WO2016100124A1

WO2016100124A1 - Package of stacked fibrous structure sheets and methods of dispensing from same

Info

Publication number: WO2016100124A1
Application number: PCT/US2015/065281
Authority: WO
Inventors: Devin William Baldridge; Kevin Benson Mcneil; Gustav Andre MELLIN
Original assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
Priority date: 2014-12-19
Filing date: 2015-12-11
Publication date: 2016-06-23
Also published as: CA2971592A1; MX2017008181A; EP3232885A1; US20160176618A1

Abstract

Packages of stacked fibrous structure sheets and methods of dispensing the same are described. The fibrous structure sheets can have a non-planar dispensing configuration that is manipulated to a second configuration for their intended use; for example, absorbing liquids and other messes. The stacked format is an alternative to typically rolled form, and can permit one-handed dispensing.

Description

PACKAGE OF STACKED FIBROUS STRUCTURE SHEETS AND METHODS OF

DISPENSING FROM SAME

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention generally relates to packages of stacked fibrous structure sheets and methods of dispensing the same. The fibrous structure sheets can take the form of paper towels, personal wipes, facial tissues, bath tissues, and the like. The fibrous structure sheets of the present invention are generally intended to perform a cleaning or drying function and should be distinguished from other stacked paper products such as, for example, paper cups, coffee filters, and other similar items that aren't designed for drying and cleaning tasks.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Fibrous structures in the form of paper towels are generally manufactured and sold in a rolled configuration. While useful in this configuration, it can make one-handed dispensing difficult. The user often must hold the roll still with one hand while tearing off a single sheet with the other hand. And two-handed dispensing avoids the problem of inadvertently pulling off more sheets than is intended or needed. But one reason consumers need to use a paper towel is because his or her hands are wet or soiled, and two-handed dispensing can result in one hand (that is, the holding or helping hand) getting non-dispensed portions of the paper towel roll undesirably damp or dirty.

To address the above shortcoming, the inventors in U.S. Patent No. 7,954,665 disclose a new configuration of paper wipes that are in a non-attached and stacked form, wherein a consumer can one-handedly grasp a wipe and remove it from the stack. FIG. 1 shows a representative embodiment (included as Figure 2) of the '665 patent, which includes a package 10 of stacked wipes 12. Package 10 has a sidewall 13 with an opening 14 therein to facilitate removal of wipes 12. Note that the top of the stacked wipes 12 is not covered. The stacked configuration and package dispenser advantageously allow the wipes 12 to sit on a kitchen counter, bathroom counter or floor, or on a garage work bench, for example. The flexibility of dispensing environment and configuration openness shown in FIG. 1 however can again lead to the non-dispensed wipes becoming prematurely wet or contaminated before they are used in an intended task. At least some of the embodiments of the present invention are capable of addressing this shortcoming. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The following detailed description of specific embodiments of the present invention can be best understood when read in conjunction with the drawings enclosed herewith.

FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of an embodiment included in U.S. Patent No. 7,954,665.

FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of a first package embodiment provided by the present invention.

FIGS. 3A-3H are plan views of a fibrous structure sheet being cut from a continuous planar web, and then being manipulated from its initial planar configuration to an exemplary non-planar dispensing configuration.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an exemplary fibrous structure sheet having a pyramidal configuration and a pleat.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the underside of the fibrous structure sheet in FIG. 4.

FIG. 6 is a front perspective view of a second package embodiment provided by the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a front perspective view of the package embodiment shown in FIG. 6, with a portion of its sidewall and top being swung open to permit dispensing of fibrous structure sheets contained therein.

FIG. 8A is a front perspective view of a third package embodiment provided by the present invention.

FIG. 8B is a front perspective view of a package embodiment that is similar to the one shown in FIG.8 A, but in an inverted orientation to that shown in FIG. 8 A.

FIG. 9 is a front perspective view of a portion of another package embodiment that comprises an optional hanger feature for allowing the package to be hung rather than placed onto a counter, floor, or other flat home surface.

FIGS. 10A and 10B are front perspective views of a package embodiment having a recusable access.

FIG. 11 is a front perspective view of another package embodiment of the present invention that has a changeable configuration as fibrous structure sheets are dispensed.

FIGS. 12-15 are block diagrams of exemplary dispensing methods provided by the present invention. The embodiments set forth in the drawings are illustrative in nature and not intended to be limiting of the invention defined by the claims. Moreover, individual features of the drawings and invention will be more fully apparent and understood in view of the detailed description. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The following text sets forth a broad description of numerous different embodiments of the present invention. The description is to be construed as exemplary only and does not describe every possible embodiment since describing every possible embodiment would be impractical, if not impossible. And it will be understood that any feature, characteristic, component, composition, ingredient, product, step or methodology described herein can be deleted, combined with or substituted for, in whole or part, any other feature, characteristic, component, composition, ingredient, product, step or methodology described herein. Numerous alternative embodiments could be implemented, using either current technology or technology developed after the filing date of this patent, which would still fall within the scope of the claims. All publications and patents cited in the Detailed Description of the Invention section are incorporated herein by reference.

It should also be understood that, unless a term is expressly defined in this specification using the sentence "As used herein, the term " " is hereby defined to mean..." or a similar sentence, there is no intent to limit the meaning of that term, either expressly or by implication, beyond its plain or ordinary meaning, and such term should not be interpreted to be limited in scope based on any statement made in any section of this patent (other than the language of the claims). No term is intended to be essential to the present invention unless so stated. To the extent that any term recited in the claims at the end of this patent is referred to in this patent in a manner consistent with a single meaning, that is done for sake of clarity only so as to not confuse the reader, and it is not intended that such a claim term be limited, by implication or otherwise, to that single meaning. Finally, unless a claim element is defined by reciting the word "means" and a function without the recital of any structure, it is not intended that the scope of any claim element be interpreted based on the application of 35 U.S.C. § 112, sixth paragraph.

"Filament" as used herein means an elongate particulate that exhibits a length of greater than or equal to 5.08 cm (2 in.) and/or greater than or equal to 7.62 cm (3 in.) and/or greater than or equal to 10.16 cm (4 in.) and/or greater than or equal to 15.24 cm (6 in.).

Filaments are typically considered continuous or substantially continuous in nature. Filaments are relatively longer than fibers. Non-limiting examples of filaments include meltblown and/or spunbond filaments. Non- limiting examples of polymers that can be spun into filaments include natural polymers, such as starch, starch derivatives, cellulose, such as rayon and/or lyocell, and cellulose derivatives, hemicellulose, hemicellulose derivatives, and synthetic polymers including, but not limited to polyvinyl alcohol, thermoplastic polymer, such as polyesters, nylons, polyolefins such as polypropylene filaments, polyethylene filaments, and biodegradable thermoplastic fibers such as polylactic acid filaments, polyhydroxyalkanoate filaments, polyesteramide filaments and polycaprolactone filaments.

