MOLDING BELT STRUCTURING LAYERS WITH NON-TERMINI SEAM ASSOCIATION TO SUPPORT LAYERS

Abstract

A web material structuring belt may include a support layer and a structuring layer. The structuring layer may be disposed on the support layer in a facing relationship. The structuring layer may include one or more strips of structuring layer material. The structuring layer may comprise termini portions and non-termini portions. At least one termini portion may include an association with the support layer.

Claims

1. A web material structuring belt comprising: a. a support layer; and b. a structuring layer comprising a plurality of non-termini portions, wherein at least two of the plurality of non-termini portions form a non-termini seam, and wherein the non-termini seam comprises a first association with the support layer.

2. The web material structuring belt according to claim 1, wherein the structuring layer comprises a structuring layer material, and wherein the first association comprises a portion of the structuring layer material extending into but not through the support layer.

3. The web material structuring belt according to claim 1, wherein the structuring layer comprises a structuring layer material, and wherein the first association comprises a portion of the structuring layer material extending entirely through the support layer.

4. The web material structuring belt according to claim 1, wherein the first association comprises a bond between the support layer and the structuring layer.

5. The web material structuring belt according to claim 1, wherein the first association comprises a mechanical entanglement between the support layer and the structuring layer.

6. The web material structuring belt according to claim 1, wherein a first one of the plurality of non-termini portions comprises a fibrous end that at least partially passes through a second one of the plurality of non-termini portions.

7. The web material structuring belt according to claim 1, wherein the structuring layer comprises a material selected from the group consisting of: polyethylene terephthalate, polyethylene-naphthalate, polyetheretherketone, polyamides, polyphenylene sulfide, cyanate esters, isocyanate, benzoxazine, polyimides, bismaleimide, phthalonitrile resin, bismaleimide-triazine, epoxy, silicone resins, epoxy-cyanate, polyvinyl fluoride, polyvinylidene fluoride, polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene, polypropylene, polyethers, styrene-butadiene copolymers, polybutylenes, polysulfones, polysulfides, cellulosic resins, polyarylate acrylics, polyarylsulfones, polyurethanes, epoxies, poly(amide-imides), copolyesters, polyethersulfones, polyetherimides, polyarylethers, and combinations thereof.

8. The web material structuring belt according to claim 1, wherein the non-termini seam comprises a gap seam.

9. The web material structuring belt according to claim 1, wherein the non-termini seam comprises an abutting seam.

10. The web material structuring belt according to claim 1, wherein the non-termini seam comprises an overlapping seam.

11. The web material structuring belt according to claim 10, wherein the overlapping seam is selected from the group consisting of an x-y interlocking overlap seam, a z-interlocking overlap seam, and combinations thereof.

12. The web material structuring belt according to claim 1, wherein the structuring layer comprises a non-seam portion, and wherein the non-seam portion comprises a second association with the support layer.

13. The web material structuring belt according to claim 12, wherein the second association comprises one selected from the group consisting of a bond, a mechanical entanglement, and combinations thereof.

14. The web material structuring belt according to claim 12, wherein at least one of the plurality of non-termini portions exhibits a different value for a common intensive property than the non-seam portion.

15. The web material structuring belt according to claim 12, wherein the first association exhibits a different value of a common intensive property than the second association.

16. The web material structuring belt according to claim 1, further comprising an associating layer disposed between the support layer and the structuring layer, wherein at least a portion of the first association engages the associating layer.

17. The web material structuring belt according to claim 1, wherein the structuring layer comprises one or more strips, and wherein at least one of the one or more strips is spirally wound about the support layer.

18. The web material structuring belt according to claim 1, wherein the structuring layer comprises one or more strips, and wherein at least one of the one or more strips is non-spirally wound about the support layer.

19. The web material structuring belt according to claim 1, wherein the support layer comprises a woven fabric.

20. The web material structuring belt according to claim 1, wherein the structuring layer comprises a pattern.

21. The web material structuring belt according to claim 1, wherein the first association is patterned.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] Many aspects of this disclosure may be better understood with reference to the following figures, which illustrate examples according to various embodiments.

[0014] FIG. 1A is a schematic perspective view of a method for wrapping a support layer with a structuring layer.

[0015] FIG. 1B is a schematic top view illustration showing a convention for measuring angles between an axis and either the machine direction MD or the cross direction CD.

[0016] FIG. 2A is a schematic perspective view of a strip having straight sides at its non-termini portions.

[0017] FIG. 2B is a schematic perspective view of a strip having wavy sides at its non-termini portions.

[0018] FIG. 2C is a schematic perspective view of a strip having curved sides at its non-termini portions.

[0019] FIG. 2D is a schematic perspective view of strip comprising a removable carrier layer and a plurality of strip portions.

[0020] FIG. 3A is a schematic perspective view illustrating a termini seam, more specifically an abutting seam between a first termini portion and a second termini portion.

[0021] FIG. 3B is a schematic perspective view illustrating a termini seam, more specifically a gap seam between a first termini portion and a second termini portion.

[0022] FIG. 3C is a schematic perspective view illustrating a termini seam, more specifically an overlapping seam between a first termini portion and a second termini portion.

[0023] FIG. 3D is a schematic perspective view illustrating a termini seam, more specifically a z-interlocking overlap seam between a first termini portion and a second termini portion.

[0024] FIG. 3E is a schematic perspective view illustrating a termini seam, more specifically an x-y-interlocking overlap seam between a first termini portion and a second termini portion in a disjoined configuration.

[0025] FIG. 3F is a schematic top view illustrating the termini seam from FIG. 3E, more specifically an x-y-interlocking overlap seam between a first termini portion and a second termini portion in a joined configuration.

[0026] FIG. 4A is a schematic perspective view of a strip that may be utilized to form a structuring layer having a surface texture comprising a plurality of protrusion.

[0027] FIG. 4B is a schematic perspective view of a strip that may be utilized to form a structuring layer having a surface texture comprising a plurality of apertures.

[0028] FIG. 4C is a schematic perspective view of a strip that may be utilized to form a structuring layer having a surface texture comprising a plurality of indentations.

[0029] FIG. 4D is a schematic perspective view of a strip that may be utilized to form a structuring layer having a surface texture comprising a plurality of protrusions, a plurality of apertures, and a plurality of indentations.

[0030] FIG. 5A is a schematic perspective view of a web material structuring belt comprising a support layer and a structuring layer, the structuring layer comprising one or more strips externally wrapped in a machine direction MD about a support layer and disposed in a facing relationship with the support layer.

[0031] FIG. 5B is a schematic perspective view of a portion of the web material structuring belt of FIG. 5A.

[0032] FIG. 6A is a schematic perspective view of a web material structuring belt comprising a support layer and a structuring layer, the structuring layer comprising one or more strips externally and spirally wrapped in a machine direction MD about a support layer and disposed in a facing relationship with the support layer.

[0033] FIG. 6B is a schematic perspective view of a portion of the web material structuring belt of FIG. 6A.

[0034] FIG. 7A is a schematic perspective view of a web material structuring belt comprising a structuring layer, the structuring layer comprising one or more strips internally wrapped in a cross direction CD about a support layer and disposed in a facing relationship with the support layer.

[0035] FIG. 7B is a schematic perspective view of a portion of the web material structuring belt of FIG. 7A.

[0036] FIG. 8A is a schematic perspective view of a web material structuring belt comprising a support layer a structuring layer, the structuring layer comprising one or more strips internally and spirally wrapped in a cross direction CD about a support layer and disposed in a facing relationship with the support layer.

[0037] FIG. 8B is a schematic perspective view of a portion of the web material structuring belt of FIG. 8A.

[0038] FIG. 9A is a schematic perspective view of a web material structuring belt comprising a support layer, the structuring layer comprising one or more strips externally wrapped in a cross direction CD about a support layer and disposed in a facing relationship with the support layer.

[0039] FIG. 9B is a schematic perspective view of a portion of the web material structuring belt of FIG. 9A after external flap folds are cut away to expose cut ends of the structuring layers.

[0040] FIG. 10A is a schematic perspective view of a web material structuring belt comprising a support layer, the structuring layer comprising one or more strips externally and spirally wrapped in a cross direction CD about a support layer and disposed in a facing relationship with the support layer.

[0041] FIG. 10B is a schematic perspective view of a portion of the web material structuring belt of FIG. 10A after external flap folds are cut away to expose cut ends of the structuring layers.

[0042] FIG. 11 is a schematic perspective view of a web material structuring belt comprising a support layer and a structuring layer comprising one or more strips disposed in a facing relationship with the support layer.

[0043] FIG. 12 is a schematic perspective view of a web material structuring belt comprising a support layer and a structuring layer, comprising one or more strips disposed in a facing relationship with the support layer.

[0044] FIG. 13 is a schematic perspective view of a web material structuring belt comprising a support layer and a structuring layer, comprising one or more strips disposed in a facing relationship with the support layer.

[0045] FIG. 14 is a schematic top view of a web material structuring belt comprising a support layer and a structuring layer, comprising one or more strips disposed in a facing relationship with the support layer, showing an abutting seam between non-termini portions of at least one structuring layer.

[0046] FIG. 15 is a schematic top view of a web material structuring belt comprising a support layer and a structuring layer, comprising one or more strips disposed in a facing relationship with the support layer, showing an x-y interlocking seam between non-termini portions of at least one structuring layer.

[0047] FIG. 16 is a schematic top view of a web material structuring belt comprising a support layer and a structuring layer, comprising one or more strips disposed in a facing relationship with the support layer, showing an overlap seam between non-termini portions of at least one structuring layer.

[0048] FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional representation of an example of a web material structuring belt according to the present invention.

[0049] FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional representation of an example of a web material structuring belt 100 according to the present invention.

[0050] FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional representation of an example of a web material structuring belt according to the present invention.

[0051] FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional representation of an example of a web material structuring belt according to the present invention.

[0052] FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional representation of an example of a web material structuring belt according to the present invention.

[0053] FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional representation of an example of a web material structuring belt according to the present invention.

[0054] FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional representation of an example of a web material structuring belt according to the present invention.

[0055] FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional representation of an example of a web material structuring belt according to the present invention.

[0056] FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional representation of an example of a web material structuring belt according to the present invention.

[0057] FIG. 26 is a cross-sectional representation of an example of a web material structuring belt according to the present invention.

[0058] FIG. 27 is a schematic perspective view of a method for wrapping a support layer with a structuring layer and creating an association between the structuring layer and the support layer.

[0059] FIG. 28 is a magnified cross-section of an association between a structuring layer and a support layer.

[0060] FIG. 29 is a schematic perspective view of a method for wrapping a support layer with a structuring layer and creating an association between the structuring layer and the support layer.

[0061] FIG. 30 is a magnified image of an association between a structuring layer and a support layer.

[0062] FIG. 31 is a magnified image of the association shown in FIG. 30 from the opposite side of the support layer.

[0063] FIG. 32 is a magnified cross-section of fibrous ends of a structuring layer.

[0064] FIG. 33 is a magnified image of an association between a structuring layer and a support layer.

[0065] FIG. 34 is a schematic perspective view of a method for wrapping a support layer with a structuring layer and creating an association between the structuring layer and the support layer.

[0066] FIG. 35 is a magnified image of an association between a structuring layer and a support layer.

[0067] It should be understood that the various embodiments are not limited to the examples illustrated in the figures.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Introduction and Definitions

[0068] This disclosure is written to describe the invention to a person having ordinary skill in the art, who will understand that this disclosure is not limited to the specific examples or embodiments described. The examples and embodiments are single instances of the invention which will make a much larger scope apparent to the person having ordinary skill in the art. Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by the person having ordinary skill in the art. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing examples and embodiments only, and is not intended to be limiting, since the scope of the present disclosure will be limited only by the appended claims.

[0069] All the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract, and drawings) may be replaced by alternative features serving the same, equivalent, or similar purpose, unless expressly stated otherwise. Thus, unless expressly stated otherwise, each feature disclosed is one example only of a generic series of equivalent or similar features. The examples and embodiments described herein are for illustrative purposes only and that various modifications or changes in light thereof will be suggested to the person having ordinary skill in the art and are to be included within the spirit and purview of this application. Many variations and modifications may be made to the embodiments of the disclosure without departing substantially from the spirit and principles of the disclosure. All such modifications and variations are intended to be included herein within the scope of this disclosure. For example, unless otherwise indicated, the present disclosure is not limited to particular materials, manufacturing processes, or the like, as such may vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for purposes of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. It is also possible in the present disclosure that steps may be executed in different sequence where this is logically possible.

[0070] All numeric values are herein assumed to be modified by the term about, whether or not explicitly indicated. The term about generally refers to a range of numbers that one of skill in the art would consider equivalent to the recited value (for example, having the same function or result). In many instances, the term about may include numbers that are rounded to the nearest significant figure.

[0071] In everyday usage, indefinite articles (like a or an) precede countable nouns and noncountable nouns almost never take indefinite articles. It must be noted, therefore, that, as used in this specification and in the claims that follow, the singular forms a, an, and the include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to a support includes a plurality of supports. Particularly when a single countable noun is listed as an element in a claim, this specification will generally use a phrase such as a single. For example, a single support.

[0072] Where a range of values is provided, it is understood that each intervening value, to the tenth of the unit of the lower limit (unless the context clearly dictates otherwise), between the upper and lower limit of that range, and any other stated or intervening value in that stated range, is encompassed within the disclosure. The upper and lower limits of these smaller ranges may independently be included in the smaller ranges and are also encompassed within the disclosure, subject to any specifically excluded limit in the stated range. Where the stated range includes one or both of the limits, ranges excluding either or both of those included limits are also included in the disclosure.

[0073] In this specification and in the claims that follow, reference will be made to a number of terms that shall be defined to have the following meanings unless a contrary intention is apparent.

[0074] Disposed on refers to a positional state indicating that one object or material is arranged in a position adjacent to the position of another object or material. The term does not require or exclude the presence of intervening objects, materials, or layers.

[0075] Align or aligned or aligning means to place or to arrange in a straight line or along an axis. Aligning edges of substrates or layers, therefore, means arranging the substrates so that the edges in question extend along approximately the same line or along approximately parallel lines. It is to be appreciated that aligning edges of substrates may be accomplished in a variety of ways, including placing the substrates one on top of the other or side by side.

[0076] Facing relationship refers to a relative positioning of materials, such as substrates, in which a surface of one material is oriented toward a surface of another material. For example, when two layers are stacked on top of each other, they are in a facing relationship. The term does not require or exclude the presence of intervening objects, materials, or layers. Any of the structuring layers described herein may be placed into a facing relationship with other structuring layers and/or with a support layer.

[0077] Machine direction (MD) refers to the direction of material flow through a process. In addition, relative placement and movement of material may be described as flowing in the machine direction through a process from upstream in the process to downstream in the process.

[0078] Cross direction (CD) refers to a direction that is generally perpendicular to the machine direction.

[0079] Major axis of an elongated strip refers to the longest straight line that may be drawn within the strip, extending from one end of the strip to the other, and passing through its center or midpoint. The major axis may define the primary direction of elongation and represents the strip's greatest dimension in terms of length. In many cases, the major axis may be used as a reference for measuring and describing the strip's size and orientation.

[0080] Minor axis of an elongated strip refers to the shortest straight line that may be drawn within the strip, perpendicular to its major axis, and passing through the strip's center or midpoint. The minor axis may represents the strip's smallest dimension in terms of width or thickness.

[0081] Termini refers to the two opposite ends or extremities of a long, narrow object, material, or structure. These are the specific points or sections located at the furthest points from each other along the length of the structure. In other words, it may refer to portions of an elongated strip located at the furthest points from each other along the length of the elongated strip. As an example, a termini portion of a strip may be an end, a side, or an edge of the strip lying at one of two furthest extremities along a major axis of the strip or along an axis that is parallel to the major axis.

