The invention is a clear, elastomer-free, gel composition comprising: (a) 0.1-25 weight % of an antiperspirant active having a low metal to chloride ratio in the range of 0.9-1.3: 1; (b) 9-23.95 weight % of one or more volatile silicones having a flash point of 100 degrees C or less; (c) 0.05-0.5 weight % of a silicone surfactant having an HLB valuexe2x89xa68; (d) 30-70 weight % water; (e) 0-50 weight % selected water soluble organic solvents; and (f) 0-10 weight % of an emollient; wherein the composition is a liquid gel having a viscosity in the range of 5-50,000 centipoise and a ratio of oil phase to water phase in the range of 10:90 to 24:76.

The present invention is directed to a high efficacy gel composition which is a low viscosity liquid emulsion, is elastomer-free, and which comprises an antiperspirant active (preferably with a lower metal to chloride ratio) and a reduced amount of surfactant. Preferably the gel is formulated as a clear product. The product comprises antiperspirant active materials in amounts sufficient to combat body malodor either as a deodorant or as an antiperspirant when applied to the axillary regions of the body.
The present invention is particularly directed to elastomer-free cosmetic gel compositions, including antiperspirant and deodorant gel compositions, that have reduced whitening and tack, and reduced skin irritation, and which can include increased amounts of the cosmetically active ingredient (for example, increased amounts of antiperspirant active ingredient), and yet which can be effective with low levels of active as well.
Antiperspirant products are well known in the art. Antiperspirants have appeared in the marketplace in varied dosage forms, such as sticks, soft solids, soft gels, roll-on, aerosols and creams. Generally, these dosage forms include a solution of the active ingredient in a suitable solvent, a suspension of the active ingredient in a non-solvent, or a multiphasic dispersion or emulsion in which a solution of the active ingredient is dispersed in some continuous phase or in which the solubilized active ingredient constitutes a continuous phase.
Of the above-referred-to dosage forms, the stick form is an example of a solid form, and the soft solid and soft gel are thickened forms which may or may not be solid (for example, under some circumstances, gels can flow). The stick form can be distinguished from a soft solid or soft gel in that, in a stick, the formulated product can retain its shape for extended time periods outside the package, the product not losing its shape significantly (allowing for some shrinkage due to solvent evaporation). Adjustment of amounts of gelling or thickening agents can be used in order to form a soft gel or stick.
Soft gels or soft solids can be suitably packaged in containers which have the appearance of a stick, but which dispense through apertures (for example, slots or pores) on the top surface of the package. The soft solid products have also been called soft sticks or xe2x80x9csmooth-onsxe2x80x9d, and hereinafter are generically called xe2x80x9csoft solidsxe2x80x9d. Reference is made to U.S. Pat. No. 5,102,656 to Kasat, U.S. Pat. No. 5,069,897 to Orr, and U.S. Pat. No. 4,937,069 to Shin, each of which discloses such soft solids, including physical characteristics thereof such as viscosity and hardness. The contents of each of these three U.S. Patents are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.
Recently, there has been significant activity in developing clear and translucent antiperspirant sticks and soft gels, particularly to provide sticks and soft gels having increased efficacy (for example, by providing increased amounts of the antiperspirant active in the sticks and soft gels), improved cosmetic characteristics (including reduced whitening, reduced residue and reduced tack), and reduced skin irritation potential (e.g., providing a product that is xe2x80x9cmildxe2x80x9d).
U.S. Pat. No. 4,944,938 to Potini discloses clear, non-alcoholic, quick drying, antiperspirant and deodorant gels, which are stable both at room temperatures and at higher temperatures, are non-stinging and leave no white residue on the skin, the gel not including gelling agents, waxes, clays, or monohydric alcohols having 2-8 carbon atoms. The gels use 3-5 carbon atom trihydric alcohols as coupling agents, these alcohols acting as solublizers in the system and keeping the system stable and clear. The gels can include an aluminum active salt; a volatile water-insoluble emollient, such as isostearyl benzoate: a soluble emollient such as cetyl ether; solubilizers such as propylene glycol and glycerin; volatile siloxanes; and water.
Some cellulosic materials, such as hydroxypropylcellulose, among others, are compatible with polyvalent metal salts and have been used in the manufacture of clear lotions. These cellulosic materials, however, must be prepared with a high percentage of water or alcohol in order to insure solubilization of the active ingredient. The resulting formulations, in addition to a high irritation potential, are tacky and putties, and low in efficacy, when alcohol-based; and exhibit tackiness and along drying time when water-based.
Clear or translucent antiperspirant soft gels (which have been dispensed from containers having the appearance of stick) have recently been marketed, consisting of viscous, high-internal-phase emulsions. These soft gels exhibit some advantages over the aforementioned sticks, particularly acetal-based clear sticks, in that the selection of formulation ingredients is less restricted (for example, water can be used), and often tack can be reduced significantly. Concerning these emulsions, note U.S. Pat. No. 4,673,570 to Soldati and U.S. Pat. No. 4,900,542 to Parrotta, et al. These two U.S. patents disclose clear gelled antiperspirant compositions free of waxes and conventional gelling agents, containing a volatile silicone fluid, a silicone emulsifier, a destabilizing auxiliary emulsifier, water, non-volatile emollient, a coupling agent, an active antiperspirant component and ancillary agents such as perfume, coloring agents, etc. The silicone emulsifiers a cyclomethicone-dimethicone copolyol silicone fluid marketed by Dow Corning Corporation under the trademark DOW CORNING 3225C formulation. The contents of these two U.S. patents are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.
Also to be noted is PCT (International application) Publication No. WO 92105767. This patent document discloses a clear gel-type cosmetic product having a viscosity of at least about 50,000 cps at 21 degrees C. and a refractive index of 1.3975-1.4025 at 21 degrees C., and having an optical clarity better than 50 NTU (Nephelometric Turbidity Units) at 21 degrees C., the product being an emulsion with a water phase having an active ingredient incorporated therein and with an oil phase. The refractive indices (measured at 5893 Angstroms) of the water and oil phases match to within 0.0004. The oil phase includes an emulsifier which when properly mixed with the water phase component yields a water-in-oil emulsion, and the water phase includes one or a combination of various polar species such as water, propylene glycol, sorbitol and ethanol. The water phase includes the deodorant and/or antiperspirant active ingredient. The contents of this PCT (International application) Publication No. 92/05767 are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,007,799 describes clear cosmetic gels that are water-in-oil emulsions and which comprise at least one coupling agent, silicone fluids and an alkoxylated, alkyl substituted silicone surface active agent.
U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,587,153 and 5,863,525 issued to Gillette also describe gel products that contain silicone.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,007,799 assigned to the same owner as this case describes a clear cosmetic gel made as a water-in-oil emulsion.
While various cosmetic gel compositions, including antiperspirant and deodorant compositions, that are clear, are known, it is still desired to provide a cosmetic liquid gel composition (e.g., clear antiperspirant and/or deodorant gel composition) which has improved efficacy in comparison to other products, especially other commercially available gel products. It is a further object of the invention to provide products which have reduced whitening, low tack, and reduced skin irritation potential relative to commercially available products. It is yet another object of the invention to provide gel antiperspirant/deodorant products which provide improved efficacy even with low levels (for example, 5 weight % based on the entire composition) of antiperspirant active, use reduced amounts of volatile silicones and copolyols, have improved efficacy and low viscosity.
The invention is a high efficacy gel composition (preferably clear) which is a low viscosity (5-50,000 centipoise) liquid emulsion, is elastomer-free, and which comprises an antiperspirant active (preferably with a lower metal to chloride ratio) and a reduced amount of surfactant. This gel composition comprises:
(a) 0.1-25 weight % (more particularly 5-20 weight %) of an antiperspirant active (preferably one having a low metal to chloride ratio in the range of 0.9-1.3:1 (more particularly in the range of 0.9-1.05:1) (metal being one or both of aluminum and zirconium);
(b) 9-23.95 weight % (more particularly 9-20 weight %) of one or more volatile silicones having a flash point of 100 degrees C or less;
(c) 0.05-0.5 weight % (for example, 0.1-0.2%, particularly 0.1-0.15% of a silicone surfactant having an HLB value (hydrophilic lipophilic balance)xe2x89xa68);
(d) 30-70 weight % water (particularly 45-65% and, more particularly, 50-60%);
(e) 0-50 weight % of a water soluble organic solvent (for example, ethanol, glycerol formal (a mixture of 5-hydroxy-1,3-dioxane and 4-hydroxymethyl-1,3-dioxolane, also known as methylidinoglycerol), propylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, or tripropylene glycol; and
(f) 0-10 weight % of an emollient (particularly 0-5%) (for example, a member of the group consisting of hydrogenated polyisobutene (Polyiso 250), C12-15 alkyl benzoate (FINSOLV TN), and PPG-3 myristyl ether); wherein the composition is an emulsion and the ratio of oil phase to water phase is in the range of 10:90 to 24:76.
According to a first aspect of the present invention, various of the foregoing objects are achieved through a liquid cosmetic gel composition which is an emulsion having (1) an aqueous phase containing water (or water and a water soluble organic solvent as defined above) and at least one antiperspirant active; and (2) an oil phase containing a volatile organic or silicone material, and the composition further including (3) a suitable surfactant in a low amount such as an alkoxylated, alkyl substituted siloxane surface active agent in an amount of 0.05-1.0 weight % as described above. Preferably, the refractive index of the composition before the addition of any fragrance is in a range of from about 1.3950 to about 1.4150; especially from about 1.4000 to about 1.4050, and most preferably the refractive index of the composition is in a range of from about 1.4000 to about 1.4025. Refractive index measurements were made at a temperature of about 20-25 degrees C using a Bausch and Lomb Abbe 3L Refractometer.
When a clear formulation is desired, the water content should be, for example, in the range of about 50-60 weight %.
Addition of fragrance to the gel composition according to the present invention may increase the refractive index of the finished product. The refractive index referred to previously (e.g., a broadest range of 1.3950 to 1.4150) is the refractive index prior to incorporating fragrance in the composition.
By providing a composition having the specified refractive index, a composition containing more of the cosmetically active ingredients (in particular, more of the antiperspirant active ingredient such as an antiperspirant active salt, where the composition is a clear antiperspirant gel composition) can be achieved.
