Absorbent article with ink-jet image

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The This invention relates generally printed images for mass products and in particular an absorbent Product with my inkjet high-quality image, which during the production of the article a fast moving substrate is applied.

Graphical Images are generally printed on articles of manufacture, to their aesthetic Appearance improve. An example of this are the graphics or images as on absorbent garments, are, for example, on diapers and training pants, printed. The outer covers these items are almost always with brightly colored form in the form of Designs and characters printed that and pleasing to the eye of the child's Caregiver is. images can but also to other absorbent Products such as feminine hygiene products, incontinence garments for adults and bonding, are printed. The products have no items of personal may be hygiene and For example, wipes be.

With Ink are printed disposable paper products of the prior art in <patcit><text>WO 02/051644 A1</text></patcit>. in <patcit><text>US 2003/0044578 A1</text></patcit> and in <patcit><text>US 6,096,412</text></patcit> disclosed.

Conventionally was the printing of outer cover material or a portion of the article with an image as flexography was executed or as rotogravure, before production the absorbent garment performed. For example, pre-printed with the image of outer cover material to the Location at which the absorbent clothing is manufactured, transported or shipped and in the fed production device will. Certain inefficiencies result from the of the general manufacturing method process decoupled Print Image by the shipping and handling of the outer cover material. The However, printing the image in the manufacturing line has not been feasible, as it is difficult, time consuming and is costly, the printed image with conventional flexographic To change or rotogravure printing process. The ability amending the image to be printed is very limited, and when a change is made, the entire production process must be switched off will. additionally produce these types of printing processes a substantial amount of waste and other transition change steps and they are not therefore the production of bulk articles suitable.

furthermore , the types of materials used in mass-produced articles, such As diapers, are used frequently properties which Flexography and rotogravure difficult. For example, the Materials porous, heat sensitive, be stretchable / elastic or unstable in the machine direction. Furthermore can the materials low tensile properties, embossing or a three-dimensional surface structure or surface tension, which are not compatible with inks (as it water resistant, for example, are or hygroscopic), have. Furthermore, they require Contact method, to transfer the printing ink to the web.

contactless Ink printing systems make known flexibility in image printing ready. The change from one frame to the next can be done quickly, and even as a flying printing. Pulsating jet printing piezoelectric ink jet has been used to ink on apply a variety of substrates. Generally encounters a pulsating jet printing apparatus for piezoelectric ink individual ink droplets in a predetermined pattern on a substrate made. In this type of device does not come, the print head with the web, on the it prints, in contact. Such devices generally comprise an array of apertures in a block and a control unit. The openings are usually arranged in a row in closely spaced relationship. The printheads are controlled by the control unit by an operator can be programmed to the print head after a programmed Sequence program an image or series of images Print allow.

A each opening is designed each time to eject a single ink droplet when printhead triggers. The droplets, ejected after a program sequence, are applied to a substrate directed and form ei nen point. The image is from these points built up. The quality the pressure which produces a pulsating Inkjet is, among other things, requires a particular coverage area of the substrate by the ink. Thus, it is desirable that a larger surface area of ​​the Web is covered by a given amount of applied ink and that therefore a greater number of points per unit area (this means Dots per inch or "dots is present per inch "," dpi "). If however, the substrate at a high speed under the openings (this means with 366 meters per minute (1,200 feet per minute) or more) through runs, it is difficult for , Fast enough to trigger the print head to a large number applying of dots per inch. This is particularly true where to where the result of the operation of the manufacturing apparatus of the absorbent garment Image in a single pass of the material on which the images are produced, to be formed under the ink jet print heads.

Therefore are images that at production line speeds by piezoelectric Ink-jet printer of the type described have been prepared, so far been of insufficient quality. To view pictures of the required quality to achieve with ink-jet printers are conventionally multiple passes of the printhead across the Substrate and resolutions of greater than 300 dpi been used. Among other problems, is an essential Amount of ink used, which increases the costs in the height. As already mentioned above was, conventional Inkjet printing method over addition, in the commercial production of acceptable images when the substrate under the print head moved through quickly (for example, per 100 feet Minute or more), not been successful. While progress in the field of ink jet printing have been made, the inkjet printers are limited to the extent that they are not capable of an image of economically useful quality at production line speeds, such as in the manufacture of absorbent garments, such as they for example, diapers or training pants, occur to create.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides a compliant laminate, or in particular an absorbent ready products with a high quality image. This image can while the production of the laminate or the article at high production speeds be formed.

In one aspect of the invention comprises a mass-produced article, an absorbent element, which is adapted to fluid retain the same, at least one other component with the absorbent element is operatively connected in a unit, and a picture. includes picture at least one ink, the one of the colors cyan, magenta, yellow and Black contains. The image is in a non-contact Fashion by ink jetting with a resolution of 100 dpi on a portion of a component printed at least, wherein the component at a rate of at least 30.5 meters per minute (100 feet per Minute) moves under the ink jets. Any area of the image, on which a cyan ink having a maximum limit is applied thereto has a coverage area ratio of at least 3 at%, an arbitrary area on which an image having applied a magenta ink with a maximum threshold value is, has a coverage area ratio of at least 5%, any area to which an image with a yellow ink with a maximum limit is applied, has a coverage area ratio of at least 6%, and any area on which an image is applied with a black ink with a maximum limit value, has a coverage area ratio of at least 6%.

In one embodiment, the component comprises a compliant laminate comprising multiple layers includes the operatively connected to each other in a laminate unit are.

In a further embodiment includes the image at least one separable design element in a selected Color is contoured and free in an inner portion of the design element of these selected Color as shading is. The design element has a height of at least 0.64 centimeters (0.25 inches).

In some embodiments is a value of the color difference (DE * value) for each of cyan ink in the image in comparison with a background color of the component, to which the image is printed, at least 6, the DE * value for each ma gentafarbene Ink in the image has a color difference (DE * value)) of at least 9, the DE * value for each yellow ink in the image has a color difference (DE * value) of at least 8, and the DE * value for any black ink in the Image has a color difference (DE * value) of at least. 6

More Features of the invention will be in part apparent and recognizable be and are partially mentioned in the description below.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

<figref idrefs="S30">1</figref> is a perspective drawing of a diaper with an image on the outer cover the same.