[0082] Non-termini refers to the central or intermediate section of a long, narrow object, material, or structure that is not located at either end or extremity. In other words, it may refer to portions of an elongated strip that lies between the two ends or termini. This portion may vary in length and width, but it is distinct from the ends or termini. As an example, a non-termini portion of a strip may be an end, a side, or an edge of the strip lying at one of two furthest extremities along a minor axis of the strip or along an axis that is parallel to the minor axis.

[0083] Seam refers to a perceptible or conceptual boundary, interface, or transition zone between two materials, surfaces, or edges, characterized by their close proximity, adjacency, and/or alignment.

[0084] Non-termini seam in the context of an elongated strip refers to a perceptible or conceptual boundary or interface that exists along the length of the strip but that does not occur at either end of the strip. This seam may exist, for example, between adjacent non-termini portions of one or more strips wound about a support layer. In essence, a non-termini seam is a seam that runs along the body of the elongated strip.

[0085] Termini seam in the context of an elongated strip refers to a perceptible or conceptual boundary or interface that occurs specifically at one or both ends of the strip. This seam is characterized by its presence at the strip's endpoints. In other words, a termini seam is a seam that is located at the extremities of the elongated strip, where the strip physically ends or terminates.

[0086] Abutting seam may refer to a type of termini seam or to a type of non-termini seam. In the context of a termini seam, abutting seam refers to a perceptible or conceptual boundary, interface, or transition zone between a first termini portion and a second termini portion, in which the first termini portion contacts but does not overlap or interlock with the second termini portion. In the context of a non-termini seam, abutting seam refers to a perceptible or conceptual boundary, interface, or transition zone between a first non-termini portion and a second non-termini portion, in which the first non-termini portion contacts but does not overlap or interlock with the second non-termini portion. In either context, the first non-termini portion and the second non-termini portion may be components of the same or different elongated strip or structuring layer, for example.

[0087] Gap seam may refer to a type of termini seam or to a type of non-termini seam. In the context of a termini seam, gap seam refers to a perceptible or conceptual boundary, interface, or transition zone between a first termini portion and a second termini portion, characterized by a deliberate gap or space therebetween. Unlike an abutting seam, where the ends of the strip come into direct contact, a gap seam leaves a space or opening between the ends of the strip. In the context of a non-termini seam, gap seam refers to a perceptible or conceptual boundary, interface, or transition zone between a first non-termini portion and a second non-termini portion, characterized by a deliberate gap or space therebetween. Unlike an abutting seam, where the sides of a strip or a pair of adjacent strips come into direct contact, a gap seam leaves a space or opening between the adjacent non-termini sides. In either context, the first non-termini portion and the second non-termini portion may be components of the same or different elongated strip or structuring layer, for example.

[0088] Overlapping seam may refer to a type of termini seam or to a type of non-termini seam. In the context of a termini seam, overlapping seam refers to a perceptible or conceptual boundary, interface, or transition zone between a first termini portion and a second termini portion, in which the first termini portion extends over the second termini portion to cover it partly or completely. In the context of a non-termini seam, overlapping seam refers to a perceptible or conceptual boundary, interface, or transition zone between a first non-termini portion and a second non-termini portion, in which the first termini portion extends over the second termini portion to cover it partly or completely. In either context, the first non-termini portion and the second non-termini portion may be components of the same or different elongated strip or structuring layer, for example.

[0089] x-y interlocking overlap seam may refer to a type of termini seam or to a type of non-termini seam. In the context of a termini seam, x-y interlocking overlap seam refers to a perceptible or conceptual boundary, interface, or transition zone between a first termini portion and a second termini portion, in which the first termini portion interlocks with the second termini portion to resist separation in an x-direction, along the minor axis, and in a y-direction long the major axis. In the context of a non-termini seam, x-y interlocking overlap seam refers to a perceptible or conceptual boundary, interface, or transition zone between a first non-termini portion and a second non-termini portion, in which the first non-termini portion interlocks with the second non-termini portion to resist separation in an x-direction, along the minor axis, and in a y-direction long the major axis. In either context, the first non-termini portion and the second non-termini portion may be components of the same or different elongated strip or structuring layer, for example.

[0090] z-interlocking overlap seam may refer to a type of termini seam or to a type of non-termini seam. In the context of a termini seam, z-interlocking overlap seam refers to a perceptible or conceptual boundary, interface, or transition zone between a first termini portion and a second termini portion, in which in which the first termini portion interlocks or at least overlaps with the second termini portion to resist separation in a z-direction that is orthogonal to the major and minor axis. In the context of a non-termini seam, z-interlocking overlap seam refers to a perceptible or conceptual boundary, interface, or transition zone between a first non-termini portion and a second non-termini portion, in which the first non-termini portion interlocks or at least overlaps with the second non-termini portion to resist separation in a z-direction that is orthogonal to the major and minor axis.

[0091] Internally wrapped refers to a method of wrapping or winding a strip of material in such a way that it passes through the central space or core of another object, such as a support layer in the form of a continuous or endless loop. The term may also describe the state of a strip after wrapped about a support layer according to such a method.

[0092] Externally wrapped refers to a method of wrapping or winding a strip of material in such a way that it does not pass through the central space or core of another object, such as a support layer in the form of a continuous or endless loop. The term may also describe the state of a strip after wrapped about a support layer according to such a method.

[0093] Wrapped in a direction such as wrapped in a machine direction MD or wrapped in a cross direction CD refers to the act of winding or encircling an object with a material, such as a strip of fabric, tape, or any flexible material, while following a specific path or orientation. This path or orientation may be linear, curved, diagonal, or any other specified course, depending on the intended purpose or design. The phrase wrapping in a direction highlights the deliberate and controlled manner in which an object is enveloped or covered by a material, taking into consideration the desired path or orientation of the wrapping process. The term may also describe the state of a strip after wrapped about a support layer according to such a method.

[0094] Spirally wrapped refers to a method of wrapping or winding a material, such as a strip of fabric, tape, wire, or any flexible substance, around an object in a spiral or helical fashion. In this wrapping technique, the material is wound around the object's surface in a continuous, repetitive spiral pattern, creating layers of overlapping or closely spaced turns. Spirally wrapped emphasizes the helical or spiral nature of the wrapping pattern, distinguishing it from other wrapping techniques that may involve linear or more complex winding patterns. The term may also describe the state of a strip after wrapped about a support layer according to such a method.

[0095] FIG. 1A is a schematic perspective view of a method 10 for wrapping a support layer 200 with a structuring layer 300. The method 10 may comprise disposing the support layer 200 on a plurality of rollers 14 supported by a mandrel stand 12. The rollers 14 that support the support layer 200 may extend from the mandrel stand 12 in a cross direction CD that is substantially orthogonal to a machine direction MD in which the support layer will ultimately be used as a component of a web material structuring belt. A second set of removable mandrel stands 12 could be disposed opposite the first set to eliminate cantilevering of the rollers 14. The second set would be removable to allow belts to be put on and taken off the rollers. The structuring layer 300 may comprise a structuring layer material 301, in the form of a strip 400, which may optionally coiled into a roll 302. The strip 400 may be disposed on the support layer 200 in a facing relationship therewith. The strip 400 may comprise a major axis 440 and may be disposed on the support layer such that the major axis 440 is at a first angle 441 relative to the machine direction MD and at a second angle 442 relative to the cross direction CD.

[0096] FIG. 1B is a schematic top view illustration showing a convention for measuring angles between an axis and either the machine direction MD or the cross direction CD. It is to be appreciated that the machine direction MD may extend in two directions as shown. Similarly, it is to be appreciated that the cross direction CD may extend in two direction as shown. The machine direction MD and the cross direction CD may intersect and may be orthogonal relative to each other. To measure the angle at which an axis 440a, 440b is positioned relative to the machine direction MD, start on the line defining the machine direction MD and rotate toward the axis in either a clockwise or a counterclockwise direction about the intersection of the machine direction and the cross direction to reach the axis. Counterclockwise rotation results in a negative angle. Clockwise rotation results in a positive angle. It is to be appreciated that the axis 440a, 440b may be at any angle relative to the cross direction CD, but that once the angle reaches 90 degrees or 90 degrees, it is more practical to measure the angle relative to the machine direction MD. Similarly, the axis 440a, 440b may be at any angle relative to the machine direction MD, but that once the angle reaches 90 degrees or 90 degrees, it is more practical to measure the angle relative to the cross direction CD. Thus, practically speaking the angle may always be expressed in a range of from 0 to 90 degrees or from 0 to 90 degrees. For example, angle 441a may be from 0 (440a is aligned with the machine direction MD) to 90 (440a is aligned with the cross direction CD). Similarly, angle 441b can be from 0 (440b is aligned with the machine direction MD) to 90 (440b is aligned with the cross direction CD). Likewise, angle 442a can be from 0 (440a is aligned with the cross direction CD) to 90 (440a is aligned with the machine direction MD). Finally, angle 441b can be from 0 (440b is aligned with the cross direction CD) to 90 (440b is aligned with the machine direction MD).

[0097] Referring again to FIG. 1, it is to be appreciated that the first angle 441 relative to the machine direction MD may be from about 90 degrees to about 90 degrees, or from greater than 90 to less than 90 degrees, or from greater than about 90 to less than about 90 degrees, or from about 85 degrees to about 85 degrees, or from about 80 degrees to about 80 degrees, or from about 75 degrees to about 75 degrees, or from about 70 degrees to about 70 degrees, or from about 65 degrees to about 65 degrees, or from about 60 degrees to about 60 degrees, or from about 55 degrees to about 55 degrees, or from about 50 degrees to about 50 degrees, or from about 45 degrees to about 45 degrees, or from about 40 degrees to about 40 degrees, or from about 35 degrees to about 35 degrees, or from about 30 degrees to about 30 degrees, or from about 25 degrees to about 25 degrees, or from about 20 degrees to about 20 degrees, or from about 15 degrees to about 15 degrees, or from about 10 degrees to about 10 degrees, or from about 5 degrees to about 5 degrees, or about 0 degrees.

[0098] It is to be appreciated that since the cross direction CD is perpendicular to the machine direction, the value of the angle 442 between the major axis 440 and the cross direction CD follows mathematically based on specification of the angle 441 or vice versa. The second angle 442 relative to the cross direction CD may be from about 90 degrees to about 90 degrees, or from greater than 90 to less than 90 degrees, or from greater than about 90 to less than about 90 degrees, or from about 85 degrees to about 85 degrees, or from about 80 degrees to about 80 degrees, or from about 75 degrees to about 75 degrees, or from about 70 degrees to about 70 degrees, or from about 65 degrees to about 65 degrees, or from about 60 degrees to about 60 degrees, or from about 55 degrees to about 55 degrees, or from about 50 degrees to about 50 degrees, or from about 45 degrees to about 45 degrees, or from about 40 degrees to about 40 degrees, or from about 35 degrees to about 35 degrees, or from about 30 degrees to about 30 degrees, or from about 25 degrees to about 25 degrees, or from about 20 degrees to about 20 degrees, or from about 15 degrees to about 15 degrees, or from about 10 degrees to about 10 degrees, or from about 5 degrees to about 5 degrees, or about 0 degrees.

[0099] For all embodiments described herein, it is to be appreciated that the first angle 441 and the second angle 442 may be the same or different. It is also to be appreciated, for all embodiments described herein that the first angle 441 and/or the second angle 442 may vary for adjacent strips 400 and may even vary for a single strip 400 when the single strip 400 is repeatedly wrapped around the support layer 200 the angle 441 and/or the angle 442 may vary for adjacent portions of the same strip 400.

[0100] FIG. 2A, FIG. 2B, and FIG. 2C cooperate to illustrate various strips 400 having non-termini portions 420 and termini portions 430. Each strip 400 may comprise a major axis 440 extending between termini portions 430 of the strip 400. Each strip 400 may also comprise and a minor axis 450 extending between non-termini portions 420 of the strip 400. For example, FIG. 2A is a schematic perspective view of a strip 400 having straight sides 421 at its non-termini portions 420, which may include a first non-termini portion 420a and a second non-termini portion 420b.

[0101] The structuring layer strip may have a total length L, extending along the major axis 440 of from about 6 in (0.1524 m) to unlimited length, or about 12 in (0.3048 m) to about 10000 ft (3048 m), or about 24 in (0.6096 m) to about 10000 in (254 m). The total length L may also be from about 0.1 m to about 5000 m, or about 1 m to about 4500 m, or about 5 m to about 4000 m, or about 10 m to about 3500 m, or about 100 m to about 3000 m, or about 500 m to about 2500 m, or about 1000 m to about 2000 m, or about 1500 m.

[0102] The structuring layer strip may have a width W, extending perpendicularly to the major axis 440 of from about 1/32 in (0.0008 m) to about 100 ft (30.48 m), or about 1/32 in (0.0008 m) to about 50 ft (15.24 m), or about 1/16 in (0.0016 m) to about 25 ft (7.62 m), or about in (0.0032 m) to about 12 ft (3.6576 m). The width W may also be from about 0.01 cm to about 5000 cm, or about 0.1 cm to about 4500 cm, or about 1 cm to about 4000 cm, or about 5 cm to about 3500 cm, or about 10 cm to about 3000 cm, or about 100 cm to about 2500 cm, or about 500 cm to about 2000 cm, or about 1000 cm to about 1500 cm.

[0103] FIG. 2B is a schematic perspective view of a strip 400 having patterned sides 422, specifically sides having a repeating wave-like pattern, at its non-termini portions 420, which may include a first non-termini portion 420a and a second non-termini portion 420b. FIG. 2C is a schematic perspective view of a strip 400 having curved sides 423 at its non-termini portions 420, which may include a first non-termini portion 420a and a second non-termini portion 420b. The illustrated sides 421, 422, 423 are examples and it is to be appreciated that any pattern may be employed, including but not limited to zig-zags and random patterns. It is also to be appreciated that although the sides 421, 422, 423 of the illustrated strips are approximately parallel, this need not be the case. Additionally, any combination of patterns may be employed, for example, on side of a strip 400 may be straight and another side of that same strip 400 may be curved, wavy, or zig-zagged.

[0104] According to various embodiments, it is possible to create a structuring layer material 3 mm wide and approximately 23,000 kilometers long. The structuring layer may have straight edges or curved or any variety of shape. The layer may have holes of any geometry. The structuring layer does not need to be continuous - if it is unable to hold itself together in a single layer a topical layer with light temporary adhesive may be used to maintain the integrity of the layer through treatment of bonding with the support layer. Optionally an associating layer may be used to carry the discontinuous structuring pattern, as described in US Pat. Application Serial No. US 2023/0138090 and US Pat. Application Serial No. US 2023/0137439, which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties. For example, according to various embodiments, it is possible to place an endless support layer approximately 5.2 meters wide and 21.3 meters circumference with optionally applied associating material, bonding layer (as described in in US Pat. Application Serial No. US 2023/0139935, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety) or modifying material (as described in US Pat. Application Serial No. US 2023/0140783, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety) onto two mandrels so that the support layer is lightly tensioned with outward pressure on two opposing ends of the support layer loop and the outer surface of the support layer is free from contact with the mandrels. According to various embodiments, it is possible to initiate an orthogonal or spiral wrap in the machine direction or cross direction by positioning the structuring layer and the support layer in contact with one another. According to various embodiments, it is possible to continue the wind across to cover the support layer so that the structuring layer leaves a 2 mm gap seam between the non-termini edges of each wrap. The termini seams may be abut, gap, or overlap. For example, according to various embodiments, it is possible to treat the layers to bond, as for example in US20230138090. The structuring layer pattern and the non-termini gap seam may become an integrated macro pattern.