Moreover, this composition having the specified refractive index can also include high refractive index components, in either the oil phase or the aqueous phase, or additional amounts of high refractive index components, that provide advantageous cosmetic or other aesthetic effects. That is, conventional clear compositions have a relatively low refractive index. These relatively low refractive indices of conventional clear compositions of the water-in-oil emulsion type are due at least in part to the relatively low refractive indices of various conventionally used silicone fluids (e.g., around 1.3995), incorporated in the oil phase of these conventional compositions. This limits materials (and amounts) that can be included in the conventional composition such that the emulsion as a whole has the required relatively low refractive index. This limitation can be avoided according to the present invention, providing an increased degree of freedom in the choice of materials that can be incorporated in both the aqueous and oil phases of the composition of the present invention. For example, emollients having a higher refractive index can be incorporated in the oil phase and in the water phase, especially in the oil phase, of compositions according to the present invention, having the relatively high refractive index. Since antiperspirant active materials generally have high refractive indices, these can be incorporated in larger amounts in compositions of the present invention. Moreover, materials having a high refractive index that can reduce tack and whitening of the composition can be incorporated in the oil phase of the composition of the present invention.
Desirably, the composition according to the present invention has refractive index matching between (1) the aqueous phase and (2) the oil phase. In particular and preferably according to the present invention, a difference between the refractive index of (1) the aqueous phase, and (2) the oil phase and alkoxylated, alkyl substituted siloxane surface active agent, is less than 0.0005.
Composition according to the present invention can be clear. For example, illustratively, the composition according to the present invention has an optical clarity less than approximately 50 NTU (Nephelometric Turbidity Units) at room temperature (20xc2x0-25xc2x0 C.), preferably having a turbidity measurement of less than approximately 30 NTU, more preferably less than approximately 20 NTU. Turbidity measurements as discussed in the foregoing and discussed hereinafter, were made with an Orbeco-Hellige #965 Direct-Reading Turbidimeter.
The cosmetic gel composition of the present invention includes an antiperspirant active agent in an amount sufficient to have a deodorizing effect and/or in an amount sufficient to reduce the flow of perspiration when the composition is applied to a human. Such antiperspirants include those selected from the group consisting of any of the known antiperspirant active materials. These include, by way of example (and not of a limiting nature), aluminum chlorohydrate, aluminum chloride, aluminum sesquichlorohydrate, zirconyl hydroxychloride, aluminum-zirconium glycine complex (for example, aluminum zirconium trichlorohydrex gly, aluminum zirconium pentachlorohydrex gly, aluminum zirconium tetrachlorohydrex gly and aluminum zirconium octochlorohydrex gly), aluminum chlorohydrex PG, aluminum chlorohydrex PEG, aluminum dichlorohydrex PG, and aluminum dichlorohydrex PEG. The aluminum-containing materials can be commonly referred to as antiperspirant active aluminum salts. Generally, the foregoing metal antiperspirant active materials are antiperspirant active metal salts. In the embodiments which are antiperspirant compositions according to the present invention, such compositions need not include aluminum-containing metal salts, and can include other antiperspirant active materials, including other antiperspirant active metal salts. Generally, Category I active antiperspirant ingredients listed in the Food and Drug Administration""s Monograph on antiperspirant drugs for over-the-counter human use can be used. In addition, any new drug, not listed in the Monograph, such as aluminum nitratohydrate and its combination with zirconyl hydroxychlorides and nitrides, or aluminum-stannous chlorohydrates, can be incorporated as an antiperspirant active ingredient in antiperspirant compositions according to the present invention.
Particular types of antiperspirant actives include aluminum zirconium trichlorohydrex and aluminum zirconium tetrachlorohydrex either with or without glycine. A particular antiperspirant active is aluminum trichlorohydrex gly such as REZAL 36G (from Reheis Inc., Berldey Heights, N.J.) and WESTCHLOR 35BX3 (from Westwood Chemicals, Middletown, N.Y.).
Antiperspirant actives can be incorporated into compositions according to the present invention in amounts in the range of 0.1-25% of the final composition, but the amount used will depend on the formulation of the composition. For example, at amounts in the lower end of the broader range (for example, 0.1-9% on an actives basis), a deodorant effect may be observed. At lower levels the antiperspirant active material will not substantially reduce the flow of perspiration, but will reduce malodor, for example, by acting as an antimicrobial material. At amounts of 9-25% (on an actives basis) such as 15-25%, by weight, of the total weight of the composition, an antiperspirant effect may be observed.
Particularly preferred are antiperspirant actives having the specific low metal to chloride ratio specified above and those described in co-pending cases assigned to the same owner as this application (U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/693,231 filed on Oct. 20, 2000 and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/693,248 filed on Oct. 20, 2000. Another case of interest is U.S. Ser. No. 09/693,229 filed on Oct. 20, 2000.
Actives of special interest because they form low RI solutions include: Westchlor Zr 35BX3 (30-35% actives in water) from Westwood Chemical Company, Middletown, NY; Rezal 36G (46% in water) from Reheis Inc., Berkeley Heights, N.J.; Summit AZG-368 (28-32% in water) from Summit Research Labs, Huguenot, N.Y.; Reach 301 (39% in water) from Reheis Inc.; and aluminum chloride (28% in water) which may be obtained from several sources. In general, the metal:chloride mole ratio is approximately 1.4:1 for such salts.
In one particular type of salt of interest, an aluminum zirconium tetra salt with glycine is used wherein aluminum zirconium tetrachlorohydrex glycine salt having a metal to chloride ratio in the range of 0.9-1.2:1 (especially in the range of 0.9-1.1:1 and, more particularly in the range of 0.9-1.0:1); and a glycine:zirconium mole ratio greater than 1.3:1, particularly greater than 1.4:1. This type of salt may be made in a variety of ways as described in a co-pending case U.S. Ser. No. 09/693,231 referenced above.
Method A: An aluminum chlorohydrate (ACH) solution of ACH salt in water of suitable concentration is mixed with an aqueous solution of zirconyl chloride (ZrOCl2) of suitable concentration and powdered glycine. The mixture is stirred at room temperature to obtain the salt.
Method B: A suitable commercially available aluminum zirconium tetrachlorohydrex glycine salt is obtained and mixed with a sufficient amount of an aqueous aluminum chloride (AlCl3) solution and powdered glycine. The mixture is stirred at room temperature to obtain the salt. When Method B is used, a suitable salt to use as a starting material includes various types of tetra salts such as aluminum zirconium tetrachlorohydrex gly, aluminum zirconium tetrachlorohydrex gly propylene glycol complex, aluminum zirconium tetrachlorohydrex gly dipropylene glycol complex, and mixtures of any of the foregoing. These salts may be referred to hereinafter as experimental salts or carry an xe2x80x9cexpxe2x80x9d suffix in their designation. It is preferred that the experimental salt be used in the form of a 28-50% water solution when added to form the compositions of the invention.
Suitable silicone surfactants include silicone polyglucosides (for example, octyl dimethicone ethoxy glucoside) and silicone copolyols having an HLB value (hydrophilic lipophilic balance)xe2x89xa68. The HLB value may be measured in a variety of ways such as described in conventional references or found listed in tables of data recording such values. It is intended that any type of HLB measurement technique may be used.
A silicone copolyol (especially dimethicone copolyol) may be used in an amount of 0.05-0.5 weight % (actives basis), particularly 0.1-0.2% and, more particularly, 0.1-0.15%.
In general, silicone copolyols useful in the present invention include copolyols of the following Formulae I and II. Formula I materials may be represented by:
(R10)3xe2x80x94SiOxe2x80x94[(R11)2xe2x80x94SiO]xxe2x80x94[Si(R12)(Rbxe2x80x94Oxe2x80x94(C2H4O)pxe2x80x94(C3H6O)sxe2x80x94Rc)O]yxe2x80x94Sixe2x80x94(R13)3xe2x80x83xe2x80x83Formula I
wherein each of R10, R11, R12 and R13 may be the same or different and each is selected from the group consisting of C1-C6 alkyl; Rb is the radical xe2x80x94CmH2mxe2x80x94; Rc is a terminating radical which can be hydrogen, an alkyl group of one to six carbon atoms, an ester group such as acyl, or an aryl group such as phenyl; m has a value of two to eight; p and s have values such that the oxyalkylene segment xe2x80x94(C2H4O)pxe2x80x94(C3H6O)sxe2x80x94 has a molecular weight in the range of 200 to 5,000; the segment preferably having fifty to one hundred mole percent of oxyethylene units xe2x80x94(C2H4O)pxe2x80x94 and one to fifty mole percent of oxypropylene units xe2x80x94(C3H6O)sxe2x80x94; x has a value of 8 to 400; and y has a value of 2 to 40. Preferably each of R10, R11, R12 and R13 is a methyl group; Rc is H; m is preferably three or four whereby the group Rb is most preferably the radical xe2x80x94(CH2)3xe2x80x94; and the values of p and s are such as to provide a molecular weight of the oxyalkylene segment xe2x80x94(C2H4O)pxe2x80x94(C3H6O)sxe2x80x94 of between about 1,000 to 3,000. Most preferably p and s should each have a value of about 18to28.
A second siloxane polyether (copolyol) has the Formula II:
(R10)3xe2x80x94SiOxe2x80x94[(R11)2xe2x80x94SiO]xxe2x80x94[Si(R12)(Rbxe2x80x94Oxe2x80x94(C2H4O)pxe2x80x94Rc)O]yxe2x80x94Sixe2x80x94(R13)3xe2x80x83xe2x80x83Formula II
wherein p has a value of 6 to 16; x has a value of 6 to 100; and y has a value of 1 to 20 and the other moieties have the same definition as defined in Formula I.
It should be understood that in both Formulas I and II shown above, that the siloxane-oxyalkylene copolymers of the present invention may, in alternate embodiments, take the form of endblocked polyethers in which the linking group Rb, the oxyalkylene segments, and the terminating radical Rc occupy positions bonded to the ends of the siloxane chain, rather than being bonded to a silicon atom in the siloxane chain. Thus, one or more of the R10, R11, R12 and R13 substituents which are attached to the two terminal silicon atoms at the end of the siloxane chain can be substituted with the segment xe2x80x94Rbxe2x80x94Oxe2x80x94(C2H4O)pxe2x80x94(C3H6O)sxe2x80x94Rc or with the segment xe2x80x94Rbxe2x80x94Oxe2x80x94(C2H4O)pxe2x80x94Rc. In some instances, it may be desirable to provide the segment xe2x80x94Rbxe2x80x94Oxe2x80x94(C2H4O)pxe2x80x94(C3H6O)sxe2x80x94Rc or the segment xe2x80x94Rbxe2x80x94Oxe2x80x94(C2H4O)pxe2x80x94Rc at locations which are in the siloxane chain as well as at locations at one or both of the siloxane chain ends.
Particular examples of suitable dimethicone copolyols are available either commercially or experimentally from a variety of suppliers including Dow Corning Corporation, Midland, Mich.; General Electric Company, Waterford, N.Y.; Witco Corp., Greenwich, Conn.; and Goldschmidt Chemical Corporation, Hopewell, Va. Examples of specific products include DOW CORNING(copyright) 5225C from Dow Corning which is a 10% dimethicone copolyol in cyclomethicone; DOW CORNING(copyright) 2-5185C which is a 45-49% dimethicone copolyol in cyclomethicone; SILWET L-7622 from Witco; ABIL EM97 from Goldschmidt which is a 85% dimethicone copolyol in D5 cyclomethicone; and various dimethicone copolyols available either commercially or in the literature.
It should also be noted that various concentrations of the dimethicone copolyols in cyclomethicone can be used. While a concentration of 10% in cyclomethicone is frequently seen commercially, other concentrations can be made by stripping off the cyclomethicone or adding additional cyclomethicone. The higher concentration materials such as DOW CORNING(copyright) 2-5185 material is of particular interest.
In one particular embodiment 0.5-5 weight % (particularly 1.0-2.0%) of a 10% silicone copolyol such as dimethicone copolyol in cyclomethicone mixture may be used, wherein the amount of mixture added is selected so that the level of silicone copolyol in the cosmetic composition is in the range of 0.05-0.5% (particularly 0.1%) (for example, 1% of a 10% dimethicone copolyol in cyclomethicone mixture).
By volatile silicone material is meant a material that has a measurable vapor pressure at ambient temperature. For the volatile silicone portion, examples of volatile silicones (particularly silicones with a flash point of 100 degrees C or less at atmospheric pressure) include cyclomethicone (especially cyclopentasiloxane, also called xe2x80x9cD5xe2x80x9d), xe2x80x9chexamethyldisiloxanexe2x80x9d, and low viscosity dimethicone (for example, Dow Coming(copyright) 200 fluid having a viscosity of 0.5-5 centistokes). Such volatile silicones include conventional cyclic and linear volatile silicones Illustratively, and not by way of limitation, the volatile silicones are one or more members selected from the group consisting of cyclic polydimethylsiloxanes such as those represented by Formula III:
where n is an integer with a value of 3-7, particularly 5-6. For example, DC-245 fluid (or the DC-345 version) from Dow Coming Corporation (Midland, Mich.) is a type of cyclomethicone which can be used. These include a tetramer (or octylmethylcyclotetrasiloxane) and a pentamer (or decamethylcyclopentasiloxane). The volatile linear silicones can also be included in this group of volatile silicones and are one or more members selected from the group consisting of linear polydimethylsiloxanes such as those represented by Formula IV:
and t is selected to obtain a viscosity of 0.5-5 centistokes.
Examples of such volatile silicones include one or more members selected from the group consisting of D4, D5, and D6 cyclomethicones; and linear dimethicones having a viscosity in the range of 0.5-5 centistokes. Preferably the oil phase is a mixture of one or more of D4, D5 and D6 cyclomethicones (for example, a mixture of D5 and D6 cyclomethicones).
The viscosity of the final product should be in the range of 5-50,000 centipoise.
According to another aspect of the present invention, the aqueous phase of the clear cosmetic gel composition further optionally includes at least one polypropylene glycol. Illustratively, tripropylene glycol can be utilized as the polypropylene glycol. According to this aspect of the present invention, propylene glycol can be used in combination with the polypropylene glycols. Incorporation of the polypropylene glycol in the gel composition improves cosmetic properties, including a reduction of tack and a decrease in the whitening and in the residue after application of the composition. Moreover, compositions incorporating polypropylene glycol, particularly, tripropylene glycol, have improved mildness (that is, reduced skin irritation potential) relative to commercially available products.
Optionally one or more emollients may be included. Emollients are a known class of materials in this art, imparting a soothing effect to the skin. These are ingredients which help to maintain the soft, smooth, and pliable appearance of the skin. Emollients are also known to reduce whitening on the skin and/or improve aesthetics. Examples of chemical classes from which suitable emollients can be found include:
(a) fats and oils which are the glyceryl esters of fatty acids, or triglycerides, normally found in animal and plant tissues, including those which have been hydrogenated to reduce or eliminate unsaturation. Also included are synthetically prepared esters of glycerin and fatty acids. Isolated and purified fatty acids can be esterified with glycerin to yield mono-, di-, and triglycerides. These are relatively pure fats which differ only slightly from the fats and oils found in nature. The general structure may be represented by Formula VI:
wherein each of R1, R2, and R3 may be the same or different and each have a carbon chain length (saturated or unsaturated) of 7 to 25. Specific examples include peanut oil, sesame oil, avocado oil, coconut, cocoa butter, almond oil, safflower oil, corn oil, cotton seed oil, castor oil, hydrogenated castor oil, olive oil, jojoba oil, cod liver oil, palm oil, soybean oil, wheat germ oil, linseed oil, and sunflower seed oil;
(b) hydrocarbons which are a group of compounds containing only carbon and hydrogen. These are derived from petrochemicals. Their structures can vary widely and include aliphatic, alicyclic and aromatic compounds. Specific examples include paraffin, petrolatum, hydrogenated polyisobutene, and mineral oil.
(c) esters which chemically, are the covalent compounds formed between acids and alcohols. Esters can be formed from almost all acids (carboxylic and inorganic) and any alcohol. Esters here are derived from carboxylic acids and an alcohol. The general structure would be R4COxe2x80x94OR5. The total number of carbons in R4 and R5 combined is in he range of 7-40 and the carbons chain can be saturated or unsaturated, straight chained or branched. Specific examples include isopropyl myristate, isopropyl palmitate, isopropyl stearate, isopropyl isostearate, butyl stearate, octyl stearate, hexyl laurate, cetyl stearate, diisopropyl adipate, isodecyl oleate, diisopropyl sebacate, isostearyl lactate, C12-15 alkyl benzoates, myreth-3 myristate, dioctyl malate, neopentyl glycol diheptanoate, dipropylene glycol dibenzoate, C12-15 alcohols lactate, isohexyl decanoate, isohexyl caprate, diethylene glycol dioctanoate, octyl isononanoate, isodecyl octanoate, diethylene glycol diisononanoate, isononyl isononanoate, isostearyl isostearate, behenyl behenate, C12-15 alkyl fumarate, laureth-2 benzoate, propylene glycol isoceteth-3 acetate, propylene glycol ceteth-3 acetate, octyldodecyl myristate, cetyl ricinoleate, myristyl myristate.
(d) saturated and unsaturated fatty acids which are the carboxylic acids obtained by hydrolysis of animal or vegetable fats and oils. These have general structure R6COOH with the R6 group having a carbon chain length in the range of 7 and 25, straight chain or branched. Specific examples include lauric, myristic, palmitic, stearic, oleic, linoleic and behenic acid.
(e) saturated and unsaturated fatty alcohols (including guerbet alcohols) with general structure R7COH where R7 can be straight or branched and have 7 to 25 carbons. Specific examples include lauryl, myristyl, cetyl, isocetyl, stearyl, isostearyl, oleyl, ricinoleyl and erucyl alcohol;
(f) lanolin and its derivatives which are a complex esterified mixture of high molecular weight esters of (hydroxylated) fatty acids with aliphatic and alicyclic alcohols and sterols. General structures would include R8CH2xe2x80x94(OCH2CH2)nOH where R8 represents the fatty groups derived from lanolin and n=5 to 75 or R9COxe2x80x94(OCH2CH2)nOH where R9COxe2x80x94 represents the fatty acids derived from lanolin and n=5 to 100. Specific examples include lanolin, lanolin oil, lanolin wax, lanolin alcohols, lanolin fatty acids, isopropyl lanolate, ethoxylated lanolin and acetylated lanolin alcohols.
(g) alkoxylated alcohols wherein the alcohol portion is selected from aliphatic alcohols having 2-18 and more particularly 4-18 carbons, and the alkylene oxide portion is selected from the group consisting of ethylene oxide, and propylene oxide having a number of alkylene oxide units from 2-53 and, more particularly, from 2-15. Examples include cetyl glyceryl ether; isostearyl glyceryl ether; isostearyl glyceryl pentaerythrityl ether; laureth-5 butyl ether; oleyl glyceryl ether; PEG-4 ditallow ether; polyglyceryl-3 cetyl ether; polyglyceryl-4 lauryl ether; PPG-9 diglyceryl ether; propylene glycol myristyl ether. More specific examples include PPG-14 butyl ether, PPG-53 butyl ether laureth-5 butyl ether and PEG-4 ditallow ether.
(h) ethers selected from the group consisting of dicaprylyl ether; dicetyl ether; dimethyl ether; distearyl ether; ethyl ether; isopropyl hydroxycetyl ether; methyl hexyl ether; polyvinyl methyl ether;
(i) silicones as the linear organo-substituted polysiloxanes which are polymers of silicon/oxygen with general structure:
(1) (R10)3SiO(Si (R11)2O)xSi(R12)3 where R10, R11 and R12 can be the same or different and are each independently selected from the group consisting of phenyl and C1-C60 alkyl; or
(2) HO(R14)2SiO(Si (R15)2O)xSi(R16)2OH, where R14, R15 and R16 can be the same or different and are each independently selected from the group consisting of phenyl and C1-C60 alkyl; (with specific examples including dimethicone, dimethiconol behenate, C30-45 alkyl methicone, stearoxytrimethylsilane, phenyl trimethicone and stearyl dimethicone).
(j) adipic acid blends selected from the group consisting of trimethyl pentanediol/adipic acid copolymer (LEXOREZ TL8 from Inolex, Philadelphia, Pa.); trimethyl pentanediol/adipic acid/isononanoic acid copolymer (LEXOREZ TC8); and adipic acid/diethylene glycol/glycerin crosspolymer (LEXOREZ 100);
(k) mixtures and blends of two or more of the foregoing.
A particular grouping of emollients is as follows in a total amount of 0-10 weight percent:
(i) fats and oils which are animal or plant based, saturated or unsaturated glyceryl esters of fatty acids, or triglycerides; synthetically prepared esters of glycerin and fatty acids; fats and oils represented by Formula VI:
xe2x80x83wherein each of R1, R2, and R3 may be the same or different and have a carbon chain length (saturated or unsaturated) of 7 to 25;
(ii) hydrocarbons which are aliphatic, alicyclic or aromatic compounds and have 7-40 carbons;
(iii) esters of formula R4COxe2x80x94OR5 wherein the number of carbons in R4 and R5 combined is in the range of 7-40 and can be saturated or unsaturated, straight chained or branched;
(iv) saturated and unsaturated fatty acids of formula R6COOH wherein R6 is an alkyl group having a carbon chain length between 7 and 25, straight chain or branched;
(v) saturated and unsaturated fatty alcohols of formula R7COH where R7 is an alkyl group having a carbon length of 7 to 25;
(vi) lanolin and its derivatives which are a complex esterified mixture of high molecular weight esters of (hydroxylated) fatty acids with aliphatic and alicyclic alcohols and sterols of formula R8CH2xe2x80x94(OCH2CH2)nOH where R8 is a fatty group derived from lanolin and n=5 to 75 or formula R9COxe2x80x94(OCH2CH2)nOH where R9COxe2x80x94 is a fatty acid derivative derived from lanolin and n=5 to 100;
(vii) alkoxylated alcohols wherein the alcohol portion is selected from aliphatic alcohols having 2-18 carbons, and the alkylene oxide portion is selected from the group consisting of ethylene oxide, and propylene oxide having a number of alkylene oxide units from 2-53;
(viii) ethers selected from the group consisting of dicaprylyl ether; dicetyl ether; dimethyl ether; distearyl ether; ethyl ether; isopropyl hydroxycetyl ether; methyl hexyl ether; polyvinyl methyl ether;
(ix) silicones which are linear organo-substituted polysiloxanes that are polymers of silicon/oxygen with general structure selected from the group consisting of:
(1) (R10)3SiO(Si (R11)2O)xSi(R12)3 where R10, R11 and R12 can be the same or different and are each independently selected from the group consisting of phenyl and C1-C60 alkyl; and
(2) HO(R14)2SiO(Si (R15)2O)xSi(R16)2OH, where R14, R15 and R16 can be the same or different and are each independently selected from the group consisting of phenyl and C1-C60 alkyl;
(xi) adipic acid blends selected from the group consisting of trimethyl pentanediol/adipic acid copolymer; trimethyl pentanediol/adipic acid/isononanoic acid copolymer; and adipic acid/diethylene glycol/glycerin crosspolymer; and
(xii) mixtures and blends of two or more of the foregoing.
Particular examples of suitable emollients include members of the group consisting of Octyloxyglyderin (SENSIVA SC50 from Schuilke Mayr, Norderstedt, Germany) (which can be used as an emollient as well as an antibacterial); Polysorbate 80 (TWEEN 80 from ICI Americas, Wilmington, Del.); Oleth-20; ethoxylated alcohols such as steareth-2, nonoxynol-2, PPG-4-Ceteth-1; ethoxylated carboxylic acids such as PEG-4 dilaurate, PEG-2 oleate; glyceryl esters such as PEG-2 castor oil, polyglyceryl-3 oleate, glyceryl stearate; sorbitan derivatives such as sorbitan oleate; PPG-3 myristyl ether (such as WITCONOL APM from Goldschmidt), a dimethiconol (such as Dow Coming(copyright) DC1501 dimethiconol), neopentyl glycol diheptanoate, PEG-8 laurate, isocetyl stearate, dimethicone copolyol laurate, Dow Coming 2501 cosmetic wax (dimethicone copolyol); isostearyl isostearate, isostearyl palmitate, isostearyl alcohol, PPG-5-ceteth-20, PPG-10-cetyl ether, triethyl hexanoin, ethyl hexyl isostearate, glyceryl oleate, isopropyl isostearate PPG-3 myristyl ether, hydrogenated polyisobutene, C12-15 alkyl benzoate and dimethicones having a viscosity in the range of 20-10,000 centistokes.
Even more particular examples include PPG-3 myristyl ether, hydrogenated polyisobutene, C12-15 alkyl benzoate and dimethicones having a viscosity in the range of 100-1000 centistokes.
The emollient or emollient mixture or blend thereof incorporated in compositions according to the present invention can, illustratively, be included in amounts of 0.5-10%, preferably 1-5%, more preferably 3-5%, by weight, of the total weight of the composition.
In one embodiment of the invention, the oil phase of the cosmetic gel composition according to the present invention includes a volatile silicone fluid and an emollient. Preferably, such emollient, which can be a silicone material (such as phenyl trimethicone), is the material of the oil phase having the high refractive index, and has a refractive index higher than that of the volatile silicone fluid and higher than that of the non-volatile silicone fluid (that is, this emollient is, desirably, a high refractive index emollient compatible with the silicone fluids of the oil phase).