"Fiber" as used herein means an elongate particulate as described above that exhibits a length of less than 5.08 cm (2 in.) and/or less than 3.81 cm (1.5 in.) and/or less than 2.54 cm (1 in.).

Fibers are typically considered discontinuous in nature. Non-limiting examples of fibers include pulp fibers, such as wood pulp fibers, and synthetic staple fibers such as polypropylene, polyethylene, polyester, copolymers thereof, rayon, glass fibers and polyvinyl alcohol fibers.

Staple fibers may be produced by spinning a filament tow and then cutting the tow into segments of less than 5.08 cm (2 in.) thus producing fibers.

In one example of the present invention, a fiber may be a naturally occurring fiber, which means it is obtained from a naturally occurring source, such as a vegetative source, for example a tree and/or plant, such as trichomes. Such fibers are typically used in papermaking and are oftentimes referred to as papermaking fibers. Papermaking fibers useful in the present invention include cellulosic fibers commonly known as wood pulp fibers. Applicable wood pulps include chemical pulps, such as Kraft, sulfite, and sulfate pulps, as well as mechanical pulps including, for example, groundwood, thermomechanical pulp and chemically modified thermomechanical pulp. Chemical pulps, however, may be preferred since they impart a superior tactile sense of softness to fibrous structures made therefrom. Pulps derived from both deciduous trees (hereinafter, also referred to as "hardwood") and coniferous trees (hereinafter, also referred to as "softwood") may be utilized. The hardwood and softwood fibers can be blended, or alternatively, can be deposited in layers to provide a stratified web. Also applicable to the present invention are fibers derived from recycled paper, which may contain any or all of the above categories of fibers as well as other non-fibrous polymers such as fillers, softening agents, wet and dry strength agents, and adhesives used to facilitate the original papermaking.

In addition to the various wood pulp fibers, other cellulosic fibers such as cotton linters, rayon, lyocell, and bagasse fibers can be used in the fibrous structures of the present invention. "Fibrous structure" as used herein means a structure that comprises one or more fibrous elements. In one example, a fibrous structure according to the present invention means an association of fibrous elements that together form a structure capable of performing a function. In another example of the present invention, a fibrous structure comprises a plurality of inter- entangled fibrous elements, for example filaments.

"Sanitary tissue product" as used herein means a soft, relatively low density fibrous structure useful as a wiping implement for post-urinary and post-bowel movement cleaning (toilet tissue), for otorhinolaryngological discharges (facial tissue), multi-functional absorbent and cleaning uses (absorbent paper towels) and wipes, such as wet and dry wipes. Sanitary tissue products include paper products, including paper products made with cellulosic fibers, the primary intended use of which is to absorb liquids. Thus, substrates such as films, polymer films, foils, non-absorbent wipes, filter paper, paper utilized for paper cups and other containers, and other forms of substrates that do not have a primary intended purpose of absorbency are not considered sanitary tissue products as used herein.

The sanitary tissue products and/or fibrous structures of the present invention may exhibit a basis weight between about 1 g/m² to about 5000 g/m² and/or from about 10 g/m² to about 500 g/m² and/or from about 10 g/m² to about 300 g/m² and/or from about 10 g/m² to about 120 g/m² and/or from about 15 g/m² to about 110 g/m² and/or from about 20 g/m² to about 100 g/m² and/or from about 30 to 90 g/m² as determined by the Basis Weight Test Method described herein. "Basis Weight" as used herein is the weight per unit area of a sample reported in lbs/3000 ft² or g/m² as determined by the Basis Weight Test Method described herein.

The sanitary tissue products of the present invention may exhibit a CRT absorbent capacity of from about 0.1 grams per square inch to about 1.5 grams per square inch, from about 0.2 grams per square inch to about 1.2 grams per square inch, or from about

The sanitary tissue products of the present invention may exhibit a total dry tensile strength of greater than about 59 g/cm and/or from about 78 g/cm to about 394 g/cm and/or from about 98 g/cm to about 335 g/cm. In addition, the sanitary tissue product of the present invention may exhibit a total dry tensile strength of greater than about 196 g/cm and/or from about 196 g/cm to about 394 g/cm and/or from about 216 g/cm to about 335 g/cm and/or from about 236 g/cm to about 315 g/cm. In one example, the sanitary tissue product exhibits a total dry tensile strength of less than about 394 g/cm and/or less than about 335 g/cm as measured according to the Elongation Tensile Strength/TEA/Tangent Modulus Test Method described herein. The sanitary tissue products of the present invention may exhibit a density of less than 0.60 g/cm³ and/or less than 0.30 g/cm³ and/or less than 0.20 g/cm³ and/or less than 0.15 g/cm³ and/or less than 0.10 g/cm³ and/or less than 0.07 g/cm³ and/or less than 0.05 g/cm³ and/or from about 0.01 g/cm³ to about 0.20 g/cm³ and/or from about 0.02 g/cm³ to about 0.15 g/cm³ and/or from about 0.02 g/cm³ to about 0.10 g/cm³.

The fibrous structures of the present disclosure can be single-ply or multi-ply fibrous structures and can comprise cellulosic pulp fibers. Other naturally-occurring and/or non- naturally occurring fibers can also be present in the fibrous structures. In one example, the fibrous structures can be through dried, or "through air dried (TAD)". In one example, the fibrous structures can be wet-laid fibrous structures. The fibrous structures can be incorporated into single- or multi-ply sanitary tissue products. The sanitary tissue products or fibrous structures can be in roll form where they are convolutedly wound or wrapped about themselves with or without the employment of a core. In other embodiments, the sanitary tissue products or fibrous structures can be in sheet form or can be at least partially folded over themselves. Fibrous structures of the present invention can have basis weights in the range of 15 lbs/3000 ft² to 30 lbs/3000 ft² per ply, or 30 or lbs/3000 ft², 40 lbs/3000 ft², 50 lbs/3000 ft², or 60 lbs/3000 ft² for 2- ply structures.

The fibrous structures of the present invention can be made by using a patterned papermaking belt for forming three-dimensionally structured wet-laid webs as described in U.S. Patent No. 4,637,859, issued Jan. 20, 1987, to Trokhan. Broadly, the papermaking belt of the present invention includes a reinforcing element (such as a woven belt) which can be thoroughly coated with a liquid photosensitive polymeric resin to a preselected thickness. A film or negative incorporating the pattern desired is juxtaposed on the liquid photosensitive resin. The resin is then exposed to light of an appropriate wave length through the film. This exposure to light causes curing of the resin in the exposed areas (i.e., white portions or non-printed portions in the film). Unexposed (and uncured) resin (under the black portions or printed portions in the film) is removed from the system leaving behind the cured resin forming the pattern desired, which pattern transfers during the wet-forming phase of papermaking to the fibrous structure.

