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A disposable diaper having improved fit about the legs and/or waist of the wearer and having reinforced corners for enhanced securement of the diaper about the wearer is disclosed. Improved fit and reinforcement are obtained by an elongated, inherently elastic ribbon member positioned along at least one margin of the diaper. The ribbon member is secured to the diaper so as to provide an elastic region at a central portion of the margin and a unitary, relatively inelastic reinforced region in a corner portion of the diaper.
1. A method for forming a conformable garment having one or more discrete elasticized areas, said method comprising:
(a) providing a garment component having a central portion defined between two end portions;
(b) stretching at least one ribbon of thermoplastic elastomeric material;
(c) subjecting at least one discrete portion of said stretched ribbon to heat so as to "kill" the elastic properties thereof in each heated portion while leaving the elastic properties of each unheated portion unaltered;
(d) before, during, or after step (c), securing at least part of the stretched ribbon to said garment component substantially end-to-end of the garment component with one heated portion of the ribbon secured in an end portion of said garment component and with an unheated portion of the ribbon secured to the central portion of said garment component whereby, when said ribbon is permitted to contract with said garment component, said garment component central portion is elasticized to gather while at least one end portion of said garment component remains inelastic and ungathered.
2. The method in accordance with claim 1 in which step (d) includes bonding said ribbon to said garment component.
3. The method in accordance with claim 1 in which step (d) includes securing said one heated portion of the ribbon to said garment component end portion at spaced locations along said garment component end portion.
4. The method in accordance with claim 1 in which step (d) includes securing said one heated portion of the ribbon to said garment component end portion substantially continuously along said garment component end portion.
5. The method in accordance with claim 1 in which step (d) includes securing said one heated portion of the ribbon at the distal end of said garment component end portion.
6. The method in accordance with claim 1 in which step (c) includes subjecting at least two spaced-apart discrete portions of said ribbon to heat so as to "kill" the elastic properties thereof in each heated portion while leaving unaltered the elastic properties of each unheated portion between said two spaced-apart discrete portions and in which step (d) includes (1) securing one of said two spaced-apart unheated portions of said ribbon to one end of said garment component and (2) securing the other of said two spaced-apart unheated portions of said ribbon to the other end of said garment component.
7. The method in accordance with claim 1 in which step (a) includes providing said garment component as a diaper sheet material in which said central portion is a crotch portion of the diaper sheet material and in which each said end portion is a waistband portion of the diaper sheet material.
8. The method in accordance with claim 1 in which step (a) includes initially providing said garment component in a continuous web and in which step (b) includes initially providing said ribbon in a continuous length.
9. A method for forming an elasticized disposable diaper having (1) at least one layer of sheet material with a central portion defined between to end portions and (2) thermoplastic ribbons of elastomeric material attached lengthwise along opposite edges of the central portion of said sheet material in a manner in which said ribbons apply a gathering force in the central portion thereof, said method including rendering end portions of said ribbons effectively inelastic by the application of heat to said ribbon end portions when stretched, and said method including securing each said ribbon end portion to substantially the entire length of an end portion of said layer of sheet material before, during, or after said application of heat.
10. The method in accordance with claim 9 in which said step of securing each said ribbon end portion includes securing one said ribbon end portion to substantially the entire length of an end portion of the layer of sheet material at spaced locations along substantially the entire length of the end portion of the layer of sheet material.
This application is a division of application Ser. No. 106,336 filed Dec. 21, 1979, now U.S. Pat. No. 4,337,771; which was a continuation-in-part of application Ser No. 872,860 filed Jan. 27, 1978 and now abandoned.
Disposable diapers have become an accepted substitute for cloth diapers and several different constructions have achieved significant market penetration. Many of the disposable diaper configurations are rectangular and flat, and comprise sheets which are fitted to a baby from a flat state. In some instances the diaper may incorporate a geometrical folding for shape. Two very serious drawbacks with prior art disposable diapers have been the problems of fit, both around the legs and around the waist of the infant, as well as the strength of the diaper in the area where it is secured about the infant.
In solving these problems with disposable diapers, because of the nature of the product, the economics are of primary importance. The problem of fit is easily and simply solved merely by making marginal portions of the diaper elastic to improve the conformability about the legs of the infant and/or the waist of the infant. The problems of reinforcing the edge or corners of the diaper to make them stronger in their securement areas is easily and relatively simply solved by placing more layers of material in those areas. However, each of these operations will increase the complexity of the manufacture of the diaper and increase the cost of raw materials used in the diaper and hence substantially increase the ultimate cost of the diaper.
For enhanced fit, in the recent past disposable diapers with contractable side flaps which gather the side margins of a diaper have been introduced into the marketplace. Such diapers are similar to conventional moisture-impermeable panties and tend to improve the fit of the diaper about the legs of the wearer, yet are costly to manufacture. A diaper of this general type is described in U.S. Pat. No. 3,860,003.
There are also a number of patents which disclose means for making the waist band of disposable diapers elastic to improve the fit of the diaper about the waist of the wearer, for example, as shown and described in U.S. Pat. No. 3,995,637 and 3,995,640.
Also, various methods for incorporating elastic members in garments to make portions of the garments stretchable are well known in the art. Such methods include the use of heat-shrinkable or heat-recoverable film ribbons which are incorporated into the garments while in a non-elastic state and then treated with heat to provide the ribbons with elastic properties or to accentuate the elastic properties already present in the ribbons. Such techniques are generally described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,245,407 and 3,639,917.
Disposable diapers originally were secured with pins, but in recent times have been secured with pressure-sensitive adhesive tape fasteners or tabs. In both instances it is primarily the corners of the diapers which take the stress in securing the diaper to an infant and continue to absorb stress during the infant's active periods. The adhesive tabs are normally attached at one end thereof at the side margins of the diaper and are secured to the relatively thin backing sheet of the diaper. Since the stress is greatest in these areas, it has been known to reinforce these areas by various techniques, for example, by the use of a scrim adhered to the area, such as is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 3,867,940, or by thickening the backing sheet in the area of attachment as illustrated in U.S. Pat. No. 3,783,871. In either case registry problems are encountered during high-speed manufacture.
We have discovered a new and improved disposable diaper which has improved fit and at the same time provides reinforced corner areas for enhanced securement of the diaper about the waist of the infant. Further, our new diaper is economical to produce, with a minimum of extra manufacturing operations, and may be readily produced on high-speed equipment with good productivity.
In accordance with the present invention, our new and improved diaper has at least one margin having an elongated, inherently elastic ribbon member secured thereto. The elastic ribbon member is secured in the central portion and at one or both ends. The ribbon member provides an elastic region at a central portion of the margin and a unitary, relatively inelastic reinforced region in a corner portion of the diaper. In a preferred embodiment of the diaper of the present invention, each longitudinal side margin of the diaper is provided with the ribbon member. In another preferred embodiment, as additional ribbon member is provided along one or both transverse end margins of the diaper.
Preferably, the ribbon member is a strip of film which is of a width of about 1/2" to 1" or more. The strip is intermittently secured to the backing and/or facing in the central portion of the diaper margin to maintain its elasticity; however, the end portions of the strip are continuously, preferably totally (i.e., over substantially the entire surface area of the end portions), secured at the corner portions of the diaper whereby the previously elastic end portions of the strip are effectively rendered inelastic, and the strip reinforces the diaper in such regions. Two other advantages emanate from the present invention. First, all of the elastic region retains full elastic function. Secondly, there is great uniformity of elasticity throughout the elastic region. These advantages provide better conformity about the leg of the infant and even distribution of force by the elastic on the leg, thus reducing skin marks or irritation to the skin of the infant. In a thermoplastic film strip the end portions may be rendered effectively inelastic by applying heat or other bonding energy to the desired area of attachment. The elastic property in the unbonded portion or portions of the film, of course, remains undisturbed. It is a relatively simple operation to take a continuous, pre-stretched length of an elastic film ribbon and adhere selected regions thereof to the standard impervious backing of a diaper during diaper manufacture.
Another equally simple technique is to attach to the diaper margin a heat-shrinkable film ribbon which becomes elastic and contracts on heating to a predetermined temperature. Such a film ribbon, while in the inelastic state, may be secured at end portions thereof along a diaper margin to the impervious diaper backing. The central portion of the ribbon is heat-treated (e.g., with a hot air blast) to shrink the central portion and impart elasticity thereto.
The foregoing expedients simultaneously produce a diaper having both improved fit and reinforced corner areas for enhanced securement of the diaper about the infant.
FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating a disposable diaper embodying the present invention;
FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view showing relative positioning of diaper elements during manufacture of the diaper depicted in FIG. 1;
FIG. 3 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the disposable diaper of the present invention;
FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing still another embodiment of the disposable diaper of the present invention;
FIG. 5 is a plan view of one embodiment of a disposable diaper of this invention with a portion broken away to show interior detail;
FIG. 6 is an enlarged cross-sectional view taken along line 6--6 of FIG. 5;
FIG. 7 is an enlarged cross-sectional view taken along line 7--7 of FIG. 5;
FIG. 8 is a plan view of another embodiment of a disposable diaper of this invention with a portion broken away to show interior detail;
FIG. 9 is a plan view of still a further embodiment of a disposable diaper of this invention with a portion broken away to show interior detail;
FIG. 10 is a plan view of an additional embodiment of a disposable diaper of this invention with a portion broken away to show interior detail;
FIG. 11 is a plan view of another embodiment of a disposable diaper of this invention with a portion broken away to show interior detail;
FIG. 12 is a plan view of a still further embodiment of a disposable diaper of this invention with a portion broken away to show interior detail; and
FIG. 13 is a plan view of one kind of elastic suitable for use in a disposable diaper of this invention.
In one preferred embodiment of the disposable diaper of the present invention, the elastic means and reinforcing means is a member which is elastic in its original state and may be relaxed or have its elasticity rendered ineffective in selected portions by heat sealing or ultrasonically sealing those portions to the diaper backing and/or facing.Many thermoplastic films are well known in the art which have this property, and are described in detail hereafter.