<figref idrefs="S31">2</figref> is is a schematic view drawing of the printing device in a diaper production line is used to produce the image.

<figref idrefs="S32">3</figref> is a bar graph comparing lightness of color blocks of the same color, wherein each of to a moving web Outer cover material for the Diaper is printed at a respective web speed.

<figref idrefs="S33">4</figref> is a bar graph comparing the color differences of the at two different web speeds printed color blocks.

<figref idrefs="S34">5</figref> is a bar graph comparing the coverage area ratio for ink, that is applied to the substrate in the color blocks.

The <figref idrefs="S35">6A</figref> and <figref idrefs="S35">6B</figref> are Images that include geometric shapes.

The <figref idrefs="S36">6C</figref> and <figref idrefs="S36">6D</figref> are Images that include elephant figurines.

<figref idrefs="S37">7A</figref> is a photo of an edition of ink to a substrate when applied during a movement of the substrate at 30.5 mpm (meters per minute) (100 fpm (feet per Minute)); and

<figref idrefs="S37">7B</figref> is a photo of an edition of ink to a substrate when applied during a movement of the substrate at 366 mpm (meters per minute) (1,200 fpm (feet per Minute)).

Appropriate Reference numerals throughout the several views of the drawings respectively the corresponding parts.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Among Referring to the drawings and in particular to <figref idrefs="S30">1</figref> becomes an absorbent clothing in the form of a diaper (generally <figref>10</figref> hereinafter), the a picture <figref>11</figref> of the present invention comprises, as shown. It is easy be appreciated that the image <figref>11</figref> the present invention not in diapers, absorbent clothes or items of personal Hygiene is limited. The diaper<figref>10</figref> includes a front waist region <figref>12</figref>, A back waist region <figref>14</figref> and an intermediate crotch region <figref>16</figref>, Of the front waist region and rear waist regions to each other (wherein the Numbers their subject each generally designate). The waist regions<figref>12</figref> and <figref>14</figref> include those portions of the diaper <figref>10</figref>Which when worn will cover the central lower torso of the wearer completely or partially or surrounded. The intermediate crotch region<figref>16</figref> lies between the waist regions <figref>12</figref> and <figref>14</figref> and connects these each other and comprises that portion of the article <figref>10</figref>. which whom he is worn between the wearer's legs not ( shown) is and the lower torso of the wearer. The outdoor area the diaper <figref>10</figref> is essentially determined by an outer cover <figref>20</figref> educated, which is constructed to provide a liquid barrier to build.

The diaper <figref>10</figref> has a three-dimensional design, if they on a carrier is attached (<figref idrefs="S30">1</figref>). This design has the diaper an interior <figref>22</figref> for receiving the lower Torso of a person wearing the diaper, a waist opening <figref>24</figref> to Receiving the support in the interior of the diaper and a pair of leg openings <figref>26</figref> (of which only one shown). fastening tabs<figref>28</figref> are at a rear waist region <figref>14</figref> the diaper attached. These tabs <figref>28</figref> can solvable to the front waist region <figref>12</figref> the diaper <figref>10</figref> secured are to the diaper about the lower torso of the wearer hold. Other fastening systems (not ge shows) can be used be without departing from the scope of the present invention departing.

The diaper <figref>10</figref> generally includes a bodyside liner <figref>32</figref> at its inner surface, with the skin of the diaper <figref>10</figref> wearer in contact comes. The liner<figref>32</figref> is desirably a flexible Material which strongly liquid pervious is hydrophilic to passage of liquid through the liner allow and to provide a relatively dry surface which comes into contact with the skin, maintain. These types of materials are the skilled manwell known and will not be described in greater detail in this document. Between the bodyside lining <figref>32</figref> and the outer cover <figref>20</figref> becomes a form of liquid containment structure is not ( shown) is formed, such as an absorbent pad, which consists of a fibrous absorbent material and of a superabsorbent material (SAM) is prepared. An example of such absorbent Cushion is in the mitabgetretenem <patcit><text>US Patent No. 6,383,960</text></patcit> entitled LAYERED ABSORBENT STRUCTURE (Layered absorbent Structure - not Authorized Translation - translator's).. issued on 7 May 2002, is shown. Furthermore, typically a Schwellschicht (not shown) of material, the body side by the Liner passing liquid quickly absorbs available. The Schwellschicht the liquid through a distribute larger area, before the same absorbent to the Pad emits. Suitable Schwellschichten be mitabgetretenen in<patcit><text>US Patent Number 4,798,603</text></patcit>. <patcit><text>5,364,382</text></patcit>. <patcit><text>5,429,629</text></patcit>. <patcit><text>5,490,846</text></patcit>. <patcit><text>5,522,810</text></patcit> and <patcit><text>5,562,650</text></patcit> described.

Around the reluctance and / or the absorption of body exudates to strengthen further, , the article <figref>10</figref> a front waist elastic element, a rear waist elastic member, and leg elastic elements, as are known to the skilled man, include. The elastic Waist elements may operatively connected to the outer cover <figref>20</figref> and or the bodyside lining <figref>32</figref> connected along opposite waist edges be fully and or partially the waist edges extend. The leg elastic members are desirable operatively connected to the outer cover <figref>20</figref> and or the bodyside lining <figref>32</figref> along opposite side edges of the diaper <figref>10</figref> connected and in the crotch region <figref>16</figref> of the Diaper arranged.

The waist elastic members and the leg elastic members can be prepared from any suitable elastic material are formed. As the skilled man is well known, suitable elastic materials, including sheets, filaments or ribbons of natural rubber, synthetic rubber or thermoplastic elastomeric polymers. The elastic materials can are stretched and attached to a substrate, in a curled be fixed substrate or attached to a substrate and thereafter provided or shrunk by an elastic strap, for example, by application of heat, so that the substrate awarded narrowing forces will. In a particular embodiment, include the leg elastic members, for example, a plurality of dry-spun, fused multifilament elastomeric yarns under the trade name LYCRA^® expelled and be of the EI DuPont de Nemours and Company in Wilmington, Delaware, U.S.A. are.