The sanitary tissue products of the present invention may comprise additives such as softening agents, temporary wet strength agents, permanent wet strength agents, bulk softening agents, lotions, silicones, wetting agents, latexes, patterned latexes and other types of additives suitable for inclusion in and/or on sanitary tissue products. The present invention is directed to packages of stacked fibrous structure sheets. Referring now to the figures, FIG. 2 shows a first exemplary embodiment of a package 20 of stacked fibrous structure sheets 22. Package 20 includes a package base 23, a package top 24, and a sidewall 25. While the description and claims may use terms like "top", "base", and "bottom" that traditionally connote an orientation, the scope of the claims is not so limited. That is, packages and other structural items described herein can be oriented in multiple ways during their manufacture, shipping, in-store shelving, and in-home use.

The plurality of fibrous structure sheets 22 are placed adjacent one another to form a sheet stack 26 having a stack bottom 27 and a stack top 28. Fibrous structure sheets 22 within sheet stack 26 are disconnected to one another in a preferred embodiment, but can alternatively be temporarily connected (for example, via a perforation or other line of weakness), and/or nested or interfolded together prior to dispensing. The package base 23, package top 24, and package sidewall 25 of package 20 comprises straight edges, as opposed to curved edges, which can help with positioning the package into corners or against straight edges in one's home.

With reference to FIGS. 3A-3H, fibrous structure sheets 22 can be made in an initial planar configuration being individually cut (see FIG. 3B) from a continuous planar fibrous structure web 21 (see FIG. 3A). Before or after cutting the sheets 22 (completely or partially), they are folded or otherwise manipulated into a non-planar dispensing configuration as shown in FIGS. 3C-3H. Exemplary non-planar dispensing configurations include, but are not limited to, conical and pyramidal.

With reference to FIGS. 4 and 5, many of the non-planar dispensing configurations include a sheet base 30, a sheet peak 31, and an interior void 32. The folding and/or other manipulation can create one or more pleats 33. The pleats, when present, can permit easy dispensing by allowing a user to grasp an individual sheet by the pleat and remove it from the sheet stack. In some embodiments of the present invention, the terminal or free end of the pleat can substantially align with a corner, fold line, or ridge like that shown in FIG. 4. This way the corner, fold line, or ridge can act as a visual aid to alert consumers where the pleat is located to grasp the same for easy dispensing. This is not possible in some non-planar embodiments, such as a conical shape.

In some embodiments, the fibrous structure sheets, in their non-planar dispensing configuration, have a base or cross-sectional geometry that is substantially similar to geometry of package components. In other embodiments, the sheet base or cross-sectional geometry is different than geometry of the package in which they are contained. Once removed from the sheet stack, a user can transform the fibrous structure sheet from its non-planar dispensing configuration to one or more use configurations depending on the intended task. For example, a user can drop the fibrous structure sheet in a partially but not completely unfolded configuration (with minimal or without any affirmative action on the user's part) onto a spill or mess to be cleaned to allow the fibrous structure sheet to begin absorbing or otherwise collecting the spill or mess. A user can also substantially completely unfold the fibrous structure sheet to approach a planar configuration prior to use. Or a user can affirmatively partially unfold a fibrous structure sheet prior to its use; for example, unfold the fibrous structure sheet about a number of fold lines that is fewer than the total number of fold lines the sheet has in its non-planar dispensing configuration.

Referring again to FIG. 2, package base 23 covers sheet stack bottom 27, and package top 24 covers sheet stack top 28. Covering both the sheet stack bottom 27 and top 28 helps keep the fibrous structure sheets 22 dry and clean prior to dispensing the sheets. "Dry" as that term is used herein means a fibrous structure sheet having a level of moisture (for example, up to 8%) that it absorbs due to manufacturing and/or environmental conditions. While the fibrous structure sheets have a limited amount of moisture in them, they are still useful for absorbing liquids and other messes.

In one embodiment and as shown in FIG. 2, package top 24 is unconnected from the other package components. A user can displace package top 24, remove one or more fibrous structure sheets 22 from the sheet stack, and then replace the package top 24 until future dispensing is desired. A benefit of having the package top 24 unconnected from other packaging components is to allow a user to create two separate sheet stacks from package 20. Package top 24 once removed can be configured to act as a second package base that is capable of holding a sub-stack of fibrous structure sheets. A user can then place the first sub-stack in one location in their home (for example, in their kitchen) and the second sub-stack in another location (for example, in their bathroom or garage).

FIG. 6 illustrates a second exemplary package embodiment 40 that includes similar package components to that shown in FIG. 2, including a package base 43, a package top 44, and a sidewall 45. One or more of the package components are displaceable from a first location to a second location, the same as with package 20, but the displaceable package component(s) in this embodiment remain connected to the other package components. For example and as shown in FIG. 7, package top 44 and a portion of package sidewall 45 can be swung out of the way to permit dispensing of the contained fibrous structure sheets 42, and then repositioned thereafter. In package embodiments 20 and 40, the package components remain in their initial location prior to dispensing and are then moved or displaced to a second location to permit fibrous structure sheet dispensing. In a third exemplary package embodiment 50 that is shown in FIG. 8A, the sheet stack top and bottom are covered by package components to help keep the fibrous structure sheets dry and clean before use, but the package components do not need to be displaced to permit sheet dispensing. In package 50, there is an opening 58 in sidewall 55 and a clearance gap 59 between the package base 53 and the sheet stack bottom that enables an individual fibrous structure sheet 52 to be pulled away from the reaming sheets in the sheet stack sufficiently to permit dispensing from sidewall opening 58. FIG. 8B shows a similar package 60 to package 50, wherein the clearance gap 61 exists between a between a package top 62 and a sheet stack top 63.

FIG. 9 shows a portion of another package embodiment 64 that is capable of covering the sheet stack top and bottom, but does not require displacement of package components for dispensing contained fibrous structure sheets 65. In this embodiment, a flexible package material 66 (for example, a polymeric film) substantially envelopes the sheet stack and contains an opening 67 for dispensing the fibrous structure sheets 65. Package 64 also contains an optional hanger feature in the form of a handle loop 68. The hanger feature allows the package to be hung as alternative to sitting the package on a counter, floor, or other flat home surface. Other hanger features beyond just a handle loop are contemplated by the present invention. And an optional hanger feature could be added to any of the other package embodiments shown and described herein.