[0105] According to various embodiments, it is possible to create a structuring layer material with non-thermoplastic, thermoset polymer, UV light curable polymer, silicone rubber and/or non-silicone vulcanized rubber film or apertured film and/or porous film and/or laser-abraded film and/or laser-etched film and/or perforated film narrower than the width of the support layer and where the layer has a curvature such that the second non-termini edge is longer in length than the first non-termini edge. Alternatively, according to various embodiments, it is possible to provide a structuring layer of woven material, wire mesh or extruded plastic netting narrower than the width of the support layer where the layer has a curvature such that the second non-termini edge is longer in length than the first non-termini edge. It is to be appreciated that these material options for the structuring layer apply to all of the examples and embodiments described herein. According to various embodiments, it is possible to place an endless support layer onto two mandrels so that the support layer is lightly tensioned with outward pressure on two opposing ends of the support layer loop and the outer surface of the support layer is free from contact with the mandrels. Optionally, according to various embodiments, it is possible to apply an associating material, bonding layer or modifying material to the support layer. According to various embodiments, it is possible to initiate the spiral wrap by positioning the structuring layer and the support layer in contact with one another so that a non-termini edge is facing the direction the spiral wrap is intended to progress across the support layer. According to various embodiments, it is possible to continue to contact the structuring layer with the bonding layer leaving a 2.5 mm gap between non-termini edges of successive wraps. Finally, according to various embodiments, it is possible to treat the layers to bond them.

[0106] FIG. 2D is a schematic perspective view of strip 400 comprising a removable carrier layer 460 and a plurality of strip portions 462. Such a strip 400 may be disposed on a support layer so that the strip portions 462 may be in a facing relationship with the support layer and then the removable carrier layer 460 may be removed, leaving the strip portions 462 on the support layer. Thus, each of the strip portions 462 may have termini ends 430 and non-termini ends 420. The strip 400 may have a major axis 440 and a minor axis 450, and each strip portion may have a major axis 440a and a minor axis 450a.

[0107] FIG. 3A, FIG. 3B, FIG. 3C, FIG. 3D, FIG. 3E, and FIG. 3F cooperate to illustrate various types of seams. FIG. 3A is a schematic perspective view illustrating a termini seam 500, more specifically an abutting seam 501 between a first termini portion 430a and a second termini portion 430b. FIG. 3B is a schematic perspective view illustrating a termini seam 500, more specifically a gap seam 502 between a first termini portion 430a and a second termini portion 430b. FIG. 3C is a schematic perspective view illustrating a termini seam 500, more specifically an overlapping seam 503 between a first termini portion 430a and a second termini portion 430b. FIG. 3D is a schematic perspective view illustrating a termini seam 500, more specifically a z-interlocking overlap seam 504 between a first termini portion 430a and a second termini portion 430b. FIG. 3E is a schematic perspective view illustrating a termini seam 500, more specifically an x-y-interlocking overlap seam 505 between a first termini portion 430a and a second termini portion 430b in a disjoined configuration. FIG. 3F is a schematic top view illustrating the termini seam 500 from FIG. 3E, more specifically an x-y-interlocking overlap seam 505 between a first termini portion 430a and a second termini portion 430b in a joined configuration. The seams 500 are shown as being substantially orthogonal to the major axis 440, but it is to be appreciated that an seams 500 may be at any angle relative to the major axis 440.

[0108] FIG. 4A, FIG. 4B, FIG. 4C, and FIG. 4D cooperate to illustrate various surface textures 310 that a strip 400 may comprise. FIG. 4A is a schematic perspective view of a strip 400 that may be utilized to form a structuring layer 300 having a surface texture 310 comprising a plurality of protrusions 312. FIG. 4B is a schematic perspective view of a strip 400 that may be utilized to form a structuring layer 300 having a surface texture 310 comprising a plurality of apertures 314. FIG. 4C is a schematic perspective view of a strip 400 that may be utilized to form a structuring layer 300 having a surface texture 310 comprising a plurality of indentations 316. FIG. 4D is a schematic perspective view of a strip 400 that may be utilized to form a structuring layer 300 having a surface texture 310 comprising a plurality of protrusions 312, a plurality of apertures 314, and a plurality of indentations 316. It is to be appreciated that any combination of such features 310 may be employed. It is also to be appreciated that such surface features 310 are not limited to circular shapes; any shape may be employed. For example, the surface features 310 may have geometric shapes having n-sides, where n is from 3 to 10. Additionally or alternatively, the surface features 310 may have patterned shapes, such as lines, wavy lines, zig-zags, or artistic designs.

[0109] FIG. 5A and FIG. 5B cooperate to illustrate a web material structuring belt 100 comprising a support layer 200 and a structuring layer 300. The structuring layer 300 may comprise one or more strips 400 externally wrapped in a machine direction MD about the support layer 200 and disposed in a facing relationship with the support layer 200. FIG. 5A is a schematic perspective view. FIG. 5B is a schematic perspective view of a portion of the web material structuring belt 100 of FIG. 5A.

[0110] Each strip 400 may have a major axis 440 that is disposed parallel to, substantially parallel to, aligned with, or substantially aligned with the machine direction MD, such that the angle 441 between the major axis 440 and the machine direction MD may be in a range of from 5 degrees to 5 degrees, or about 5 degrees to about 5 degrees, or about 4 degrees to about 4 degrees, or about 3 degrees to about 3 degrees, or about 2 degrees to about 2 degrees, or about 1 degrees to about 1 degrees, or about 0 degrees, or 0 degrees.

[0111] It is to be appreciated that since the cross direction CD is perpendicular to the machine direction, the value of the angle 442 between the major axis 440 and the cross direction CD follows mathematically based on specification of the angle 441 or vice versa. For example, the angle 442 between the major axis 440 of each strip and the cross-direction CD may be 90 degrees, or about 90 degrees, or in a range of from about 85 degrees to about 90 degrees, or about 85 degrees to about 90 degrees, or about 86 degrees to about 89 degrees, or about 87 degrees to about 88 degrees. Alternatively, the angle 442 between the major axis 440 of each strip and the cross-direction CD may be 90 degrees, or about 90 degrees, or in a range of from about 85 degrees to about 90 degrees, or about 85 degrees to about 90 degrees, or about 86 degrees to about 89 degrees, or about 87 degrees to about 88 degrees.

[0112] As shown, the strips 400 may be separated one from another by a non-termini seam 600. The non-termini seam 600 may be a gap seam 602. It is to be appreciated, and will be illustrated hereinafter, for example, in FIG. 15, FIG. 16, and FIG. 17, that the non-termini seams 600 between each strip 400 may be any type of seam described herein, including but not limited to abutting seams, gap seams, overlapping seams, and interlocking seams. Additionally, any combination of non-termini seams 600 may be employed. Since a structuring layer 400 externally wrapped in a machine direction MD about a support layer 200 as illustrated in FIG. 5A and FIG. 5B does not repeatedly spiral around the support layer 200, each of the plurality of strips 400 may comprise a termini seam 500. As illustrated, the termini seams 500 are abutting seams 501. It is to be appreciated that the termini seams 500 may be any type of seam described herein, including but not limited to abutting seams, gap seams, overlapping seams, and interlocking seams. Additionally, any combination of termini seam 500 may be employed. In other words, different strips 400 may employ different types of termini seams 500.

[0113] According to various embodiments, it is possible to create a structuring layer material narrower than the width of the support layer. According to various embodiments, it is possible to place the endless support layer onto two mandrels so that the support layer is lightly tensioned with outward pressure on two opposing ends of the support layer loop and the outer surface of the support layer is free from contact with the mandrels. Optionally, it is possible to apply an associating material, bonding layer or modifying material to the support layer. According to various embodiments, it is possible to initiate the orthogonal wrap by positioning the structuring layer and the support layer in contact with one another so that the first side of the first structuring layer wrap non-termini edges align with the support layer first MD edge. According to various embodiments, it is possible to wrap the length of structuring layer fully around the endless support layer, until the structuring layer passes over the first termini edge. With the structuring layer overlapping itself, it is possible to cut through both layers with a cut 5 degrees from perpendicular with the non-termini edges of the structuring layer material, to create an abut seam on a 5 degree angle. Optionally, the seam may be cut to have a gap, abut, or overlap, or any combination of seam types. Optionally the seam may be cut parallel to the cross direction or up to 45 degrees from parallel to the cross direction of the support layer. According to various embodiments, it is possible to treat the entire first orthogonal wrap of structing material in contact with the support layer to bond the two layers. Next, it is possible to increment a new length of structuring material layer over to create a gap seam between the second non-termini edge of the first wrap and the first non-termini edge of the second wrap. According to various embodiments, it is possible to place the termini edge of the second wrap approximately 1 inch further in the machine direction than the first wrap termini seam. Optionally the first and second seams may be in line or up to 10 feet apart. According to various embodiments, it is possible to maintain parallel placement of the second structuring layer wrap with the edge of the support layer and with the first wrap second non-termini edge. When this wrap of structuring layer overlaps with itself, it is possible to cut through both structuring layers with a cut 5 degrees for perpendicular with the non-termini edges of the structuring layer material, to create an structuring layer abut seam on a 5 degree angle. Optionally, the seam may be cut to have a gap, abut, or overlap, or combination of seam types. Optionally the seam may be cut parallel to the cross direction or up to 45 degrees from parallel to the cross direction of the support layer. According to various embodiments, it is possible to treat the second orthogonal wrap of structing material in contact with the support layer to bond the layers. According to various embodiments, it is possible to continue with orthogonal wrap segments offset by gap seam and termini abut seams offset by approximately 1 inch in the machine direction from the previous wrap and bonding the structuring and support layers of the wrap until the structuring layer extends past the support layer MD edge on the other side of the endless loop (second MD edge). According to various embodiments, it is possible to trim any excess structuring layer that extends past the support layer. Optionally the structuring and support layer may be treated to bond the layers after all the wraps have been completed by temporarily affixing the orthogonal wrap termini edges across the belt with tape until the bonding process is begun.

[0114] FIG. 6A and FIG. 6B cooperate to illustrate a web material structuring belt 100 comprising a support layer 200 and a structuring layer 300. The structuring layer 300 may comprise one or more strips 400 externally and spirally wrapped in a machine direction MD about the support layer 200 and disposed in a facing relationship with the support layer 200. FIG. 6A is a schematic perspective view. FIG. 6B is a schematic perspective view of a portion of the web material structuring belt 100 of FIG. 6A. Each strip 400 may have a major axis 440 that is at an angle 441 relative to the machine direction.

[0115] It is to be appreciated that the angle 441 relative to the machine direction MD may be any angle, but that to allow the strip 400 to spiral around the support layer 200 in a machine oriented direction, the angle 441 may be any angle other than 0 degrees, 90 degrees, or 90 degrees. For example, the angle 441 may be from greater than 0 degrees to less than 90 degrees, or greater than about 0 degrees to less than about 90 degrees, or about 3 degrees to about 80 degrees, or about 6 degrees to about 70 degrees, or about 8 degrees to about 60 degrees, or about 10 degrees to about 50 degrees, or about 12 degrees to about 45 degrees, or about 15 degrees to about 35 degrees, or about 18 degrees to about 25 degrees, or about 20 degrees to about 25 degrees, or about 22.5 degrees. Alternatively, the angle 441 may be from less than 0 degrees to greater than 90 degrees, or less than about 0 degrees to greater than about 90 degrees, or about 3 degrees to about 805 degrees, or about 6 degrees to about 70 degrees, or about 8 degrees to about 60 degrees, or about 10 degrees to about 50 degrees, or about 12 degrees to about 45 degrees, or about 15 degrees to about 35 degrees, or about 18 degrees to about 25 degrees, or about 20 degrees to about 25 degrees, or about 22.5 degrees.

[0116] It is to be appreciated that since the cross direction CD is perpendicular to the machine direction, the value of the angle 442 between the major axis 440 and the cross direction CD follows mathematically based on specification of the angle 441 or vice versa. The angle 441 may vary for adjacent strips 400 and even in a case where a single strip 400 is repeatedly wrapped around the support layer 200 the angle 441 may vary for adjacent portions of the same strip 400. As shown, the strips 400 may be separated one from another by a non-termini seam 600. The non-termini seam 600 may be a gap seam 602. It is to be appreciated, and will be illustrated hereinafter, for example, in FIG. 15, FIG. 16, and FIG. 17, that the non-termini seams 600 between each strip 400 may be any type of seam described herein, including but not limited to abutting seams, gap seams, overlapping seams, and interlocking seams. Additionally, any combination of non-termini seams 600 may be employed. Termini portions of a strip 400 or plurality of strips 400 may comprise a termini seam 500. As illustrated, a termini seam 500 may be an abutting seam 501. It is to be appreciated that the termini seams 500 may be any type of seam described herein, including but not limited to abutting seams, gap seams, overlapping seams, and interlocking seams. Additionally, any combination of termini seam 500 may be employed. In other words, different strips may employ different types of termini seams.

[0117] According to various embodiments, it is possible to create a structuring layer material with non-thermoplastic, thermoset polymer, UV light curable polymer, silicone rubber and/or non-silicone vulcanized rubber film or apertured film and/or porous film and/or laser-abraded film and/or laser-etched film and/or perforated film narrower than the width of the support layer. Alternatively provide a structuring layer of woven material, wire mesh or extruded plastic netting narrower than the width of the support layer. The minimum length of structuring layer needed is calculated by dividing the out facing surface area of the support layer by the width of the structuring layer plus the non-termini gap seam distance. This total length may be supplied in one continuous layer or several discrete increments. According to various embodiments, it is possible to place the endless support layer onto two mandrels so that the support layer is lightly tensioned with outward pressure on two opposing ends of the support layer loop and the outer surface of the support layer is free from contact with the mandrels. Optionally, it is possible to apply an associating material, bonding layer or modifying material to the support layer. Initiate the spiral wrap by positioning the structuring layer and the support layer in contact with one another so that the structuring layer non-termini edges are rotated +10 degrees from MD. Optionally, the non-termini edges may be parallel (0 degrees) to 45 degrees or +45 degrees from MD. According to various embodiments, it is possible to translate the structuring layer to induce spiral wrap around the support layer up to the first mandrel. Next, it is possible to treat the segment of the structuring layer material in contact with the support layer to bond the layers together. According to various embodiments, it is possible to continue to translate the structuring layer about the support layer to spirally wrap the structuring layer material around the support layer passing over the first mandrel and coming around to the opposing face of the support layer. According to various embodiments, it is possible to treat this length of structing material in contact with the support layer to bond the layers. According to various embodiments, it is possible to continue translating the structuring layer to spirally wrap the support layer around the second mandrel area and up past the plane of the first termini edge of the structuring layer material, allowing the translation to leave a gap with between the second non-termini edge of the first wrap and the first non-termini end of the second spiral wrap. If the structuring layer was discrete segments rather than one continuous strip, it is possible to create abut, overlap and/or gap seams on the termini edges to continue translating and spiral winding until the entire support layer surface is covered by structuring layer or gap seam. According to various embodiments, it is possible to treat this successive length of structuring material in contact with the support layer to bond the layers. According to various embodiments, it is possible to continue translating the structuring layer to spirally wrap the support layer, leaving gap between the second non-termini edge of the former wrap and the first non-termini end of the latter spiral wrap and treating the layers to bond. According to various embodiments, it is possible to cut away any structuring layer material that extends past the support layer. According to various embodiments, it is possible to return to the initial termini end and first wrap non termini edges of the structuring layer. According to various embodiments, it is possible to fill any area of the surface of the support layer that does not have structuring layer bonded to it by cutting a structuring layer shape that meets with an abut, gap or overlap or combination of any of these types of seem at the first termini edge, a gap seam with the first non-termini edge and fills up to the edge of the support layer. According to various embodiments, it is possible to treat this portion of the structuring layer in contact with the support layer to bond the materials together.

