion layer to secure the cushion filler to the cover, and a third adhesive web layer positioned on the first cushion layer to secure the bottom fabric to the cushion filler.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2002
    Assignee: Playtex Apparel, Inc.
    Inventors: Anthony J. Tedeschi, P. Benjamin Paschal, Joseph M. Petrovich, Billy Poindexter, II, Gloria Falla
  • Patent number: 6375781
    Abstract: An apparatus and high speed process for heating and stretching a film having a bridle mechanism comprising a first heated roll and a second heated roll. The film is stretched as the film is transferred from the first heated roll to the second heated roll which rotates at a speed greater than the speed at which the first heated roll rotates. The film is fed into the bridle mechanism at a rate of about 1,500 fpm to about 2,500 fpm wherein it is stretched to a length that is up to about 450% greater than its initial, pre-stretched length. The increased contact between the large diameter heated rolls and the film and the short draw gap between the two heated rolls result in a highly stretched film having minimal neck-in.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2002
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: John P. Wojcik, Deepak H. Mehta, Donald L. Van Erden
  • Patent number: 6349867
    Abstract: An apparatus for transporting continuous elongate material webs is provided including structure for transporting a material web at a constant speed along a transport path and at least two material web guides arranged along the transport path, at least one guide being arranged upstream and at least one guide being arranged downstream of an intermediate position along the transport path. The upstream and downstream guides are moved relative to each other so as to impart a sinusoidal variation in speed to the material web at the intermediate position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2002
    Assignee: SCA Hygiene Products AB
    Inventor: Ingemar Fernfors
  • Patent number: 6315022
    Abstract: A disposable undergarment forming apparatus and methods are provided for forming disposable undergarments. The apparatus preferably includes a core former positioned to form a stream of undergarment cores. The core former includes a mat securer positioned to secure each of a plurality of undergarment mats to a sheet of a polymeric material and a first separator positioned downstream from the mat securer for separating the stream of undergarment cores into a plurality of individual cores. An elastic waistband former preferably is positioned adjacent the core former for forming elastic waistbands. A waistband securer is positioned downstream from the core former and positioned to receive the elastic waistbands from the elastic waistband former for securing the waistbands to the plurality of individual undergarment cores to thereby form a chain of a plurality of undergarments. A folder is positioned downstream from the waistband securer for folding each of the plurality of undergarments of the chain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2001
    Inventors: Robert M. Herrin, John M. Tharpe
  • Patent number: 6291039
    Abstract: A ruffling slide for making articles with stretchable portions includes a tubular sleeve for containing at least one resiliently elastic yarn element connecting the portions transversely provided on the sleeve and space apart in such a way that they define tubular ruffling sections. The connecting portions also form narrowed portions for locally clamping the elastic yarn elements. The yarn element inserts into the sleeve and is clamped at the narrowed portions in such a way that it extends freely through each tubular section and is movable therein between two positions, i.e., an inoperative position and an operative position in which said element is shorter than the section in question, whereby it may subsequently impart a ruffle thereto in a direction substantially perpendicular to the general direction of the sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2001
    Assignee: Cera France Compagnie d'Equipment Robotique Appliquee
    Inventors: Robert Combe, Serge Moulin
  • Patent number: 6287409
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for applying elastic material in a curvilinear pattern on a continuously moving substrate. The method moves a substrate along a substrate path, supplies the elastic material to an oscillation unit first roll mounted for pivoting and rolling engagement with a transfer roll, the pivoting being about a pivot axis parallel to the substrate path, oscillates the oscillation unit first roll such that the first roll pivot axis oscillates in a plane generally traverse to the substrate path, applies the elastic material from the first roll to the transfer roll in the desired curvilinear path configuration, then applies the elastic material from the transfer roll to the substrate and bonds the elastic material to the substrate. Optionally the first roll may apply the elastic material directly to the substrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2001
    Assignee: Kimberely-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventor: Mitchell M. Stephany
  • Patent number: 6284081
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for applying elastic material in a curvilinear pattern on a continuously moving substrate. The method moves a substrate along a substrate path, supplies the elastic material to an oscillation unit first roll mounted for pivoting and rolling engagement with a transfer roll, oscillates the oscillation unit in a path generally transverse to the substrate path, applies the elastic material from the first roll to the transfer roll in the desired curvilinear path configuration, then applies the elastic material from the transfer roll to the substrate and bonds the elastic material to the substrate. Optionally the first roll may apply the elastic material directly to the substrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2001
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Eugene Vogt, James Bennington Stopher
  • Patent number: 6270612
    Abstract: A multi-purpose laminating and adhesive transfer apparatus having a frame supporting rotatably engaging nip rollers. A replaceable cartridge is insertable into the frame and has upper and lower feed rolls which may be a laminate, film or paper, or an adhesively coated film or a film having an affinity for adhesive. The upper and lower feed rolls containing the webs of laminating or adhesive transfer material have tensioning caps which can be adjusted to provide the proper tensioning to prevent the rollers from overrunning as they rotate. Tensioning caps and the cartridges are pre-set and provided to the user. A cutter blade is positioned at the discharge side of the nip rollers and may be actuated to sever the master at any desired location. The apparatus may be operated to apply lamination to either top or bottom surfaces of a substrate or an adhesive to the top or bottom surface of the substrate or to both surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2001
    Assignee: Xyron, Inc.