The objectives of the present invention are also achieved through the method of forming the liquid cosmetic gel compositions described herein. In this method, an aqueous-based phase comprising water and the antiperspirant active is formed. Also formed is an oil-based phase containing at least a high refractive index material (a material having a refractive index in the range of 1.3950 to 1.55) and an alkoxylated, alkyl substituted siloxane surface active agent, and desirably other silicone fluids. The refractive index of the oil-based phase is determined, and, if necessary, adjusted to be in the range from about 1.4000 to about 1.4100, and the refractive index of the aqueous-based phase is determined and adjusted (if necessary) to differ from the refractive index of the oil-based phase by less than 0.0005. The aqueous-based phase is then mixed with the oil-based phase (for example, the aqueous-based phase is slowly added to the oil-based phase with turbulent agitation), and then additional additives, such as fragrance and color or other active ingredients, are added with mixing. The resulting emulsion is then passed through, for example, a colloid mill or other high shear emulsifier so as to provide a viscous gel, the gel then being transferred to a suitable applicator or container for use by the consumer. Desirably, according to the present invention the aqueous-based phase further includes polypropylene glycol, such as tripropylene glycol, providing advantages in the final product as discussed previously.
The compositions according to the present invention are used as conventional cosmetic gel compositions. For example, where the composition according to the present invention is a clear antiperspirant soft gel composition, packaged in a dispensing container having a top surface with slots or pores, the gel is extruded from the dispensing container through the slots or pores and applied to the skin (for example, in axillary regions of the human body) by rubbing the soft gel material extruded through the top surface of the container on the skin in the axillary region.
As a further aspect of the present invention, the dispensing container is a clear container, so as to exhibit the clarity of the composition of the present invention.
The composition has reduced tack, a cool sensation, and a silky feel and imparts much less or no white residue on dry down compared to commercially available products. Moreover, compositions of the present invention incorporating a polypropylene glycol component (especially tripropylene glycol) have improved mildness (have reduced skin irritation potential) as compared to commercially available products, and have improved cosmetic properties (including reduced tackiness) and reduced white residue upon application.
Throughout the present disclosure, the present invention is described primarily in connection with a clear liquid gel antiperspirant and/or deodorant composition.
Throughout the present specification, the antiperspirant active materials, when utilized in an antiperspirant effective amount in the composition, act to reduce body malodor by reducing production of perspiration; however, these antiperspirant active materials can also have a deodorant function, e.g., as an antimicrobial agent. The deodorant active materials do not substantially reduce the production of perspiration, but reduce malodor in other ways, e.g., as fragrances masking the malodor or reducing the malodor intensity, as odor absorbents, as antimicrobial agents, as agents chemically reacted with malodorous materials, etc.
Throughout the present specification, where compositions are described as including or comprising specific components or materials, it is contemplated by the inventors that the compositions of the present invention also consist essentially of, or consist of, the recited components or materials. Accordingly, throughout the present disclosure any described composition of the present invention can consist essentially of, or consist of, the recited components or materials.
A desired feature of the present invention is that a clear, or transparent, cosmetic gel composition (e.g., clear or transparent deodorant or antiperspirant gel composition) can be provided. The term clear or transparent (that is clarity), according to the present invention, is intended to connote its usual dictionary definition; thus, a clear, e.g., cosmetic gel composition of the present invention allows ready viewing of objects behind it. By contrast, a translucent composition allows light to pass through, but causes the light to be so scattered that it will be impossible to see clearly objects behind the translucent composition. Optical clarity of compositions of the present invention can be measured using a turbidmeter, and desirably is less than 50 NTU measured at room temperature (20xc2x0-25xc2x0 C.).
An optically clear cosmetic (e.g., antiperspirant or deodorant) gel composition that is visually clear, and, like glass, allows for the viewing of the objects behind it, can be achieved. In particular, a composition having an optical clarity less than 50 NTU at room temperature (20xc2x0-25xc2x0 C.), preferably having a turbidity measurement less than 30 NTU, more preferably less than 20 NTU, can be achieved.
Moreover, the clear cosmetic gel composition of the present invention, which is in the form of a macro-emulsion as contrasted to a micro-emulsion, does not need to contain wax or gelling agents such as soaps, cellulosic materials or alginates. Furthermore, the composition according to the present invention does not require polydimethylcyclosiloxane, although the present compositions may contain this material.
The gel emulsions according to the present invention are stable and optically clear, are cosmetically elegant, and are capable of being delivered from a suitable applicator package. They are easily applied to the skin and have a smooth, silky feel and a cool sensation, yet are fast drying and non-tacky. These compositions of the present invention may be prepared by a batch process, or a continuous or semi-continuous process, and the processes yield compositions which are stable, highly efficacious and possess excellent aesthetic qualities.
The amount of active component that can be used will vary with the particular active ingredient incorporate. As a general rule, an antiperspirant product should contain an active antiperspirant material in an amount anywhere from about 9% to about 25% by weight, of the total weight of the composition. The active antiperspirant material utilized in the compositions of the present invention can be pre-dissolved in water or in another solvent (for example, in propylene glycol), and may be buffered or unbuffered. Preferably, the antiperspirant materials are present in solution in a solvent.
Where a deodorant active material is utilized other than lower amounts of an antiperspirant active (which can be used in amounts in the range of 0.1-9.0 weight %), any deodorant active material, which can be dissolved in the oil phase, can be utilized in an amount sufficient to have a deodorant effect. Illustratively, the deodorant active material can be 2,4,4xe2x80x2-trichloro-2xe2x80x2-hydroxy diphenyl ether (triclosan), and/or benzethonium chloride. Where the deodorant ingredient is used in place of the antiperspirant active ingredient, a deodorant gel composition (rather than an antiperspirant gel composition) would be provided.
The aqueous phase includes at least water (refractive index of 1.3333) and 0-10 weight % of one or a combination of various other polar species. Other polar species include polyhydric alcohols and ethers thereof (for example, tripropylene glycol, diethylene glycol monoethyl ether). Illustratively, water can be included in the compositions in an amount in the range of 30% to 70% by weight, of the total weight of the composition (for example, 50-60%).
The oil phase according to the present invention is, desirably, a silicone oil phase, so as to provide a water-in-silicone oil emulsion. The total of oil phase and siloxane surface-active agent preferably makes up from about 10% to about 24% by weight, of the total weight of the composition. This surface-active agent is an emulsifier which, when properly mixed with the aqueous phase components, oil phase components and coupling agents, yields a water-in-oil emulsion. The oil phase is desirably a blend of liquids, but does not contain any significant amount of non-volatiles (that is, less than 5.0 weight % of any material having a flash point greater than 100 degrees C.)
The oil phase can include, illustratively, a volatile silicone fluid such as one or more of D4, D5 and D6 cyclomethicones, as well as phenyl dimethicone. Where the composition includes the volatile silicone, it is preferred that such volatile silicone be a polydimethylcyclosiloxane, present in an amount up to about 23.95% by weight, of the total weight of the composition, preferably from about 10% to about 20% by weight, of the total weight of the composition. Preferred polydimethylcyclosiloxanes are those named cyclomethicones, exemplified by the formula ((CH3)2SiO)x where x is a number from about 4 to about 6. Preferred cyclosiloxanes are octamethylcyclotetrasiloxane (x=4), decamethylcyclopentasiloxane (x=5) and blends of tetramer and pentamer cyclomethicones. Commercial cyclosiloxanes which can be utilized as part of the composition of the present invention include, illustratively, Dow Coming 244 fluid, Dow Coming 245 fluid, Dow Coming 344 fluid and Dow Coming 345 fluid (from Dow Coming Corp.).
Preferably the oil phase is a mixture of volatile silicone fluids such as one or more of D4, D5 and D6 cyclomethicones, especially D5 and D6 cyclomethicones.
A particular example of an alkoxylated, alkyl substituted siloxane surface active agent is preferably, but not limited to, a dimethicone copolyol. An illustrative alkoxylated silicone-containing surfactant utilizable according to the present invention is cetyl dimethicone copolyol, referred to in U.S. Pat. No. 5,162,378 to Guthauser. Illustratively, the alkoxylated, alkyl substituted siloxane surface active agent is included in the composition in an amount of 0.05% to 0.5% by weight, of the total weight of the composition. Another example of a suitable surfactant is octyl dimethicone ethoxy glucoside (from Wacker-Belsil, Adrian, Mich.).
A specific cyclomethicone-dimethicone copolyol fluid which can be utilized to provide the alkoxylated silicone-containing surface-active agent is a mixture of cyclomethicone and dimethicone copolyol designated as DC 5225C from Dow Coming Corporation. This is a polyether substituted silicone of cyclomethicone and dimethicone copolyol (refractive index (RI)=1.3994) at about 20-25 degrees C. This DC 5225C, which is an emulsifying agent, is useful for preparing stable water-in-oil emulsions where a silicone makes up a large portion of the oil phase, and is a dispersion of a silicone surfactant (dimethicone copolyol) (10% by wt.) in cyclomethicone (Dow Coming 344 Fluid) (90% by weight).
The mixture of cyclomethicone and dimethicone copolyol fluid is present in the composition, illustratively, in an amount of from about 9% to about 24% by weight, of the total weight of the composition.
Various materials incorporated in the water-based phase and in the oil-based phase, and their refractive indices (as measured using the Bausch and Lomb Abbe 3L Refractometer) are set forth in the following:
Particular formulations of the products of the invention include the following:
0.5-5.0 weight % dimethicone copolyol/cyclomethicone (10%) (for example, Dow Coming 5225C);
10-20 weight % cyclomethicone (D4, D5, D6 or mixtures thereof);
0-5.0 weight % PPG-3 myristyl ether;
0-5.0 weight % of an additional emollient selected from the group consisting of straight or branched chain hydrocarbons and alkyl esters having 8-18 carbons (for example, C12-15 alkyl benzoate such as FINSOLV TN from Finetex, Elmwood Park, N.J.) and hydrogenated polyisobutene (for example Polyiso 250 from the Fanning Corp., Chicago, Ill.);
0-1.0 weight % sage oil (any type such as Clary or Dalmation);
0-5 weight % fragrance;
10-20 weight % antiperspirant active (for example, Alxe2x80x94Zr tetrachlorohydrex gly (such as Z-522, 30% from Summit Research Labs, Huguenot, N.Y. as described in U.S. Ser. No. 09/693,231 referenced above));
50-60 weight % water;
0-5 weight % of one or glycols selected from propylene glycol, dipropylene glycol and tripropylene glycol;
wherein the composition has a phase ratio in the range of 10:90-24:76 of oil to water and a viscosity in the range of 5-50,000 centipoise.