Around the reluctance and / or the absorption of body exudates, of the carrier be issued to further strengthen the diaper <figref>10</figref> on Couple collecting flap <figref>34</figref> (Only one of which is shown) include that are designed to provide a barrier to cross-flow of body exudates provide. A flap elastic member (not shown) may in a suitable manner, as well known in the prior art , may be operatively connected to each collecting flap. The elasticized collecting flap <figref>34</figref> define an unattached edge which an upstanding, generally vertical arrangement, at least in the crotch region <figref>16</figref> of the diaper <figref>10</figref> assumes to form a seal against the body of carrier to build. The catch flap<figref>34</figref> can along the transversely opposed edges the diaper <figref>10</figref> are arranged, and they can longitudinal substantially along the entire length of the diaper extend or extend partially along the diaper. Suitable constructions and arrangements for the collecting flap <figref>34</figref> are to the average person skilled in the known generally.

The outer cover <figref>20</figref> includes desirably a material which is substantially impermeable to liquids in the and that can be elastic, stretchable or non-stretchable. The outer cover<figref>20</figref> can a single layer of liquid impermeable material be, but desirably includes a multi-layer laminate structure in which at least one of the layers flüssigkeitsundurchläs sig is. For example, the outer cover <figref>20</figref> a liquid permeable outer layer and a liquid impermeable inner layer include, by a laminate adhesive, ultrasonic bonds, by heat bonds or similar are suitably interconnected. Suitable laminate adhesives, the continuously or intermittently as a bead, spray, parallel swirls or similar may be employed are by Findley Adhesives, Inc. of Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, United States, or from the National Starch and Chemical Company, Bridgewater, New Jersey, USA. The liquid permeable outer layer may be any suitable material and is desirably a layer that provides a generally cloth-like texture. An example of such a material is a spunbond polypropylene web of 20 gsm (grams per square meter). The outer layer may also consist of the same materials as the liquid permeable bodyside lining <figref>32</figref> getting produced. While the outer layer the outer cover <figref>20</figref> not be liquid pervious needs, it should be desirable a relatively cloth-like Texture for carrier provide.

The Inner layer (not shown) of the outer cover <figref>20</figref> can both liquid impermeable and impermeable or it may liquid impervious and vapor permeable be. The inner layer can be manufactured from a thin plastic film be, although other flexible liquid impervious materials can also be used. The inner layer, or the liquid impermeable outer cover, when the same is a single layer, prevents waste materials Articles, such as bedding or clothing, as well as the support and drench the caregiver. A suitable liquid impermeable film for use as a liquid impermeable layer or a liquid single-layer outer cover <figref>20</figref> is a polyethylene film of 0.02 mm (0.001 inch), of the the Pliant Corporation of Schaumburg, Illinois, USA, is available.

If the outer cover is a single layer of material, it can be embossed and / or be matted to a cloth-like provide appearance. As already mentioned above, is, can the liquid impermeable material steam to escape from the interior region of the disposable absorbent article blank and yet at the same time preventing liquids from passing through the Außenabde ckung pass. A suitable "breathable" material is composed of a microporous polymer film or of a nonwoven fabric, or the coated or otherwise , It has been treated to the desired level of liquid impermeability to obtain. A suitable microporous film is a film material PMP-1, which is available from Mitsui Toatsu Chemicals, Inc. in Tokyo, Japan, or an XKO-8044 polyolefin film, which, from the 3M Company of Minneapolis Minnesota, U.S.A. is. A description of alternative outer cover materials produced of stretchable materials (such that the outer covers are flexible) is in the mitabgetretenen <patcit><text>US Patent No. 6,264,641</text></patcit> entitled EXPANDABLE COVER GARMENT (Stretch Cover garment - unauthorized translation - d. Übers.) issued on 24 July 2001 to find.

The diaper <figref>10</figref> has the graphic or image (generally <figref>11</figref> referred) on a front portion of the outer layer of the outer cover <figref>20</figref> of the Diaper on. In the illustrated embodiment, the outer cover<figref>20</figref> a white Background ready on the image <figref>11</figref> is printed. It However, note that the background of other, non-white colors may be, for example, a color that is selected, to bring color and stand out in the picture. The image<figref>11</figref> includes two separable design elements, namely an angel dog ends and a boat (<figref>11A</figref>) And the sun (<figref>11B</figref>). In general is a design element is a representation of a living thing, an artificial Thing or a course occurring, visually perceptible thing that average of the Viewer as separated from their environments and distinguishable are perceived. It should be noted that the exact location of the Image different than for the illustrated embodiment, can be described, without departing from the scope of the present departing invention. This includes printing on any other Components of the article. Examples of other images are in the<figref idrefs="S35">6A</figref> to <figref idrefs="S36">6D</figref> shown. The <figref idrefs="S35">6A</figref> and <figref idrefs="S35">6B</figref> show, be like a picture from basic geometric shapes formed can. The<figref idrefs="S36">6C</figref> and <figref idrefs="S36">6D</figref> show an elephant character with clouds and either a car (<figref idrefs="S36">6C</figref>) or a flower (<figref idrefs="S36">6D</figref>). In each figure the design elements, with the exception of the central shaping element With <figref>11B</figref> referred to and the central design element will with <figref>11A</figref> designated.

A Apparatus (generally with <figref>40</figref> referred to as) for printing the in <figref idrefs="S31">2</figref> the image shown is of a Art, the outer cover material the printed while it in the web <figref>42</figref> in a diaper production line not ( fed shown) becomes. Thus, the image in the same method is formed as the manufacturing of the various components of the diaper <figref>10</figref>, The image of the present invention may, however, separated from the Diaper production line can be formed without use of the inventive range the present invention is deviated. The composition and configuration of diaper assembly lines are to the skilled man adequately known. The outer cover material can from a roll (not shown) in the web <figref>42</figref> to a guide <figref>44</figref>. then to an ink jet printing station <figref>46</figref> and thereafter fed to the production line will. A control unit<figref>48</figref> can be used to the operation of the apparatus <figref>40</figref> to control, and in particular the operation of the ink jet print station <figref>46</figref>, In a particular aspect, a web guide <figref>44</figref> used are to the position of the web <figref>42</figref> cross-machine direction continuously to monitor, to this reproach in a precisely controlled position immediately before entering the printing station <figref>46</figref> enters. An example a suitable web guide is the Symat <figref>50</figref> Offset Pivot Guide provided by the Fife Corporation in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, buy is.