[0118] According to various embodiments, it is possible to create a structuring layer material narrower than the width of the support layer. According to various embodiments, it is possible to place the endless support layer onto two mandrels so that the support layer is lightly tensioned with outward pressure on two opposing ends of the support layer loop and the outer surface of the support layer is free from contact with the mandrels. Optionally, it is possible to apply an associating material, bonding layer or modifying material to the support layer. According to various embodiments, it is possible to initiate the first angled wrap by positioning the structuring layer and the support layer in contact with one another so that the structuring layer non-termini edges are rotated +5 degrees from the support layer machine direction. According to various embodiments, it is possible to continue to angle wrap the structuring layer material around the support layer passing over one of the support mandrel areas and coming around to the opposing face of the support layer. According to various embodiments, it is possible to continue to angle wrap the structuring layer around the second mandrel area and up over the first termini edge of the structuring layer material so that the non-termini edges of the structing layer are aligned. According to various embodiments, it is possible to treat this angled wrap of structuring material in contact with the support layer to bond the two layers. According to various embodiments, it is possible to increment over 0.5 to 4 mm and start another angled wrap. This wrap may be on the same angle as the initial or on a different angle between +0.5 and +45 degrees from the machine direction. According to various embodiments, it is possible to continue to angle wrap and treat to bond until the support layer has been fully covered by structuring layer and gap seam increments. According to various embodiments, it is possible to cut away any structuring layer material that extends past the support layer.

[0119] FIG. 7A and FIG. 7B cooperate to illustrate a web material structuring belt 100 comprising a support layer 200 and a structuring layer 300. The structuring layer 300 may comprise one or more strips 400 internally wrapped in a cross direction CD about the support layer 200 and disposed in a facing relationship with the support layer 200. FIG. 7A is a schematic perspective view. FIG. 7B is a schematic perspective view of a portion of the web material structuring belt 100 of FIG. 7A.

[0120] Each strip 400 may have a major axis 440 that is disposed perpendicularly or substantially perpendicularly with the machine direction MD, such that an angle 441 between the major axis 440 and the machine direction may be 90 degrees, or about 90 degrees, or in a range of from about 85 degrees to about 90 degrees, or about 86 degrees to about 89 degrees, or about 87 degrees to about 88 degrees. Alternatively, the angle 441 may be 90 degrees, or about 90 degrees, or in a range of from about 85 degrees to about 90 degrees, or about 86 degrees to about 89 degrees, or about 87 degrees to about 88 degrees.

[0121] It is to be appreciated that since the cross direction CD is perpendicular to the machine direction, the value of the angle 442 between the major axis 440 and the cross direction CD follows mathematically based on specification of the angle 441 or vice versa. For example, the angle 442 between the major axis 440 of each strip and the cross-direction may be in a range of from 5 degrees to 5 degrees, or about 5 degrees to about 5 degrees, or about 4 degrees to about 4 degrees, or about 3 degrees to about 3 degrees, or about 2 degrees to about 2 degrees, or about 1 degrees to about 1 degrees, or about 0 degrees, or 0 degrees.

[0122] As shown, the strips 400 may be separated one from another by a non-termini seam 600 that is a gap seam 602. It is to be appreciated, and will be illustrated hereinafter, for example, in FIG. 15, FIG. 16, and FIG. 17, that the non-termini seams 600 between each strip 400 may be any type of seam described herein, including but not limited to abutting seams, gap seams, overlapping seams, and interlocking seams. Additionally, any combination of non-termini seams 600 may be employed. Since a support layer 200 formed from strips 400 internally wrapped around a support layer 200, as illustrated in FIG. 7A and FIG. 7B does not repeatedly spiral around the support layer 200, each of the plurality of strips 400 may comprise a termini seam 500. As illustrated, the termini seams 500 may be abutting seams 501. It is to be appreciated that the termini seams 500 may be any type of seam described herein, including but not limited to abutting seams, gap seams, overlapping seams, and interlocking seams. Additionally, any combination of termini seam 500 may be employed. In other words, different strips may employ different types of termini seams.

[0123] According to various embodiments, it is possible to create a structuring layer material narrower than the width of the support layer. According to various embodiments, it is possible to place the endless support layer with optionally applied associating material, bonding layer or modifying material onto two mandrels so that the support layer is lightly tensioned with outward pressure on two opposing ends of the support layer loop and the outer surface of the support layer is free from contact with the mandrels. According to various embodiments, it is possible to initiate the orthogonal wrap by positioning the structuring layer and the support layer in contact with one another so that the structuring layer non-termini edges are substantially parallel to the cross direction of the support layer. According to various embodiments, it is possible to continue contacting the structuring layer with the support layer until the structuring layer reaches the first MD parallel edge of the support layer. According to various embodiments, it is possible to fold the structuring layer around the edge of the support layer and continue the orthogonal wrap by contacting the structuring layer with the backside or the inside or inner core surface of the support layer, maintaining substantially parallel with the support layer cross direction. According to various embodiments, it is possible to continue the wrap across the back side surface, folding the structuring layer around the second MD parallel edge of the support layer coming around to the top face of the support layer and up to the first termini edge plane of the structuring layer material. According to various embodiments, it is possible to cut the structuring layer material to create a second termini edge that when in contact with the support layer creates a 1.2 mm gap seam with the first structuring layer termini end. According to various embodiments, it is possible to treat the entire first orthogonal wrap of structing material in contact with the support layer to bond the two layers. According to various embodiments, it is possible to align the next consecutive wrap of the structuring layer so that the non-termini ends of the first orthogonal wrap to create a 1 to 1.2 mm gap seam with the second orthogonal wrap and the first termini end of the second wrap are parallel with the first termini end of the first wrap. Optionally, this seam may be 0.5 to 4 mm. According to various embodiments, it is possible to continue wrapping the structuring layer parallel to the cross direction and with a 1 to 1.2 mm gap seam with the prior wraps second non-termini edge until the structuring layer overlaps with the first termini edge of the second wrap. According to various embodiments, it is possible to cut the structuring layer material like the first orthogonal wrap, leaving a 1.2 mm gap seam between the first and second termini edges of the second orthogonal wrap. According to various embodiments, it is possible to continue with consecutive wraps with 1-1.2 mm gap seams between orthogonal wraps and 1.2 mm termini edges until the wraps meet up with the first non-termini edge of the first wrap. Optionally, the termini edge seams the non-termini edge seams may be of different width between the orthogonal wraps. According to various embodiments, it is possible to treat each orthogonal wrap of structing material in contact with the support layer to bond the two layers. During the orthogonal wraps, when the structuring layer wraps on the backside of the support layer touching the mandrel, it is possible to index the support layer across the mandrels to access the backside of the support layer. Optionally it is possible to temporarily tape each orthogonal wrap to hold in place and treat the entire structuring and support layers so that the outer, inner and middles layers bond together after completing all the orthogonal wraps to fill the belt. This will produce a belt with a structuring layer on both the inner and outer surface of the support layer.

[0124] According to various embodiments, it is possible to create a structuring layer material narrower than the width of the support layer. According to various embodiments, it is possible to place an endless loop of non-bonding protective material of the same width and length as the support layer onto two mandrels. According to various embodiments, it is possible to place the endless support layer with optionally applied associating material, bonding layer or modifying material over this on the two mandrels so that the support and non-bonding layer is lightly tensioned with outward pressure on two opposing ends of the support layer loop and the outer surface of the support layer is free from contact with the mandrels. According to various embodiments, it is possible to initiate the orthogonal wrap by positioning the structuring layer and the support layer in contact with one another so that the structuring layer non-termini edges are substantially parallel to the cross direction of the support layer. According to various embodiments, it is possible to continue contacting the structuring layer with the support layer until the structuring layer reaches the first MD parallel edge of the support layer. According to various embodiments, it is possible to fold the structuring layer around the edge of the support layer and the non-bonding layer and continue the orthogonal wrap by contacting the non-bonding layer on the inner backside of the support layer, maintaining non termini structuring layer edges substantially parallel with the cross direction of the support layer. According to various embodiments, it is possible to continue the wrap across the back side non-bonding layer surface, folding the structuring layer around the second MD parallel edge of the non-bonding layer and the support layer coming around to the top face of the support layer and up to the first termini edge of the structuring layer material. According to various embodiments, it is possible to cut the structuring layer material to create a second termini edge that when in contact with the support layer creates an abut seam with the first structuring layer termini end. According to various embodiments, it is possible to treat the outer surface of the orthogonal wrap of structing material in contact with the support layer to bond the two layers. According to various embodiments, it is possible to align the next consecutive orthogonal wrap of the structuring layer so that the non-termini ends of the first orthogonal wrap to create a 0.8 mm gap seam with the second orthogonal wrap and the first termini end of the second wrap are parallel with the first termini end of the first wrap. According to various embodiments, it is possible to continue wrapping the structuring layer parallel to the cross direction and with a 0.8 mm gap seam with the prior wraps second non-termini edge until the structuring layer overlaps with the first termini edge of the second wrap. According to various embodiments, it is possible to cut the structuring layer material like the first orthogonal wrap, leaving a 0.5 mm overlap seam between the first and second termini edges of the second orthogonal wrap. According to various embodiments, it is possible to treat the outer surface of this orthogonal wrap of structing material in contact with the support layer to bond the two layers. According to various embodiments, it is possible to continue with consecutive wraps with 0.8 mm gap seams between orthogonal wraps and termini edges and treatment for bonding until the wraps meet up with the first non-termini edge of the first wrap. According to various embodiments, it is possible to cut this wrap of structuring layer to a width to maintain 0.8 mm gap seam between the first non-termini edge of the final orthogonal wrap and the second non-termini edge of the second to last orthogonal wrap and a 0.8 mm gap seam between the second non-termini edge of the final orthogonal wrap and the first non-termini edge of the first orthogonal wrap. During the orthogonal wraps, when the structuring layer wraps on the backside of the support layer and the non-bonding layer touching the mandrel, it is possible to index the support layer and non-bonding layer across the mandrels to access the backside of the support layer and the non-bonding surface. According to various embodiments, it is possible to remove the non-bonded structuring layer wrapped about the backside surface of the support layer & non-bonding layer by cutting the material along the MD edges of the support layer. According to various embodiments, it is possible to remove the non-bonded structuring layer material and the non-bonding layer. This will produce a belt with a structuring layer on the outer surface of the support layer.

[0125] FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B cooperate to illustrate a web material structuring belt 100 comprising a support layer 200 and a structuring layer 300. The structuring layer 300 may comprise one or more strips 400 internally and spirally wrapped in a cross direction CD about the support layer 200 and disposed in a facing relationship with the support layer 200. FIG. 8A is a schematic perspective view. FIG. 8B is a schematic perspective view of a portion of the web material structuring belt 100 of FIG. 8A. Each strip 400 may have a major axis 440 that is at an angle 441 relative to the machine direction.

[0126] It is to be appreciated that the angle 441 may be any angle, but that to allow the strip 400 to spiral around the support layer 200, the angle 441 may be any angle other than 0 degrees, 90 degrees, or 90 degrees. For example, the angle 441 may be in a range of from greater than 0 degrees to less than 90 degrees, or greater than about 0 degrees to less than about 90 degrees, or about 3 degrees to about 80 degrees, or about 6 degrees to about 70 degrees, or about 8 degrees to about 60 degrees, or about 10 degrees to about 50 degrees, or about 12 degrees to about 45 degrees, or about 15 degrees to about 35 degrees, or about 18 degrees to about 25 degrees, or about 20 degrees to about 25 degrees, or about 22.5 degrees.

[0127] Since the cross direction CD is perpendicular to the machine direction, the value of the angle 442 between the major axis 440 and the cross direction CD follows mathematically based on specification of the angle 441 or vice versa. The angle 441 may vary for adjacent strips 400 and even in a case where a single strip 400 is repeatedly wrapped around the support layer 200 the angle 441 may vary for adjacent portions of the same strip 400. As shown, the strips 400 may be separated one from another by a non-termini seam 600. The non-termini seam 600 may be a gap seam 602. It is to be appreciated that the non-termini seams 600 between each strip 400 may be any type of seam described herein, including but not limited to abutting seams, gap seams, overlapping seams, and interlocking seams. Additionally, any combination of non-termini seams 600 may be employed. Termini portions of a strip 400 or plurality of strips 400 may comprise a termini seam 500. The termini seam 500 may be an abutting seam 501. It is to be appreciated that the termini seams 500 may be any type of seam described herein, including but not limited to abutting seams, gap seams, overlapping seams, and interlocking seams. Additionally, any combination of termini seam 500 may be employed. In other words, different strips may employ different types of termini seams.

[0128] According to various embodiments, it is possible to create a structuring layer material narrower than the width of the support layer. The minimum length of structuring layer needed may be calculated by dividing the sum of the outer and inner facing surface area of the support layer by the width of the structuring layer plus the non-termini gap seam distance. According to various embodiments, it is possible to create or provide an additional 5% to account for edge support layer coverage. According to various embodiments, it is possible to place an endless support layer with optionally applied associating material, bonding layer or modifying material onto two mandrels so that the support layer is lightly tensioned with outward pressure on two opposing ends of the support layer loop and the outer surface of the support layer is free from contact with the mandrels. According to various embodiments, it is possible to initiate the spiral wrap by positioning the structuring layer and the support layer in contact with one another so that the structuring layer non-termini edges are rotated 5 degrees off parallel from the support layer cross direction. Optionally the edges may be rotated 0 to 45 degrees off parallel. According to various embodiments, it is possible to continue contacting and translating the structuring layer in a spiral wrap with the support layer until the structuring layer reaches the first MD edge of the support layer. According to various embodiments, it is possible to fold the structuring layer around the edge of the support layer and continue the translation for spiral wrap by contacting the structuring layer with the backside of the support, maintaining the 5 degree angle. According to various embodiments, it is possible to continue the translation and spiral wrap across the back side surface, folding the structuring layer around the second MD edge of the support layer coming around to the top face of the support layer and up to the first termini edge plane of the first structuring layer spiral wrap continuing to translate the structuring layer so the second spiral wrap of the structuring layer first non-termini ends create a 1.6 mm gap seam with the second non-termini edges of the first spiral wrap. Optionally this seam may be 0.5 to 4 mm. According to various embodiments, it is possible to continue translating to spiral wrap the structuring layer at 5 degrees from the cross direction and 1.6 mm gap seam from the prior cycle until the structuring layer makes a final translation spiral to meet back up with the first termini edge. During the progress of the spiral wind cycle when the structuring layer wraps on the backside of the support layer touching the mandrel, it is possible to index the support layer around the mandrels to access the backside of the support layer. According to various embodiments, it is possible to treat the structuring and support layers so that the outer, inner and middles layers bond together. This will produce a belt with a structuring layer on both the inner and outer surface of the support layer.

[0129] According to various embodiments, it is possible to create a structuring layer material narrower than the width of the support layer. The minimum length of structuring layer needed may be calculated by dividing the sum of the outer and inner facing surface area of the support layer by the width of the structuring layer plus the non-termini gap seam distance. According to various embodiments, it is possible to create or provide an additional 5% to account for edge support layer coverage. According to various embodiments, it is possible to place an endless loop of non-bonding protective material of the same width and length as the support layer onto two mandrels. According to various embodiments, it is possible to place the endless support layer with optionally applied associating material, bonding layer or modifying material on the two mandrels so that the support and non-bonding layer is lightly tensioned with outward pressure on two opposing ends of the support layer loop and the outer surface of the support layer is free from contact with the mandrels. According to various embodiments, it is possible to initiate the spiral wrap by positioning the structuring layer and the support layer in contact with one another so that the structuring layer non-termini edges are rotated 5 degrees from the support layer cross direction. Optionally the edges may be rotated 0 to 45degrees off from the cross direction. According to various embodiments, it is possible to continue contacting and translating the structuring layer in a spiral wrap with the support layer until the structuring layer reaches the first MD edge of the support layer and continue the translation for spiral wrap by contacting the structuring layer with the backside of the non-bonding layer, maintaining the 5 degree angle. According to various embodiments, it is possible to continue the translation and spiral wrap across the non-bonding surface, folding the structuring layer around the second MD edge of the support layer coming around to the top face of the support layer and up to the first termini edge plane of the first structuring layer spiral wrap continuing to translate the structuring layer so the second spiral wrap of the structuring layer first non-termini ends create a 1.6 mm gap seam with the second non-termini edges of the first spiral wrap. Optionally this seam may be 0.5 to 4 mm. According to various embodiments, it is possible to continue translating to spiral wrap the structuring layer at 5 degrees from the cross direction and 1.6 mm gap seam from the prior cycle until the structuring layer makes a final translation spiral to meet back up with the first termini edge. During the wind cycle when the structuring layer wraps on the backside of the support layer contacting the non-bonding layer and touching the mandrel, it is possible to index the support layer and non-bonding layer across the mandrels to access the backside of the support layer and contact the non-bonding layer. According to various embodiments, it is possible to treat outer surface the structuring and support layers to bond the layers together. According to various embodiments, it is possible to remove the non-bonded structuring layer wrapped about the backside surface of the support layer by cutting the material along the MD edge of the support layer. According to various embodiments, it is possible to remove the non-bonded structuring layer material and the non-bonding layer. This will produce a belt with a structuring layer on the outer surface of the support layer.