A single site catalysed ethylene polymer including ethylene and optionally at least one comonomer having a Mw/Mn of less than 5 and wherein the total amount of unsaturations of the ethylene polymer is at least 0.8.

An advantageous base material for polyethylene cross-linked pipes (PEX pipe) is a narrow molecular weight distribution (nMWD) polyethylene with high crosslinking potential and low content of odour active components. High reactivity towards crosslinking can be achieved by ensuring a high degree of unsaturation in the polymer.
It is known that nMWD can be achieved by Single Site Catalyst (SSC) technology but normally these polymers have a relatively low crosslinking potential compared to for example, chromium catalyst produced polyethylene (Cr-PE). Cr-PE contains a large number of unsaturations making it readily cross-linkable.
In single site catalysis however, it is normal to control molecular weight using hydrogen and this makes a significant difference to the structure of the polymer. When a propagating PE molecule is terminated by hydrogen, the polyethylene molecule is saturated at the terminus and hence there are low levels of unsaturation in the formed polymer. It is therefore difficult to increase the content of unsaturations in SSC PE resins.
One way of introducing unsaturation into the backbone of a single site produced polyethylene is to employ dienes or other multifunctional compounds as comonomers. However, these comonomers have rather high odour, low reactivity, and residual unreacted comonomers maybe hard to remove, causing unacceptable organoleptic properties.
The conventional route therefore to achieving highly unsaturated polymers is by employing a particular catalyst which is autoterminating, e.g. Cr catalysts. Polymers made using Cr catalysis typically have one unsaturation per polymer molecule. It is known, however, that these catalysts give broad molecular weight distribution polyethylenes (e.g. Mw/Mn values of much greater than 10) which are not favoured in the crosslinking process and, as they form oligomers, which are associated with unacceptable organoleptic properties.
One solution might be therefore to use the single site materials and tolerate the low level of unsaturation present and simply add more cross-linking agent to achieve the necessary cross-linking degree. However to cross-link such a polymer requires much higher levels of cross-linking agents or doses of radiation to achieve a certain degree of X-linking. This has cost, odour and safety implications and is not favoured.
There remains therefore a need to produce single site polyethylene (SSC PE) resins for PEX pipe applications but with increased levels of unsaturation to mimic chromium polyethylene like unsaturations but with narrow molecular weight distribution and good organoleptic properties. The polymer should also possess good processability and pipes formed from the polymer should have advantageous torque properties.
WO2010/049170 discloses single site catalysed polymers with Mw/Mn values of less than 5 but hydrogen is used in their formation. The absence of hydrogen is important during manufacturing to achieve the necessary unsaturation content which forms part of the invention. Hydrogen is used both in loop and gas phases in the examples of WO2010/049170.
US2003/0130445 describes polypropylene polymers which may contain ethylene as a comonomer but these polymers are not polyethylenes which must have a high ethylene content.
The abstract of JP03-099832 discusses the formation of crosslinked polyethylene pipes using a radical generating agent, silane compound and powdery polyethylene where the number of double bonds per 1000 C atoms is 0.5 or more. The Mw/Mn values are not reported as being low as required herein.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,446,221 is not in the field of pipes but the polymers therein are characterised by a high terminal ethenylidene type unsaturation in which 95% or more of the polymer chains possess such an unsaturation. The ethylene content of the polymers in U.S. Pat. No. 5,446,221 is however, 20 to 80 wt % and these polymers are therefore rubbers. At the comonomer content levels in U.S. Pat. No. 5,446,221, very low densities will be exhibited.