    Inventor: Franklin C. Bradshaw
  • Patent number: 6251209
    Abstract: Methods, an apparatus and a system in which reclosable bags and components thereof are formed are disclosed. The reclosable bags 2001 are made from base web material that has transversely applied fastener tape segments thereon. The web material is used in a vertical form, fill and seal bag forming method. The method includes the steps of supplying a continuous strip of tape, having male and female fasteners profiler across the web for sealing thereon. In one embodiment a continuous strip of barrier material, and a continuous strip of fastener having first and second interlocked fastener profile strips are positioned on the continuous strip of tape; and secured thereon, the barrier tape is folded to obtain a fold and two opposing barrier tape fastener strip connecting portions; and, the fold is slit to form two separate continuous strips of barrier material strips and two continuous strips of tape.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2001
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventor: James R. Johnson
  • Patent number: 6206995
    Abstract: A moving-web slack reducing system including a deformable tension roller, such as a brush-type tension roller having an outer surface defined by the ends of a plurality of bristles. The slack reducing system may be deployed in a preheater assembly for a machine for manufacturing corrugated board. The bristles of the deformable tension roller allow the outer surface of the tension roller to deflect both radially and in the cross-machine direction without binding to the paper web. The bristles may also deflect variably across the tension roller in the cross-machine direction. Thus, the deflection of the bristles adjusts automatically and virtually instantaneously to changes in the tension of the paper web to compensate for variations in tension across the web in the cross-machine direction. This allows the brush-type tension roller to take the slack out of the paper web without having to rapidly and precisely adjust any actuators.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Assignee: Corrugated Gear & Services, Inc.
    Inventor: David Lauderbaugh
  • Patent number: 6199614
    Abstract: A high speed labeling machine is provided which includes a constant tensioning device for maintaining tension downstream of the metering roll at a substantially constant predetermined level thereby improving both metering and dispensing of labels. The constant tensioning device may also function as a driver for pulling the continuous web of material through the labeling machine thereby reducing the driving load on the metering roll, thus both providing more effective and accurate metering at a given web speed while also allowing higher web speeds to be achieved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2001
    Assignee: Exact Packaging, Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald E. Snyder, Robert C. Jenness, Jr., George W. Baker, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6136118
    Abstract: An ultrasonic tying tool for installation of a tape about a bundle of elongate articles. The tool includes an ultrasonic horn wherein the welding tip is moveable between a first position for welding of a tape to secure the tensioned loop about the plurality of articles and a second position wherein the welding tip is translated a distance from the first position to effect cutting of the tensioned loop from the stock of tape and to tack weld the loose cut end to the underlying tape of the loop to eliminate any protruding sharp edges. The tool additionally includes a belt drive mechanism for advancing the tape to the jaw assembly and for tensioning the tape following looping of the tape about the outside.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2000
    Assignee: Thomas & Betts International, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul J. Bartholomew, John J. Students, Gary L. Lowery, Wasim Khokhar, Mark A. Bailey, John D. Dorian, John A. Sehlmeyer, Peter M. Wells, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6033502
    Abstract: A process and apparatus for controllably registering two continuously moving layers of material is provided. One of the layers is elasticized and has a plurality of reference marks representing a plurality of separate and distinct components, and the other of the continuously moving layers has a respective plurality of components thereon. The process and apparatus controls the distance between reference marks to a selected distance, and controllably registers each reference mark to a respective component of the continuously moving second layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2000
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph Daniel Coenen, Robert Griffiths Brandon, Louis Maurice Chapdelaine, Scott Lee Kastman, Robert Lee Popp, Devertt DeWayne Woolwine
  • Patent number: 5964970
    Abstract: A process and apparatus for controllably registering two continuously moving layers of material is provided. One of the layers is an elastic film and has a plurality of reference marks representing a plurality of separate and distinct components, and the other of the continuously moving layers has a respective plurality of different components thereon. The process and apparatus controls the distance between reference marks to a selected distance, and controllably registers each reference mark to a respective component of the continuously moving second layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 12, 1999