The term "elastic" as used herein, refers to sheets, films, ribbons and thelike which have a recovery of at least 90%, when elongated to within 10% oftheir yield point and measured in accordance with the following formula:
Percent retraction=(Le -Lt)/(Le -Lo)×100
Lo =original length of sample
Le =fully extended length
Lt =length of sample measured 3 seconds after released from extended length.
The member used should have a width of at least 1/4 inch in the areas of the diaper where it is to be used as a reinforcing means. It is preferred that the entire length of the member be at least 1/4" wide and preferably 1/2" to 1" wide. The thickness of the member may vary from about 1/2 mil to 10 mils and its preferably between about 1/2 and 5 mils.
The elastic means has a recovery at 50% elongation after 3 seconds and preferably instanteously of at least about 90% and preferably close to 100%. For ease of stretchability, the modulus of elasticity of the elasticmeans at 50% elongation should not exceed about 2,000 lbs. per square inch.
The modulus of elasticity is preferably substantially less than 2000 poundsper square inch, and most preferably is about 20 to about 200 pounds per square inch. The elastic means may be used along both longitudinal side margins of a disposable diaper and/or along one or both front and back endportions of the diaper as desired.
Referring to FIG. 1, a disposable diaper 20 embodying the present inventionis provided with longitudinal side margins 21 and 22. The central portions 23 and 24 of each side margin is elastic to provide improved fit about baby's thighs. At both ends of each longitudinal side margins are non-elastic, reinforced corners 25, 26, 27, and 28. The elastic means in each of the longitudinal side margins is a relatively wide, thin elastic film ribbon. The film ribbon has been relaxed and its elasticity removed, i.e. "killed", at both ends of the ribbon to reinforce the corners. The diaper additionally includes a first outer layer, or backing, made of a moisture-impermeable web, a generally rectangular absorbent batt positioned in superimposed relationship with respect to the backing and a second outer layer, or facing, made of a moisture-permeable web and positioned in superposed relationship to the absorbent batt. For securement about a baby, the diaper is provided with pressure-sensitive tape tabs 32 and 33. The elastic members are generally parallel to the longitudinal side margins of the batt. The ends are treated to remove elasticity so that when the diaper is relaxed the central portion of each side margin contracts and is elastic while the four corners are non-elastic but are reinforced with additional film material.
The individual components of a disposable diaper are illustrated in FIG. 2.Absorbent batt 35 is superposed over the thermoplastic film backing 36 and secured thereto by a series of glue lines 37 deposited on the backing. Theabsorbent batt is of smaller area than the backing and when substantially centered on the backing is spaced from the longitudinal sides as well as from the transverse ends of a diaper. The absorbent batt is flanked on itslongitudinal sides by members 38 and 39 which in an extended state are secured to the backing by means of an adhesive, sonic sealing or other convenient means. Moisture-pervious facing 40 is superposed over the absorbent batt and is larger in area than the batt and is secured to the backing usually by means of the exposed end portions of the glue lines; however, other securement means may be utilized if desired. It should be noted that the elastic film members may be secured to either the backing or facing or both as desired.
In the manufacture of the diaper, only the central portions 41 and 42 of the elastic film members are allowed to remain elastic. This may be accomplished when using sonic sealing by sealing intermittently and/or in a pattern. The end portions 43 are treated with heat, ultrasonics, or similar energy inducing means, to remove the elasticity of the film in those areas.
FIG. 3 shows a disposable diaper 44 similar to the disposable diaper depicted in FIG. 1 with the exception that the elastic means and reinforcing means are in the back waist or end portion 45 of the diaper toprovide improved fit about the baby's waist. The elastic means and reinforcing means in this diaper is similar to that described in regard toFIG. 1 and is a film ribbon treated as previously described so as to perform in the same manner, i.e., the central portion 46 of the end portion is elastic while the two back corners 47 and 48 are reinforced.
FIG. 4 shows yet another disposable diaper 51 similar to the disposable diapers in FIGS. 1 and 3, with the exception that all four edge portions, that is, the two longitudinal side margins 52 and 53 and the front 54 and 55 end margins, all have film ribbon members inserted therein with the central portions thereof elastic. In this embodiment the four corners, 56,57, 58 and 59, are doubly reinforced by the overlapping of the relaxed end portions of each film ribbon member.
In the embodiment shown in FIG. 5 a disposable diaper 60 is provided with asubstantially rectangular batt 61 or panel having rectilinear sides sandwiched between a backing 62 and a facing 63 and together with the backing and facing define diaper side margins 64 and 65. Curvilinear cutouts are provided in the respective central portions of the side margins of the facing and backing for further fit enhancement. Pre-stretched elastic ribbons 68 are positioned in the longitudinal side margins and are secured to the backing and facing along the longitudinal sides of the absorbent panel. The elastic ribbons have been relaxed at each end 69 and 70 to provide reinforcing areas. Glue lines 71 secure the facing and absorbent panel to the backing and adhesive tape tabs 72 and 73provide diaper securement means. The adhesive tape tabs overlap the relaxedreinforcing areas of the ribbon to provide this area, which absorbs the most stress in use, with extra material to improve the strength of this area.
Referring to FIG. 6, which is a cross-sectional view taken along line 6--6 of FIG. 5, there is shown the impervious backing member 62 with the elastic ribbon 68 sealed to the backing member. The ribbon is sealed alongtwo sinuous line portions 74 and 75 to the backing member, and the facing layer in the central portion as shown in FIG. 5.
As seen in FIG. 7, which is another cross-section view at the corner of thediaper, the adhesive tape tab 72 attached to the backing member 62 is also attached to the facing member 63. The tape tab area is reinforced with thenon-elastic reinforcement portion 69 of member 68.
In the embodiment shown in FIG. 8, the disposable diaper 80 is provided with the absorbent batt 81 also having curvilinear side cutouts and sandwiched between a facing 82 and a backing 83 having similar cutouts. Glue lines 84 serve to secure the batt and facing to the backing. Wide elastic ribbons 85 are situated in the general rectilinear diaper side margins. The elastic ribbons extend the entire length of the diaper side margin and are intermittently secured to the backing and facing at the central portion 86 thereof to provide the desired elasticity. In the outerportions 87 and 88 the elastic ribbon has been relaxed and made non-elastic. Protruding portions 89 and 90 of the absorbent batt overlap the entire width of the relaxed ribbons to provide additional absorbent capacity. The tape tabs 91 and 92 overlap the reinforced ends of the relaxed elastic member and are reinforced thereby. The tabs provide the means for securing the diaper to the baby.
In the embodiment shown in FIG. 9, the disposable diaper 100 of the presentinvention comprises an impervious backing member 101 and an hourglass shaped absorbent pad 102 being narrow in the crotch area 103 of the diaper, and a top facing layer 104. In this configuration the top layer and impervious backing member form areas 105 and 106 as part of the side margins. These areas of the side margins contain no absorbent core material. This reduces the bulk of material between the baby's legs. In each side margin of the diaper, there is inserted between the impervious backing and pervious facing layer the elastic member 109 which has its central portion 110 elastic and its two end portions 111 and 112 relaxed or made non-elastic for reinforcement.
The diaper has an hourglass shaped absorbent body wherein the absorbent body in the waist portion is wider than the absorbent body in the crotch area. At the back waist portion of the diaper are adhesive tape tabs 113 and 114 which have been adhered to the portion of the backing member whichis reinforced.
The embodiment shown in FIG. 10 is a disposable diaper 120 that comprises arectangular impervious backing member 121 with a smaller area of absorbent core 122 adhered thereto with glue lines applied to the backing member. Ontop of the absorbent core is the facing member 124 which is coextensive with the backing member to form the longitudinal side margins 125 and 126 and the end margins 127 and 128.
Adhered between the backing and facing members at the back waist margin 127is the member 129. The member is elastic in the central portion 130 and hasbeen relaxed and made non-elastic at the two edge portions 131 and 32. A similar elastic member also may be inserted at the front waist portion 128of the diaper. Adhesive tape tabs 133 and 134 are adhered to the backing member in the reinforced portion thereof and are used for securement aboutthe baby.
In the embodiment shown in FIG. 11, the disposable diaper 140 is provided with an absorbent batt 142 having the same shape as and being sandwiched between a facing 144 and a backing 146. The backing 146 and the facing 144are secured to each other in the margins 148 and 150. The absorbent batt 142 is provided with embossed lines 151 to assist the wicking of the urine. Elastic ribbons 152 are situated in the diaper 140 so as to be substantially within the margins 148 and 150 in the central portion of thediaper. At the rear portion 154 of the diaper, the elastic ribbons 152 are between the backing 146 and the absorbent batt 142. The elastic is securedin both the central portion 156 and the rear portion 154, however the elastic ribbon portions in the rear portion 154 are relatively inelastic and provide reinforced portions in the region where the tape tabs 153 and 155 are secured when placing the diaper on an infant.
FIG. 12 depicts a typical reticulated elastic 158 suitable for use in either the side or end portions of a disposable diaper.
In the embodiment shown in FIG. 13, the disposable diaper 160 is provided with an absorbent batt 162 of substantially rectangular shape, sandwiched between a facing 164 and a backing 166. Reticulated elastic ribbons 168 are placed between the backing and the facing. The backing and the facing are secured to each other thus securing the elastic ribbons through the apertures, by use of glue lines 170. The glue lines 170 also adhere the backing to the absorbent batt. The elastic ribbons 168 are secured in a stretched state in the central portion 172 and the rear portion 174. The elastic may or may not be secured in the front portion 176. If the elasticis secured in the front portion then both the front portion 176 and the rear portion 174 of the elastic ribbons are rendered relatively inelastic.The central portion 172 remains elastic and thus gathers the edge of the diaper in the central region. The secured inelastic regions provide reinforced corner portions so that the tape tabs 178 and 180 do not easilytear from the corner portions.
Elastic members that lose their elasticity on heat sealing and suitable foruse in the diapers contemplated herein are films extruded or otherwise formed to the desired thickness utilizing unvulcanized, thermoplastic compositions which are made using an elastomeric component and an optionalcompatible modifier which is a thermoplastic polymer of a relatively low molecular weight but solid at ambient temperature.
Illustrative of the elastomeric components suitable for present purposes are block copolymers which comprise terminal thermoplastic polymer blocks and at least nonterminal or intermediate elastomeric polymeric polymer block. Block copolymers of this general type may be prepared using a step-wise polymerization initiator, e.g., an organolithium compound. Such block polymerization techniques are well known in the art.
The elastic component can be linear or radial A1 -B-A2 block copolymers or mixtures thereof with simple A1 -B block copolymers where A1 and A2 can be alike or different and represent a thermoplastic polymer block, such as poly (vinyl arene) block, and B represents an elastomeric polymer block such as a conjugated diene or a lower (i.e., C1 -C4) alkene. The modifier component is a low molecular weight thermoplastic polymer having an average molecular weight of about 500 to 7,500 and is present in the composition in an amount of about zero to about 200 parts by weight per 100 parts by weight of the elastomeric component.
A preferred thermoplastic film composition for the elastic film members comprises an elastomeric component which contains, as a major constituent thereof, an unvulcanized linear block copolymer of the general configuration