Another exemplary package embodiment 70 is shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B. Package 70 includes a first package component 71 in the form of a flexible polymeric film and a second package component 72 that is relatively more rigid than the film to help provide structural integrity to the package. Package component 72 can be made from board stock or from a molded polymeric piece, for example. Package component 71 comprises or is otherwise configured to provide a re-closable access 73. As shown in FIG. 10B, re-closable access 73 is provided with a tongue and groove closure mechanism 74. In this and similar package embodiments, the package can completely enclose the stack of fibrous structure sheets to help protect them prior to dispensing and use. Besides a tongue and groove closure mechanism, peelable labels or over labels (covering package openings) can also be used on flexible or inflexible packages of the present invention. The peelable labels can carry low-tack adhesives that enable a label to be peeled away from a package substrate for dispensing and resealed to the package substrate multiple times.

In an alternative package embodiment, the package can be made solely from flexible material such as, for example, package component 71. In this alternative embodiment, Since package component 71 can be made from a flexible (or adaptable) material, a user can decrease the size of the package as fibrous sheet stacks are removed from the package and the re-closable access is placed into its closed position. Decreasing the size of the package can provide a number of different benefits, including, decreasing the amount of space the package takes up, facilitating dispensing of remaining fibrous structure sheets, and acting as a visual reminder to purchase more packages of fibrous structure sheets at an upcoming shopping trip.

Many of the above-described package embodiments include features to keep the sheet stack top and bottom covered when the fibrous structure sheets are not being dispensed. In another package embodiment 80 (shown in FIG. 11), the package has a sidewall 81 that substantially covers or encloses the entire sheet stack (for example, covers some or all of every one of the plurality of individual sheets). In this and similar embodiments, the package comprises an adaptation feature that allows a user to modify the configuration of the package as the sheet stack decreases in size. This modification is the result of an affirmative action/manipulation by a user and is distinguished from an automatic configuration change simply due to fewer fibrous structure sheets being present within the package. Thus, the package size (height, width, length, volume, etc.) can decrease as the sheet stack decreases.

Exemplary adaptation features include a fold line and a line of weakness (for example, perforation line or score line). As sheets are dispensed from the package, a user can remove portions of the package sidewall, or fold or roll down portions of the package sidewall. In this manner, the package sidewall can support and protect the sheets and be manipulated for a type of "dosed" dispensing. Package 80 is shown having a perforation line 82 disposed in sidewall 81. As fibrous structure sheets 83 are removed from package 80, a user can decrease the size of the package by removing portions of sidewall 81 by tearing them off via perforation line 82. A benefit of manipulating a package sidewall versus removing a portion of it however is that the sidewall can be repositioned to its original configuration and loaded with a refill stack of fibrous structure sheets.

The package embodiments shown in the figures generally illustrate how they would look once purchased and placed in an intended dispensing location. Thus, the package embodiments may also include secondary packaging at point of sale that is intended to protect the primary package and the fibrous structure sheets during transit to and from a store and on a store shelf. See, for example, item 29 in FIG. 2, which is in the form of a peelable film that is affixed to a portion of package sidewall 25. Exemplary secondary packaging material includes polyolefin and cellophane films. A consumer will remove a portion or all of the secondary packaging material to prepare the primary packages for dispensing.

The present invention is also directed to methods of dispensing fibrous structure sheets. Exemplary dispensing methods are shown in FIGS. 12-15. It should be understood that while the dispensing methods could be practiced with exemplary package embodiments shown in the package figures herein, other alternative package embodiments could also be employed to practice the dispensing methods. It should also be understood that while the below description uses terms like "first", "second" and so forth, that the steps can be conducted in various orders and/or simultaneously unless explicitly communicated otherwise.

A first exemplary dispensing method 100 is provided in FIG. 12. Method 100 includes a first step 102 of providing a primary package comprising a package base, a package top, and a sidewall, wherein the package contains a plurality of fibrous structure sheets stacked adjacent one another and being in a non-planar configuration, and wherein the primary package comprises secondary packaging material disposed on at least some of an exterior of the primary package; a second step 104 of removing the secondary packaging material; a third step 106 of displacing at least a portion of at least one of the package base, the package top, and the sidewall to provide access to one of the plurality of fibrous structure sheets; and a fourth step 108 following step 106 of repositioning the displaced package base, package top, and/or sidewall.

A second exemplary dispensing method 110 is shown in FIG. 13. Method 110 includes a first step 112 of providing a package comprising a plurality of fibrous structure sheets that are stacked adjacent one another and that are in a non-planar configuration to define an interior void, a package base comprising an extension that is disposed within the interior void of a lowermost one of the plurality of fibrous structure sheets, and a package top comprising an extension capable of being fitted into the interior void of another one of the plurality of fibrous structure sheets; a second step 114 of removing the package top; and a third step 116 of removing some of the plurality of fibrous structure sheets and placing them onto the package top extension to create two separate stacks of fibrous structure sheets from the same package to enable different time and/or location dispensing of the plurality of fibrous structure sheets.

A third exemplary dispensing method 120 is illustrated in FIG. 14. Method 120 includes a first step 122 of providing a package comprising a first package configuration, and a plurality of stacked fibrous structure sheets that are in a first sheet configuration disposed within the package; a second step 124 of dispensing a first sheet from the plurality of stacked fibrous structure sheets and manipulating the first sheet from the first sheet configuration to a second sheet configuration for use; a third step 126 of affirmatively manipulating the package from the first package configuration to a second package configuration; and a fourth step 128 of dispensing a second sheet from the plurality of stacked fibrous structure sheets and manipulating the second sheet from the first sheet configuration to a third sheet configuration for use.

A fourth exemplary dispensing method 130 is shown in FIG. 15. Method 130 includes a first step 132 of providing a package comprising a plurality of fibrous structure sheets in a stacked configuration, a re-closable access, and a first package configuration; a second step 134 of opening the re-closable access to dispense one or more of the plurality of fibrous structure sheets; and a third step 136 of closing the re-closable access. Conducting step 136 also changes the package into a second package configuration that is different from the first package configuration.

Test Methods

Unless otherwise specified, all tests described herein including those described under the Definitions section and the following test methods are conducted on samples that have been conditioned in a conditioned room at a temperature of 23 °C ± 1.0 °C and a relative humidity of 50% ± 2% for a minimum of 24 hours prior to the test. All plastic and paper board packaging articles of manufacture, if any, must be carefully removed from the samples prior to testing. The samples tested are "usable units." "Usable units" as used herein means sheets, flats from roll stock, pre-converted flats, fibrous structure, and/or single or multi-ply products. Except where noted all tests are conducted in such conditioned room, all tests are conducted under the same environmental conditions and in such conditioned room. Discard any damaged product. Do not test samples that have defects such as wrinkles, tears, holes, and like. All instruments are calibrated according to manufacturer's specifications.

Basis Weight Test Method

Basis weight of a fibrous structure is measured on stacks of twelve usable units using a top loading analytical balance with a resolution of + 0.001 g. The balance is protected from air drafts and other disturbances using a draft shield. A precision cutting die, measuring 8.890 cm + 0.00889 cm by 8.890 cm + 0.00889 cm is used to prepare all samples. With a precision cutting die, cut the samples into squares. Combine the cut squares to form a stack twelve samples thick. Measure the mass of the sample stack and record the result to the nearest 0.001 g.