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Devertt DeWayne Woolwine, Robert Griffiths Brandon, Louis Maurice Chapdelaine, Joseph Daniel Coenen, Scott Lee Kastman, Robert Lee Popp
  • Patent number: 5961779
    Abstract: A multi-purpose laminating and adhesive transfer apparatus having a frame supporting rotatably engaging nip rollers. A replaceable cartridge is insertable into the frame and has upper and lower feed rolls which may be a laminate, film or paper, or an adhesively coated film or a film having an affinity for adhesive. The upper and lower feed rolls containing the webs of laminating or adhesive transfer material have tensioning caps which can be adjusted to provide the proper tensioning to prevent the rollers from overrunning as they rotate. Tensioning caps and the cartridges are pre-set and provided to the user. A cutter blade is positioned at the discharge side of the nip rollers and may be actuated to sever the master at any desired location. The apparatus may be operated to apply lamination to either top or bottom surfaces of a substrate or an adhesive to the top or bottom surface of the substrate or to both surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 5, 1999
    Assignee: Xyron, Inc.
    Inventor: Franklin C. Bradshaw
  • Patent number: 5961762
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for high speed and uniform manufacture and assembly of acoustical diaphragms having electrical conductor circuits applied thereto to frame components used with acoustic transducers wherein a web of diaphragm material having a plurality of spaced circuit carrying diaphragm sections applied thereto is moved relative to an applicator station wherein each section of the web of diaphragm material is placed under a predetermined tension and a frame component is bonded to the tensioned section, afterwhich the section of diaphragm material is severed from the web of diaphragm material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 5, 1999
    Assignee: Sonigistix Corporation
    Inventors: Thomas Zelinka, Jim Balcom, Scott Phillips, Gary Cook, Mohammad Kermani, Paul Taylor
  • Patent number: 5942076
    Abstract: There is provided an inflatable cushion filling machine for forming inflated packaging cushions from a roll of tubular thermoplastic material. The machine includes a film supply section and a cushion forming section. The cushion forming section includes means for delivering the tubular material through the cushion forming section; means for applying tension to the web of tubular material while air is being introduced into the tubular material. Means are provided for introducing air into the area between the tension means to fill the cushion. When filled, a sealing band, displaced transversely across the inflated tubular thermoplastic material, seals the lower end to form the top of one cushion and the bottom of the next cushion. Prior to forming the cushion, the walls of the tubular material separate from each other by the residual air from the filling operation of the previous cushion. A perforation knife may be provided to separate each cushion from the next succeeding cushion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 24, 1999
    Assignee: Sealed Air Corporation
    Inventors: Mark Salerno, James Corliss, George Bertram
  • Patent number: 5932039
    Abstract: A process and apparatus for controllably registering two continuously moving layers of material is provided. One of the layers comprises a permanently settable material, and has a plurality of reference marks representing a plurality of separate and distinct components, and the other of the continuously moving layers has a respective plurality of different components thereon. The process and apparatus controls the distance between reference marks to a selected distance, and controllably registers each reference mark to a respective component of the continuously moving second layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 3, 1999
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Wordwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Lee Popp, Robert Griffiths Brandon, Louis Maurice Chapdelaine, Joseph Daniel Coenen, Scott Lee Kastman, Devertt DeWayne Woolwine
  • Patent number: 5930139
    Abstract: A process and apparatus for controllably registering two continuously moving layers of material is provided. A continuously moving first layer has a plurality of components thereon, and a continuously moving second layer has a plurality of reference marks representing a respective plurality of components thereon. The process and apparatus control the distance between reference marks of the second layer to a selected distance, and controllably registers each reference mark of the second layer to a respective component of the continuously moving first layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 27, 1999
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Louis Maurice Chapdelaine, Robert Griffiths Brandon, Joseph Daniel Coenen, Scott Lee Kastman, Robert Lee Popp, Devertt DeWayne Woolwine
  • Patent number: 5788805
    Abstract: Apparatus and method for producing a product, such as a disposable absorbent garment, from flexible material having elasticized portions tending to contract the product as it moves along a path. The apparatus includes a plurality of spaced apart engaging members which grip opposed edge and end margins of the product and a conveyor on which the engaging members are mounted to carry the engaging member and products stretched therebetween along a production path. At various stations along the production path apparatus is provided for retarding forward movement of one of the sets of engaging members to fold a leading edge portion thereof back into a position overlying a trailing end portion thereof, joining, or sealing, apparatus for sealing side edge margins together, and severing mechanism for severing the article from the engaging members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 4, 1998