Methods, systems, and computer program products for controlling communications between network applications and multiple network communications protocol stacks using deferred protocol stack association are disclosed. In one method, a socket creation function call is received from an application. A socket creation function call is terminated, a pseudo communications endpoint is created, and a socket descriptor corresponding to the pseudo communications endpoint is returned to the application. At least one subsequent sockets-related function call is received. Based on the subsequent sockets-related function call, it is determined whether the application is a client or a server. In response to determining that the application is a server, communications endpoints are created on each of the network communications protocol stacks and server-related sockets function calls are made to each of the underlying protocol stacks. In response to determining that the application is a client, a protocol stack is selected, a protocol-stack-specific communications endpoint is created, and client-related sockets function calls are made to the underlying protocol-stack.

In computer networks, application programs communicate with other application programs through network communications protocol stacks, such as TCP/IP protocol stacks. Network communications protocol stacks are usually implemented in software that is part of computer operating systems. Network applications access network communications protocol stacks via function calls provided by application programming interfaces (APIs) to the computer operating systems. One common application programming interface for accessing network communications protocol stacks is referred to as the sockets application programming interface. The sockets application programming interface was originally developed by the University of California at Berkeley as an interface to the TCP/IP protocol stack of the Berkeley UNIX operating system. AT&T developed a similar interface, based on a streams implementation referred to as Transport Layer Interface or (TLI), for the System V UNIX operating system. The Berkeley sockets interface has been adapted for use with the WINDOWS™ operating system. The WINDOWS™ version is often referred to as WINDOWS™ Sockets or Winsock.
The term "socket," as used herein, refers to a data structure identified by a descriptor that an application uses to communicate with a remote application via a local communications protocol stack and is not intended to be limited to any operating-system-specific data structure. A socket may be created using a socket creation function call provided by a sockets API or a streams function call provided by a streams API. The function call returns a socket descriptor to the calling application that the application uses to send and receive data over a network in a manner similar to the way that an application reads and writes data to a file using a file descriptor. The term "sockets layer," as used herein, is not intended to be limited to any operating-system-specific transport interface and instead is intended to refer generically to an application programming interface for accessing a network communications protocol stack, such as the sockets API or the streams transport layer interface (TLI).
Communications protocol stacks, sockets layers, and applications are typically implemented in different software layers. FIG. 1 illustrates a network application, a sockets layer, and a software-implemented network communications protocol stack. Referring to FIG. 1, network application 100 may be a client or a server that desires to communicate with other applications over a computer network. A sockets layer 102 provides sockets-related function calls that allow network application 100 to access a network communications protocol stack 104. In the illustrated example, network communications protocol stack 104 is a TCP/IP protocol stack. TCP/IP protocol stack 104 implements reliable, connection-oriented communications over an unreliable network. Exemplary functions performed by TCP/IP protocol stack include connection establishment and tear-down, message sequencing, timeout and retransmission, congestion control, and network layer routing. TCP/IP protocol stack 104 accesses underlying network 110 via network interfaces 106 and 108. Network interfaces 106 and 108 may be any suitable physical layer interfaces, such as Ethernet interfaces, for sending and receiving data over underlying network or networks 110. For example, network interfaces 106 and 108 may be connected to different IP subnets.
One problem with the architecture illustrated in FIG. 1 is that network communications protocol stack 104 consumes a large amount of processor cycles. For example, a TCP/IP protocol stack 104 implements connection establishment and tear-down, timeouts, retransmission, and other functions for each connection implemented through TCP/IP protocol stack 104. If network application 100 is a server, network application 100 may have multiple simultaneous connections through TCP/IP protocol stack 104. Concurrency can also exist in network clients, again resulting in multiple simultaneous connections through protocol stack 104. As a result, the processing required to implement TCP/IP protocol stack 104 is multiplied by the number of simultaneous connections. The processor that executes the instructions that implement TCP/IP protocol stack 104 becomes overloaded and the time for network application 100 to service each connection is increased.
In order to avoid the processor overload conditions that can be caused by software-implemented network communications protocol stacks, portions of network communications protocol stacks have been implemented in hardware. For example, hardware-implemented network communications protocol stacks, referred to as TCP offload engines or TOEs, move the data path of the network communications protocol stack to hardware, while the control portion of the network communications protocol stack is implemented in software. Moving the data path of the network communications protocol stack into hardware frees processor cycles to perform other functions, such as accepting more connections or performing application functions.
FIG. 2 is an example of a network communications protocol stack in which portions of the processing required for implementing the network communications protocol stack have been moved to hardware. Referring to FIG. 2, network communications protocol stack 200 includes TCP offload engines 202 and 204 that implement the data path portion of the TCP/IP protocol stack and a TCP/IP control layer 206 that implements the control portion of the TCP/IP protocol stack. TCP offload engines 202 and 204 may be implemented in hardware and may include integrated network interfaces for communicating over network 110. The data path portion of the TCP/IP protocol stack that may be implemented by TCP offload engines 202 and 204 may include sending and receiving data over network 110. The control portion of the TCP/IP protocol stack implemented by TCP/IP control layer 206 may include connection setup, connection tear down, and exceptions handling. TCP control layer 206 may be implemented in software. TCP/IP offload engines 202 and 204 share state information with TCP control layer 206. By off-loading portions of the TCP/IP protocol stack to hardware, the architecture illustrated in FIG. 2 increases the communication efficiency between application 100 and other applications.
Even though the architecture illustrated in FIG. 2 includes multiple TCP offload engines, the architecture functions as a single TCP/IP protocol stack, and a socket is associated with protocol stack when the socket is created. For example, when application 100 makes a socket creation function call via sockets layer 102, a socket is created and associated with protocol stack 206. This association is fixed for the life of the socket and cannot be altered using existing sockets APIs. While such an architecture may be useful in certain situations, future architectures may include multiple TCP/IP protocol stacks. However, because sockets layer 102 fixes the association between a socket and a communications protocol stack at socket creation time, an application can only communicate with remote applications over one protocol stack. If data arrives over a different protocol stack from the protocol stack with which the application's socket is associated, the data will not reach the application. Alternatively, the application must create a socket for each protocol stack, requiring the application to be aware of each protocol stack in the system. Requiring the application to be aware of each protocol stack in the system greatly increases the complexity of application design.
Accordingly, there exists a long felt need for methods, systems, and computer program products for controlling communications between network applications and a plurality of network communications protocol stacks.

Methods, systems, and computer program products for transparently controlling communications between network applications and a plurality of network communications protocol stacks using deferred protocol stack association


A self-play cat's cradle toy temporarily holds a string loop configuration while a user frees her hands in order to retrieve the string loop and advance it through successive string loop configurations. The toy comprises a base, first and second arms, digits supported by each of the arms, an actuator operative to move at least one arm closer to the other, and a surface provided on at least a portion of some of the digits which is configured to resist release of the string loop when the string loop is brought into a taut condition. A method for self-play cat's cradle is also provided.