The Basis Weight is calculated in g/m² as follows:

Basis Weight = (Mass of stack) / [(Area of 1 square in stack) x (No.of squares in stack)]

Basis Weight (g/m²) = Mass of stack (g) / [79.032 (cm²) / 10,000 (cmV) x 12]

Report result to the nearest 0.1 g/m². Sample dimensions can be changed or varied using a similar precision cutter as mentioned above, so as at least 645 square centimeters of sample area is in the stack.

CRT absorbency

This test incorporates the following CRT equipment absorbency calculation methods The Slope of the Square Root of Time (SST 2-15) Test Method.

The Time Integrated CRTMax (TIR.005) Test Method

CRT Capacity Test Method

The SST method and CRTMax TIR method both measure rate over a wide spectrum of time to capture a view of the product pick-up rate over the useful lifetime. In particular, the SST method measures the absorbency rate via the slope of the mass versus the square root of time from 2-15 seconds. The CRTMAX TIR measures time integrated absorbency rate using a 0.005g/sec threshold stop criteria.

Overview

The absorption (wicking) of water by a fibrous sample is measured over time. A sample is placed horizontally in the instrument and is supported by an open weave net structure that rests on a balance. The test is initiated when a tube connected to a water reservoir is raised and the meniscus makes contact with the center of the sample from beneath, at a small negative pressure. Absorption is controlled by the ability of the sample to pull the water from the instrument for approximately 20 seconds. Rate is determined as the slope of the regression line of the outputted weight vs sqrt (time) from 2 to 15 seconds.

Apparatus

Conditioned Room - Temperature is controlled from 73 °F + 2°F (23 °C + 1°C). Relative Humidity is controlled from 50% + 2% Sample Preparation - Product samples are cut using hydraulic/pneumatic precision cutter into 3.375 inch diameter circles for SST, CRT Max and 3 inch diameter circles for CRT capacity.

Capacity Rate Tester (CRT) - The CRT is an absorbency tester capable of measuring capacity and rate. The CRT consists of a balance (0.00 lg), on which rests on a woven grid (using nylon monofilament line having a 0.014" diameter) placed over a small reservoir with a delivery tube in the center. This reservoir is filled by the action of solenoid valves, which help to connect the sample supply reservoir to an intermediate reservoir, the water level of which is monitored by an optical sensor. The CRT is run with a -2mm water column, controlled by adjusting the height of water in the supply reservoir.

Software - Lab View based custom software specific to CRT Version 4.2 or later.

Water - Distilled water with conductivity < 10 μ8/οιη (target <5 μ8Λ:ιη) @ 25°C

Sample Preparation

For this method, a usable unit is described as one finished product unit regardless of the number of plies. Condition all samples with packaging materials removed for a minimum of 2 hours prior to testing. Discard at least the first ten usable units from the roll. Remove two usable units and cut one 3.375-inch (SST, CRTMax) or 3.0 inch (CRT Capacity) circular sample from the center of each usable unit for a total of 2 replicates for each test result. Do not test samples with defects such as wrinkles, tears, holes, etc. Replace with another usable unit which is free of such defects

Sample Testing

Pre-test set-up

1. The water height in the reservoir tank is set -2.0 mm below the top of the support rack

(where the towel sample will be placed).

2. The supply tube (8mm I.D.) is centered with respect to the support net.

3. Test samples are cut into circles of 3-3/8" SST, CRTMax) or 3" (CRT Capacity) diameter and equilibrated at Tappi environment conditions for a minimum of 2 hours.

4.

Test Description

1. After pressing the start button on the software application, the supply tube moves to 0.33 mm below the water height in the reserve tank. This creates a small meniscus of water above the supply tube to ensure test initiation. A valve between the tank and the supply tube closes, and the scale is zeroed. The software prompts you to "load a sample". A sample is placed on the support net, centering it over the supply tube, and with the side facing the outside of the roll placed downward.

Close the balance windows, and press the "OK" button - the software records the dry weight of the circle.

The software prompts you to "place cover on sample". The plastic cover is placed on top of the sample, on top of the support net. The plastic cover has a center pin (which is flush with the outside rim) to ensure that the sample is in the proper position to establish hydraulic connection. Four other pins, 1 mm shorter in depth, are positioned 1.25-1.5 inches radially away from the center pin to ensure the sample is flat during the test. The sample cover rim should not contact the sheet. Close the top balance window and click "OK".

The software re-zeroes the scale and then moves the supply tube towards the sample. When the supply tube reaches its destination, which is 0.33 mm below the support net, the valve opens (i.e., the valve between the reserve tank and the supply tube), and hydraulic connection is established between the supply tube and the sample. Data acquisition occurs at a rate of 5 Hz, and is started about 0.4 seconds before water contacts the sample. The test runs for at least 20 seconds. For CRTMax test is stopped when rate of increase of water absorbed falls below 0.005g/s otherwise test stops at 300 seconds. For CRT Capacity the test is stopped when rate of increase of water absorbed falls below 0.0015 g/s otherwise test stops at 300 sees. After this, the supply tube pulls away from the sample to break the hydraulic connection.

The wet sample is removed from the support net. Residual water on the support net and cover are dried with a paper towel.

Repeat until all samples are tested.

After each test is run, a *.txt file is created (typically stored in the CRT/data/rate directory) with a file name as typed at the start of the test. The file contains all the test set-up parameters, dry sample weight, and cumulative water absorbed (g) vs. time (sec) data collected from the test.

Calculating CRT Capacity g/sq inch

Capacity (g/sq in) = 0.14147x Final Weight (g water absorbed)

Where 0.14147 is the inverse of the area of the 3 inch circle and this multiplier converts values to a per square inch basis Calculation of Rate of Uptake

Take the raw data file that includes time and weight data.

First, create a new time column that subtracts 0.4 seconds from the raw time data to adjust the raw time data to correspond to when initiation actually occurs (about 0.4 seconds after data collection begins).

Second, create a column of data that converts the adjusted time data to square root of time data (e.g., using a formula such as SQRT() within Excel).

Third, calculate the slope of the weight data vs the square root of time data (e.g., using the SLOPE() function within Excel, using the weight data as the y-data and the sqrt(time) data as the x-data, etc.). The slope should be calculated for the data points from 2 to 15 seconds, inclusive (or 1.41 to 3.87 in the sqrt(time) data column).

Calculation of Slope of the Square Root of Time (SST 2-15)

The start time of water contact with the sample is estimated to be 0.4 seconds after the start of hydraulic connection is established between the supply tube and the sample (CRT Time). This is because data acquisition begins while the tube is still moving towards the sample, and incorporates the small delay in scale response. Thus, "time zero" is actually at 0.4 seconds in CRT Time as recorded in the *.txt file.