The Ink jet print station <figref>46</figref> comprises a frame <figref>49</figref>. the stock <figref>50</figref> (Only one of which is shown) carrying the a printing drum <figref>52</figref> For Rotation carry about a generally horizontal axis. A suitable Storage is a model number F4BDL200 manufactured by Dodge Bearings Incorporated in Greenville, South Carolina, USA. These warehouse <figref>50</figref> provide excellent resistance to vibration of the drum <figref>52</figref> ready that particularly when starting and occurs when switching off the diaper manufacturing device. vibrations can cause the image to such an extent blurry or fuzzy appears that diapers in the absence of vibration damping as must be economically unusable discarded. Camps<figref>50</figref>. the printing drum, the <figref>52</figref> for wear rotation, are for slidably adjustable vertical movement in the frame <figref>49</figref> built-in. Two electrically controlled actuators <figref>54</figref> for linear Movement (only one of which is shown) on opposite Sides of the frame <figref>49</figref> are connected to the printing drum bearings <figref>50</figref> connected, to the bearings and the print drum <figref>52</figref> in respect to the frame to move. A suitable linear actuator is a model GSX30 prepared from Exlar Corporation in Chanhassen, Minnesota, USA.

A pulsating piezoelectric ink jet printing unit includes a housing <figref>56</figref>. the on the frame <figref>49</figref> is mounted. The housing<figref>58</figref> carries a first to fourth printhead (with <figref>60</figref>. <figref>62</figref>. <figref>64</figref> respectively <figref>66</figref> hereinafter), along an upper portion of the circumference of the printing drum <figref>52</figref> arranged are. The printheads<figref>60</figref> to <figref>66</figref> are arranged in a row one after the other along the peripheral portion. The lower ends of the printheads <figref>60</figref> to <figref>66</figref> (out where the ink droplets are issued) are all close to the drum <figref>52</figref> spaced. As an example, the printheads <figref>60</figref> to <figref>66</figref> such of the drum <figref>52</figref> spaced apart such that the distance between the surface the outer cover material web <figref>42</figref> and printheads between about 1 mm (0.04 inches) and about 3 mm (0.12 inches). In a embodiment move the cylinder <figref>54</figref> the printing drum <figref>52</figref> such that in operation, the distance of each printhead <figref>60</figref> to <figref>66</figref> from the web is about 1 mm (0.04 inches) to 3 mm (0.12 inch) and in Non-use is greater, to the threading the train <figref>42</figref> from outer cover material by the ink-jet printing apparatus <figref>46</figref> to facilitate. Movement by the linear actuators <figref>54</figref> reached.

On each printhead <figref>60</figref>. <figref>62</figref>. <figref>64</figref>. <figref>66</figref> brings a respective single color on the web <figref>42</figref> on. in one embodiment, are the printheads so arranged that the first (the most upstream) printhead <figref>60</figref> cyan applies that the second print head <figref>62</figref> Magenta applies, that the third printhead <figref>64</figref> Yellow applies and that the fourth printhead <figref>66</figref> Black applies. Cyan, magenta, yellow and black process inks or commercial printing colors generally for Four color ink jet be used. However, it is to note that "cyan" when used in the present document, the real color cyan and equivalents thereof means, that Magenta real magenta and equivalents thereof means, that yellow is the real color yellow and equivalents thereof means and that Black the real color Black and equivalents thereof means. It has been found that the arrangement of a particularly good image produced, but that the image arranged by different printheads and / or different by applying less, more and / or Colors can be formed without use of the inventive range the present invention is deviated. For example, the Scale color or web printing colors red, green, blue and white used be to produce images having the same colors.

A topcoat <figref>67</figref> can on the outer cover material over the image <figref>11</figref> be launched. The topcoat<figref>67</figref> becomes in <figref idrefs="S30">1</figref> schematically illustrated. The topcoat can be selected are to the resonance and the brightness of the printed image to improve. A possibility of laying the top layer <figref>67</figref> is the application of transparent pigment loose paint on the outer cover, after the image by the print head <figref>60</figref> to <figref>66</figref> discontinued has been. A topcoat printhead<figref>68</figref>Who in the phantom image in <figref idrefs="S31">2</figref> shown is, the clear ink can apply to the outer cover material. As illustrated, the top layer printing head <figref>68</figref> in an open relationship to the printing drum <figref>52</figref> arranged.

Although other inks for printing the image <figref>11</figref> be used can, it was found that thermochromic ink or phase change ink, such as wax-based inks, to the effect certain advantages have that these inks have a reduced tendency to bleeding and exhibit smudging and no time or equipment to require drying, which is highly desirable in the context of manufacturing is. These types of inks do not require the continued application of of solvents, the special environmental protection engineering controls require.

inks based on wax are received in solid blocks in an ink delivery system <figref>70</figref> molten be that as to the frame <figref>49</figref> mounted schematically is pictured. The melted ink of a respective color is a respective one of four leads (with <figref>70A</figref>. <figref>70B</figref>. <figref>70C</figref> respectively <figref>70D</figref> referred) one of the printheads <figref>60</figref>. <figref>62</figref>. <figref>64</figref>. <figref>66</figref> according to requirement supplied by the pressure head becomes. A suitable system for melting and supplying the Ink is the hot melt adhesive delivery system Dynamelt^® S Series, available from ITW Dynatec, Hendersonville, Tennessee, United States available is. This system, which for feeding is designed hot-melt adhesive, is for supplying geschmolzener ink been modified accordingly. In one embodiment, the System a gear metering pump (not shown) for accurate feeding Ink, the gear pump includes stainless steel components, the with the ink in contact come.