    Assignee: Paragon Trade Brands, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas R. Herrmann
  • Patent number: 5772834
    Abstract: This invention relates to a plastic substrate production process, the production device for such a substrate, and the use of the process for the production of integrated circuit boards. The plastic substrate production process is characterized in that it comprises the following steps: unwinding and straightening of a continuous strip of plastic which is slightly larger in dimension than one of the dimensions of the board; printing, at at least one printing station, of a series of printing patterns and of printed markings; driving of the strip at a regulated printing speed; detection of the difference in speed; cutting by a press of the strip at positions defined by the printed markings; and regulation of the printing speed as a function of the difference between the printing speed and the driving speed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 30, 1998
    Assignees: Gilles Leroux, S.A., ATN S.A.
    Inventors: Serge Chiloff, Jean-Marc Bernard, Gerard Nioche
  • Patent number: 5766411
    Abstract: An apparatus for producing a garment with a raised barrier formed of ribbon material. The apparatus includes a conveyor for carrying garment material in a direction along a flow path. A ribbon storage provides elongate ribbon for application to the garment material to form the barrier. A ribbon feeder having a first feeder head moves across the flow path to apply the ribbon to the material on the conveyor in a curved contour. An adhesive applicator applies adhesive along one edge of the ribbon such that the resulting free edge of the ribbon may form a raised barrier on the finished garment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 16, 1998
    Assignee: Paragon Trade Brands. Inc.
    Inventor: Lorraine Dawn Wilson
  • Patent number: 5766389
    Abstract: A process for controllably registering two continuously moving layers of material is provided. One of the layers of material has a plurality of reference marks representing a plurality of separate and distinct components, and the other of the continuously moving layers has a respective plurality of different components thereon. The process controls the distance between reference marks to a selected distance, and controllably registers each reference mark to a respective component of the continuously moving second layer. An article is provided in which a graphic is controllably registered within a designated area thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 16, 1998
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Griffiths Brandon, Louis Maurice Chapdelaine, Leonard Michael Kaczmarzyk, Scott Lee Kastman, Marci Elizabeth Kuske, Thomas Michael Lager, Stephen Lawrence Miller, Robert Lee Popp, Richard Thomas Wehrle, Devertt DeWayne Woolwine
  • Patent number: 5766390
    Abstract: A tube-forming machine and process has a supply for delivering an elongate, folded, plastic web along a path of travel. The web may be clear polyethylene folded treated surface to treated surface. A cutting mechanism is positioned along the path including a hard cylindrical roll and a cutter having a cutting head and means to bias the head toward the roll. A rotatable sealing drum has a cylindrical web engaging surface delineating a further portion of the path. A set of circumferentially spaced flame-emitting nozzles are positioned adjacent the drum surface section. Each of the nozzles includes a tip disposed within the cylinder delineated by said drum surface and has an axis disposed in an imaginary radial plane. Each tip is directed radially upwardly to impinge its flame against portions of a web being fed along the path when such portions project from said drum surface. Each tip axis is at an angle from 90.degree. to 60.degree.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 16, 1998
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works, Inc.
    Inventor: John D. Jensen
  • Patent number: 5746854
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing/making mineral fiber (e.g. fiberglass) thermal insulation batt is disclosed wherein a base mineral fiber layer is impregnated with a two-layer layering system so as to produce a batt which is substantially vapor impermeable with a perm vapor rating less than about one. The first layer of the layering system is of a low melt material while the second layer is of a high melt material, the first layer being sandwiched between the base insulating layer and the second layer, and functioning to bond the layering system to the base. In certain embodiments, the first layer includes quick blooming ethyl vinyl acetate (e.g. from about 10-25% by weight) and a low density (e.g. 22-26 lbs. per cubic foot) polyethylene, and the second layer includes high density (e.g. 28-38 lbs. per cubic foot) polyethylene. The resulting insulation batt is vapor impermeable, less susceptible to cold-crack, easier to manufacture, fire retardant, more durable, and easier to handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 5, 1998
    Assignee: Guardian Fiberglass, Inc.