wherein A1, A2, and B have the same meaning as hereinabove. In these block copolymers the A-blocks are derived from styrene or styrene homologues, and the B-blocks are derived from conjugated dienes or lower alkenes. The thermoplastic polymer modifier is compatible with the elastomeric component and associates principally with the thermoplastic terminal blocks of the aforesaid unvulcanized block copolymer. The thermoplastic polymer modifier preferably has an average molecular weight of about 1000 to about 3000, and is present in the film composition in an amount of about 80 to 200 parts by weight per 100 parts by weight of the elastomeric component.
The preferred A1 -B-A2 block copolymers have A-blocks derived, i.e., polymerized or copolymerized, from styrene or styrene homologues; and B-blocks derived from conjugated dienes, such as isoprene or butadiene, or from lower alkenes, such as ethylene and butylene. Small proportions of other monomers also may enter into the block copolymers themselves. The individual A-blocks can have an average molecular weight of at least about 6000, preferably in the range of about 8000-30,000 and the A-blocks constitute about 5-50 percent, preferably about 10-30%, by weight of the B-blocks for linear A1 -B-A2 block copolymers preferably is in the range of about 45,000-180,000 and that of the linear copolymer, itself, preferably is in the range of about 75,000-200,000. Theaverage molecular weight of the radial A1 -B-A2 block copolymers preferably is in the range of about 125,000-400,000. The term "linear block copolymer" (or copolymers) includes branched A1 -B-A2 copolymers as well as unbranched A1 -B-A2 copolymers.
The radial A1 -B-A2 copolymers useful for manufacture of elastic members for diapers of this invention are of the type described in U.S. Pat. No. 3,281,383 to Zelinski et al and conform to the following general formula: (A-B-n X), wherein A is a thermoplastic block polymerized from styrene or styrene homologues, B is an elastomeric block derived fromconjugated dienes or lower alkenes, as indicated above, X is an organic or inorganic connecting molecule, with a functionality of about 2 to 4 as described in U.S. Pat. No. 3,281,383, or possibly with a higher functionality as described in the Article entitled "New Rubber is Backed by Stars" appearing on page 35 of the June 11, 1975, issue of Chemical Week. As used hereinabove, "n" has a value corresponding to the functionality of X. Another suitable elastomeric component is elastomers wherein the sheet material contains thermoplastic rubber and amorphous polypropylene. The thermoplastic rubbers are block copolymers having blocks of polybutadiene or polyisoprene, and blocks of polystyrene. A review articlediscussing these materials is "Structure And Properties Of Block Polymers And Multi-phase Polymer Systems: An Overview Of Present Status And Future Potential", by S. L. Aggarwal, Polymer, Vol. 17, November 1976, pages 938-956. Two representative types of thermoplastic rubbers are the linear block copolymers (A-B-A) having a mid-block of polybutadiene or polyisoprene and end-blocks of polystyrene, and the "star" or "radial" block copolymers having from 4 to 20 "arms" connected to a common center. Each arm is an A-B block copolymer, the inner portion being polybutadiene or polyisoprene, with the outer portion being polystyrene.
The typical thermoplastic rubber contains discrete polystyrene domains in arubbery matrix. Apparently the polystyrene domains act in a manner analogous to conventional chemical cross links. The resulting rubber acts as though it has been vulcanized, even though no chemical crosslinks are present.
When the thermoplastic rubber is heated to about 200° F., the polystyrene domains begin to soften, and at temperatures of the order of 300° F. to 400° F., the thermoplastic rubbers can be melt processed by mechanical working in a manner analogous to conventional thermoplastic compositions. Upon cooling, the discrete polystyrene domainsare reformed, and the material again exhibits rubbery elastomeric properties.
While thermoplastic rubbers can be processed in ways analogous to those used for conventional thermoplastic polymers, for the reasons discussed above, it has been found to be impracticably difficult to extrude pure thermoplastic rubber into thin films.
The material that is used to improve the processability of thermoplastic rubber, while still retaining the characteristic rubbery properties of therubber, is amorphous polypropylene. Amorphous polypropylene is a known material. It is essentially atactic polypropylene having an isotactic content of not more than about 20 weight percent, and preferably not more than about 10 weight percent.
The amorphous polypropylene is employed in an amount sufficient to improve the processability of the thermoplastic rubber when extruding thin films or sheets. Such improvement is evidenced by the ability to draw down extruded webs of the rubber/amorphous polypropylene mixture to thereby produce sheets or films having thicknesses less than the die gap. Further,the pressure in the extruder and die is greatly reduced, which permits moreeconomical operation. The exact minimum amount of amorphous polypropylene varies somewhat from case to case, but it is usually of the order of about10 weight percent, based on weight of rubber plus amorphous polypropylene, although the proportion may be as low as about 5 weight percent (on the same basis) in some cases. The upper limit of polypropylene will also varyfrom case to case, depending on the nature of the ingredients and the use intended for the product. At proportions above about 35 weight percent (onthe same basis), a significant reduction in the characteristic rubbery elastomeric properties of the product begins to occur. This may be acceptable for some uses, and not for others. Thus, the upper limit of amorphous polypropylene would be that point at which the product still retains significant rubbery elastomeric characteristics.
Other conventional materials, employed in the usual amounts, can be employed in the mixture for their known purposes. Such materials include pigments, anti-blocking agents, stabilizers, anti-oxidants, ultraviolet stabilizers, bonding aid, and the like. The film may be extruded in such amanner so as to provide a reticulated film.
The preferred elastic film member is highly thermoplastic and, though elastomeric, is unlike rubber in that the film exhibits a relatively sharpmelting point and is capable of being heat shaped. Also, the elastic film member can form permanent heat seals to substrates such as non-woven fabrics, or the like, at relatively low heat sealing temperatures, generally not above about 350° F. The film member is highly elasticand has relatively low rubber modulus, i.e., it exhibits in at least one direction an elastic recovery from 50 percent stretch to at least 75 percent, preferably at least about 80 percent, and a 50 percent rubber modulus of not above about 2000 pounds per square inch, preferably in the range of about 20 to about 200 pounds per square inch at 50 percent elongation. The film member also is very flexible, extensive and soft and normally exhibits a Gurley stiffness of about one or less at a film thickness of one mil, and an elongation to break of at least about 300%, preferably at least about 400%, in at least one direction at ambient temperature.
In some embodiments of the disposable diaper of the present invention, the elastic means and reinforcing means is a member which may be made elastic by imparting heat or other forms of energy to the member to shrink the member and provide it with elastic characteristics. A portion of the member is so treated to provide the elastic means while other portions arenot treated and provide the reinforcing means.
The heat shrinkable films which may be used as elastic members in the disposable diapers of the present invention may be the polyolefin films which have been oriented to a degree and which will then become elastic when heat shrunk. Usually, a preferred technique for orienting the polyethylene film to provide the heat shrunk elastic properties is by irradiation such as suggested in British Pat. No. 866,820. Also, useful asthe heat shrunk elastic members are the copolymers of ethylene and vinyl acetate, ethylene and ethyl acrylate, and the like. The forming of such copolymers is well known and specific methods of forming such materials are disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 2,200,429 and 2,953,551. After the copolymer is formed and made into a film, it is given the proper orientation as described in the previously-mentioned British Pat. No. 866,820.
The elastic film may be continuous or may be reticulated having apertures of varying sizes and shapes.
Several different types of facing materials may be used for the diaper facing, for example, the facing may be a non-woven web made of a mixture of fibers consisting predominantly of short, cellulosic fibers such as wood pulp fibers or cotton linters in amounts of 75% to about 98%, the balance being textile length fibers such as rayon as described in U.S. Pat. No. 3,633,348 to Liloia et al.
Non-woven facing materials suitable for use in disposable diapers of this invention can have fabric weights in the range of from about 0.5 to 5 ounces per square yard and densities of less than 0.15 grams/cc., generally in the range of about 0.05 to 0.1 gram/cc. The dry strength of the facing sheet for fabric having a weight of about 0.15 ounces per square yard is at least 0.15 lbs. per inch of width in the machine direction. Such fabrics have good elongation, loft, softness and drape characteristics. Facings may also be made of an apertured non-woven fabricwhich is formed, for example, in accordance with the teachings of commonly assigned U.S. Pat. Nos. 2,862,251; 3,081,514; and 3,081,515. Briefly, suchfabrics are foraminous structures wherein groups of fibers have been rearranged from a non-woven starting web to positions surrounding less dense fabric portions by passage of fluid through the starting material. The fibers within the groupings are interlocked and may be arranged in various patterns as is well known in the art. These fibers can be made of naturally occurring fibers, synthetic fibers or blends thereof. Typical facing sheets made of polyester type fibers may have a weight of about 0.75 ounces per square yard.
The facings may be the same size as, and coterminous with the backing; or alternatively, the facing may be wider than the backing and have its side edges inwardly folded so that the facing is coterminous with the backing, as is shown in FIG. 3 of U.S. Pat. No. 3,612,055. In the latter case, the elastic members may be secured above the inwardly folded side edges of thefacing. In addition, facings can be formed of non-apertured materials such as non-woven isotropic webs or apertured polyolefin or polyester films having the desired moisture permeability. In all of the aforementioned facings, the material should be relatively hydrophobic so as to retard wicking within the facing.
The moisture absorbent batt or panel of a desired shape, but smaller than the facing and the backing, can be formed in accordance with the teachingsof U.S. Pat. No. 3,612,055 to Mesek, et al.
A suitable backing material for the diapers embodied in the present invention can be an opaque polyolefin, for example, polyethylene about 0.001" thick. Another suitable material for this purpose is a polyethyleneterephthalate having a thickness of about 0.0005".
Perhaps the simplest and easiest way of adhering the elastic film member tothe film and facing along the longitudinal side portion of the diaper is toultrasonically weld it in or weld the various layers together using ultrasonic welding equipment such as that sold by the Branson Sonic Power Company. Two possible method variations may be used for ultrasonically welding the member to the diaper. In the first method the central portion of the elastic film is sonically sealed in an intermittent pattern, and the end portions heat sealed throughout their area. In the second method the entire film member is sonically sealed with high energy applied to theend portions to seal their entire surface. In both techniques the film is heated at its end portions to a point where it almost melts and loses substantially all of its memory and is thus non-elastic in those areas. The elastic member may be ultrasonically welded to the backing and/or the facing as desired or in the case of a reticulated film, the facing and backing are welded through the film apertures.
While the elastic film members described above are in the form of members which lose their elasticity upon the application of heat or other energy, the present invention is not limited thereto, and members which become elastic upon the application of heat or other energy may also be used. Films which shrink and become elastic when heated are well known and may be used to produce diapers in accordance with the present invention. Such a heat shrinkable film member may be inserted in a diaper margin and a portion of the member adhered to the diaper as by gluing. Another portion of the member is intermittently secured to the diaper. Upon the application of heat or other energy to the intermittently secured portion,the portion shrinks and becomes elastic. The adhered glued portion remains in place and acts to reinforce the diaper in that area.
The foregoing description and the drawings are illustrative and are not to be taken as limiting. Still other variations and modifications are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.
Citas de patentes
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Imagen original