Furthermore is the commercially available System has been further modified, a ten-micron filter has been added by is. Other filter sizes may after used specification of the printhead suppliers or the ink supplier will. The ink controls the temperature of the ink. In one embodiment, the molten Ink kept at about 125 °. The temperature may be at any level, the ink supplier of the or the print head vendors is given can be controlled.

Suitable printheads <figref>60</figref>. <figref>62</figref>. <figref>64</figref>. <figref>66</figref>. in one embodiment, can be used to an image according to the present to produce the invention, the inkjet printheads Galaxy are PH 256/80 HM 256 channel (Serial numbers 5,601,320, 5,601,325, 5,601,326, 5,601,327), by the Spectra, Inc. in Lebanon, New Hampshire, USA, and text. These printheads <figref>60</figref> to <figref>66</figref> have two piezoelectric crystals, each crystal two independent having electrical circuits. Each circuit is 64 holes assigned, making a total of 256 openings results per printhead. Each opening can be controlled individually, so that the control unit <figref>48</figref> can select which of 256 openings trigger in each cycle are. The openings are about 0.0254 centimeters (0.01 inches) ± 0.00245 centimeters (0.001 Inches) apart. It will be appreciated that other printheads different distances have, can be used departed without from the scope of the present invention becomes. A longer Printhead would Print a wider image (in the cross direction of the outer cover material) enable. About that addition, the printheads are arranged in groups (in the transverse direction next to one another be arranged) to print a wider image. The printheads<figref>60</figref> to <figref>66</figref> have each an ink tank on the print head which has an ink level sensor, the can be used to the ink supply <figref>70</figref> to signal, additional supplying ink to the printhead.

The printheads <figref>60</figref>. <figref>62</figref>. <figref>64</figref>. <figref>66</figref> of the Inkjet printing unit can desirably at precise positions on a rod (not shown) attached to the frame <figref>49</figref> is attached, be rigidly fixed. The pole allows that all printheads <figref>60</figref> to <figref>66</figref> I agree can be positioned, as they can be fixed arbitrarily individually. In the illustrated embodiment is the first printhead <figref>60</figref> (I.e. the most upstream Printhead with respect to the machine direction, which movement towards the of the cover material web is) one that is positioned. These Rod (or other suitable device) positions the printheads <figref>60</figref> to <figref>66</figref> in Respect to each other in the machine direction and in the transverse direction and keeps a precise distance between the printhead orifices and the surface the outer cover web <figref>42</figref> upright. The alignment of the print heads is carried out to each other on a center line in a case within of 0.002 centimeter (0.001 inch) to 0.01 centimeters (0.004 inches).

In one embodiment, can the printheads <figref>60</figref>. <figref>62</figref>. <figref>64</figref>. <figref>66</figref> at 100 to 150 volts and at a frequency in a range of 2 to 160 kHz are operated. A particularly suitable combination for operation at 366 MPM (meters per minute) at a web speed of 1200 FPM (feet per Minute) using these printheads would be 140 volts at 24 kHz. A particularly suitable combination for operating at a web speed per 100 FPM (feet would Minute) 140 volts at 2 kHz. The drops nominal mass of each ejected from the printheads ink droplet will as 80ng sized (the standard drop mass specified for the print head). In one aspect, the resolution is the printheads <figref>60</figref> to <figref>66</figref> on 100 dpi is set, and the outer cover web <figref>42</figref> becomes at a rate of (100 to 2,000 feet per minute) 30.5 to 610 Meters per minute run. However, it is to note that other printheads can be used at different operating settings to the image <figref>11</figref> to obtain the present invention. The Speed ​​of the outer cover material web <figref>4</figref> can be even greater, for example from about 610-1524 meters per minute (2,000 to 5,000 feet per Minute). Application of ink by ink jet printheads Substrates of high speed is also in Sharma et al., U.S. Patent <patcit><text>US-A-2004125184</text></patcit> discussed.

Around the image <figref>11</figref> to produce the present invention, certain graphical design methods are applied. In one embodiment, certain design parameters are determined to be in a color CMYK at relatively low resolution (Measured in dpi) of the print heads <figref>60</figref>. <figref>62</figref>. <figref>64</figref>. <figref>66</figref> to work to produce a sharp, economically usable images. A first parameter is the omission of Black as shading within the image and the limi tion of its use to separate contouring the central image. With reference to<figref idrefs="S30">1</figref> is black in other words used to the design element <figref>11A</figref> of Anglo ends dog and the boat as well as the design element <figref>11B</figref> of the to outline sun. The contour is for more of the design elements<figref>11A</figref>. <figref>11B</figref> in the Drawings (i.e. in the <figref idrefs="S30">1</figref> and <figref idrefs="S35">6A</figref> to <figref idrefs="S36">6D</figref>) With <figref>12</figref> designated. Although black is used in the illustrated embodiment, the design elements <figref>11A</figref>. <figref>11B</figref> to contour, can other selected colors for contouring be used. No black (or a different for contouring selected Color) for gradation in the interior of the design element (<figref>11A</figref> or <figref>11B</figref>) used because it was found that the blackening quality the image is substantially reduced, particularly at low printhead resolution. Furthermore is an increased Amount of black for the contour used. In the setting of the control program the printheads <figref>60</figref> to <figref>66</figref> control is the limit for will described black to set a maximum (as described later in this document will be). The limit value for black maximization has the practical Effect that during printing a maximum number of beams in the black printhead <figref>66</figref> triggered becomes. Since Black in its own distinct area (the called the environment of a design element <figref>11A</figref>. <figref>11B</figref>) is separated, the high limit of the black black improves Contour and sharpens the design element, without the quality of the other colors to deteriorate in the design element. A second parameter is the setting of the minimum size of each separable design element (<figref>11A</figref>. <figref>11B</figref>) To less than 0.64 centimeters (0.25 Inch). About that addition, the central design element (in this case must the angling dog and the boat <figref>11A</figref>) At least about 3.81 centimeters (0.75 inches) high. A key design element is the Design element that than of the average person the central or as the visually striking Design element of the image is perceived (in <figref idrefs="S30">1</figref> of the angling dog in the boat). Finally, the original must Artwork in cyan, magenta, yellow and black (CMYK) are executed, this means in the same four ferns, which are also used for printing. By performing the design in the colors CMYK, there is no deterioration of the image which, in the other case by the reaction of in red blue and green designed images can be caused.