    Inventors: Gary E. Romes, Joseph T. Church, Steven Sanford, Robert W. Syme
  • Patent number: 5743994
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for making an elasticized article includes a delivering mechanism for supplying a substrate web having a longitudinal direction and a lateral cross-direction. A first connecting mechanism attaches an inboard elastic member to said substrate web, and a second connecting mechanism attaches an outboard elastic member to the substrate web, with the outboard elastic member located laterally outboard of the inboard elastic member. A dividing mechanism separates away a portion of the substrate web and a portion of the outboard elastic member to thereby provide a set of elastics which are arranged in a staggered overlapping relation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 28, 1998
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas Harold Roessler, Paul Theodore Van Gompel, Daniel Robert Schlinz, Mark Gordon Heath, Geoffrey Walter Frost
  • Patent number: 5735998
    Abstract: A multi-purpose laminating and adhesive transfer apparatus having a frame supporting rotatably engaging nip rollers which define a nip area. A replaceable cartridge is insertable into the frame and has upper and lower feed rolls which may be a laminate, film, or paper, or an adhesively coated film, or a film having an affinity for adhesive. The frame includes an open front for receiving the cartridge and a rear wall, and the cartridge includes an open rear in substantial alignment with the open front of the frame. The cartridge also includes a top wall, a bottom wall, and a front wall, the open rear providing access to the upper and lower feed rolls and loading of material from the upper and lower feed rolls to the nip rollers. The front wall of the cartridge has an opening therein in alignment with the nip area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 7, 1998
    Assignee: Xyron, Inc.
    Inventor: Franklin C. Bradshaw
  • Patent number: 5735997
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for mounting, laminating and/or enclosing an illustration, comprising a housing having a mounting and laminating unit located in the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 7, 1998
    Inventor: Johannes Antonius Maria Reinders
  • Patent number: 5730816
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for selecting labels disposed on a moving web and stripping and retaining the stripped labels apart from the web, and removing the unstripped labels with the web. The invention includes moving the unstripped labels on the web over an edge substantially parallel to the trailing edge of the label, and subsequently moving and/or rotating the trailing edge with respect to the edge at a rate relatively faster than the web to effect a reliable separation of the label from the web.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 24, 1998
    Assignee: Imtec, Inc.
    Inventor: William J. Murphy
  • Patent number: 5693165
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method of manufacturing an absorbent article (144), wherein the speed of a part (7b) of a continuously moving web (1) comprising a topsheet (121), backsheet (123), core (120) or any combination thereof, is periodically varied, while maintaining a constant speed of the upstream (3) and downstream (5) parts of the web (1). The method comprises feeding the web (1) past rotating transportation rollers (13, 15) which are oscillated parallel to the web (1) in the direction of transportation (F) and opposite to the direction of transportation (F). Three web sections (7a, 7b, 7c) are during oscillation of the transportation rollers (13, 15) maintained in a mutually parallel relationship. Translation means (77) and rotation balancing means (63, 63') allow the transportation rollers (13, 15) to be driven at high speeds and low variations in torque. The strain exerted on the web (1) remains relatively low and is limited to the inertia forces that act on the web (1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 2, 1997
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventor: Christoph Schmitz
  • Patent number: 5662759
    Abstract: A strip of resilient material is clamped uniformly across the width of the material at a first position by vertically spaced clamps which are separated to stretch a section of the material beyond the elastic limit. The stretched section of material is released and transported on a horizontal conveyor to a second position where the stretched section is cut by a cutter providing edges of reduced thickness which are suitable for overlapping other stretched edges of reduced thickness for splicing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 2, 1997
    Assignee: The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company
    Inventors: Francis Cornet, Robert Albert Lammlein, Jr., Roger Marthoz, John Kolbjorn Roedseth
  • Patent number: 5660675
    Abstract: The disclosed apparatus implements a method of joining two sheets of heat transfer paper into a single sheet almost twice as wide for use in heat transfer printing of extra wide cloth. The paper is withdrawn from source rolls and passed along first and second respective web paths with a very slight overlap between the papers. A glue station applies a speed controlled amount of glue to the overlap region of one paper and the edges of the paper are brought together in the desired overlapping relationship. The thus joined paper is passed through compression rollers and wound onto a resilient rewind roll. Edge sensors in each of the web paths maintain the overlap alignment of the paper paths and tension sensors in each of the paths maintain a desired level of tension. A video camera imaging system provides the operator with periodic video images of a magnified region of the overlap so that proper registration between the patterns on the respective papers can be maintained.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 26, 1997