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Jan 16 2012
Five Years Ago
Looking through my photo archives is an exercise in hilarity and confusion, and here's why: When I got my first camera in May 2006, the internal date was correct. When I got a different model at the end of 2006, the calendar was off by a year. I used that camera for over a year. So every photo taken during that timeframe says that it was taken a year earlier, before I'd even taken up photography. And since I often use photos I've taken to get my bearings about when this happened or that, it makes for some interesting organization.
This photo was taken five years ago, in January 2007, about seven months after I first started taking photos.
The metadata, however, shows that it was taken in January 2006. But since I know I started taking photos in May 2006, I know that January 2006 can't be right. I also remember this icy winter, when Marlboro Man had to chop ice every single day, and I remember that furry coat that Santa brought my oldest daughter, and I remember that my girls were still short. I know that this was 2007, not 2006, because I remember taking photos of my daughter wearing this coat, and I know I wouldn't have taken her photo in January 2006 because I didn't have my camera then.
Never mind. Just check the date on your camera and make sure it's set right.
Don't make the same mistakes I did.
53 Comments
The Mrs @ Success Along the Weigh On Monday, January 16 at 8:29 am
HA! Good tip Ree! I don't think I've checked that in a while, now I'm paranoid!
*runs to check cameras*
Tabitha (FromSingletoMarried) On Monday, January 16 at 8:29 am
thanks for the reminder – that's something I never look at!
Daddy Scratches On Monday, January 16 at 8:31 am
Hey, at least you didn't have the camera set to imprint a years-off visual date stamp on the photo itself, a la my mother-in-law.
Lu On Monday, January 16 at 8:37 am
Is it appropriate to be overwhelmed by all the settings to check on one's camera?
gbear On Monday, January 16 at 8:37 am
I have so many pictures in the archives, it's overwhelming, confusing and makes me want more coffee.
Darcie (My Modern Country) On Monday, January 16 at 8:46 am
Oh Lord…I haven't checked mine either. And, now I'm thinking about what a wreck my pictures are…with or without the correct date. sigh
WebSavvyMom On Monday, January 16 at 8:47 am
–>I finally got smart a few years ago and saved my pictures by the Month/Year in individual folders.
-mis On Monday, January 16 at 8:49 am
…one of my old cameras (my fave to use) resets every time I remove the battery (to charge) or the memory card and even when I set the time + date, it's still wrong SO I just label my photos as I edit them. *sigh*
Jan On Monday, January 16 at 8:59 am
Not only have I had the date wrong, but have also had it printed onto a large wrapped canvas of my son. UGH! At least I'll always know how old he was in the photo!
Kelly W On Monday, January 16 at 9:02 am
Ohhhh too funny!! I did that exact thing when I got my first digital camera and didn't notice it until nearly a year later. Sooooo agravating too having to remind myself how far off the date really was of pictures I took.
Nezzy (Cow Patty Surprise) On Monday, January 16 at 9:05 am
Date??? This old Ozark Farm Chick must admit that she's a wee (massively) technically challenged. I loved my 35mm with all it's wonderful bells and whistles. I spoke to me folks!!! :o)
Well, not quite like the burnin' bush but it spoke to me and we bonded. Shoot it all to thunder, I've never bonded with my digital. I frustrates me that I can't get the same quality I did from my oldie but goodie. My digital it mute!!! Mute I tell ya! 'Just sayin'!
From the frosty windy hills and hollers of the wintery Missouri Ponderosa, ya'll have a blessed and glorious week now, ya hear!!! :o)
Woohoo!!!! I'm gonna………….
CheyAnne On Monday, January 16 at 9:25 am
We've done that before.
Yoagamama On Monday, January 16 at 9:39 am
Forger checking the date in my camara, I'm luving the furry coat!
Addie On Monday, January 16 at 9:56 am
That is great advice!! Thanks, Ree.
fire wife katie On Monday, January 16 at 10:12 am
What program do you use to organize your pictures, if any? I've been using Picasa, and it automatically categorizes any new folders I make based on the earliest dated picture. Screws me up all the time because I have to scroll through a million folders before I can find the one I'm looking for. There has to be an easier way….
Ang On Monday, January 16 at 10:26 am
There are tools out there to edit these dates! I have Exif Pilot, a free version, which allows you to change one date at a time – the non-free version lets you change a lot of dates at one time. Very handy when you forget to set the camera date.
lindalou On Monday, January 16 at 10:29 am
I love that you just said metadata.
Jaci On Monday, January 16 at 10:34 am
My not-quite-2-year-old son got a hold of my little Nikon and managed to reset a few settings for me. When it comes to equipment like this, I am a bit digitally challenged and don't always immediately recognize the issue. Consequently, the dates of a birthday party were off and the flash never worked (unbeknownst to me at the time). Sighhhhh. I refuse to take all of this as a sign that I'm getting old!
Life in Idaho On Monday, January 16 at 10:39 am
Oh man…thought it was just me Even the awesome Pioneer Woman deals with the same metadata problems as me! I am battling with all these photos that say were taken in 2003. But they are pictures of my kids in Washington…and we didn't move to WA until 2005. Metadata is messing with the grey matter big time!!
Urban Wife On Monday, January 16 at 10:44 am
There could be worse things like taking pictures and then realizing that your memory card wasn't in the entire time. That is a major bummer and it may or may not have happened to me once.
Krista On Monday, January 16 at 10:51 am
Been there done that only the wrong dates are printed on my photos… the ones that are still sitting in a giant bin waiting to be placed in an album.
Mary S On Monday, January 16 at 10:52 am
I am very meticulous about checking the date on my camera…I organize and get my bearings about events that way too…thank's for the reminder!
Marcee .... ILLINOIS On Monday, January 16 at 10:58 am
Interesting re the camera. Gonna tell a few pals.
So, yeah ….. I'm the world's worse picture-taker. Although very good when it concerns background + visual.
Watched your show on Food Network this past weekend Ree. My tummy was growlin for the apple pie w/caramel sauce. One day this week I will bake an apple pancake. Maybe cook up a bath of your caramel ….. so yum!
tinaehb3 On Monday, January 16 at 11:05 am
That's the first thing I did when I got my new camera. Although I completely follow you on your date issue. Glad to know that kinda stuff doesn't just happen at my house!
Karen On Monday, January 16 at 11:21 am
OR when you go on a trip to another time zone! We took a trip to Alaska a few years ago and the dates on the pictures were all messed up because I didn't reset the camera time to Alaska time!
Sunny On Monday, January 16 at 11:52 am
Just out of curiosity, why don't you take those photos into Lightroom and fix the date in the metadata?
JC Dill On Monday, January 16 at 12:15 pm
If you have a Mac (or have a friend with a Mac) you can use Automater (free Mac program) to fix the metadata. You can batch fix large numbers of photos to fix the date or time. The method is a bit geeky, and you definitely want to work on test photos (make copies of the original photos) until you are certain you have it setup correctly. I used this to synchronize photos taken at a wedding when one of the cameras was set to the wrong time zone, so that I could seamlessly organize photos from 3 cameras and have them all in the correct time sequence.
pdxknitterati On Monday, January 16 at 12:58 pm