The slope of the square root of time (SST) from 2-15 seconds is calculated from the slope of a linear regression line from the square root of time between (and including) 2 to 15 seconds (x-axis) versus the cumulative grams of water absorbed. The units are g/sec^0'5.

Reporting Results

Report the average slope to the nearest 0.01 g/s^0'5.

Calculation of Time Integrated Rate with 0.005g/s threshold (CRTMax TIR 0.005) CRTMax TIR.0.005, aka "time integrated rate using a 0.005 g/sec threshold", is calculated by integrating the area under the rate (g/sec, y-axis) vs. time (sec, x-axis) curve, starting at "CRT time" = 0.4, until the "Time Average Rate" is 0.005 g/sec or less (referencing

"Time Average Rate" beginning at CRT Time =1.4 sec).

CRT Max TIR.0.005 =∑ [(CA(i) - CA(i-l)) * IR(i)] +

[(CA(i) -CA(i-l)) * (IR(i-l) - IR(i)) * 0.5)]

Where:

i = CRT Time increment, starting at 0.4 sec, until the "CRT Time" when Time Average Rate (at 1.4 seconds and after), is equal to or below 0.005 g/sec. CA = cumulative water absorbed (g)

IR = instantaneous rate (g/sec)

Elongation/Tensile Strength/TEA/Tangent Modulus Test Method

Elongation (Stretch), Tensile Strength, TEA and Tangent Modulus are measured on a constant rate of extension tensile tester with computer interface (a suitable instrument is the EJA Vantage from the Thwing-Albert Instrument Co. Wet Berlin, NJ) using a load cell for which the forces measured are within 10% to 90% of the limit of the load cell. Both the movable (upper) and stationary (lower) pneumatic jaws are fitted with smooth stainless steel faced grips, with a design suitable for testing 1 inch wide sheet material (Thwing-Albert item #733GC). An air pressure of about 60 psi is supplied to the jaws.

Eight usable units of fibrous structures are divided into two stacks of four usable units each. The usable units in each stack are consistently oriented with respect to machine direction (MD) and cross direction (CD). One of the stacks is designated for testing in the MD and the other for CD. Using a one inch precision cutter (Thwing-Albert JDC-1-10, or similar) take a CD stack and cut one, 1.00 in + 0.01 in wide by 3 - 4 in long stack of strips (long dimension in CD). In like fashion cut the remaining stack in the MD (strip's long dimension in MD), to give a total of 8 specimens, four CD and four MD strips. Each strip to be tested is one usable unit thick, and will be treated as a unitary specimen for testing.

Program the tensile tester to perform an extension test, collecting force and extension data at an acquisition rate of 20 Hz as the crosshead raises at a rate of 2.00 in/min (5.08 cm/min) until the specimen breaks. The break sensitivity is set to 80%, i.e., the test is terminated when the measured force drops to 20% of the maximum peak force, after which the crosshead is returned to its original position.

Set the gage length to 1.00 inch. Zero the crosshead and load cell. Insert the specimen into the upper and lower open grips such that at least 0.5 inches of specimen length is contained in each grip. Align specimen vertically within the upper and lower jaws, then close the upper grip. Verify specimen is aligned, then close lower grip. The specimen should be fairly straight between grips, with no more than 5.0 g of force on the load cell. Add a pre-tension force of 3g_. This tension is applied to the specimen to define the adjusted gauge length, and, by definition is the zero strain point. Start the tensile tester and data collection. Repeat testing in like fashion for all four CD and four MD specimens. Program the software to calculate the following from the constructed force (g) versus extension (in) curve. Eight samples are run on the Tensile Tester (four to the MD and four to the CD) and average of the respective dry total tensile, dry Fail TEA and dry Fail Stretch is reported as the Dry Total Tensile, Dry Fail TEA and Dry Fail Stretch. Fail TEA is defined as tensile energy absorbed (area under the load vs. strain tensile curve) from zero strain to fail force point, with units of g/in. Dry Fail Stretch is defined as the percentage strain measured after the web is strained past its peak load point, where the force drops to exactly 50% of its peak load force.

The dry Fail TEA is then divided by the basis weight of the strip from which it was tested to arrive at the TEA of the present invention, and is calculated as follows:

TEA = Fail TEA/ Basis Weight of Strip (g/m²)

The MD and CD dry tensile strengths are determined using the above equipment and calculations in the following manner.

Tensile Strength in general is the maximum peak force (g) divided by the specimen width (1 in), and reported as g/in to the nearest 1 g/in.

Average Tensile Strength=sum of tensile loads measures (MD)/(Number of tensile stripes tested (MD)*Number of useable units or plys per tensile stripe)

This calculation is repeated for cross direction testing.

Dry Total Tensile = Average MD tensile strength + Average CD tensile strength

The Dry Tensile value is then normalized for the basis weight of the strip from which it was tested. The normalized basis weight used is 24 g/m², and is calculated as follows:

Normalized {DTT} = {DTT} * 24 (g/m²) / Basis Weight of Strip (g/m²)

The various values are calculated for the four CD specimens and the four MD specimens. Calculate an average for each parameter separately for the CD and MD specimens.

Examples

The following Examples of the present disclosure describe various embodiments of the disclosure.

A. A method of dispensing fibrous structure sheets, the method including the steps of:

a. providing a primary package including a package base, a package top, and a sidewall, wherein the package contains a plurality of fibrous structure sheets stacked adjacent one another and being in a non-planar configuration, and wherein the primary package comprises secondary packaging material disposed on at least some of an exterior of the primary package;

b. removing the secondary packaging material;

c. displacing at least a portion of at least one of the package base, the package top, and the sidewall to provide access to one of the plurality of fibrous structure sheets; and

d. thereafter repositioning the displaced package base, package top, and/or sidewall.

B. A method of dispensing fibrous structure sheets, the method including the steps of:

a. providing a package including a plurality of fibrous structure sheets that are stacked adjacent one another and that are in a non-planar configuration to define an interior void, a package base including an extension that is disposed within the interior void of a lowermost one of the plurality of fibrous structure sheets, and a package top including an extension capable of being fitted into the interior void of another one of the plurality of fibrous structure sheets;

b. removing the package top; and

c. removing some of the plurality of fibrous structure sheets and placing them onto the package top extension to create two separate stacks of fibrous structure sheets from the same package to enable different time and/or location dispensing of the plurality of fibrous structure sheets.

C. A package of fibrous structure sheets, the package including:

a. a plurality of fibrous structure sheets that are folded or otherwise manipulated from a first planar configuration to a non-planar dispensing configuration, the plurality of fibrous structure sheets stacked adjacent one another in their dispensing configuration to form a sheet stack including a stack bottom and a stack top; and

b. a fiber-based disposable package including a package base, a package top, and a sidewall;

c. wherein the package base covers the stack bottom and the package top covers the stack top; and d. wherein at least a portion of at least one of the package base, the package top, and the sidewall is capable of being temporarily displaced to dispense one of the fibrous structure sheets from the sheet stack and then repositioned thereafter.