[0130] FIG. 9A and FIG. 9B cooperate to illustrate a web material structuring belt 100 comprising a support layer 200 and structuring layer 300. The structuring layer 300 may comprise one or more strips 400 externally wrapped in a cross direction CD about the support layer 200 and disposed in a facing relationship with the support layer 200. FIG. 9A is a schematic perspective view. FIG. 9B is a schematic perspective view of a portion of the web material structuring belt 100 of FIG. 9A after external flap folds 480 are cut away to expose cut ends 481 of the structuring layers 300. Each strip 400 may have a major axis 440 that is disposed perpendicularly or substantially perpendicularly with the machine direction MD, such that an angle 441 between the major axis 440 and the machine direction is 90 degrees, or about 90 degrees, or in a range of from about 85 degrees to about 90 degrees, or about 86 degrees to about 89 degrees, or about 87 degrees to about 88 degrees. Since the cross direction CD is perpendicular to the machine direction, the value of the angle 442 between the major axis 440 and the cross direction CD follows mathematically based on specification of the angle 441 or vice versa. The angle 442 between the major axis 440 of each strip and the cross-direction may be from 5 degrees to 5 degrees, or about 5 degrees to about 5 degrees, or about 4 degrees to about 4 degrees, or about 3 degrees to about 3 degrees, or about 2 degrees to about 2 degrees, or about 1 degrees to about 1 degrees, or about 0 degrees, or 0 degrees.

[0131] As shown, the strips 400 may be separated one from another by a non-termini seam 600 that is a gap seam 602. It is to be appreciated that the non-termini seams 600 between each strip 400 may be any type of seam described herein, including but not limited to abutting seams, gap seams, overlapping seams, and interlocking seams. Additionally, any combination of non-termini seams 600 may be employed. Since a support layer 200 formed from strips 400 internally wrapped around a support layer 200, as illustrated in FIG. 7A and FIG. 7B does not repeatedly spiral around the support layer 200, each of the plurality of strips 400 may comprise a termini seam 500. As illustrated, the termini seams 500 may be abutting seams 501. It is to be appreciated that the termini seams 500 may be any type of seam described herein, including but not limited to abutting seams, gap seams, overlapping seams, and interlocking seams. Additionally, any combination of termini seam 500 may be employed. In other words, different strips may employ different types of termini seams. As shown in FIG. 9A, it may be beneficial according to various embodiments if any termini seams 500 are positioned at the external flap folds 480 so that they may be removed from the final web material structuring belt 100, as shown in FIG. 9B.

[0132] According to various embodiments, it is possible to create a structuring layer material narrower than the width of the support layer. The minimum length of structuring layer needed may be calculated by dividing the out facing surface area of the support layer by the width of the structuring layer plus the non-termini gap seam distance. According to various embodiments, it is possible to create or provide an additional 10% to account for non-support layer coverage between the upper and lower surface of the support layer (480). According to various embodiments, it is possible to place an endless loop of non-bonding protective material of the same width and length as the support layer onto two mandrels. Optionally it is possible to apply an associating material, bonding layer or modifying material to the support layer. According to various embodiments, it is possible to place the endless support layer over the non-bonding layer on the two mandrels so that the support and non-bonding layer is lightly tensioned with outward pressure on two opposing ends of the support layer loop and the outer surface of the support layer is free from contact with the mandrels. According to various embodiments, it is possible to initiate the first cycle of orthogonal wrap by positioning the structuring layer and the support layer in contact with one another so that the structuring layer non-termini edges are substantially parallel with the support layer cross direction. According to various embodiments, it is possible to continue to orthogonally wrap the structuring layer material around the support layer passing over an MD edge of the support layer down to the next MD edge of the support layer then around the outer surface of the lower support layer level and back up to the top level and up past the first termini edge plane of the structuring layer material. With the structuring layer overlapping itself, cut through both structuring layer layers with a cut 45 degrees from perpendicular with the non-termini edges of the structuring layer material, to create an abut seam on a 45 degree angle. Optionally, the seam may be cut to have a gap, abut or overlap or combination of seam types. Optionally the seam may be cut between 45 to 0 degrees from parallel to the cross direction of the support layer. According to various embodiments, it is possible to treat the entire first orthogonal wrap of structing material in contact with the support layer to bond the two layers. Next it is possible to increment a new length of structuring material layer over 1.5 mm to create a gap seam between the second non-termini edge of the first wrap and the first non-termini edge of the second wrap. According to various embodiments, it is possible to place the termini edge of the second wrap approximately 1 inch further in the cross direction than the first wrap termini seam. Optionally the first and second seams may be in line or up to 10 feet apart. According to various embodiments, it is possible to maintain substantially parallel placement of the second structuring layer wrap with the edge of the first wrap second non-termini edge. When this wrap of structuring layer overlaps with itself, it is possible to cut through both structuring layers with a cut 45 degrees from perpendicular with the non termini edges of the structuring layer material, to create an structuring layer abut seam on a 45 degree angle. Optionally, the seam may be cut to have a gap, abut or overlap or combination of seam types. Also optionally the seam may be cut between 45 to 0 degrees from parallel to the cross direction of the support layer. According to various embodiments, it is possible to treat the second orthogonal wrap of structing material in contact with the support layer to bond the layers. According to various embodiments, it is possible to continue with orthogonal wrap segments offset by 1.5 mm gap seam and termini abut seams offset by approximately 1 inch in the cross machine direction from the previous wrap and bonding the structuring and support layers of the wrap until the structuring layer until the entire endless loop has been cycled. According to various embodiments, it is possible to cut away the structuring layer material that extends past the support layer on all the MD edges of the support layer. According to various embodiments, it is possible to remove the material and the non-bonding protective material. Optionally the structuring and support layer may be treated to the bond the layers after all the wraps have been completed by temporarily affixing the orthogonal wrap termini edges across the belt with tape until the bonding process is begun.

[0133] FIG. 10A and FIG. 10B cooperate to illustrate a web material structuring belt 100 comprising a support layer 200 and a structuring layer 300. The structuring layer 300 may comprise one or more strips 400 externally and spirally wrapped in a cross direction CD about the support layer 200 and disposed in a facing relationship with the support layer 200. As shown, a structuring layer 300 may comprise one or more strips 400 internally and spirally wrapped in a cross direction CD about a support layer 200. FIG. 10A is a schematic perspective view. FIG. 10B is a schematic perspective view of a portion of the web material structuring belt 100 of FIG. 10A after external flap folds 480 are cut away to expose cut ends 481 of the structuring layers 300. Each strip 400 may have a major axis 440 that is at an angle 441 relative to the machine direction. It is to be appreciated that the angle 441 may be any angle, but that to allow the strip 400 to spiral around the support layer 200, the angle 441 may be any angle other than 0 degrees, 90 degrees, or 90 degrees. For example, the angle 441 may be in a range of from greater than 0 degrees to less than 90 degrees, or greater than about 0 degrees to less than about 90 degrees, or about 3 degrees to about 80 degrees, or about 6 degrees to about 70 degrees, or about 8 degrees to about 60 degrees, or about 10 degrees to about 50 degrees, or about 12 degrees to about 45 degrees, or about 15 degrees to about 35 degrees, or about 18 degrees to about 25 degrees, or about 20 degrees to about 25 degrees, or about 22.5 degrees.

[0134] Since the cross direction CD is perpendicular to the machine direction, the value of the angle 442 between the major axis 440 and the cross direction CD follows mathematically based on specification of the angle 441 or vice versa. The angle 441 may vary for adjacent strips 400 and even in a case where a single strip 400 is repeatedly wrapped around the support layer 200 the angle 441 may vary for adjacent portions of the same strip 400. As shown, the strips 400 may be separated one from another by a non-termini seam 600. The non-termini seam 600 may be a gap seam 602. It is to be appreciated that the non-termini seams 600 between each strip 400 may be any type of seam described herein, including but not limited to abutting seams, gap seams, overlapping seams, and interlocking seams. Additionally, any combination of non-termini seams 600 may be employed. Termini portions of a strip 400 or plurality of strips 400 may comprise a termini seam 500. The termini seam 500 may be an abutting seam 501. It is to be appreciated that the termini seams 500 may be any type of seam described herein, including but not limited to abutting seams, gap seams, overlapping seams, and interlocking seams. Additionally, any combination of termini seam 500 may be employed. In other words, different strips may employ different types of termini seams. As shown in FIG. 10A, it may be beneficial according to various embodiments if any termini seams 500 are positioned at the external flap folds 480 so that they may be removed from the final web material structuring belt 100, as shown in FIG. 10B.

[0135] According to various embodiments, it is possible to create a structuring layer material narrower than the width of the support layer. The minimum length of structuring layer needed may be calculated by dividing the out facing surface area of the support layer by the width of the structuring layer plus the non-termini gap seam distance. According to various embodiments, it is possible to create or provide an additional 10% to account for non-support layer coverage between the upper and lower surface of the support layer. According to various embodiments, it is possible to place an endless loop of non-bonding protective material of the same width and length as the support layer onto two mandrels. Optionally, it is possible to apply an associating material, bonding layer or modifying material to the support layer. According to various embodiments, it is possible to place the endless support layer over the non-bonding layer on the two mandrels so that the support and non-bonding layer is lightly tensioned with outward pressure on two opposing ends of the support layer loop and the outer surface of the support layer is free from contact with the mandrels. According to various embodiments, it is possible to initiate the spiral wrap by positioning the structuring layer and the support layer in contact with one another so that the structuring layer non-termini edges are rotated +2.5 degrees off the support layer cross direction. Optionally the material may be rotated +0.5 to +44.5 or 0.5 to 44.5 degrees from the support layer cross direction. According to various embodiments, it is possible to continue to spirally wrap the structuring layer material around the support layer passing over an MD edge of the support layer down to the next MD edge of the support layer then around the outer surface of the lower support layer level and back up to the top level and up to the first termini edge plane of the structuring layer material. According to various embodiments, it is possible to align this second spiral wrap cycle of the structuring layer so that the non-termini ends of the first wrap create a 1 mm gap seam with this second wrap. According to various embodiments, it is possible to continue wrapping the structuring layer at 2.5 degrees from the cross direction and 1 mm gap seam the prior spiral wrap cycle second non-termini edge and the current spiral wrap cycle first non-termini edge until the structuring layer touches or overlaps with the first spiral wrap cycle termini edge. According to various embodiments, it is possible to treat the structuring material in contact with the support layer to bond the two layers. According to various embodiments, it is possible to cut away the structuring layer material that extends past the support layer on all the MD edges of the support layer. According to various embodiments, it is possible to remove the material and the non-bonding protective material.

[0136] FIG. 11 is a schematic perspective view a web material structuring belt 100 comprising a support layer 200 and a structuring layer 300 disposed in a facing relationship with the support layer 200. The structuring layer 300 comprises a plurality of strip portions 462, which may be applied to the support layer 200 by wrapping a strip 400 as shown in FIG. 2D about the support layer 200 according to any of the methods described herein.

[0137] FIG. 12 is a schematic perspective view a web material structuring belt 100 comprising a support layer 200 and a structuring layer 300 disposed in a facing relationship with the support layer 200. The structuring layer 300 comprises a combination of strips wrapped in different orientations. FIG. 12 illustrates a combination of machine direction MD wrapping and internal cross direction CD wrapping. It is to be appreciated that any combination of the various wrappings may be employed. Any combination of machine direction MD wrapping, cross direction CD wrapping, spiral wrapping, internal, or external wrapping may be employed. Any of the techniques disclosed herein may be combined to produce a web material structuring belt 100.

[0138] FIG. 13, FIG. 14, FIG. 15, and FIG. 16 cooperate to illustrate some variations on web material structuring belt 100 comprising a support layer 200 that combine various wrap angles 441, 442 and various non-termini seams 600. For ease of comparison, these figures all show strips 400 externally wrapped in a machine direction MD. It is to be appreciated that the exemplified variations and combinations of various wrap angles 441, 442 and non-termini seams 600 are not limited to machine direction MD wraps, but may be used in these and other combinations in cross direction CD wraps. FIG. 13 is a schematic perspective view a web material structuring belt 100 comprising a support layer 200 and a structuring layer 300, comprising a plurality of strips 400 disposed in a facing relationship with the support layer 200. The non-termini seams 600 are all gap seams 602. FIG. 13 also illustrates a combination of strips 400 in which some strips are wrapped in a spirally manner about the support layer 200, while others are not. FIG. 14 is a schematic top view of a web material structuring belt 100 comprising a support layer 200 and a structuring layer 300, comprising a plurality of strips 400 disposed in a facing relationship with the support layer 200, showing an abutting seam 601 between non-termini portions 420a, 420b of at least one structuring layer 300. FIG. 15 is a schematic top view of a web material structuring belt 100 comprising a support layer 200 and a structuring layer 300, comprising a plurality of strips 400 disposed in a facing relationship with the support layer 200, showing an x-y interlocking seam 605 between non-termini portions 420a, 420b of at least one structuring layer 300. FIG. 16 is a schematic top view of a web material structuring belt 100 comprising a support layer 200 and a structuring layer 300, comprising a plurality of strips 400 disposed in a facing relationship with the support layer 200, showing an overlap seam 603 between non-termini portions 420a, 420b of at least one structuring layer 300.

[0139] As best illustrated in FIGS. 5B, 6B, 7B, and 8B, but as is applicable to all embodiments described herein, a gap seam 602 may have a width spanning the distance between adjacent strips 400. This gap or valley between the structuring layers 300, embodied as strips 400, may have a gap width GW. The gap width GW may be from about 1/64 in (0.0397 cm) to about 2 in (5.08 cm), or about 1/32 in (0.0794 cm) to about 1 in (2.54 cm), or about 1/32 in (0.0794 cm) to about 0.75 in (1.905 cm), or about 1/16 in (0.1588 cm) to about in (1.27 cm). The gap width GW may also be from about 0.01 cm to about 10 cm, or about 0.1 cm to about 9.5 cm, or about 1 cm to about 9 cm, or about 1.5 cm to about 8.5 cm, or about 2 cm to about 8 cm, or about 2.5 cm to about 7.5 cm, or about 3 cm to about 7 cm, or about 3.5 cm to about 6.5 cm, or about 4 cm to about 6 cm, or about 4.5 cm to about 5.5 cm, or about 5 cm. The gap seam 602 may effectively become part of the overall structuring layer 300 in that it may be used to add a texture, a contour, a protrusion, a trough or a shape to a material disposed on the web material structuring belt 100.