My camera is correct, but my digital recorder is way off. Apparently I've been recording on that thing since before it even existed!
Jayne On Monday, January 16 at 1:15 pm
Funny how we remember when things happened. I remember by what grade my kids were in. That way of remembering won't happen much longer since they are all fixin' to be out of school and into the real world.
Erin B On Monday, January 16 at 1:27 pm
Mines off by a day and I keep forgetting to fix it. thanks for the reminder!
Debby On Monday, January 16 at 2:30 pm
LOL. Too funny! Been there done that! I got a new camera a week before Christmas and thought I had it set properly. Wrong… The time showed my grandchildren opening their presents at 9:30 pm. It was actually in the a.m. So be sure to check the TIME as well as the date.
Kathy Second Fiddlek On Monday, January 16 at 2:52 pm
Pictures help me remember stuff, too. Thank heaven, the dates are right – probably due to my husband – not me.
I, too, use photos to get my bearing on what happened when… the older I get… the more it seems that way. My dad was Obsessed about dating pictures – I'm beginning to understand why…. Time flies… and my mind is going! =)
Little Judy On Monday, January 16 at 3:55 pm
I never thought about the time zones. I never set mine with time stamped … Maybe I should! I hate when I forget what day we did this or when that happened when I do scrapbooking. Now I write down in my notes the dates cause I don't like having dates on my pictures unless someone can tell me how to have it stamped on the back of the pictures when I get them developed? (digital camera)
And, Ree, can you kindly teach us how to save pictures from the computer to cd? I have stored them in shutterfly.com and USB flash plugs ( I don't know the name )
Homeschool on the Croft On Monday, January 16 at 3:58 pm
When we took our family holiday to the USA a few years ago, the camera date was a year out too, so every time, our album comes out, I have to go through the whole story. Again! And I always think that our kids will argue about this in years to come – when we're gone, and they're old and decrepit themselves…. 'Oh,' they will say, 'remember that wonderful holiday in 2007′, and another will say, 'No, it was 2006, I was looking at the photos the other day'. And they will end up hitting each other over their heads with their walking sticks.
I clearly have too vivid an imagination…. or too much time on my hands
Barb in VA On Monday, January 16 at 6:34 pm
And to piggy back on your theme. Also make sure the the clock on your camera is set to the correct time. That can also make the date incorrect by a day depending on how much off the time is. Remember to reset the time when traveling over time zones so that the date is correct in your photos of your trip. I don't even want to explain how I know this…let's just say I lived in Japan and none the dates on my metadata align with the date we actually did them…but align perfectly with EST.
Tina Weitz On Monday, January 16 at 6:48 pm
And to piggy back on Barb, there are also settings on the cameras you can put your copyright name in the metadata with the date. In today's social media, it is nice to know it is going out and you can prove it is yours. Never know when life may hand you that amazing photo you certainly want claimed as YOURS if there is any dispute!
Janneke Marquez On Monday, January 16 at 7:24 pm
I've had this problem before, too! Mine was off by like a few months a a couple days. Once I found some events that I knew the exact date of, and I watched a tutorial on how to change the timestamp metadate in Lightroom 3, then I was able to go through and fix some of these. I would highly recommend doing something like this while you still can remember the approximate time frame! Good luck!
K.Young On Monday, January 16 at 7:51 pm
I remember these photos and remember your daughter in that coat. You took a beautiful picture of her one day and demonstrated how you fixed it in Photoshop. I'd just gotten my Nikon D80 and my son gave me his college PS program and I was hooked, thanks to you. It's been five years? Wow.
Katie On Monday, January 16 at 8:29 pm
I had the date set wrong for my youngest childs birth. I still cringe when I look at those pictures and see that date.
Diane S. in San Diego On Tuesday, January 17 at 2:55 am
I had wrong dates for years on just about every device. I just stumbled through and kept on going. You are so funny! I was just like that, except I would let it disturb my sleep pattern with dreams of trying to explain it in sworn testimony in a court of law, with my explanation keeping someone out of jail or something (I watch too much TV)… Like… Your honor, I swear it was in winter not summer and I just didn't know how to set the date on the camera, but you see the kids have on parkas not shorts and stuff…
Shasta On Tuesday, January 17 at 4:13 am
Thank you for reminding me! I lived in South Korea for the past two years, moved to Washington state back in August, and my camera is still on Seoul time.
BrunMom3 On Tuesday, January 17 at 12:50 pm
At least you know they are only a year off! My first camera (after having kids) was set on 1980, which I either didn't know or didn't care enough about to fix. I was born in 1981, so I just know that those pictures are from somewhere in the last 11 years.
patimk On Tuesday, January 17 at 3:56 pm
Good tip. Never think about it.
honeygram On Wednesday, January 18 at 11:31 am
I have the same problem with one of my camera's date settings. I finally fixed the setting problem, however, I have several thousand pictures with the wrong date imbedded in the information. I would love to know how to change all the dates in a big batch, as opposed to one-by-one. Have any suggestions? I just updated my computer and software to iMac/LightRoom. I bet LightRoom has a way to do it somehow… sigh
Richelle On Wednesday, January 18 at 1:50 pm
Has it really been that long? Time sure does fly!
KirstenA On Wednesday, January 18 at 4:26 pm
That just happened to me!!! All my Christmas photos say January 2008!
jessica On Wednesday, January 18 at 11:09 pm
Ahhhh…..I remember that winter also! We were out of electricity for 9 days with a 6 month old baby. Lucky we have wonderful neighbors that played host to our family. Absolutely nothing to do with the date/time stamp but the same Oklahoma ice storm…..rambling must go now!
Renee On Thursday, January 19 at 10:46 am
I really empathize with this. Thanks for sharing because I feel like its just me sometimes… ps. I have been using your free actions to learn PSE and I am grateful for them. Thanks!
Brenda Schiesser On Thursday, January 19 at 11:48 am
I remember this photo the first time around!!!
Shay On Friday, January 20 at 1:12 pm
Impressed that you even know what metadata is!
Love you website!!!!!
Joanne J. On Friday, January 20 at 11:49 pm
Oh man, this has happened to me several times! I keep track of life the same way, by my pictures, so it is really annoying to have things off by a year, month, day, or even 12 hours. (That was my latest mistake.)
Bethany B. On Friday, February 10 at 4:33 pm
My digital camera reset to the manufacture date, which is several years ago. Did not realize this when my daughter was born last spring. So her first few days of life's photos are metadataed way early. Then I figured it out. Reset the clock. Forgot to set am/pm. So now all of her pictures are off by about 12 hours. I'll probably never get it right.
Anne-Marie Littenberg On Tuesday, February 21 at 7:30 am
I now keep a photography check list on my smart phone (a droid). It reminds me to check all those things my 54 year old brain seems to forget on its own. I use evernote for my lists. For photography, there is a check list of things to bring if I am traveling with my gear on a plane, or if I am heading outdoors for a shoot. I also keep crib notes reminding myself of settings, apertures, etc., for various scenarios (sunny 16 rule, shooting a moving subject, etc.)