It Following is an example of the procedure which is used to a computer-designed convert image in a shape of the control unit <figref>48</figref> of the printheads Galaxy 256/80 MH is used. The digitized image<figref>11</figref> becomes in image processing software, such as Adobe Photoshop (Registered trademark) of Adobe Systems Incorporated in San Jose, California, United States, opened. Other suitable software systems are well known in the prior art. If the picture to be printed at 100 dpi, there are no changes to the size of the image required. If the image but at a greater resolution (eg 200 or 300 dpi) to be printed, the image needs to be widened. It should be noted that the image width (in the case of the cross-direction the outer cover material) limited to 256 dots or pixels (about 2.56 inches or 6.50 inches) is, since the image is printed in a single pass and this the maximum dimension of the printhead. It should be noted, that other wider printheads a different number of openings and / or openings with different distances have, can be used departed without from the scope of the present invention becomes. A wider print head prints a wider picture (in the Transverse direction of the outer cover material). About that addition, printheads are arranged in groups (in the transverse direction arranged side by side be) to print a wider image. The image is in a each of the four process colors or commercial printing colors (cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black) divided. For the black color component of the picture <figref>11</figref> is the limit value to its maximum value (255 in the Photoshop software) increases. The black color image is after using the program Diffusionsdithermodus in a bitmap image is converted to an output of 100 dpi. The black color bitmap image as a TIFF file with a filename which specifies that it is the black color component is stored.

The other three colors with an output of 100 dpi using the image scanning process to a bitmap image converted. The image scanning mode must be adjusted so that it has a frequency of 59 lines / centimeter having (150 lines / inch), and must use the "ellipse". The angle for the three color separations are Cyan = 75 degrees, magenta = 135 degrees and Yellow = 0 degrees. Each of these remaining three color component images is stored in its own TIFF file. The TIFF files can Ramm using a Konvertierungsprog, the Spectra available is (the program T4tol), are combined to form a printable image. The treatment of the conversion of the image in this way makes it possible to that a sharp, economically usable images one at low resolutions receives. Other settings can however, are used for converting the image without that departing from the scope of the present invention becomes.

The quality the printed image must be acceptable in the final analysis for the consumer be. It is possible, certain aspects of the image, showing that the image of good quality is to quantify. This information includes the area of ​​the Substrate, which is covered by the ink, the lightness of the color of the image and the color difference from the background, on the it is printed.

color is generally measured by Spektrodensitometern that the measure reflected light and provide colorimetric data, as described later Site will be descriptions. The light that is visible in the Range is reflected (i.e., at a wavelength of 400 nm to 700 nm) can be processed to a numeric to give a value of the color. An example of such a device the reflection Spectrodensitometer X-Rite 938, which, by the X-Rite Incorporated in Grandville, Michigan, USA, is available. A suitable Programme the evaluation of the data collected by this device is the software X-Rite QA Master 2000, which is available from X-Rite, Incorporated.

color can generally be described in terms of three elements - the color, the color saturation (Or saturation) and brightness (sometimes called value or lightness). The hue (h °) is the perceived attribute of a specific color, the defines spectral color and the same as blue, green, red or Yellow rank. Color saturation how vivid or dullness of a color. she is a measure of how closely the color to either gray (a mixture of all colors) or to the pure saturation lies. Color saturation (C *) can be divided into two measurements: a * the measurement of the Rotheitsgrades or green awareness the color; and b * measure the yellowness degree or blue awareness the color. The range for a * is from -60 to 60, wherein the region segment from 0 to 60 increasing saturation displays of red, the more the value approaches to 60, and wherein the region segment 0 to -60 increasing saturation by Green indicating when the value at -60 approaches. Color saturation is defined as C * = (a^{* 2} + b^{* 2})^1/2, brightness is the luminosity a color or how close the color to white or is black and their values ​​range from 0 (black) to 100 (white). all these attributes can determined using the above-mentioned and spectrodensitometer be evaluated with the software QA Master 2000th A form in the color data is analyzed in general, is the determination of of the difference of a measured color from a reference pattern. These measurable size generally shown as "DE". Mathematically DE is determined by the following equation: <st32:df xmlns:st32="http://lighthouseip.com/">DE = (.DELTA.L<st32:sup>2</st32:sup> + .DELTA.a<st32:sup>2</st32:sup> + .DELTA.b<st32:sup>2</st32:sup>)<st32:sup>1/2</st32:sup>,</st32:df>

table 1 shows colorimetric data (in particular, the lightness L * and the color difference DE), derived from the blocks of each of the four colors (CMYK). These colors were determined by means of the print heads, which at 140 volts and 2 kHz to 24 kHz and with a resolution of 100 dpi work isolated on the outer surface of the Outer cover material the diaper <figref>10</figref> applied. The limit for a each printhead was set to the maximum value. With others Words were the printheads controlled so that the maximum number of openings, which are available, to trigger and ink at a given resolution (ie 100 dpi) output, triggered has been. The data for Web speeds of 30.5 meters per minute (100 feet per minute) and of 366 (1,200 feet per Minute) indicated. The data for the Brightness (L *) are in the form of a graphical representation <figref idrefs="S32">3</figref> shown. Surprisingly It can be seen that for each color (except yellow) L * at 366 meters per minute (1,200 feet per minute) a lower value than 30.5 meters per minute (100 feet per minute), which means that the color is darker at higher speeds is alive and, although the printheads <figref>60</figref> to <figref>66</figref> on the same way with a smaller ink discharge work. Due to the light transmittance and brightness of the yellow ink are significant Distinguish in the L * values ​​at these low resolutions unmeasurable. Other colorimetric data give reason to believe that color differences in printed with yellow patterns are measurable and perceived visually are.