The game of cat's cradle is well known to many children across the globe. In that game, a loop of string is seated around a person's hand and the person manipulates the string with their fingers in order to position the string in a first configuration. A second person then takes a turn by grasping the string at strategic locations and transferring the loop to that person's hands in order to place the string in a new configuration. The loop of string is transferred back and forth through successive configurations, and that is how the game is played. Persons familiar with the cat's cradle game know that the shapes go through a progression starting with the cat's cradle and continuing to the manger, candles, cat's eye, diamonds, etc. Referring to FIGS. 10A–10E, the sequence of operations is illustrated in which a person positions the string about their hands (FIG. 10A), loops the string about each palm (FIG. 10B), moves the inner loop across each middle finger (FIGS. 10C and 10D) in order to form the cat's cradle. In FIG. 10E, a first step in transferring that shape to a second player is illustrated. The second player goes through a series of maneuvers while the first player maintains the string in a taut condition until the second user is ready to transfer the string to his or her hands.
An improvement in the art of such amusement and educational devices would be a self-play cat's cradle toy that permits a single user to manipulate a loop of string through a series of desired configurations. The present invention satisfies this and other needs.


A multigate field effect transistor includes two fin-shaped structures and a dielectric layer. The fin-shaped structures are located on a substrate. The dielectric layer covers the substrate and the fin-shaped structures. At least two voids are located in the dielectric layer between the two fin-shaped structures. Moreover, the present invention also provides a multigate field effect transistor process for forming said multigate field effect transistor including the following steps. Two fin-shaped structures are formed on a substrate. A dielectric layer covers the substrate and the two fin-shaped structures, wherein at least two voids are formed in the dielectric layer between the two fin-shaped structures.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates generally to a multigate field effect transistor and a process thereof, and more specifically to a multigate field effect transistor and a process thereof that forms voids in a dielectric layer between fin-shaped structures.
2. Description of the Prior Art
With increasing miniaturization of semiconductor devices, various multi-gate MOSFET devices have been developed. The multi-gate MOSFET is advantageous for the following reasons. First, manufacturing processes of multi-gate MOSFET devices can be integrated into traditional logic device processes, and thus are more compatible. In addition, since the three-dimensional structure of the multi-gate MOSFET increases the overlapped area between the gate and the substrate, the channel region is controlled more effectively. This therefore reduces drain-induced barrier lowering (DIBL) effect and short channel effect. Moreover, the channel region is longer for the same gate length. Therefore, the current between the source and the drain is increased.
A multigate field effect transistor component includes fin-shaped structures on a substrate, and a gate structure and a source/drain on each of the fin-shaped structures, to form multigate field effect transistors having multi gate channels. However, assizes of multigate field effect transistors shrink, the parasitic capacitances between each of the fin-shaped structures become large and degrade electrical performances of the multigate field effect transistors.

Multigate field effect transistor and process thereof


The invention relates to a process for the production of light-colored surfactants in which the surfactants are stabilized before bleaching by addition of antioxidants.

1. Field of the invention
This invention relates to a process for the production of light-colored surfactants, in which the surfactants are stabilized before bleaching by addition of antioxidants.
2. Statement of Related Art
Most surface-active compounds of the anionic surfactant type, but also certain nonionic surfactants, such as alkyl oligoglycosides for example, are dark in color from their production, for example as a result of oxidation and condensation processes. Although this discoloration has little or no adverse effect on the performance properties of the compounds, only those compounds which have been lightened in color by subsequent bleaching are suitable for subsequent processing on aesthetic grounds. Peroxygen compounds, such as for example hydrogen peroxide, perborates or percarbonates, are normally used for this purpose, having almost completely displaced the hypochlorites often previously used.
There has been no shortage of attempts in the past further to improve the color quality of surfactants which, despite bleaching, has often been unsatisfactory. For example, it is proposed in WO 93/13113 (Henkel) to enhance the effect of the hydrogen peroxide by using various bleaching boosters, such as for example magnesium ions and the like. Although it has been found in practice that products with a distinctly improved color are obtained, their stability in storage is still far from satisfactory.
Accordingly, the problem addressed by the present invention was to remedy this deficiency by providing a process that would give products which would be light in color immediately after bleaching and which would remain stable, even after prolonged storage at --optionally --relatively high temperatures.

Process for the production of light-colored surfactants


A wavelength filter, includes a grating in which a first portion extends in X direction on a substrate surface and a second portion extends in the X direction along the first portion and are alternately arranged in Y direction perpendicular to the X direction on the substrate surface at a constant cycle shorter than a wavelength of light to be used. A cross-sectional figure of respective first portions in the Y direction and perpendicular to the substrate surface is provided with at least one protruding portion so as to have the width in the Y direction wider than neighboring portions. Plural waveguide layers parallel to the substrate surface are divided by regions parallel to the substrate surface. Wavelength bands of light reflected from the plural waveguide layers shift while overlapping with each other to reflect a wavelength band broader than that reflected from a single waveguide layer.

When constituting an optical system, there is such case that only a light with a specified wavelength is output to perform optical treatment. An optical device capable of outputting the light of bandwidth including a specified wavelength is referred to as a wavelength filter. The wavelength filter can be produced by evaporating a thin film material with a high refractive index and a thin film material with a low refractive index on a substrate of glass or plastic. The wavelength or bandwidth can be adjusted by altering the number of evaporation and thickness of the thin film. In order to enhance the wavelength selectivity, however, the number of evaporation and/or thickness of the thin film are required to be increased. Accordingly, the production process becomes complicated to push up the cost and, since the constitution becomes complicated, the suppression of variation of performance becomes difficult.
Recently, such wavelength filter is proposed that has a simpler construction and a sharp wavelength selectivity, the wavelength filter being produced by forming a diffraction grating having a microscopic periodic structure on a substrate surface, and depositing a high refractive index medium thereon. The wavelength filter has such characteristic that can reflect only a very narrow wavelength band of several nanometers or less, while utilizing the localization (confinement) and scattering effects of light in a periodic structure referred to as a resonance phenomenon. For example, S. S. Wang and R. Magnusson: "Theory and application of guided-mode resonance filters," Applied Optics Vol. 32 No. 14 2606-2613 (1993) discloses a wavelength filter having narrow-band reflection spectrum by arranging a grating structure in which a material of low refractive index and a material of high refractive index are alternately arranged in a period shorter than the wavelength.
FIG. 9 is a drawing showing the constitution of the above-described wavelength filter. On the surface of a substrate 701, a diffraction grating that composed of a portion 703 and portion 705 and has a period A shorter than the wavelength λ of light to be used is formed. The portion 703 and portion 705 are composed of materials with different refractive indices. The portion 703 and portion 705 form a layer 707.
When light enters, under a predetermined condition, diffracted lights of +1 order and −1 order is generated, whose waves proceed in a state nearly horizontal to the substrate surface and which can exist only in the layer 707. The wave of light is referred to as an evanescent wave, and the layer 707 is referred to as a waveguide layer. The predetermined condition is represented by the following formula when representing the angle of incident light by θ:
                    [                  Mathematical                                                              Formula                                                              1                ]                                                            β        =                                                            2                                                                                π                            λ                                    sin                                                                          θ                    +                                    2                                                                                π                        Λ                                              (        1        )            wherein β is a propagation factor. When representing the average refractive index of the waveguide layer 707 by[Mathematical Formula 2] n,β is represented by the formula:
                    [                  Mathematical                                                              Formula                                                              3                ]                                                            β        ≈                                            2                                                                                π                        λ                                                        n              _                        .                                              (        2        )
The thickness of the waveguide layer 707 satisfies the following formula:
                    [                  Mathematical                                                              Formula                                                              4                ]                                                                                n            _                    ·          h                =                              λ            2                    .                                    (        3        )
Here, the formulae (2) and (3) including the average refractive index are approximate ones, and it is necessary to carry out analysis while taking the behavior of electromagnetic wave between the waveguide layer and surrounding layers into consideration in actual analysis.
The evanescent wave that occurred when the formula (1) is satisfied can not transmit when light enters the boundary between the waveguide layer and the neighboring layer, and all the light is subjected to total internal reflection. Therefore, the structure shown in FIG. 9 forms a filter that reflects the light with a very narrow wavelength band determined according to the formula (1).
However, in the reflection characteristic thereof, there is such problem that the reflectivity largely lowers in accordance with a minute wavelength variation and thus an intended half-value width (bandwidth) can not be realized.
In order to solve the problem, D. K. Jacob, S C. Dunn and M. G. Moharam: "Flat-top narrow-band spectral response obtained from cascaded resonant grating reflection filters," Applied Optics Vol. 41 No. 7 1241-1245 (2002) discloses a wavelength filter in which the wavelength band with the maximum reflectivity is broadened by using materials of 4 types of refractive indices. In the wavelength filter, plural grating structures formed by alternately arranging a material of low refractive index and a material of high refractive index at a predetermined period and thin films with the remaining two types of refractive indices interposed between the plural grating structures are laminated in the incident direction of light.
In addition, S. T. Thurman and G. M. Morris: "Controlling the spectral response in guided-mode resonance filter design," Applied Optics Vol. 42 No. 16 3225-3233 (2003) discloses a wavelength filter in which a wavelength band with the maximum reflectivity is broadened by similarly laminating grating structures by using only 2 types of materials with a low refractive index and a high refractive index.
In either of the structures described in the documents of D. K. Jacob, S. C. Dunn et al. and S. T. Thurman et al., a broad wavelength band can be obtained by laminating plural grating structures. A broad wavelength band can be obtained because plural wavelengths that bring about the resonance effect are caused to exist, and respective spectra overlap with each other to broaden the wavelength band.
However, in order to produce these structures, the step of producing plural grating structures and the step of evaporating a material of thin film in plural times are required, and the control of the grating structure and thin film height with a high accuracy is required in respective steps. In addition, along with the broadening of the wavelength band, the number of the grating structures to be laminated increases. As the result, as is the case for filters according to conventional thin film techniques, the production process becomes complicated to increase the cost, and the constitution becomes complicated to make it difficult to suppress variation of performance.
Further, since plural grating structures are laminated, the total height (thickness) becomes large.