D. The package of Example C, wherein the package top is capable of being temporarily displaced to dispense one of the fibrous structure sheets from the sheet stack and then repositioned thereafter.

E. The package of any of Examples C and D, wherein the dispensing configuration is conical.

F. The package of any of the previous Examples, wherein the dispensing configuration is pyramidal.

G. The package of any of the previous Examples, wherein the dispensing configuration comprises a peak.

H. The package of any of the previous Examples, wherein the dispensing configuration

comprises a pleat.

I. The package of any of the previous Examples, wherein each of the plurality of fibrous structure sheets in their dispensing configuration has a base and/or cross-sectional geometry that is substantially similar to a geometry of at least one of the package base and the package top.

J. The package of any of the previous Examples, wherein the fibrous structure sheets are capable of taking on a use configuration that is different than both the first planar configuration and the non-planar dispensing configuration.

K. The package of any of the previous Examples, further including a secondary package material that can be removed after purchasing the package and prior to dispensing the fibrous structure sheets from the package. L. The package of any of the previous Examples, wherein the fibrous structure sheets are paper towels.

M. The package of any of the previous Examples, wherein the fibrous structure sheets have an absorbent capacity of from about 0.1 grams per square inch to about 1.5 grams per square inch according to the CRT absorbency test method disclosed herein.

N. A package of fibrous structure sheets, the package including:

b. a disposable package including package components including a package base, a package top, and a sidewall attached to the package base and/or the package top; c. wherein the package base covers the stack bottom and the package top covers the stack top; and

d. wherein at least a portion of at least one of the package base, the package top, and a portion of the sidewall is capable of being moved from a first location to a second location while still being attached to other package components to dispense one of the fibrous structure sheets from the sheet stack and then repositioned thereafter to the first location.

O. The package of Example N, wherein the dispensing configuration is conical.

P. The package of Example N or O, wherein the dispensing configuration is pyramidal.

Q. The package of any of Examples N-P, wherein the dispensing configuration comprises a peak.

R. The package of any of Examples N-Q, wherein the dispensing configuration comprises a pleat. S. The package of any of Examples N-R, wherein each of the plurality of fibrous structure sheets in their dispensing configuration has a base and/or cross-sectional geometry that is substantially similar to a geometry of at least one of the package base and the package top.

T. The package of any of Examples N-S, wherein the fibrous structure sheets are capable of taking on a use configuration that is different than both the first planar configuration and the non-planar dispensing configuration.

U. The package of any of Examples N-T, further including a secondary package material that can be removed after purchasing the package and prior to dispensing the fibrous structure sheets from the package.

V. A package of fibrous structure sheets, the package including:

b. a package including a package base that covers the stack bottom, a package top that covers the stack top, and a sidewall;

c. wherein the sidewall has an opening; and

d. wherein a clearance gap exists between at least one of the package base and stack bottom and the package top and stack top to permit dispensing the fibrous structure sheets from the opening in the sidewall without displacing the package base or the package top.

W. The package of Example V, wherein the dispensing configuration is conical.

X. The package of Example V or W, wherein the dispensing configuration is pyramidal.

Y. The package of any of Examples V-X, wherein the dispensing configuration comprises a peak. Z. The package of any of Examples V-Y, wherein the dispensing configuration comprises a pleat.

AA. The package of any of Examples V-Z, wherein the fibrous structure sheets are paper towels.

BB. The package of any of Examples V-AA, wherein the fibrous structure sheets have an absorbent capacity of from about 0.1 grams per square inch to about 1.5 grams per square inch according to the CRT absorbency test method disclosed herein.

CC. The package of any of Examples V-BB, wherein the fibrous structure sheets are capable of taking on a use configuration that is different than both the first planar configuration and the non-planar dispensing configuration.

DD. A method of dispensing fibrous structure sheets, the method including the steps of:

a. providing a package including a first package configuration, and a plurality of stacked fibrous structure sheets that are in a first sheet configuration disposed within the package;

b. dispensing a first sheet from the plurality of stacked fibrous structure sheets and manipulating the first sheet from the first sheet configuration to a second sheet configuration for use;

c. thereafter affirmatively manipulating the package from the first package configuration to a second package configuration; and

d. thereafter dispensing a second sheet from the plurality of stacked fibrous structure sheets and manipulating the second sheet from the first sheet configuration to a third sheet configuration for use. EE.The method of Example DD, wherein the first sheet configuration is a non-planar configuration. FF. The method of Example DD or EE, wherein the first sheet configuration is a conical shape.

GG. The method of any of Examples DD-FF, wherein the first sheet configuration is a pyramid shape.

HH. The method of any of Examples DD-GG, wherein the first sheet configuration comprises at least one pleat. II. The method of any of Examples DD-HH, wherein at least one of the second sheet configuration and the third sheet configuration is substantially planar.

JJ. The method of any of Examples DD-II, wherein the package has a first size associated with the first package configuration and a second size associated with the second package configuration, and wherein the second size is smaller than the first size.

KK. The method of any of Examples DD-JJ, wherein the step of affirmatively manipulating package from the first package configuration to a second package configuration comprises removing a portion of the package.

LL.The method of any of Examples DD-KK, wherein the step of affirmatively manipulating package from the first package configuration to a second package configuration comprises folding, rolling, or bending a portion of the package. MM. The method of any of Examples DD-LL, wherein the package comprises a sidewall that in the first package configuration covers at least some of all of the plurality of stacked fibrous structure sheets.

NN. The method of any of Examples DD-MM, further including a step (e.) of affirmatively manipulating the package from the second package configuration back to the first package configuration.

OO. A package of fibrous structure sheets, the package including: a. a package including a first package configuration and an adaptation feature; and b. a plurality of stacked fibrous structure sheets that are in a dispensing configuration disposed within the package;

c. wherein the plurality of sheets are capable of being transformed from the dispensing configuration to a use configuration that is different from the dispensing configuration;

d. wherein some of the plurality of sheets are accessible for dispensing when the package is in the first package configuration; and

e. wherein the package is capable of being manipulated from the first package configuration to a second package configuration via the adaptation feature to make other of the plurality of sheets accessible for dispensing.

PP. The package of Example 00, wherein the adaptation feature is located on a package sidewalk

QQ. The package of Example OO or PP, wherein the adaptation feature comprises a fold line.

RR. The package of any of Examples OO-QQ, wherein the adaptation feature comprises a line of weakness.

SS. The package of any of Examples OO-RR, wherein the dispensing configuration is non- planar.

TT.The package any of Examples OO-SS, wherein the dispensing configuration is conical.