The Color difference data (DE) are in <figref idrefs="S33">4</figref> graphic shown. The color difference is determined by the measured Values ​​L *, a * and b * of the unprinted diaper outer cover material the values ​​of L *, a * and b * for the same on the diaper outer cover material printed images are compared. In the illustrated embodiment, the outer cover material white and has color values ​​of a * = -0.54 and B * = 0.97, and a brightness level of 94.17 at. It will as envisioned that white Ink onto a non-white Outer cover material can be applied to an image of the present invention to achieve. The difference for a any value (L, a *, b *) compared to the baseline measurement (the outer cover material) is used in the formula above to determine DE. The graphical representation in <figref idrefs="S33">4</figref> shows that the difference of the outer cover material for color blocks were printed at 366 meters per minute (1,200 feet per minute), surprisingly is greater as for the blocks, which at 30.5 meters per minute (100 feet per minute) were printed. Thus, the image <figref>11</figref> the present invention more alive, bright and visually more perceptible, although it at a greater web speed is produced.

In one embodiment, The criteria for the color difference to produce an acceptable image by Use of process colors or commercial printing colors cyan, Magenta, yellow and black at a low resolution (100 dpi) that a at high speed (366 meters per minute (1,200 feet per been minute)) moving substrate to be coated is determined. The color difference (DE * value) for all cyan ink in the image as compared with a background color the article to which the image is printed is at least about 6. The DE * value for all magenta ink in the image has a color difference (DE *) to at least about. 9 The DE * value for yellow ink in the image has a color difference (DE *) of at least about. 8 Of the DE * value for black ink or its equivalent in the image has a color difference (DE *) of at least about 6. According to the principles of present invention produced images can other DE * values ​​have, without departing from the scope of the present invention. TABLE 1<tables><table frame="all"><tgroup cols="6" colsep="1" rowsep="1"><colspec colname="1" colwidth="1*" /><colspec colname="2" colwidth="1*" /><colspec colname="3" colwidth="1*" /><colspec colname="4" colwidth="1*" /><colspec colname="5" colwidth="1*" /><colspec colname="6" colwidth="1*" /><tbody><row><entry colname="1">graphic</entry><entry colname="2">speed</entry><entry colname="3">DPI</entry><entry colname="4">tension</entry><entry colname="5">L *</entry><entry colname="6">DE *</entry></row><row><entry colname="1">outer cover</entry><entry colname="2">deleted</entry><entry colname="3">deleted</entry><entry colname="4">deleted</entry><entry colname="5">94.17</entry><entry colname="6">deleted</entry></row><row><entry colname="1">cyan</entry><entry colname="2">100</entry><entry colname="3">100</entry><entry colname="4">140</entry><entry colname="5">90.72</entry><entry colname="6">7.72</entry></row><row><entry colname="1">magenta</entry><entry colname="2">100</entry><entry colname="3">100</entry><entry colname="4">140</entry><entry colname="5">89.32</entry><entry colname="6">10,07</entry></row><row><entry colname="1">yellow</entry><entry colname="2">100</entry><entry colname="3">100</entry><entry colname="4">140</entry><entry colname="5">93.58</entry><entry colname="6">9.59</entry></row><row><entry colname="1">black</entry><entry colname="2">100</entry><entry colname="3">100</entry><entry colname="4">140</entry><entry colname="5">87.19</entry><entry colname="6">7.51</entry></row><row><entry colname="1">cyan</entry><entry colname="2">1200</entry><entry colname="3">100</entry><entry colname="4">140</entry><entry colname="5">88,89</entry><entry colname="6">11.18</entry></row><row><entry colname="1">magenta</entry><entry colname="2">1200</entry><entry colname="3">100</entry><entry colname="4">140</entry><entry colname="5">87.92</entry><entry colname="6">12,51</entry></row><row><entry colname="1">yellow</entry><entry colname="2">1200</entry><entry colname="3">100</entry><entry colname="4">140</entry><entry colname="5">93.57</entry><entry colname="6">11,02</entry></row><row><entry colname="1">black</entry><entry colname="2">1200</entry><entry colname="3">100</entry><entry colname="4">140</entry><entry colname="5">85,34</entry><entry colname="6">9.36</entry></row></tbody></tgroup></table></tables>

Without to adhere to a particular theory, it is believed, that the image at higher feed rates under the conditions described above dark, lively and against the background of the outer cover <figref>20</figref> better is perceptible or distinct, since a wider coverage area of Ink. Table 2 shows data from the above described printed color blocks Cyan, magenta, yellow and black were recorded. Data for blocks were produced at 30.5 meters per minute (100 feet per minute), and for Blocks, which at 366 meters per minute (1,200 feet per minute) have been generated, shown. <figref idrefs="S34">5</figref> presents this data graphically . Is is as can be seen, at 366 meters per minute (1,200 feet per Minute) consistently achieved a larger coverage area ratio. <tables><table frame="all"><tgroup cols="5" colsep="1" rowsep="1"><colspec colname="1" colwidth="1*" /><colspec colname="2" colwidth="1*" /><colspec colname="3" colwidth="1*" /><colspec colname="4" colwidth="1*" /><colspec colname="5" colwidth="1*" /><tbody><row><entry namest="1" nameend="5">TABLE 2 - COVERAGE RATIO</entry></row><row><entry colname="1">Speed ​​(feet per minute</entry><entry colname="2">DPI</entry><entry colname="3">color</entry><entry colname="4">Area</entry><entry colname="5">standard deviation</entry></row><row><entry colname="1">100</entry><entry colname="2">100</entry><entry colname="3">C</entry><entry colname="4">3.43</entry><entry colname="5">0.41</entry></row><row><entry colname="1">100</entry><entry colname="2">100</entry><entry colname="3">M</entry><entry colname="4">5.08</entry><entry colname="5">0.74</entry></row><row><entry colname="1">100</entry><entry colname="2">100</entry><entry colname="3">Y</entry><entry colname="4">6.43</entry><entry colname="5">0.51</entry></row><row><entry colname="1">100</entry><entry colname="2">100</entry><entry colname="3">K</entry><entry colname="4">6.19</entry><entry colname="5">0.63</entry></row><row><entry colname="1">1200</entry><entry colname="2">100</entry><entry colname="3">C</entry><entry colname="4">5.38</entry><entry colname="5">0.3</entry></row><row><entry colname="1">1200</entry><entry colname="2">100</entry><entry colname="3">M</entry><entry colname="4">9.21</entry><entry colname="5">0.95</entry></row><row><entry colname="1">1200</entry><entry colname="2">100</entry><entry colname="3">Y</entry><entry colname="4">9.35</entry><entry colname="5">0.42</entry></row><row><entry colname="1">1200</entry><entry colname="2">100</entry><entry colname="3">K</entry><entry colname="4">8.4</entry><entry colname="5">0.72</entry></row></tbody></tgroup></table></tables>