Wavelength filter with a broad bandwidth of reflection spectrum


An antenna device includes an antenna element, a high-frequency circuit connected to the antenna element, a first ground section connected to the high-frequency circuit, a reactance circuit connected to the first ground section, and a second ground section connected to the reactance circuit. Employing the structure above allows the antenna device to have a compact body and to easily control antenna characteristics, such as radiation characteristics and input impedance characteristics.

A conventional antenna device contains a plurality of antenna elements, and a phase-shifter and an amplifier are connected just below each of the antenna elements. Proper control of phase-shifters and amplifiers allows an antenna device to have desired directivity. Such a conventional structure is disclosed, for example, in Japanese Patent Unexamined Publication No. 2001-024431. FIG. 35 and FIG. 36 show an antenna device in which the directivity can be controlled by a simple circuit structure.
The antenna device shown in FIGS. 35 and 36 contains radiating element 101, and at least one parasitic element 102 so as to keep an interval from radiating element 101. Radiating element 101 receives a radio-wave signal, whereas parasitic element 102 does not receive the radio-wave signal. Variable reactance element 103 is connected to parasitic element 102. Reactance value Xn of variable reactance element 103 is changed according to data obtained by transmitting/receiving circuit 104, whereby directivity of the antenna device can be controlled.
Such structured conventional antenna device can control directivity with high accuracy. The structure, however, due to the needs for a plurality of radiation elements 101 and a plurality of parasitic elements 102, has a difficulty in reducing the size of the device. Besides, a complicated controller is required to control a plurality of variable reactance elements 103.

Antenna device including a high frequency circuit, a reactance circuit and first and second ground sections


A programmable fuse and fuse panel are described. Unlike conventional fuses and fuse panels, the trip values of the fuses of the panel—i.e., the current values at which the fuse trips—are field programmable. One of many advantages includes the ability to adaptively set the trip value of a fuse—depending on the operating needs of a load device—without having to physically exchange the fuse. In an embodiment, electronic fuses are used.

In a typical power distribution system, such as for residential homes, a fuse panel with a number of fuses are used. The trip value of each fuse is selected to protect each load device connected to the fuse. When a new load device is to be connected to the panel, a free fuse with a proper trip value for the new load device is selected.
Fuse panels of today are based on a number of different technologies such as melting wire types, heat activated types and electronic types. No matter the type, the fuse "trips" or breaks the circuit to the load device when the current provided to the load device exceeds the trip value.
FIG. 12 illustrates a conventional fuse panel 1200 that includes a plurality of individual fuses 1210. In this particular example, there are six (6) fuses 1210 with differing trip values. The first two fuses have the trip values set at 2 amperes (or 2 A), the second 2 fuses have their trip value set at 5 A and the third set of fuses have their trip value set at 10 A. Each fuse provides power from an external power source 1240 to the respective load devices 1250.
The fuses 1210 can be electronic type fuses. FIG. 13 illustrates a conventional electronic fuse 1210. The conventional electronic fuse 1210 includes an electronic switch 1310 coupled to a shunt 1330 to deliver power from the external source connected at input 1212 (see also FIG. 12) to the load device connected at output 1214. The electronic fuse 1210 also includes a voltage comparator 1320 that measures a voltage drop across the shunt 1330. The voltage drop across the shunt 1330 is related to an amount of current flowing through the shunt 1330 to the load device 1250. If the voltage drop across the shunt 1330 is at or above a threshold level, the comparator 1320 outputs a signal to the electronic switch 1310 to turn off. By setting the threshold voltage, an appropriate trip value is set for the electronic fuse 1210.
A major disadvantage with the conventional fuse and fuse panels is that the trip value of each fuse must be determined during the production of the panel and remains fixed. For electronic fuses such as those illustrated in FIG. 13, threshold voltage is fixed during the production. This requires that each panel be tailored for a number of load devices at specific current values. This creates a problem when a new load device is desired to be added but there is no free fuse available with the correct trip values. Referring back to FIG. 12, it is seen that both 2 A fuses are already occupied. If another 2 A load device is desired to be connected, it will impossible with the conventional fuse panel. This is despite the fact that there are fuses with other trip values available such as the 5 A and 10 A fuses.
Conventionally, this problem can be addressed by rebuilding the panel or by adding a new panel altogether. Both of these solutions are inefficient and costly.

Automatic function with selectable fuse rating for single fuses and fuse panels


A commercial floor mat has a plurality of aluminum rails arranged in closely spaced side-by-side relationship and connected together by hinged connectors beneath the rails. Each rail has a pair of downwardly facing grooves on its underside extending along respective edges of the rail. Each connector has a flexible central web and a pair of spaced upstanding tabs disposed in the downwardly facing grooves of adjacent rails. The tabs have flexible barb-shaped ribs extending along their opposed faces to anchor the tabs in the grooves with a friction fit. The flexible central webs of the connectors facilitate hinged movement of connected rails to permit the mat to be rolled onto itself into a compact configuration.

Floor mats for use with entryways in commercial buildings must satisfy a variety of special needs not necessarily present in residential buildings. For instance, it is desirable that a commercial floor mat inside the entrance of a retail store or office building be capable of removing debris such as snow and mud from the shoes of patrons as they traverse the mat. It is also desirable that such commercial floor mats be capable of accommodating large amounts of rainwater from the shoes and cloths of patrons without becoming soaked or wet. Finally, a commercial floor mat must provide continuous friction in any weather condition and must be able to support the heavy weight of people and merchandise as they traverse the entrance.
To meet the above and other needs, a variety of commercial floor mats have been developed and are part of the prior art. Perhaps the most ubiquitous of these commercial floor mats is the so-called roll-up floor mat or roll-up floor grate. The term "roll-up floor mat" will be used in the present discussion. In general, roll-up floor mats are designed to fit within a shallow rectangular well formed in the floor of a commercial building just inside an entrance. While there are a number of variations, these mats typically are formed by a plurality of closely spaced parallel aluminum rails, each of which is connected to its neighbors by means of an articulating joint. The articulating joints hold the rails in place with respect to one another, allow the mat to conform to variations in the floor of the well, and, perhaps most importantly, permit the mat to be rolled up upon itself into a compact configuration when necessary for cleaning or replacement. The articulating hinges that connect adjacent rails together usually are provided with openings that allow water, melting snow, and other debris collected from the shoes of patrons to pass through the mat for collection in the shallow rectangular well in which it rests. It is at least partially for this reason that such floor mats sometimes are referred to as floor grates.
The patent literature is replete with examples of roll-up commercial floor mats of the type discussed above. U.S. Pat. No. 4,590,110 of Arens, for example, discloses a commercial door mat with a multiplicity of parallel profiled bars, each having a generally U-shape with upstanding flanges interconnected at their lower ends by a horizontal web. A tread assembly fits in every other channel formed by the upstanding flanges. U.S. Pat. No. 4,568,587 of Blazer discloses a roll-up floor mat with rigid rails interconnected with elongated H-shaped flexible hinges. U.S. Pat. No. 4,654,245 of Blazer et al. discloses a floor mat of similar construction wherein the flexible hinges are further formed with feet that underlie the edges of the aluminum rails to cushion impact. In U.S. Pat. No. 5,157,804 of Williams, the articulating hinges are formed by elongated rod and socket joints and in U.S. Pat. No. 5,486,392 of Green, the aluminum rails are connected together along the undersides of their edges by flexible U-shaped hinge members, which also form feet that support the rails.
Finally, U.S. Pat. No. 6,434,779 of Bartlett et al. discloses a roll-up commercial floor mat wherein adjacent aluminum rails are connected together with flexible connector members. Each rail has a pair of legs depending from its lower surface and each connector member has a pair of upwardly facing U-shaped sockets configured and positioned to receive the legs of adjacent rails for securing the rails flexibly together. The legs and sockets have interengaging shoulders that retain the legs in the sockets once they are inserted during fabrication. The shoulders are necessary in part because the connector members are made of plastic and the walls that form the sockets tend to spread out under stress. Without the shoulders, the connector members of Bartlet et al. would easily be dislodged from the rails. Even with the shoulders, the sockets can spread under stress and the connector members become dislodged.
Roll-up commercial floor mats, such as those disclosed in the above patents, have proven somewhat successful in the applications for which they are designed. Nevertheless, they are still plagued with various problems and shortcomings inherent in their respective designs. As mentioned above, for example, the floor mat of Bartlett et al. can suffer from dislodgement of the legs of the rails from the sockets of the connector members under certain circumstances. It is perhaps for this reason that Bartlett et al. teach a pair of bendable anchor tabs extruded along the bottom side of each rail that can be bent outwardly against the outer walls of the sockets to prevent such dislodgement. Other prior art mats are difficult to assemble for a variety of reasons, not least of which being that some require assembly of adjacent rails and interconnecting hinges by sliding these components longitudinally together. This requires large amounts of room, is labor intensive, and inefficient.
Accordingly, there is a persistent need for a roll-up commercial floor mat that is easy, quick, and efficient to assemble, that does not suffer from dislodgement of rails and connecting hinge members, does not require ancillary anchor mechanisms to maintain attachment of the components, and that is attractive and easily rollable into a compact configuration. It is to the provision of such a roll-up floor mat that the present invention is primarily directed.