UU. The package of any of Examples OO-TT, wherein the dispensing configuration is pyramidal. VV. The package of any of Examples OO-UU, wherein the dispensing configuration comprises a peak. WW. The package of any of Examples 00- VV, wherein the use configuration is substantially planar.

XX. The package any of Examples OO-WW, wherein the package has a first size associated with the first package configuration and a second size associated with the second package configuration, and wherein the second size is smaller than the first size.

YY. The package of any of Examples OO-XX, wherein the fibrous structure sheets are paper towels.

ZZ.The package of any of Examples OO- YY, wherein the fibrous structure sheets have an absorbent capacity of from about 0.1 grams per square inch to about 1.5 grams per square inch according to the CRT absorbency test method disclosed herein.

A package of fibrous structure sheets, the package including:

a package including a first component, a second component that is more rigid than the first component, and a re-sealable member; and

a plurality of fibrous structure sheets disposed within the package, each of the plurality of fibrous structure sheets being folded or otherwise manipulated from a first planar configuration to a non-planar dispensing configuration;

wherein the plurality of sheets are capable of being transformed from the dispensing configuration to a use configuration that is different from the dispensing configuration;

wherein the plurality of fibrous structure sheets are substantially completely enclosed when the re-sealable member is in a closed position to help keep them from becoming wet prior to dispensing; and

wherein the plurality of fibrous structure sheets can be dispensed from the package when the re-sealable member is in an open position. BBB. The package of Example AAA, wherein the first component comprises at least one of a polymeric film and a non woven web. CCC. The package of Example AAA or BBB, wherein the second component comprises paper board stock.

DDD. The package of any of AAA-CCC, wherein re-sealable member comprises a tongue and groove closure.

EEE. The package of any of AAA-DDD, wherein the re-sealable member comprises an over label including adhesive. FFF. The package of any of AAA-EEE, wherein the dispensing configuration is conical.

GGG. The package of claim 53, wherein the dispensing configuration is pyramidal. HHH. The package of any of AAA-GGG, wherein the dispensing configuration comprises a peak.

III. The package of any of AAA-HHH, wherein the dispensing configuration comprises a pleat.

JJJ.The package of any of AAA-III, wherein the fiber structure sheets are capable of taking on a use configuration that is different than both the planar configuration and the dispensing configuration.

A package of fibrous structure sheets, the package including:

a package including a re-closable access; and

wherein the plurality of sheets are dry; e. wherein the plurality of fibrous structure sheets are enclosed when the re-closable access is in a closed position; and

f. wherein the plurality of fibrous structure sheets can be dispensed from the package when the re-closable access is in an open position.

LLL. The package of Example KKK, wherein the dispensing configuration is conical.

MMM. The package of Example KKK or LLL, wherein the dispensing configuration is pyramidal.

NNN. The package of any of Examples KKK-MMM, wherein the dispensing configuration comprises a peak.

OOO. The package any of Examples KKK-NNN, wherein the dispensing configuration comprises a pleat.

PPP. The package of any of Examples KKK-OOO, wherein the fiber structure sheets are capable of taking on a use configuration that is different than both the planar configuration and the dispensing configuration.

QQQ. The package any of Examples KKK-PPP, wherein the fibrous structure sheets are paper towels.

RRR. The package of any of Examples KKK-QQQ, wherein the fibrous structure sheets have an absorbent capacity of from about 0.1 grams per square inch to about 1.5 grams per square inch according to the CRT absorbency test method disclosed herein.

SSS. A method of dispensing fibrous structure sheets, the method including the steps of:

g. providing a package including a plurality of fibrous structure sheets in a stacked configuration, a re-closable access, and a first package configuration; h. opening the re-closable access to dispense one or more of the plurality of fibrous structure sheets; and i. closing the re-closable access;

j. wherein conducting the step (c.) also changes the package into a second package configuration that is different from the first package configuration. In the interests of brevity and conciseness, any ranges of values set forth in this specification are to be construed as written description support for claims reciting any sub-ranges having endpoints which are whole number values within the specified range in question. By way of a hypothetical illustrative example, a disclosure in this specification of a range of 1-5 shall be considered to support claims to any of the following sub-ranges: 1-4; 1-3; 1-2; 2-5; 2-4; 2-3; 3-5; 3-4; and 4-5.

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

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

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

Claims

CLAIMS What is claimed is:

1. A method of dispensing fibrous structure sheets, the method comprising the steps of: a. providing a primary package comprising a package base, a package top, and a sidewall, wherein the package contains a plurality of fibrous structure sheets stacked adjacent one another and being in a non-planar configuration, and wherein the primary package comprises secondary packaging material disposed on at least some of an exterior of the primary package;

b. removing the secondary packaging material;

2. A method of dispensing fibrous structure sheets, the method comprising the steps of: a. providing a package comprising a plurality of fibrous structure sheets that are stacked adjacent one another and that are in a non-planar configuration to define an interior void, a package base comprising an extension that is disposed within the interior void of a lowermost one of the plurality of fibrous structure sheets, and a package top comprising an extension capable of being fitted into the interior void of another one of the plurality of fibrous structure sheets;

b. removing the package top; and

3. A package of fibrous structure sheets, the package comprising:

a. a plurality of fibrous structure sheets that are folded or otherwise manipulated from a first planar configuration to a non-planar dispensing configuration, the plurality of fibrous structure sheets stacked adjacent one another in their dispensing configuration to form a sheet stack including a stack bottom and a stack top; and b. a fiber-based disposable package comprising a package base, a package top, and a side wall;

c. wherein the package base covers the stack bottom and the package top covers the stack top; and

d. wherein at least a portion of at least one of the package base, the package top, and the sidewall is capable of being temporarily displaced to dispense one of the fibrous structure sheets from the sheet stack and then repositioned thereafter.

4. The package according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the package top is capable of being temporarily displaced to dispense one of the fibrous structure sheets from the sheet stack and then repositioned thereafter.

5. The package according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the dispensing

configuration is conical.

6. The package according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the dispensing

configuration is pyramidal.

7. The package according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the dispensing

configuration comprises a peak.

8. The package according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the dispensing

configuration comprises a pleat.

9. The package according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each of the plurality of fibrous structure sheets in their dispensing configuration has a base and/or cross- sectional geometry that is substantially similar to a geometry of at least one of the package base and the package top.

10. The package according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the fibrous structure sheets are capable of taking on a use configuration that is different than both the first planar configuration and the non-planar dispensing configuration.

11. The package according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a secondary package material that can be removed after purchasing the package and prior to dispensing the fibrous structure sheets from the package.

12. The package according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the fibrous structure sheets are paper towels.

13. The package according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the fibrous structure sheets have an absorbent capacity of from 0.1 grams per square inch to 1.5 grams per square inch according to the CRT absorbency test method disclosed herein.