[0140] As will be appreciated by those having ordinary skill in the art, various embodiments solve a variety of problems associated with winding belts. Providing winding belts from a narrower width structuring layer may provide material, cost, and pattern opportunities versus a full width structuring layer. Heretofore, winding belts, tended to create more seams that may create a higher probability for a discontinuity that is disadvantageous for a commercial-scale process or a commercially-acceptable product. It is has been discovered that a controlled gap seam, especially on the increased seam lengths of the non-terminal portions, will not have high thickness or low permeability issues that lead to the process and product problems. Various embodiments may reduce discontinuities so as to minimize process and product discontinuities that may lead to needing to run lower speeds or making bad product.

[0141] Various embodiments may control the type of seams so that they are predominately gap seams. Various embodiments may control where and how the seams in the machine direction MD and the cross direction CD are located using similar or disparate sized pieces of structuring strips. Various embodiments may employ gapping seams to create a fire break, where using structuring layer strips that remain independent of contact from each other, prevents a tear, hole, delamination, or other failure in the structuring layer from continuing to grow across the entire belt. Various embodiments may spirally wind the structuring strips in the cross direction CD, thus isolating individual segments across the machine direction MD, which may be the primary direction of strain for the belt. Without being bound by theory, it is thought that by segmenting the strips and keeping them independent of each other, the MD strain can be carried by the support layer, thus reducing strain on the structuring layer and any association, associating layer or bonding between the support and structuring layer. According to various embodiments, the gap seam may be part of the overall pattern of continuous or discontinuous structuring layers. According to various embodiments, a continuous pattern layer, where there is a continuous network of structuring layer material forming a pattern, may enable a semi-continuous overall pattern by separating the continuous network strips with a discontinuous gap seam, while a discontinuous pattern layer where the structuring layer material is not a continuous network may enable maintaining a discontinuous overall pattern by creating a continuous discontinuous network with the gap seam.

[0142] Using a narrower strip of material for belts offers flexibility in choosing the type or pattern of the material and can lower production costs and complexity. However, this approach results in more seams, which are weak points where two or more material planes meet. These seams are susceptible to discontinuities or imperfections, as they involve the intersection of multiple planes, potentially exposing the area to additional forces or strain. Another method for belt production is additive manufacturing, which creates many small, distinct tiles or segments. These segments are then attached to a support layer, leading to a large number of seams. This increased seam presence heightens the likelihood of issues like delamination or inconsistencies.

[0143] Various embodiments provide a way to mitigate the increased risk of seam delamination in the production of belts using a wrapped structuring layer technique, while still preserving the key features and functionality of a structuring belt. Such embodiments may reduce the number of seams, which are prone to delamination or inconsistencies. Thus, the process becomes more efficient, enhancing the likelihood of producing durable, high-quality seams without issues related to thickness, air permeability, or pattern anomalies. Additionally, the method improves the lamination of the structuring layer. Instead of altering or filling in the pattern or surface of the structuring layer during lamination, the technique involves laminating the seam along with the support layer. This strategy effectively conceals most of the seam irregularities beneath the surface where fiber web formation occurs. As a result, there is an enhanced consistency in both the visual and functional aspects of the web. This not only improves the operational efficiency of machinery but also ensures the production of a consistent and appealing product for consumers.

[0144] It has been discovered that bonding, mechanically intertwining, weaving, or sewing the non-termini edge portions of the wound structuring layer strips to the support layer significantly improves the lamination and resistance to separation of these two layers. Surprisingly, it is not necessary for the non-termini edges of the structuring layer, essentially the seams, to be connected to each other, as long as they are adequately bonded to the support layer. Having the structuring layer non-termini edge associate with both the support layer and the next nearest non-termini edge can add an additional level of durability or may be necessary because the non-termini edges have an overlap seam. Patterning the association of the non-termini edge portions with the support layer can enhance air flow through the belt.

[0145] Non-limiting examples of associating methods used, according to various embodiments, to associate a support layer and a structuring layer include embedment methods where at least one or more portions of one of the support layer and/or structuring layer extend (penetrate) into, but less than entirely through the z-direction thickness of the other layer, for example extends into the other layer greater than 30 m and/or greater than 40 m and/or greater than 50 m and/or greater than 100 m and/or to less than 5000 m and/or to less than 4000 m and/or to less than 3000 m and/or to less than 2000 m, in yet another example greater than the thickness of at least one individual component, for example at least one yarn, at least one thread and/or at least one filament, that at least partially defines an upper layer and/or upper surface for example at least one filament that forms at least a part of a surface of the support layer and/or structuring layer associated with the other layer, for example greater than 50 m and/or greater than 75 m and/or greater than 100 m and/or greater than 150 m and/or greater than 200 m and/or greater than 300 m and/or greater than 400 m and/or greater than 500 m and/or greater than 600 m and/or to less than 5000 m and/or to less than 4000 m and/or to less than 3000 m and/or to less than 2000 m, in even yet another example greater than 5% and/or greater than 10% and/or greater than 20% and/or greater than 30% and/or greater than 40% and/or to less than 95% and/or to less than 90% and/or to less than 80% and/or to less than 70% and/or to less than 60% of the thickness (z-direction thickness) of the support layer and/or structuring layer, in still another example extends past the upper surface and/or upper surface plane of the support layer and/or structuring layer, in another example extends into the support layer and/or structuring layer more than 50% and/or greater than 75% and/or greater than 100% of the thickness of individual components, for example yarns, threads and/or filaments, that define an upper layer and/or an upper surface of the support layer and/or structuring layer, in even yet another example extends into the support layer and/or structuring layer such that at least a portion of the support layer and/or structuring layer envelopes and/or wraps one or more individual components, for example yarns, threads and/or filaments, that define the upper layer and/or upper surface of the other layer, but less than entirely through the other layer.

[0146] Association of a structuring layer to a support layer and/or vice versa requires sufficient lamination that the resulting web material structuring belt is suitable for running in web material making processes for long periods of time, for example at least 500 and/or at least 750 and/or at least 900 and/or at least 1000 hours.

[0147] In one example, as long one or more of the portions of the non-termini seam of the structuring layer extends into the support layer the resulting web material structuring belt of the present invention is formed. In another example as long as the support layer extends into the non-termini portion seam of the structuring layer, the resulting belt of the invention is formed. In another example, as long as an associating layer extends into the non-termini seam structuring layer and/or in the support layer with or without bonding layer, the belt of the present invention if formed.

[0148] Referring again to FIG. 13-16, any of the structuring layers 300, comprising one or more strips 400, may further comprise one or more associations 700. An association 700 may be in a non-seam portion 320 of any or all of the strips 400. Additionally or alternatively, the association 700 may be at a non-termini portion 420 or even at a termini portion 430 of any or all of the strips 400. The association 700, regardless of its location, may connect the structuring layer 300 to the support layer 200 and/or to may connect the structuring layer 300 to another structuring layer 300 and/or to another portion of the same structuring layer 300. Many types of associations may be employed. Some examples will now be described. It is to be appreciated that the following examples are not limiting and that those having skill in the art will be able to arrive at combinations of and variations on the specifically exemplified types of associations. Referring to FIG. 17-26, a web material structuring belt 100 may comprise a support layer 200 and a structuring layer 300. In one example, at least a portion of the support layer 200 and/or the structuring layer 300 may be associated with the other layer such that the portion extends into the other layer. The portion that extends into the other layer may extend less than entirely through the other layer or entirely through the other layer. In other words, the web material structuring belt 100 may comprise at least one association 700 between the support layer 200 and the structuring layer 300. In addition to extending into the other layer, at least a portion of one layer may be co-planar with at least a portion of the other layer, in other words, one portion does not extend into the other layer, but may be disposed on that layer in a facing relationship. It is to be appreciated that in each of FIG. 17-26, the figure may represent a termini portion 430, a non-termini portion 420, or a non-seam portion 320 of a structuring layer 300, since the associations 700 may be in any or all of these locations.

[0149] In one example, as shown in FIG. 17, the structuring layer 300 may comprise at least one protuberance 730. The one or more protuberances 730 may be different materials and/or different shapes and/or different locations and/or different z-direction thicknesses, etc. The at least one protuberance 730 of the structuring layer 300 may extend into the support layer 200. The protuberances 730 may extend uniformly or non-uniformly into the support layer 200, such as at two or more and/or three or more and/or four or more different distances, for example, in a z-direction thickness of the support layer 200. In one example, the structuring layer 300 may extend into the support layer 200 at a distance less than entirely through the support layer 200 and optionally, at a distance entirely through the support layer 200. In addition to extending into the support layer 200, at least a portion of the structuring layer 300 may be co-planar with a portion of the support layer 200, in other words, the portion of the structuring layer 300 does not extend into the support layer 200.

[0150] As shown in FIG. 18, in another example, the support layer 200 may comprise at least one protuberance 720. The one or more protuberances 720 may be different materials and/or different shapes and/or different locations and/or different z-direction thicknesses, etc. The protuberances 720 support layer 200 may extend into the structuring layer 300. The protuberances 720 may extend uniformly or non-uniformly into the structuring layer 300, such as at two or more and/or three or more and/or four or more different distances, for example, in a z-direction thickness of the structuring layer 300. In one example, the support layer 200 may extend into the structuring layer 300 at a distance less than entirely through the structuring layer 300 and optionally, at a distance entirely through the structuring layer 300. In addition to extending into the structuring layer 300, at least a portion of the support layer 200 may be co-planar with a portion of the structuring layer 300, in other words, the portion of the support layer 200 does not extend into the structuring layer 300.

[0151] As shown in FIG. 19, in another example, the structuring layer 300 may comprise at least one protuberance 730 and the support layer 200 may comprise at least one protuberance 720. At least a portion, for example one or more protuberances 720 of the support layer 200 may extend into the structuring layer 300. These protuberances 720 may be different materials and/or different shapes and/or different locations and/or different z-direction thicknesses, etc. support layer 200 structuring layer 300. The protuberances 720 may extend into the structuring layer 300 uniformly or non-uniformly, such as at two or more and/or three or more and/or four or more different distances, for example z-direction thickness distances of the structuring layer 300. In one example, the support layer 200 extends into the structuring layer 300 at a distance less than entirely through the structuring layer 300 and optionally, at a distance entirely through the structuring layer 300. In addition, at least a portion, for example one or more protuberances 730 of the structuring layer 300 may extend into the support layer 200. These protuberances 730 may be different materials and/or different shapes and/or different locations and/or different z-direction thicknesses, etc. The protuberances 730 may extend structuring layer 300 into the support layer 200 uniformly or non-uniformly, such as at two or more and/or three or more and/or four or more different distances, for example z-direction thickness distances of the support layer 200. In one example, the structuring layer 300 extends into the support layer 200 at a distance less than entirely through the support layer 200 and optionally, at a distance entirely through the support layer 200. In addition to the structuring layer 300 extending into the support layer 200 and the support layer 200 extending into the structuring layer 300, at least a portion of the support layer 200 and the structuring layer 300 may be co-planar with a portion of the other layer, in other words, the portion does not extend into the other layer.

[0152] As shown in FIG. 20, in another example, the association 700 may comprise an associating layer 740. The association layer 740 may comprise one or more protuberances 741, which may be different materials and/or different shapes and/or different locations and/or different z-direction thicknesses, etc. The protuberances 741 of the associating layer 740 may extend into the structuring layer 300 and/or into the support layer 200. For example, the protuberances 741 may extend uniformly or non-uniformly, such as at two or more and/or three or more and/or four or more different distances, for example z-direction thickness distances of the structuring layer 300. In one example, the associating layer 740 extends into the structuring layer 300 at a distance less than entirely through the structuring layer 300 and optionally, at a distance entirely through the structuring layer 300. Additionally or alternatively, at least a portion, for example one or more protuberances 741, of the associating layer 740 may extend into the support layer 200, for example uniformly or non-uniformly, such as at two or more and/or three or more and/or four or more different distances, for example z-direction thickness distances of the support layer 200. In one example, the associating layer 740 may extend into the support layer 200 at a distance less than entirely through the support layer 200 and optionally, at a distance entirely through the support layer 200. In addition to extending into both the support layer 200 and the structuring layer 300, at least a portion of the associating layer 740 may be co-planar with a portion of the support layer 200 and/or the structuring layer 300, in other words, the portion of the associating layer 740 does not extend into the support layer 200 and/or the structuring layer 300.

[0153] FIG. 21 provides another example of how one or more protuberances 741 of the associating layer 740 may extend into the support layer 200. The one or more protuberances 741 may be different materials and/or different shapes and/or different locations and/or different z-direction thicknesses, etc. The protuberances 741 may extend uniformly or non-uniformly, such as at two or more and/or three or more and/or four or more different distances, for example z-direction thickness distances of the support layer 200. In one example, the associating layer 740 extends into the support layer 200, non-uniformly, for example at a distance less than entirely through the support layer 200 and at a distance entirely through the support layer 200 such that it associates with, for example bonds to, a backing layer 220. The backing layer 220 may be a layer of material that contacts at least one or more portions of a surface of the support layer 200 opposite the surface of the support layer 200 associated with the associating layer 740. The backing layer 220 may comprise the same or a similar material as the associating layer 740 and/or may be a compatible material with the material of the associating layer 740 such that the associating layer 740 associates with, for example bonds to, the backing layer 220. In addition to extending into the support layer 200, at least a portion of the associating layer 740 may be co-planar with a portion of the support layer 200 and/or the structuring layer 300, in other words, the portion does not extend into the support layer 200 and/or the structuring layer 300.

[0154] In another example similar to FIG. 21, but not shown, at least a portion, for example one or more protuberances 741, which may be different materials and/or different shapes and/or different locations and/or different z-direction thicknesses, etc., of the associating layer 740 extends into the structuring layer 300, for example non-uniformly, such as at two or more and/or three or more and/or four or more different distances, for example z-direction thickness distances of the structuring layer 300. In one example, the associating layer 740 may extend into the structuring layer 300 non-uniformly, for example at a distance less than entirely through the structuring layer 300 and at a distance entirely through the structuring layer 300 such that it associates with, for example bonds to, a backing layer 220. In addition to extending into the structuring layer 300, at least a portion of the associating layer 740 may be co-planar with a portion of the support layer 200 and/or the structuring layer 300, in other words, the portion does not extend into the support layer 200 and/or the structuring layer 300.

[0155] As shown in FIG. 22, in another example, one or more protuberances 741 of an associating layer 740 may extend into a support layer 200 and one or more protuberances 750 of a backing layer 220 may extends into the support layer 200. The protuberances 741 of the associating layer 740 may be different materials and/or different shapes and/or different locations and/or different z-direction thicknesses, etc. These protuberances 741 of the associating layer 740 may extend uniformly or non-uniformly into the support layer 200, such as at two or more and/or three or more and/or four or more different distances, for example z-direction thickness distances of the support layer 200. These protuberances 741 of the associating layer 740 may extend into the support layer 200 at a distance less than entirely through the support layer 200 and optionally, at a distance entirely through the support layer 200. Similarly, the protuberances 750 of the backing layer 220 may be different materials and/or different shapes and/or different locations and/or different z-direction thicknesses, etc. These protuberances 750 of the backing layer 220 may extend uniformly or non-uniformly into the support layer 200, such as at two or more and/or three or more and/or four or more different distances, for example z-direction thickness distances of the support layer 200. These protuberances 750 of the backing layer 220 may extend into the support layer 200 at a distance less than entirely through the support layer 200 and optionally, at a distance entirely through the support layer 200. At least a portion, for example one or more protuberances 750, of a backing layer 220 may extend entirely through the support layer 200 such that it associates with at least a portion of the associating layer 740 that does not extend into the support layer 200. The backing layer 220 may comprise the same or a similar material as the associating layer 740 and/or may be a compatible material with the material of the associating layer 740 such that the associating layer 740 associates with, for example bonds to, the backing layer 220. In addition to extending into the support layer 200, at least a portion of the associating layer 740 may be co-planar with a portion of the support layer 200 and/or the structuring layer 300, in other words, the portion does not extend into the support layer 200 and/or the structuring layer 300.