subset: commoncrawl


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Table of Contents | Foreword | Preface | Executive Summary | Overview | Contributors | Participants and Staff
Competitiveness Impacts of Carbon Dioxide Pricing Policies on Manufacturing
Richard D. Morgenstern, Joseph E. Aldy, Evan M. Herrnstadt, Mun Ho, and William A. Pizer
In the debate over the design of mandatory federal climate change policy, the potential for adverse impacts on the competitiveness of U.S. industry, on domestic jobs, and on the nation's balance of trade consistently emerges as a key concern. This issue brief explores how production across individual manufacturing industries could be affected by a unilateral policy that establishes a price on carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. (Issue Brief #8 examines possible policy responses to address these impacts.) Our review of existing analyses and new research1 on the topic of climate policy and U.S. competitiveness yields a number of observations:
The impact of a CO2 price on the competitiveness of different industries is fundamentally tied to the energy (and more specifically, carbon) intensity of those industries, and the degree to which firms can pass costs on to the consumers of their products. The answer to the latter question hinges on the extent to which consumers can substitute other, lower-carbon products and/or turn to imports.
Industry-level studies of competitiveness tend to focus on the energy-price impacts of a specific CO2 policy. They typically do not consider what level of carbon price would be required to meet a particular emissions-reduction target or how overall program stringency is coupled with decisions about offsets and/or a safety valve. Studies of competitiveness impacts typically also ignore "general equilibrium" effects, such as the possibility that shifting from coal to natural gas for power generation could drive up natural gas prices and have additional effects on the competitiveness of natural gas users.
Energy costs in most manufacturing industries (broadly defined at the two-digit classification level) are less than 2 percent of total costs. However, energy costs are more than 3 percent of total costs in a number of energy-intensive manufacturing industries such as refining, nonmetal mineral products, primary metals, and paper and printing. For these more energy-intensive industries, total production costs rise by roughly 1 percent to 2.5 percent for each $10 increment in the per-ton price associated with CO2 emissions (with less being known about the impacts of larger CO2 prices). Also, cost impacts can be considerably greater within more narrowly defined industrial categories.
Recent case studies in the European Union (EU) found more substantial impacts in some industries when narrower industry classifications were used and process emissions were also considered. Specifically, a $10-per-ton CO2 price led to a 6 percent increase in total costs for steel production using basic oxygen furnace (BOF) technology; for cement, production costs increased by 13 percent. With free allowance allocation and some ability to increase prices, however, researchers have found that adverse impacts on industry can be reduced substantially. Using simple demand models, one study found that output in most industries declined less than 1 percent - and by at most 2 percent in the most strongly affected industries - for a $10-per-ton CO2 price with 95 percent free allocation.
More generally, cost increases can be translated into impacts on production, profitability, and employment using either an explicit model of domestic demand and international trade behavior, or empirical evidence from past cost increases.
Using an economic model of U.S. industrial production, demand, and international trade, Morgenstern et al. generally find adverse effects of less than 1 percent when estimating the reduction in industrial production due to a $10-per-ton CO2 charge. The exceptions are motor vehicle manufacturing (1.0 percent), chemicals and plastics (1.0 percent), and primary metals (1.5 percent). These estimates represent near-term effects - that is, impacts over the first several years after a carbon price is introduced - before producers and users begin adjusting technology and operations to the new CO2-policy regime. Longer-term effects could be larger or smaller.
Using an empirical analysis of historical data on energy prices and industry output across five countries, Aldy and Pizer find somewhat larger impacts. While a $10-per-ton CO2 charge is estimated to reduce industrial production by less than 1 percent in most cases - consistent with the results of the Morgenstern et al. study - considerably larger effects are found in some industries, notably non-ferrous metals (3.0 percent), iron and steel (6.0 percent), fabricated metals (1.8 percent), and machinery (3.9 percent).
Impacts on domestic industries will generally be lower if it is assumed that key trading partners also implement comparable CO2 prices or that border tax adjustments or other import regulations are used to address the CO2 content of imported (and exported) goods. Analysis by Aldy and Pizer suggests that such assumptions reduce the estimated impact on domestic production among energy-intensive manufacturing industries by perhaps 50 percent.
Various current proposals for a mandatory U.S. cap-and-trade program to limit greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions would give free allowances to different industries to help address economic burdens from a CO2 pricing policy.
Calculations based on results from Morgenstern et al. suggest that for most industries where energy is more than 1 percent of total costs, giving away free allowances equal to around 15 percent of a firm's emissions from fossil-fuel and electricity use would be sufficient to address adverse impacts on shareholder value. This number varies widely, however, across different industries. As with earlier calculations, narrower industry classifications can produce much higher estimates of the free allocation necessary to address lost shareholder value.
1. Results of this work are forthcoming in two RFF discussion papers, one by J. Aldy and W. Pizer, and another by Morgenstern, Ho, and Shih. This issue brief does not consider competitiveness impacts arising from the regulation of non-co2 gases; see Issue Brief #13 for some discussion.


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Hotels in 60170 - Plato Center IL
Only hotels in 60170 zip code are listed below. Search for cheap and discount hotel rates in Plato Center, IL for your upcoming leisure or conference / group travel. We list the best 60170 hotels and motels so you can review the Plato Center hotel list below to find the perfect lodging. Hotels in Kane county and area code 847 are also listed.
60170 Hotels/Motels & Accommodations
Next: Show All Available 60170 Hotels with Pricing >


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Vail Resorts adopts airbags for its ski patrols
Posted on December 17th, 2012 by edge | 2 Comments
North America's biggest ski resort company has committed to outfitting its ski patrol operations with avalanche airbags.
Vail Resorts Management, Co. has made an initial purchase of 30 Float 32 avalanche airbags from BCA (Backcountry Access). The airbags will be provided to its snow safety teams at Vail, Beaver Creek, and Keystone, with potentially more for Breckenridge. Vail also owns Kirkwood Resort, which owns a fleet of 40 BCA Float 30 airbags.
Vail Resorts is the largest resort operator in North America, operating Vail, Breck, Keystone, Kirkwood, and Heavenly. Vail and Breckenridge are the #1 and #2 most visited ski resorts in the US. Most of the expert terrain at these resorts requires avalanche control by the resorts' snow safety teams.
When the nation's top resort operator outfits its patrollers with airbags, this sets a huge precedent. You better believe the rest of the industry will follow. It also makes a strong statement about Vail's progressive stance on safety: the company was also one of the first patrols to require the use of helmets by all on-snow staff.
Vail is smart to get ahead of the curve on this one. Several years ago a patroller at Sainte Foy en Tarentaise, France was killed in an avalanche on the job while doing avalanche control work. His family sued the resort because they didn't provide him with an airbag, which is considered standard equipment nowadays in France. The family won their suit in 2008 and the resort paid them a tidy sum. And France isn't nearly as lawsuit-happy as the U.S. More recently, WorkSafe BC (the Canadian equivalent of OSHA) has recommended airbags for use by guides and others at work in avalanche terrain.
So the standards are being set, at least in other countries. It's great to see the Vail Resorts crew setting the trends on the Lower 48.


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New International
ISS is the designated support office for all international students and provides services and programs to assist you throughout your time at Ryerson. It is crucial for you to contact ISS.
Get help from ourAdvisors
Our advisors have the knowledge and expertise to guide international students, staff/faculty concerning immigration, working, proof of enrollment, health insurance, social/academic challenges, and more.
Life inCanada
ISS offers a diverse assortment of services and cultural/social activities that strive to nurture student engagement and development, and create a sense of community while at Ryerson and in Canada.
We are located in POD50-A at 350 Victoria St.
International Student Support 416-979-5000 ex. 6655 firstname.lastname@example.com Contact Us
Office Hours Monday to Friday: 9am - 5pm


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- Auxiliary Books
- Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
- Friendship According to Humphrey
- Kenny and the Dragon
- Masterpiece
- School Days According to Humphrey
- Stuart Little
- Summer According to Humphrey
- The Lemonade Crime
- The Trumpet of the Swan
- Trouble According to Humphrey
- Where the Mountain Meets the Moon
- Wonder
- The Indian in the Cupboard
- Because of Winn-Dixie
- The BFG
- Love That Dog
- Heartbeat
- Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH
- Shiloh
- Dominic
- The Cricket in Times Square
- Frindle
- A Barrel of Laughs, A Vale of Tears
- Bud, Not Buddy
- The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane
- Island of the Blue Dolphins
- In the Year of the Boar and Jackie Robinson
- The World According to Humphrey
- The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe
- My Side of the Mountain
- The Lemonade War
- The Enormous Egg
- Hate That Cat
- A Long Way from Chicago
- The Mouse and the Motorcycle
- Mr. Popper's Penguins
- The Phantom Tollbooth
- Charlotte's Web
- The Witches
- James and the Giant Peach
Charlotte's Web
by E.B. White (1952)
Read to Them is proud to offer E.B. White's all-time classic Charlotte's Web as a highly recommended One School, One Book selection.
For years, we have tried to stay away from recommending the most classic and well-known titles – fearing that they were too well known. No longer. An entire community reading a book – from kindergarteners to 5th graders, from parents to administrators, from teachers to bus drivers – should all draw upon the very best of children's literature.
We have also discovered that older siblings love to re-read – or re-listen to – the very best books. So in that tradition, Read to Them offers Charlotte's Web to first-time and fifth-time readers alike.
Return to Farmer Zuckerman's barn. See the world of the farmyard with Fern's sympathy – with Templeton's resourceful cynicism – and with Charlotte's high-minded, noble, gentle, pride and resourcefulness. Revel not only in Charlotte's sly effort to save Wilbur the pig. Revel, too, in the simple majesty of E.B. White's matchless prose:
"The barn was very large. It was very old. It smelled of hay and it smelled of manure. It smelled of the perspiration of tired horses and the wonderful sweet breath of patient cows. It often had a sort of peaceful smell – as though nothing bad could happen every again in the world. It smelled of grain and harness dressing and axle grease and of rubber boots and of new rope. And whenever the cat was given a fish-head to eat, the barn would smell of fish. But mostly it smelled of hay, for there was always hay in the great loft up overhead. And there was always hay being pitched down to the cows and the horses and the sheep."
Re-visit Charlotte's Web with patience and love and remember what it is to share language and detail, sentiment and sympathy and poetry – through a children's novel in prose. Invite another generation of children to share and learn and remember the salient significance of "Some Pig" and "Terrific" and "Radiant" and "Humble." (They, of course, will share Charlotte's Web with their own children – that's how we cultivate a 'culture of literacy.')
Read to Them also recommends interested families explore E.B. White's other children's novels – Stuart Little and The Trumpet of the Swan – together.
The following program elements are available for E.B. White's Charlotte's Web:
- a letter home to parents
- a reading schedule
- a trivia bank
- suggested assembly ideas
- suggested activities
As a participating member of One School, One Book you may have access to all of these documents. Here are some samples:


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Huntington RV and Boat Show continues today, Feb. 3, at Arena
HUNTINGTON — While Old Man Winter seems to still be grumbling and stumbling about, it's time to take a dive into the great indoors to get ready for camping and the outdoors season as the Big Sandy Superstore Arena hosts the 2013 Huntington RV & Boat Show that runs through Sunday at the Big Sandy Superstore Arena.
Check out 30 vendors who've hauled in campers, boats of all shapes and sizes from pontoons to bass boats while also getting the lowdown on great hunting, fishing and camping information at the show which runs noon to 5 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 3.
The 2013 Huntington RV & Boat Show's largest exhibitors include (1) Burdette Camping from Winfield and Hurricane, (2) Setzer's World of Camping from Huntington, (3) Charleston Marine from Charleston, and (4) Great Outdoors Marine from Lavalette.
Additional large exhibitors include, (5) Freedom Outdoors with Ranger Boats from Wheelersburg;( 6 Rodger Smith Marine, of Lavalette; (7) Line-X Coatings of Ashland; (8) Wagner's Rentals with "tricked-out" customized golf carts; and, new this year, (9) Cave Run Yamaha from Morehead, Ky., with a nice selection of personal watercraft.
(10)The U.S. Army Corp of Engineers, and (11) the Ohio DNR, Division of Watercraft have exhibits focusing on water safety and best boating practices. Chiro One (based in Kentucky) provide a free evaluation to get you feeling your best.
Some of the food vendors include: (13) Patter Fam Sauces from Wheelersburg, OH; (14) RICA, LLC from Letart,WV; (15) Uncle Bunks from Sistersville, WV; and also new this year, (16) Jerky Hut of WV.
And for your home or camp, be sure to see (17) Thermal Shield Windows of KY; and (18) First Security of South Charleston, WV can show you what's new in safety and security for your home, camp, boat or RV.
Also new this year, (19) Bath Planet of WV has some neat ideas to rehab your bathrooms, even for your boat or RV.
If you are looking for fun places to go and see, be sure to visit exhibits from (20) Kentucky Parks; (21) Cave Run Marina, KY; (22) Foxfire KOA in Milton; and (23) Mardi Gras Casino and Resort in Crosslanes, WV.
Plus, new this year, discover information on many other new places and attractions to explore at (24) the Ohio Travel Pavillion; and (25) the Kentucky Travel Services booths.
Plus, let (26) Joe-Boy Fishing Charters show you and your crew some great angling on Lake Erie; and from fishing to rafting, to touring, let (27) WV Pro River Outfitters create a custom WV adventure for you and your family on the New, Gauley or Greenbriar Rivers, also new exhibitors at this year's Show! The (28) Sea Scouts and (29) Veterans Helping Veterans and Families will also be on hand to share information about their organizations and programs.
General admission is $7 and kids under 12 get in free.


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Mining has become an increasing important part of the economy in Nunavik, the Inuit self-governing region of northern Quebec.
But the local Inuit population is still under-represented in the work force. Most jobs are still filled by workers from southern Canada.
When the local Kativik regional government did a survey in 2011, it found that Inuit represented only 15 percent of the workforce in mines.
Barriers to Inuit participation in the lucrative mining industry include lack of education, an unfamiliar culture, and the long periods that need to be spent away on remote mining sites.
But a new mining strategy supported by industry, local government and schools aims to change that.
Part of the strategy includes bolstering education, a focus not just on hiring but on retention and promotion of Inuit and exploring ways to provide support services for Inuit at mining sites.
Nunavut and Northwest Territories employment increases
Employment was up in Canada's eastern Arctic territory of Nunavut and the neighboring Northwest Territories in December 2013, according to the latest numbers from Statistics Canada.
Two hundred more people were working in Nunavut compared to December 2012.
The average weekly earnings were up for Nunavut workers too. Employees earned just over Canadian $1,109 (U.S. $1,000), up 15 percent from December 2012.
Workers in the Northwest Territories made an average of C$1,355 (US $1,222) a week, up 6.2 percent from December 2012, while in Yukon, the average weekly earnings remained steady at $1,007 (US $908) per week.
This story is posted on Alaska Dispatch as part of Eye on the Arctic, a collaborative partnership between public and private circumpolar media organizations.


text:
Jewelers Studio Handbook
written by Brando Holschuh
Rockport | ISBN 9781592534852
Paperback – 176 pages
Member's price: $42.30
Usually ships within 2–11 business days.
Artist Brandon Holschuh walks you through planning your work space, selecting tools and materials, mastering basic metalwork techniques, and applying your new skills to twenty original pieces. In addition, "The Jeweler's Studio Handbook" encourages novel design, good organization, and fearless experimentation, ensuring it will remain an invaluable resource for jewelry artists for years to come. This book: invites you into the world of the home jewelry artist, from workbench to gallery; teaches fundamental jewelry-making techniques - hammering, soldering, riveting, and more - in full-color photographs; illustrates the steps for crafting twenty beautiful pieces of metalwork jewelry, including rings, bracelets, earrings, and pendants; and, features gallery-quality jewelry from dozens of contributing artists.


text:
Below is the poem entitled Everlasting bond which was written by poet
kerrigan. Please feel free to comment on this poem. However, please remember, PoetrySoup is a place of encouragement and growth.
Read Poems by
Lori Kerrigan
You are my companion
My very best friend
I'll be by your side
Right up 'til the end
You will always have
A shoulder to cry on
The love in my heart
Will never be gone
I share with you my secrets
Along with my fears
Sharing the laughter
And also the tears
I believe in you
When I do not believe in me
I find in you a comfort
Allowing me to be
A better person
From that in the past
Over my soul
Is this spell that you cast
Please, keep the faith
When all hope seems to be lost
If you give up too early
Lost love will be what it cost
So, never stop dreaming
About you & I
My love's stronger than ever
This love will not die!
A comment has not been posted for this poem. Encourage a poet by being the first to comment.


text:
ERWIN — The town of Unicoi Board of Mayor and Aldermen has taken action to address an ongoing problem within the town — large trucks and tractor-trailers finding their way onto narrow, residential roads.
At Monday's regular meeting, the board unanimously approved the second and final reading of an ordinance to restrict large truck traffic on certain roads within the town.
The restricted roads included in the ordinance are Marbleton Road, except from the southern intersection with Unicoi Drive to the end of the Jones and Church packing house property and except from the northern intersection with Unicoi Drive west to the end; Springbrook Road; Golf Course Road except to the pro shop; Massachusetts Avenue; Tennessee Street; Tinker Road except from the Interstate 26 interchange to Rocky Bottom Road; Washington Street except to the Unicoi Volunteer Fire Department; Zane Whitson Drive; and Powder Hollow Road.
Unicoi Town Recorder Larry Rea said that in many instances, the GPS system on the trucks leads them incorrectly down narrow roads. He said this results in much time being spent backing the trucks out of dead end, residential roads.
The board also approved the second and final reading of an ordinance to require all utilities, including gas, electric, sewer, water, telephone and cable, seeking to install underground lines within the town to obtain a permit from the town recorder prior to digging on any public right-of-way with the exception of addressing a service interruption.
The ordinance said that upon acceptance of the permit, the utility company or contractor shall be responsible for all damages to property controlled by the town. It also said all underground installation following alongside a town street must be two feet from the edge of the pavement and a minimum of three feet in depth, unless a variance is granted.
"All utility work performed by said Utility or Construction Company on town of Unicoi Rights-of-Way shall be responsible for returning the Right-of-Way to the condition it was before construction began," the ordinance said.
According to the ordinance, each violation of the ordinance is punishable with up to a $50 fine plus town of Unicoi Municipal Court costs.


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Alabama ESL TESOL Graduate Programs & Schools
ESL or TESOL graduate programs can help you pursue a rewarding career teaching people to speak English. ESL TESOL graduates teach English as a second language as an advanced degree, English as a foreign language, or English to speakers of other languages. They can teach at all levels, from elementary school to high school or college or even adult education. ESL TESOL graduates who have been bitten by the travel bug can even find rewarding careers teaching English in foreign countries.
There are quite a few different English as a second language advanced ESL TESOL degree types to choose from, at the Master in TESOL ESL level such as an M.A. in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages or an M.Ed. in Teaching and Learning English. Or if you are looking for tesol doctorate graduate programs you could earn a PhD in Educational Psychology or Composition and TESOL.
It's easy to find the degree that suits your interests and career goals, especially since you can filter your search by level of ESL TESOL programs, whether it's Master's or PhD. If you're just getting started in the field, you might consider earning a Graduate Certificate in ESL/TESOL. Or search for Online Graduate Programs In ESL TESOL
Looking for ESL graduate programs or TESOL graduate programs in your area or overseas? You can filter your search for an accredited college by city or country. With so many choices, you'll have no trouble finding the right ESL TESOL graduate program today!


text: So, what are you guys working on this weekend? I have two things currently on the needles that I'm working on. One is another pair of socks for my friend Mark. I think I like this yarn better than the yarn I used for the other pair I knit for him. The other thing I'm working on is a hat in left-over sock weight yarn.