    Assignee: Transprint USA
    Inventors: William Boyd, Malcolm E. Clare, George Stafford, Tom Garth, Clement Ramdin
  • Patent number: 5628845
    Abstract: The present invention utilizes a controlled pressure application system to insure that the proper pressure is applied in a lamination of permeable and semi-permeable roll mounted sheets into a cellular sheet structure. The present invention uses a pressure roller mounted on a carriage which is movable horizontally radially of a heated roll by a controllable linear actuator such that variable and closely controlled pressure may be applied to a web passing between the heated roll and the carriage mounted pressure roller. Additionally, the present invention uses a precisely controllable fluid heated pressure roller and a precisely controllable fluid cooled cooling roller acting as a heat sink for the pressure roller to maintain a precise temperature gradient across the web at the nip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 13, 1997
    Assignee: Thermal Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph C. J. Murray, Jonathan S. Browne
  • Patent number: 5626711
    Abstract: Apparatus and method for producing a product, such as a disposable absorbent garment, from flexible material having elasticized portions tending to contract the product as it moves along a path. The apparatus includes a plurality of spaced apart engaging members which grip opposed edge and end margins of the product and a conveyor on which the engaging members are mounted to carry the engaging member and products stretched therebetween along a production path. At various stations along the production path apparatus is provided for retarding forward movement of one of the sets of engaging members to fold a leading edge portion thereof back into a position overlying a trailing end portion thereof, joining, or sealing, apparatus for sealing side edge margins together, and severing mechanism for severing the article from the engaging members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 6, 1997
    Assignee: Paragon Trade Brands, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas R. Herrmann
  • Patent number: 5584962
    Abstract: A multi-purpose laminating and adhesive transfer apparatus having a frame supporting rotatably engaging nip rollers. The frame and has upper and lower feed rolls which may be a laminate, film or paper, or an adhesively coated film or a film having an affinity for adhesive. The upper and lower feed rolls containing the webs of laminating or adhesive transfer material have tensioning caps which can be adjusted to provide the proper tensioning to prevent the rollers from overrunning as they rotate. The tensioning caps are pre-set and provided to the user. A cutter blade is positioned at the discharge side of the nip rollers and may be actuated to sever the master at any desired location. The apparatus may be operated to apply lamination to either top or bottom surfaces of a substrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 17, 1996
    Inventors: Franklin C. Bradshaw, Thomas L. Soderman
  • Patent number: 5582668
    Abstract: A method and an arrangement for mounting elastic elements (T) on an elongated, moving material web (M), in which an elastic element extends between two holder elements (H) which are moved in a given direction and which elastic element extends essentially at right angles to the movement direction of the holder elements. According to the invention, different points on an elastic element which are mutually displaced transversely in relation to the movement direction are moved at mutually different speeds in relation to one another, and the elastic element is fastened to the material web subsequent to having achieved given distances in the movement direction between the different points on the elastic element, as a result of the different movement speeds.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 10, 1996
    Assignee: Molnlycke AB
    Inventor: Robert Kling
  • Patent number: RE37345
    Abstract: A multi-purpose laminating and adhesive transfer apparatus having a frame supporting rotatably engaging nip rollers. The frame and has upper and lower feed rolls which may be a laminate, film or paper, or an adhesively coated film or a film having an affinity for adhesive. The upper and lower feed rolls containing the webs of laminating or adhesive transfer material have tensioning caps which can be adjusted to provide the proper tensioning to prevent the rollers from overrunning as they rotate. The tensioning caps are pre-set and provided to the user. A cutter blade is positioned at the discharge side of the nip rollers and may be actuated to sever the master at any desired location. The apparatus may be operated to apply lamination to either top or bottom surfaces of a substrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2001
    Assignee: Xyron, Inc.
    Inventors: Franklin C. Bradshaw, Thomas L. Soderman