The Data were collected by images with an image analysis system Zeiss KS400 under USAGEformation of a fluorescence microscope Zeiss Axioplan 2 with a scientific CCD camera Axiocam (1300 × 1030 pixels, 8 bit RGB) were added. These devices are of the Carl Zeiss, Inc., Thornwood, New York, USA. The visual field was 2.6 mm (0.1 inches) × 2 mm (0.08 inches) (a 5X lens) in the transmission mode the camera. The review of the coverage area was carried out on a Field of view of each 2.6 mm (0.1 inch) × 2 mm (0.08 inches). At 100 dpi contained about 80 droplets each field. To a backlight intensity to provide, in which the topology of the outer cover pattern varies significantly, a maximum depth of field has been achieved, by the Kondenseririsblende closed to its minimum setting has been. The automatic exposure function has been set to 200 ms, and the illumination intensity an empty field of view (that is, without a pattern for viewing on the instrument panel supported is), including a cover glass of 0.32 centimeters (1/8 inch), was adjusted so that the image was balanced (neither saturated nor black). The pattern was placed with the cover glass lying thereon on the carrier, and the exposure is set to 700 ms, what good contrast and use of the dynamic range ready set.

The Lighting conditions and microscopy mode (that is transmitted light, reflected, etc.) may changed Need to become However, be such that the region between the upper and the lower 1% of the image histogram at least 25% of the camera range occupied (64 level in an 8-bit camera), but preferably 75% or more. In the hereafter performed experiments transmitted illumination was used. About 20% of the surface the outer cover <figref>20</figref> were embossed, what to locally big changes resulted in the topology. To get the best image sharpness the ink droplets and a possible exact surfaces estimate to reach, therefore images were on the relatively flat areas recorded between embossed patterns. Five or more areas were for each one of the color blocks (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Black) is detected.

The Camera cleaves detected color (other than black) into red channels, blue and green channels on channels, but not in cyan, magenta and yellow. Cyan reflected well in the green channel and blue channels, but absorbs strongly in the red channel. Therefore, Cyan detected by the red channel from the combined green and blue channels according to the equation Cyan = (B + G / 2 - R) is subtracted. Magenta reflects well in red and blue, absorbed However strongly in green, so that it = (R + B) / 2 according to the equation magenta - G determined can be. Yellow reflects well in red and green, but absorbs strongly So that it in blue to the equation yellow = (R + G) / 2 - B determined can be. Other characteristics light / dark, such as uncoated Fibers are mostly removed from the image. In this photo, a limit was to Detection only applied of features brighter than ten grayscale. The detected black ink image differed in the detection of features by converting to a grayscale image and was then a limit for subjected features below 50 grayscale (8-bit scale). objects smaller than 50 pixels were discarded, and measurement of the Sehfeldbereichsabdeckung was performed on the remaining features.

Among Referring again to Table 2 and <figref idrefs="S34">5</figref> it can be seen, that the area of ​​the covered within the block with ink Outer cover material at 366 meters per minute (1,200 feet per minute) compared to the case in which the outer cover web only 30.5 meters per minute (100 feet per minute) was significantly was greater. Photomicrographs of the outer cover, showing the output of the ink drops, confirm this finding. The<figref idrefs="S37">7A</figref> and <figref idrefs="S37">7B</figref> show the ink applied to the outer cover material when applied at 30.5 meters per minute (100 feet per minute) or at 336 meters per minute (1,200 feet per minute). The ink droplets on the outer cover material in <figref idrefs="S37">7B</figref> appear issued wider and thus cover a greater range from than in <figref idrefs="S37">7A</figref>, The coverage area ratio decreases , although the speed of the outer cover material web of 30.5 meters per minute (100 feet per Minute) is increased to 366 meters per minute (1,200 feet per minute).

Some Examples of acceptable coverage ratios have been determined. In one case, an arbitrary area within an image with at maximum threshold thereto cyan expended Ink area ratio a Cover of cyan ink of at least about 3%, any Area at a maximum threshold thereto expended magenta Ink has a coverage area ratio of magenta ink of at least about 5%, any area having at a maximum threshold thereto expended yellow ink has a coverage area ratio of yellow ink of at least about 6%, and any range with at maximum threshold thereto expended black Ink has a coverage area ratio of black ink at least 6%. In another example, any area within an image with at maximum threshold thereto expended cyan ink a coverage area ratio of cyancolor ink of at least about 4%, any area having at a has maximum threshold thereto expended magenta ink a coverage area ratio of magenta ink of at least about 7% to, any Area with a maximum cross far out of applied yellow Ink has a coverage area ratio of yellow ink of at least about 9%, and any area having a maximum threshold thereto expended black ink has a Coverage area ratio black ink of at least about 7%. In a further Example includes any area within the image with at a maximum cross far out of applied cyan ink a coverage area ratio of cyan ink of at least about 5%, any Area at a maximum threshold thereto expended magenta Ink has a coverage area ratio of at least about 8% , and any area having at maximum threshold it of applied black ink has a coverage area ratio of black ink of at least about 8%.

In the introduction elements of the present invention or the preferred embodiment (The preferred embodiments) thereof, the articles "a", "an", "one", "the", "the", or "the" mean respectively that there is at least one of the elements. The terms "comprising", "having", "including" and "having" are intended to mean, that additional Elements in addition to the listed elements can give.