[0156] In another example similar to FIG. 22, but not shown, at least a portion, for example one or more protuberances, which may be different materials and/or different shapes and/or different locations and/or different z-direction thicknesses, etc., of the associating layer extends into the structuring layer, for example non-uniformly, such as at two or more and/or three or more and/or four or more different distances, for example z-direction thickness distances of the structuring layer. In one example, the associating layer extends into the structuring layer, non-uniformly, for example at a distance less than entirely through the structuring layer and optionally, at a distance entirely through the structuring layer. At least a portion, for example one or more protuberances, of a backing layer (a layer of material that contacts at least one or more portions of a surface of the structuring layer opposite the surface of the structuring layer associated with the associating layer) extends entirely through the structuring layer such that it associates with at least a portion of the associating layer that does not extend into the structuring layer. The backing layer may comprise the same or a similar material as or different from the associating layer and/or may be a compatible material with the material of the associating layer such that the associating layer associates with, for example bonds to, the backing layer. In addition to extending into the structuring layer, at least a portion of the associating layer may be co-planar with a portion of the support layer and/or the structuring layer, in other words, the portion does not extend into the support layer and/or the structuring layer.

[0157] As shown in FIG. 23, in another example, at least a portion, for example one or more protuberances 741, which may be different materials and/or different shapes and/or different locations and/or different z-direction thicknesses, etc., in this case discrete protuberances, of the associating layer 740 may extend into the support layer 200 and the structuring layer 300, for example non-uniformly, such as at two or more and/or three or more and/or four or more different distances, for example z-direction thickness distances of the support layer 200 and the structuring layer 300. In one example, the associating layer 740 may extend into the support layer 200 and/or the structuring layer 300, non-uniformly, for example at a distance less than entirely through the support layer 200 and/or the structuring layer 300 and optionally, at a distance entirely through the support layer 200 and/or the structuring layer 300. At least a portion, for example one or more protuberances 750, of a backing layer 220 may extend entirely through the support layer 200 and/or the structuring layer 300 such that it associates with at least a portion of the associating layer 740 that does not extend into the support layer 200 and/or that does not extend into the structuring layer 300. The backing layer 220 may comprise the same or a similar material as or may be different from the associating layer 740 and/or may be a compatible material with the material of the associating layer 740 such that the associating layer 740 associates with, for example bonds to, the backing layer 220. In addition to extending into the support layer 200, at least a portion of the associating layer 740 may be co-planar with a portion of the support layer 200 and/or the structuring layer 300, in other words, the portion does not extend into the support layer 200 and/or the structuring layer 300.

[0158] As shown in FIG. 24, in another example, at least a portion, for example one or more protuberances 741, which may be different materials and/or different shapes and/or different locations and/or different z-direction thicknesses, etc., of a first portion 742 of the associating layer 740 may extend into the support layer 200, for example uniformly or non-uniformly, such as at two or more and/or three or more and/or four or more different distances, for example z-direction thickness distances of the support layer 200, and at least a portion, for example one or more protuberances 741, of a second portion 743 of the associating layer 740 different from the first portion 742 of the associating layer 740, which may be different materials and/or different shapes and/or different locations and/or different z-direction thicknesses, etc., extends into the structuring layer 300, for example uniformly or non-uniformly, such as at two or more and/or three or more and/or four or more different distances, for example z-direction thickness distances of the structuring layer 300. In one example, the first portion 742 of the associating layer 740 extends into the support layer 200, non-uniformly, for example at a distance less than entirely through the support layer 200 and optionally, at a distance entirely through the support layer 200. In one example, the second portion 743 of the associating layer 740 extends into the structuring layer 300, non-uniformly, for example at a distance less than entirely through the structuring layer 300 and optionally, at a distance entirely through the structuring layer 300. In another example, the first portion 742 of the associating layer 740 extends into the support layer 200, non-uniformly, for example at a distance less than entirely through the support layer 200 and optionally, at a distance entirely through the support layer 200 and the second portion 743 of the associating layer 740 extends into the structuring layer 300, non-uniformly, for example at a distance less than entirely through the structuring layer 300 and optionally, at a distance entirely through the structuring layer 300. At least a portion, for example one or more protuberances 741 of the first portion 742 of the associating layer 740 and/or a second portion 743 of the associating layer 740, may associate with, for example bond to, a backing layer (a layer of material that contacts at least one or more portions of a surface of the support layer 200 opposite the surface of the support layer 200 associated with the associating layer 740 and/or a layer of material that contacts at least one or more portions of a surface of the structuring layer 300 opposite the surface of the structuring layer 300 associated with the associating layer 740). The backing layer may comprise the same or a similar material as or may be different from the first portion 742 of the associating layer 740 and/or the second portion 743 of the associating layer 740 and/or may be a compatible material with the material of the associating layer 740 such that the associating layer 740 associates with, for example bonds to, the backing layer. In addition to extending into the support layer 200 and/or the structuring layer 300, at least a portion of the first portion 742 of the associating layer 740 and/or at least a portion of the second portion 743 of the associating layer 740 may be co-planar with a portion of the support layer 200 and/or the structuring layer 300, in other words, the portion does not extend into the support layer 200 and/or the structuring layer 300.

[0159] As shown in FIG. 25, in another example, the bonding material 760 associates, for example bonds, at least a portion of the support layer 200 to the associating layer 740, for example uniformly or non-uniformly, for example at first bond sites, for example at a first number of bond sites, and the bonding material 760 associates, for example bonds, the structuring layer 300 to the associating layer 740, for example uniformly or non-uniformly, for example at second bond sites, for example at a second number of bond sites, the same or different from the first bond sites, such as at a different number than the number of first bond sites and/or at a different pattern the pattern of the first bond sites. The first and second portions of the associating layer 740 may further be associated with the support layer 200 and/or the structuring layer 300.

[0160] As shown in FIG. 26, a web material structuring belt 10 comprising a support layer 200, a structuring layer 300 and one or more connecting threads 770. The connecting threads 770 may comprise any suitable material, for example it may be the same or different as the support layer material, the structuring layer material, the associating layer material, when present, and/or the bonding/adhesive material, when present, all disclosed herein. In one example, as shown in FIG. 26, one or more connecting threads 770 associate the support layer 200 with the structuring layer 300.

Some Generally Applicable Considerations

[0161] According to any of the embodiments and examples described herein, a non-termini structuring layer seam may be an abutting seam, an overlapping seam, an interlocking seam, or a gap seam, or may be any combination of these seam types. It is to be appreciated, however, that a non-termini structuring layer seam does not have to associate within or extend across, or be disposed over the structuring layer. Exemplary, but non-limiting gap widths GW, as illustrated in FIG. 13, for non-termini structuring layer seams may be from about 1/64 in (0.0397 cm) to about 2 in (5.08 cm), or about 1/32 in (0.0794 cm) to about 1 in (2.54 cm), or about 1/32 in (0.0794 cm) to about in (1.905 cm), or about 1/16 in (0.1588 cm) to about in (1.27 cm). Exemplary, but non-limiting overlapping widths OW, as illustrated in FIG. 16, and/or interlocking widths IW, as illustrated in FIG. 15, are from about 1/64 in (0.0397 cm) to about 2 in (5.08 cm), or about 1/32 in (0.0794 cm) to about 1 in (3.81 cm), or about 1/16 in (0.1588 cm) to about 1 in (2.54 cm).

[0162] According to any of the embodiments and examples described herein, the association between a non-termini structuring layer seam and a support layer may occur at the non-termini portion edge, but may include up to 1/16 to 3, to 2, to 1.5, to 1 of distance into the strip from about 1/16 in (0.1588 cm) to about 3 in (7.62 cm), or about in (0.3175 cm) to about 2 in (5.08 cm), or about in (0.635 cm) to about 1.5 in (3.81 cm), or about in (1.27 cm) to about 1 in (2.54 cm). The association may include a pattern that may include different distances in length, gap, and shape of the association. The association may also include a depth that is less than entirely through to completely through the structuring layer or the support layer. For example, the depth may be greater than 30 m, 40 m, 50 m, 100 m to less than 5000 m, 4000 m, 3000 m, 2000 m. The depth may be greater than the thickness of at least one individual component, for example at least one yarn, at least one thread and/or at least one filament, that at least partially defines an upper layer and/or upper surface. The depth may be greater than 5% and/or greater than 10% and/or greater than 20% and/or greater than 30% and/or greater than 40% and/or to 100% and/or to less than 90% and/or to less than 80% and/or to less than 70% and/or to less than 60% of the thickness (z-direction thickness) of the support layer. The association may be different or the same as than the non-seam portion structuring and support layer association. The association may include a continuous association or may be broken up by gaps. Non-continuous association lengths may be from about in (0.635 cm) to about 48 in (121.92 cm), or about in (1.27 cm) to about 36 in (91.44 cm), or about in (1.905 cm) to about 24 in (60.96 cm). The gaps may be from about in (0.4233 cm) to about 12 in (30.48 cm), or about in (0.3175 cm) to about 10 in (25.4 cm), or about in (0.635 cm) to about 8 in (20.32 cm). The length of the structuring layer seam that may be associated with the support layer may be any amount, including but not limited to from greater than about 50% to about 100%, or greater than about 60% to about 100%, or greater than about 70% to about 100%, or about 50% to about 100%, or about 60% to about 100%, or about 70% to about 100%. The association may coincide with a support layer seam or may avoid a support layer seam.

[0163] According to any of the embodiments and examples described herein, the termini structuring layer seam may be an abutting seam, an overlapping seam, an interlocking seam, a gap seam or any combination thereof. The termini structuring layer seam may associate with the support layer and/or the structuring layer.

EXAMPLES

Example 1

[0164] A purpose of this example was to create a structuring layer material with non-thermoplastic, thermoset polymer, UV light curable polymer, silicone rubber and/or non-silicone vulcanized rubber film or apertured film and/or porous film and/or laser-abraded film and/or laser-etched film and/or perforated film narrower than the width of the support layer. Alternatively, it is possible to provide a structuring layer of woven material, wire mesh or extruded plastic netting narrower than the width of the support layer. The edges of the strip may have a straight edge, a patterned edge or a curved edge.

[0165] Procedure: Place an endless support layer onto two mandrels so that the support layer is lightly tensioned with outward pressure on two opposing ends of the support layer loop and the outer surface of the support layer is free from contact with the mandrels. Apply to the structuring layer non-termini portions an associating layer strip. Initiate a spiral MD wrap of the structuring layer and association layer strip by positioning in contact with the support layer so that the structuring layer non-termini edges and associating layer are rotated 10 degrees off parallel from the support layer machine direction edges. Optionally, the non-termini edges can just off parallel (1 degree) to 45 degrees off parallel with the support layer machine direction. Optionally an orthogonal wrap can be initiated by positioning the structuring layer parallel with the MD edge of the support layer. Optionally a CD spiral or orthogonal wrap may be initiated by initiating the contact in the CD direction. Rotate the support layer on the mandrels to translate the structuring layer and non-termini portion associating layer in a spiral wrap around the support layer. Treat the structuring layer strip and associating layer strips in contact with the support layer with heat and pressure, such as with a heated pressure roll nip to associate the support, associating and structuring layers. Continue to rotate the support layer to translate the structuring layer strip and associating layer strips about the support layer leaving a gap between the second non-termini edge of the prior wrap and the first non-termini end of the successive spiral wrap. Optionally, leave no gap for an abut seam or overlap the edges by 1/16 for an overlap seam. Continue wrapping and treating until the structuring layer strip runs off the opposite edge of the support layer from which the wrap was initiated. Optionally, an associating, bonding or modifying material may be applied to the non-non-termini portion of the structuring layer prior to initiating wrap to associate the non-non termini portions of the structuring layer with the support layer. The termini seams of the structuring layer may be abutted, or optionally overlapped by or gapped by with each other and associated with the support layer and each other.

[0166] FIG. 27 is a schematic perspective view of a method 10, as described in Example 1, for wrapping a support layer 200 with a structuring layer 300 and creating an association 700 between the structuring layer 300 and the support layer 200. As shown, a roller 14 comprising a strip 400 to be used to form the structuring layer 300 may feed the strip 400 onto the support layer 200. Similarly, one or more additional rollers 14 may feed bonding material 762 onto the support layer 200 between the support layer 200 and the strip 400. Heat 16 and pressure 18 may be applied to the layers by one or more devices. FIG. 28 is a magnified cross-section of an association 700 comprising a bond formed by bonding material 762 between a structuring layer 300 and a support layer 200.

Example 2

[0167] A purpose of this example was to create a structuring layer material with non-thermoplastic, thermoset polymer, UV light curable polymer, silicone rubber and/or non-silicone vulcanized rubber film or apertured film and/or porous film and/or laser-abraded film and/or laser-etched film and/or perforated film narrower than the width of the support layer. Alternatively it is possible to provide a structuring layer of woven material, wire mesh or extruded plastic netting narrower than the width of the support layer. The edges of the strip may have a straight edge, a patterned edge or a curved edge.

[0168] Procedure: Place an endless support layer onto two mandrels so that the support layer is lightly tensioned with outward pressure on two opposing ends of the support layer loop and the outer surface of the support layer is free from contact with the mandrels. Treat the non-termini edges of the support layer so that 30 m or more of material is folded at a 90 degree angle to the overall plane of the stip. Initiate a CD orthogonal wrap of the structuring layer by positioning it in contact with the support layer so that the structuring layer non-termini edge penetrate into the support layer at the structuring layer seams. Heat may be applied to help soften the structuring layer or the support layer to enhance penetration and wrap of the structuring layer non-termini edge with the support layer. Pressure, such as in a nip, can be applied to enhance penetration of the structuring layering into the support layer. Abut the non-termini edges of the CD oriented orthogonal strips to create abut seams in the structuring layer. Alternatively, the non-termini seams could be gaps or overlap in the structuring layer. Optionally, an associating, bonding or modifying material may be applied to the non-non-termini portion of the structuring layer prior to initiating wrap to associate the non-non termini portions of the structuring layer with the support layer. If the structuring layer strips are shorter than the CD width of the belt, multiple strips may be used, with termini seams of the structuring layer abutted, overlapped by or gapped by and optionally associated with the support layer and each other.

[0169] FIG. 29 is a schematic perspective view of a method 10, as described in Example 2, for wrapping a support layer 200 with a structuring layer 300 and creating an association 700 between the structuring layer 300 and the support layer 200. Heat 16 and pressure 18 may be applied to the structuring layer 300 by one or more devices. The heat 16 and pressure 18 may deform the non-termini portions to enable a mechanical entanglement 780 between fibrous ends 430 of the structuring layer 300 and the support layer 200. FIG. 30 is a magnified image of an association 700 comprising a mechanical entanglement of fibrous ends 430 between a structuring layer 300 and a support layer 200. FIG. 31 is a magnified image of the association 700 shown in FIG. 30 from the opposite side of the support layer 200. FIG. 32 is a magnified cross-section of fibrous ends 430 of a supporting layer 200. FIG. 33 is a magnified image of an association 700 comprising a mechanical entanglement of fibrous ends 430 between a structuring layer 300 and a support layer 200.

Example 3

[0170] A purpose of this example was to create a structuring layer material with non-thermoplastic, thermoset polymer, UV light curable polymer, silicone rubber and/or non-silicone vulcanized rubber film or apertured film and/or porous film and/or laser-abraded film and/or laser-etched film and/or perforated film narrower than the width of the support layer. Alternatively, it is possible to provide a structuring layer of woven material, wire mesh or extruded plastic netting narrower than the width of the support layer. The edges of the strip may have a straight edge, a patterned edge or a curved edge. Apply a bonding layer and to a patterned associating layer at the non-termini edges of the structuring layer. The repeating pattern can be a rectangle of width (aligned/minor axis of strip) and 1 in length (aligned with major axis of strip) association & bonding, followed by a gap, followed by a association with bonding, followed by a gap (and so on).