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December 27, 2013
| Video
Star Nail education manager Elaine Watson created these party nails for our December 2013 issue. Behind the scenes with the NAILS Dec. cover: http://www.nailsmag.com/article/97392/behind-the-scenes-reach-for-the-stars
December 1, 2013
| Photo Gallery
NAILS Readers' Choice Awards turns 10! We've tallied the votes and are happy to announce the winners of the 2013 NAILS Readers' Choice Awards.
November 18, 2013
| Article
Reach for the Star(s): Elaine Watson has a very long title at Star Nail International. In addition to being vice president of marketing and sales, she's also the global education director. That means she wears a lot of hats. Her main focus is on Cuccio Veneer gel-polish and Cina nail art lines.
October 22, 2013
| Article
Have you ever used uncooked spaghetti to create nail art? Elaine Watson, Star Nail's vice president of marketing and sales, has!
September 19, 2013
| Article
In the market for a new cuticle nipper or curette? We explain what to look for in six of the most common metal implements.
September 4, 2013
| Photo Gallery
For clients with weak, brittle nails who want extra strength to those who covet wild extensions, gels can offer something for everyone.
August 21, 2013
| Product
The Eco Soak Off Master Kit by Star Nail has everything necessary to offer a soak off UV nail color service called The Pretty Touch Manicure.
June 7, 2013
| Photo Gallery
As always, Premiere Orlando was a show for the books. The massive beauty show, which took place June 2-3, hosted beauty professionals and industry manufacturers from around the globe.
June 1, 2013
| Photo Gallery
The cornerstone of the nail industry's foundation, acrylics helped build the manicuring business into what it is today. Manufacturers are still continuing to innovate and improve upon the products and techniques. With support from manufacturers and with die-hard acrylic clients, the art of an acrylic sculpt and 3-D design is thriving among the latest generation of acrylic nail technicians. Here are some of the latest acrylic products.
December 15, 2012
| Photo Gallery
If you'd like to see how this year's favorite products stack up to years past, log on to www.nailsmag.com/RCA to take a look at what products are consistently on the list from year to year and who has broken into the club of finalists. (You'll notice slight modification in our categories from year to year to reflect industry trends.)
December 1, 2012
| Photo Gallery
To meet the soak-off needs of all of the gel-polish lines, manufacturers have begun to release their own brands of soak-off solutions and remover wraps to help techs get an effective and thorough soak for clients. These gel-polish removal liquids have added hydrating emollients to keep the removal process soft on skin, while still effectively removing all the gel.
October 19, 2012
| Photo Gallery
From titanium-coated pterygium takers to stainless steel safety tweezers, the implements used by nail techs on a daily basis are of finely tuned designs that make for precise applications every time. Here are some of the toughest, most durable implements from some of your favorite nail manufacturers.
October 4, 2012
| Product
Star Pro contains a wide range of specialty products such as acrylics, gels, soak-off gels, universal top coats, nail tips, pedicure slippers, sundries, brushes, boards, and blocks.
August 29, 2012
| Photo Gallery
On the evening of Monday, July 23, as the nail manufacturers and exhibitors left the show floor after a full day's work, they convened in a penthouse suite at the Mandalay to relax and mingle with other nail industry professionals.
July 26, 2012
| Photo Gallery
This year's City of Hope Spirit of Life Award honoree was OPI's George Schaeffer. At a party in his honor this past Saturday night, more than 1,700 guests were treated to the soulful stylings of Reverend Al Green and Aretha Franklin. And true to Schaeffer's gift for surprise, we all also got to see him marry his long-time girlfriend Irina Afzal.
Face Time: Self-Portrait Contest Winners Announced17 photos
Cosmoprof North America 201541 photos
Learn More
What's the cause of the pinkish-red oval area on the pad of my client's toes?
Am I losing my touch applying acrylics?
Should I have a TV in my salon?
Is perfectionism on the job a blessing or a curse?
What's the best way to recruit techs for a new salon?
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text:
I enjoy searching Twitter with weird strings and seeing what comes up. Here are a few good ones using "I probably shouldn't"
MVANARS1 Had a parent/teacher conf 2day for 10. I didnt realize she had such a striking teacher. I probably shouldn't have called her sugarbritches.
umbrellaboy Tweet #900: I have acne on my cheek, it is fun to play. But I probably shouldn't.
hokeblurbs I probably shouldn't be having this second gargantuan Iron Man Slurpee cup full of coffee, but I'm going to anyway.
iGo2Far I probably shouldn't eat this after having just finished off a cream cheese danish…but I'll just deal w/ the aftermath later.
ChefCreezle I probably shouldn't have called that cop a fag
Danielikous I probably shouldn't reach out to people anymore. Nobody gives a shit that i go out of my way to care anyways.
nickmcgee1 Pain in my gut for the past day. What the heck is going on down there? I probably shouldn't have eaten that 5 LB Gummy Bear…
AscentofaKing I probably shouldn't have bought that shirt…but once it arrives Ima be glad I did…
copperlegend RIP pyrex mixing bowl. You served me well, and I probably shouldn't have perched you so precariously on top of the fridge.
arisoncain I probably shouldn't have just thought "i hope no one tries to change it from vh1′s top 100 rap songs to the state of the union address"
MacGourley better than me temporarily ignoring the recession to masturbate to the Legends Class Devastator that I probably shouldn't buy.
jondotdavidson I wouldn't mind having a robot around the house! But I probably shouldn't tell Will Smith, he'd be so angry and disappointed with me…
ShiversTheNinja I think I probably shouldn't be cursing in frustration when playing Neopets games. "FUCK!" doesn't seem appropriate for a kids' website.
deadcherries halfway to work I decided I probably shouldn't be driving. This message brought to you by Sudafed, Benadryl, Ativan, Trileptal and Zyrtec.


text:
Open Forum
AP article: Lieberman has to decide soon whether or not to run as an independent.
It's been a lousy week for Lieberman, and a very, very good one for Ned Lamont.
There are other campaigns out there. But it's like everyone is holding their breath, waiting to see what will happen next.
(While we're waiting, go contribute to the wiki!)


text:
CLEVELAND -- The 10th annual NAMI Mental Health Walk, the largest in Ohio, steps off from Voinovich Park in downtown Cleveland just before 10 a.m. Saturday.
Registration is free and check-in begins at 9 a.m. The 2.5-mile walk starts at 10 a.m.
WKYC's Amanda Barren is the honorary chairperson of this year's National Alliance on Mental Illness' "NAMI Walks" event.
The National Institute of Mental Health reports about 1 in 4 adults in the U.S. suffers from some type of mental disorder in a given year.
In Cuyahoga County alone, more than 260,000 people have some type of mental illness.
Nearly 2,000 concerned community members from northeast Ohio will join Amanda and NAMI Greater Cleveland to help combat the stigma that too often prevents people from seeking help.
NAMI Walks Facebook Page
The walk is a rain or shine event. It will feature food, music, a dog pond, free massages and prizes for everyone to enjoy.
This year's walk will also feature NAMI Ohio's "NAMImobile," a 31-foot recreation vehicle that shares mental health facts and messages of hope as it travels the state.
NAMI Greater Cleveland provides free education courses, a Helpline, support groups, community outreach, advocacy and more for those with mental illness and their families.
The organization does not charge for any of its services. All walk proceeds support NAMI Greater Cleveland's programs. Organizers are hoping to raise $165,000 this year


text:
Please scroll down to view the list of records and click on Record Number to view accelerations. You may cut and paste to use the record.
Nove Naumoski
Adjunct Professor, Department of Civil Engineering
University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario
Since the first set of strong motion records obtained during the Long Beach, California earthquake of 1933, thousands of strong earthquakes records have been recorded in seismic regions around the world. Many of these records have been used by earthquake engineers for the investigations of the characteristics of earthquake ground motions, investigations of the behaviour of structures due to seismic excitations, evaluations of the seismic codes, and for the design of earthquake resistant structures.
|It has been observed that the characteristics of recorded motions vary greatly from record to record. The intensity, the duration of strong shaking, and the frequency content of the records depend on a number of factors including the magnitude of the earthquake, the epicentral distance, and the local site conditions. The differences in the characteristics of the recorded ground motions can lead to substantial differences in the structural response. One major factor that has significant effects on the structural response is the frequency content of the recorded motions. A simple approach based on the peak ground acceleration to peak ground velocity ratio (A/V ratio) is commonly accepted for the estimation of the frequency content of earthquake records (Heidebrecht and Lu, 1988). Statistically, records with high A/V ratios are normally associated with moderate to strong earthquakes at small epicentral distances, and records with low A/V ratios are associated with large earthquakes at large epicentral distances.
For the purpose of research studies, Naumoski at al. (1988) selected three ensembles of recorded accelerograms with different A/V ratios, i.e. accelerograms with high A/V ratios (A/V > 1.2), with intermediate A/V ratios (0.8 < A/V <1.2), and with low A/V ratios (A/V < 0.8), where A is in g, and V is in m/s. Each ensemble consists of 15 accelerograms. With respect to the A/V ratios, the ensembles are referred to as high, intermediate, and low A/V ensembles. Information for the accelerograms of the three ensembles are listed in Tables 1, 2, and 3. The mean A/V ratio is 2.12 for the high A/V ensemble, 1.02 for the intermediate A/V ensemble, and 0.6 for the low A/V ensemble. All the selected accelerograms are recorded on rock or stiff soil sites. Of the 45 accelerograms, 29 are from the United States, 7 from Japan, 5 from Mexico, 3 from Former Yugoslavia, and 1 from Canada.
The acceleration records posted on this web site have been extensively used in the past in various research studies and practical applications. A number of studies related to the seismic provisions of the current edition of the National Building Code of Canada (NBCC 1995) have been conducted using these records.
The demand for earthquake accelerograms increases with the improvements in the codes and the design practice. These accelerograms are used as excitation motions in dynamic time history analyses. It is believed that the use of earthquake accelerograms will increase significantly with the release of the new edition of the National Building Code of Canada (NBCC 2005). The seismic provisions of NBCC 2005 require the use of dynamic analysis as the primary procedure in the design of buildings. The Canadian Highway Bridge Design Code also requires the use of dynamic time history analysis in the design of more important and complex bridges. Depending on the objectives of the studies, proper scaling should be conducted to the accelerograms. Some scaling methods for accelerograms for use in the analysis of building structures are given in Naumoski et al. (2004).
Heidebrecht, A.C., and Lu, C.Y. 1988. Evaluation of the seismic response factor introduced in the 1985 edition of the National Building Code of Canada. Canadian Journal of Civil Engineering, 15: 382-338.
Naumoski, N., Tso, W.K., and Heidebrecht, A.C. 1988. A selection of representative strong motion earthquake records having different A/V ratios. Earthquake Engineering Research Group, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ont., EERG Report 88-01, 60 pp.
Naumoski, N., Saatcioglu, M., and Amiri-Hormozaki, K. 2004. Effects of Scaling of earthquake excitations on the dynamic response of reinforced concrete frame buildings. 13th World Conference on Earthquake Engineering, paper No. 2917, 15 pp.
Table 1. Description and peak ground motion parameters for "High A/V Records" [A/V > 1.2]
Table 2. Description and peak ground motion parameters for "Intermediate A/V Records" [0.8<A/V<1.2]
Table 3. Description and peak ground motion parameters for "Low A/V Records" [A/V < 0.8]