[0171] Procedure: Place an endless support layer onto two mandrels so that the support layer is lightly tensioned with outward pressure on two opposing ends of the support layer loop and the outer surface of the support layer is free from contact with the mandrels. Apply a bonding layer to the association layer on the non-termini edges of the structuring layer strip that will contact the support layer. Initiate a MD orthogonal wrap of the strip by positioning it so that the newest bonding layer is in contact with the support layer so that the bonding layer bonds with the support layer. Overlap the non-termini structuring layer edges of the MD oriented orthogonal strips to create overlap seams in the structuring layer. Alternatively, the non-termini seams could be 1/32 gap or abut in the structuring layer. Optionally, an associating, bonding or modifying material may be applied to the non-non-termini portion of the structuring layer prior to initiating wrap to associate the non-non termini portions of the structuring layer with the support layer. If the structuring layer strips are shorter than the MD circumference of the belt, multiple strips may be used, with termini seams of the structuring strips abutted, overlapped by or gapped by and optionally associated with the support layer and each other.

[0172] FIG. 34 is a schematic perspective view of a method 10, as described in Example 3, for wrapping a support layer 200 with a structuring layer 300 and creating an association 700 between the structuring layer 300 and the support layer 200. This figure is similar to FIG. 27 except that strips 400 of the structuring layer 300 overlap, such that the association 700 is not only between the structuring layer 300 and the support layer 200, but may also include another non-termini portion 420 of a strip 400. FIG. 35 is a magnified image of an association 700 comprising a bonding material between a first structuring layer 300a, a second structuring layer 300b, and a support layer 200.

COMBINATIONS

[0173] Various embodiments relate to: [0174] 1. A web material structuring belt comprising: [0175] a. a support layer; and [0176] b. a structuring layer comprising a plurality of non-termini portions, [0177] wherein at least two of the plurality of non-termini portions form a non-termini seam, and [0178] wherein the non-termini seam comprises a first association with the support layer.

Association

[0179] 2. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 1 wherein the non-termini seam comprises at least one non-termini seam portion that is associated with the support layer. [0180] 3. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 2 wherein the non-termini seam comprises two or more non-termini seam portions that are associated with the support layer. [0181] 4. The web material structuring belt according to any of any one of Paragraphs 1 to 3 wherein the non-termini seam comprises at least two non-termini seam portions that are associated differently with the support layer. [0182] 5. The web material structuring belt according to any of any one of Paragraphs 1 to 4 wherein both the support layer and the structuring layer comprise seams, wherein at least one of the seams is associated with the other layer.

Into, Less Than, Entirely Through

[0183] 6. The web material structuring belt according to any of any one of Paragraphs 1 to 5 wherein the non-termini seam extends into the support layer. [0184] 7. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 1 to 6, wherein the structuring layer comprises a structuring layer material, and wherein the first association comprises a portion of the structuring layer material extending into but not through the support layer. [0185] 8. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 1 to 7, wherein the structuring layer comprises a structuring layer material, and wherein the first association comprises a portion of the structuring layer material extending entirely through the support layer. [0186] 9. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 1 to 8 wherein the at least one non-termini seam portion extends into the support layer. [0187] 10. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 9 wherein the at least one non-termini seam portion extends into, but less than entirely through the support layer. [0188] 11. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 9 to 10 wherein the at least one non-termini seam portion extends entirely through the support layer. [0189] 12. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 2 to 11 wherein the at least one non-termini seam portion comprises one or more fibrous element ends that are associated with the support layer. [0190] 13. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 12 wherein at least one of the one or more fibrous element ends extends into the support layer. [0191] 14. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 13 wherein the one or more fibrous element ends extends into the support layer at least partially along the non-termini seam's length. [0192] 15. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 12 to 14 wherein the one or more fibrous element ends extends into the support layer and terminates in the structuring layer. [0193] 16. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 2 to 15 wherein the at least one non-termini seam portion comprises one or more fibrous element ends that are associated with the structuring layer.

Bonded

[0194] 17. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 6 to 16 wherein less than the entire amount of the non-termini seam that extends into the support layer is bonded to the support layer at one or more bond sites. [0195] 18. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 1 to 17, wherein the first association comprises a bond between the support layer and the structuring layer. [0196] 19. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 18, wherein at least one of the one or more bond sites comprises a thermal bond site. [0197] 20. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 18 to 19 wherein at least one of the one or more bond sites comprises a chemical bond site. [0198] 21. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 18 to 20 wherein at least one of the one or more bond sites comprises an adhesive bond site. [0199] 22. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 9 to 21 wherein less than the entire amount of the at least one non-termini seam portion that extends into the support layer is bonded to the support layer. [0200] 23. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 22 wherein the at least one non-termini seam portion is bonded to the support layer at one or more bond sites. [0201] 24. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 23 wherein at least one of the one or more bond sites comprises a thermal bond site. [0202] 25. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 23 or 24 wherein at least one of the one or more bond sites comprises a chemical bond site. [0203] 26. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 23 to 25 wherein at least one of the one or more bond sites comprises an adhesive bond site. [0204] 27. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 12 to 26 wherein at least one of the one or more fibrous element ends is bonded to the support layer. [0205] 28. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 1 to 27 wherein the web material structuring belt further comprises a bonding material.

Mechanically Entangled, Interwoven, Interlocked

[0206] 29. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 1 to 28, wherein the first association comprises a mechanical entanglement between the support layer and the structuring layer. [0207] 30. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 1 to 29 wherein the non-termini seam is interwoven with the support layer at one or more interweave sites. [0208] 31. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 1 to 30 wherein the non-termini seam is interlocked with the support layer. [0209] 32. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 1 to 31 wherein the at least one non-termini seam portion is mechanically entangled with the support layer. [0210] 33. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 1 to 32 wherein the at least one non-termini seam portion is interwoven with the support layer. [0211] 34. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 1 to 33 wherein the at least one non-termini seam portion is interlocked with the support layer.

Non-Termini Interactions with Each Other

[0212] 35. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 1 to 34, wherein a first one of the plurality of non-termini portions comprises a fibrous end that at least partially passes through a second one of the plurality of non-termini portions. [0213] 36. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 35 wherein the one or more fibrous element ends extends into a structuring layer material non-seam portion of the structuring layer. [0214] 37. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 35 to 36 wherein the one or more fibrous element ends at least partially passes through the at least one non-termini seam portion. [0215] 38. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 37 wherein the one or more fibrous element ends extends into a structuring layer material non-seam portion of the structuring layer.

Type of Structuring Layer

[0216] 39. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 1 to 38 wherein the structuring layer comprises a woven material comprising a plurality of fibrous elements comprising the one or more fibrous element ends. [0217] 40. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 1 to 39 wherein the structuring layer comprises a nonwoven material comprising a plurality of fibrous elements comprising the one or more fibrous element ends. [0218] 41. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 1 to 40 wherein the structuring layer comprises a batt material comprising a plurality of fibrous elements comprising the one or more fibrous element ends. [0219] 42. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 1 to 41 wherein the structuring layer comprises a felt material comprising a plurality of fibrous elements comprising the one or more fibrous element ends. [0220] 43. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 1 to 42, wherein the structuring layer comprises a material selected from the group consisting of: polyethylene terephthalate, polyethylene-naphthalate, polyetheretherketone, polyamides, polyphenylene sulfide, cyanate esters, isocyanate, benzoxazine, polyimides, bismaleimide, phthalonitrile resin, bismaleimide-triazine, epoxy, silicone resins, epoxy-cyanate, polyvinyl fluoride, polyvinylidene fluoride, polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene, polypropylene, polyethers, styrene-butadiene copolymers, polybutylenes, polysulfones, polysulfides, cellulosic resins, polyarylate acrylics, polyarylsulfones, polyurethanes, epoxies, poly(amide-imides), copolyesters, polyethersulfones, polyetherimides, polyarylethers, and combinations thereof.

Non-Termini Abut Seam

[0221] 44. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 1 to 43, wherein the non-termini seam comprises an abutting seam. [0222] 45. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 44 wherein the abut non-termini seam comprises a first abut non-termini seam portion and a second abut non-termini seam portion, wherein at least one of the first abut non-termini seam portion and the second abut non-termini seam portion is associated with the support layer. [0223] 46. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 45 wherein at least one of the first abut non-termini seam portion and the second abut non-termini seam portion extends into the support layer. [0224] 47. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 46 wherein at least one of the first abut non-termini seam portion and the second abut non-termini seam portion extends into, but less than entirely through the support layer. [0225] 48. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 46 or 47 wherein at least one of the first abut non-termini seam portion and the second abut non-termini seam portion extends entirely through the support layer. [0226] 49. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 46 to 48 wherein less than the entire amount of at least one of the first abut non-termini seam portion and the second abut non-termini seam portion that extends into the support layer is bonded to the support layer. [0227] 50. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 49 wherein the at least one of the first abut non-termini seam portion and the second abut non-termini seam portion is bonded to the support layer at one or more bond sites. [0228] 51. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 50 wherein at least one of the one or more bond sites comprises a thermal bond site. [0229] 52. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 50 or 51 wherein at least one of the one or more bond sites comprises a chemical bond site. [0230] 53. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 50 to 52 wherein at least one of the one or more bond sites comprises an adhesive bond site. [0231] 54. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 45 to 53 wherein at least one of the first abut non-termini seam portion and the second abut non-termini seam portion is mechanically entangled with the support layer. [0232] 55. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 54 wherein the at least one of the first abut non-termini seam portion and the second abut non-termini seam portion is interwoven with the support layer. [0233] 56. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 54 or 55 wherein the at least one of the first abut non-termini seam portion and the second abut non-termini seam portion is interlocked with the support layer.

Non-Termini Overlap Seam

[0234] 57. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 1 to 56, wherein the non-termini seam comprises an overlapping seam. [0235] 58. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 57 wherein the overlap non-termini seam comprises a first overlap non-termini seam portion and a second overlap non-termini seam portion, wherein at least one of the first overlap non-termini seam portion and the second overlap non-termini seam portion is associated with the support layer. [0236] 59. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 57 to 58, wherein the overlapping seam is selected from the group consisting of an x-y interlocking overlap seam, a z-interlocking overlap seam, and combinations thereof. [0237] 60. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 58 to 59 wherein at least one of the first overlap non-termini seam portion and the second overlap non-termini seam portion extends into the support layer. [0238] 61. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 60 wherein at least one of the first overlap non-termini seam portion and the second overlap non-termini seam portion extends into, but less than entirely through the support layer. [0239] 62. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 60 or 61 wherein at least one of the first overlap non-termini seam portion and the second overlap non-termini seam portion extends entirely through the support layer. [0240] 63. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 60 to 62 wherein less than the entire amount of at least one of the first overlap non-termini seam portion and the second overlap non-termini seam portion that extends into the support layer is bonded to the support layer. [0241] 64. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 63 wherein the at least one of the first overlap non-termini seam portion and the second overlap non-termini seam portion is bonded to the support layer at one or more bond sites. [0242] 65. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 64 wherein at least one of the one or more bond sites comprises a thermal bond site. [0243] 66. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 64 or 65 wherein at least one of the one or more bond sites comprises a chemical bond site. [0244] 67. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 64 to 66 wherein at least one of the one or more bond sites comprises an adhesive bond site. [0245] 68. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 58 to 67 wherein at least one of the first overlap non-termini seam portion and the second overlap non-termini seam portion is mechanically entangled with the support layer. [0246] 69. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 68 wherein the at least one of the first overlap non-termini seam portion and the second overlap non-termini seam portion is interwoven with the support layer. [0247] 70. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 69 wherein the at least one of the first overlap non-termini seam portion and the second overlap non-termini seam portion is interlocked with the support layer.

Non-Termini Gap Seam

[0248] 71. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 1 to 70, wherein the non-termini seam comprises a gap seam. [0249] 72. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 71 wherein the gap non-termini seam comprises a first gap non-termini seam portion and a second gap non-termini seam portion, wherein at least one of the first gap non-termini seam portion and the second gap non-termini seam portion is associated with the support layer. [0250] 73. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 72 wherein at least one of the first gap non-termini seam portion and the second gap non-termini seam portion extends into the support layer. [0251] 74. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 73 wherein at least one of the first gap non-termini seam portion and the second gap non-termini seam portion extends into, but less than entirely through the support layer. [0252] 75. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 73 to 74 wherein at least one of the first gap non-termini seam portion and the second gap non-termini seam portion extends entirely through the support layer. [0253] 76. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 73 to 75 wherein less than the entire amount of at least one of the first gap non-termini seam portion and the second gap non-termini seam portion that extends into the support layer is bonded to the support layer. [0254] 77. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 76 wherein the at least one of the first gap non-termini seam portion and the second gap non-termini seam portion is bonded to the support layer at one or more bond sites. [0255] 78. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 77 wherein at least one of the one or more bond sites comprises a thermal bond site. [0256] 79. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 77 or 78 wherein at least one of the one or more bond sites comprises a chemical bond site. [0257] 80. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 77 to 79 wherein at least one of the one or more bond sites comprises an adhesive bond site. [0258] 81. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 72 to 80 wherein at least one of the first abut non-termini seam portion and the second abut non-termini seam portion is mechanically entangled with the support layer. [0259] 82. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 81 wherein the at least one of the first abut non-termini seam portion and the second abut non-termini seam portion is interwoven with the support layer. [0260] 83. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 81 or 82 wherein the at least one of the first abut non-termini seam portion and the second abut non-termini seam portion is interlocked with the support layer.

Non-Seam Portion Association

[0261] 84. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 1 to 83, wherein the structuring layer comprises a non-seam portion, and wherein the non-seam portion comprises a second association with the support layer. [0262] 85. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 84, wherein the second association comprises one selected from the group consisting of a bond, a mechanical entanglement, and combinations thereof. [0263] 86. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 84 to 85 wherein at least one of the one or more structuring layer material non-seam portions extends into the support layer. [0264] 87. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 86 wherein at least one of the one or more structuring layer material non-seam portions extends less than entirely through the support layer. [0265] 88. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 86 or 87 wherein at least one of the one or more structuring layer material non-seam portions extends entirely through the support layer. [0266] 89. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 86 to 88 wherein less than the entire amount of at least one of the one or more structuring layer material non-seam portions that extends into the support layer is bonded to the support layer. [0267] 90. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 89 wherein at least one of the one or more structuring layer material non-seam portions is bonded to the support layer at one or more bond sites. [0268] 91. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 90 wherein at least one of the one or more bond sites comprises a thermal bond site. [0269] 92. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 90 or 91 wherein at least one of the one or more bond sites comprises a chemical bond site. [0270] 93. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 90 to 92 wherein at least one of the one or more bond sites comprises an adhesive bond site. [0271] 94. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 84 to 93 wherein at least one of the one or more structuring layer material non-seam portions is mechanically entangled with the support layer. [0272] 95. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 94 wherein the at least one of the one or more structuring layer material non-seam portions is interwoven with the support layer. [0273] 96. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 95 wherein the at least one of the one or more structuring layer material non-seam portions is interlocked with the support layer. [0274] 97. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 1 to 96 wherein the non-termini seam exhibits a non-termini seam strength of greater than 2 pli.

Seam Property Different from Non-seam

[0275] 98. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 84 to 97, wherein at least one of the plurality of non-termini portions exhibits a different value for a common intensive property than the non-seam portion. [0276] 99. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 84 to 98, wherein the first association exhibits a different value of a common intensive property than the second association. [0277] 100. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 98 or 99 wherein the common intensive property is selected from the group consisting of: density, elevation, opacity, air perm and mixtures thereof. [0278] 101. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 100 wherein the common intensive property is density. [0279] 102. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 101 wherein the density value of the non-termini seam is greater than the density value of a structuring layer material non-seam portion.

Support Layer Seam

[0280] 103. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 1 to 102 wherein the support layer comprises a support layer material seam that is associated with the structuring layer. [0281] 104. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 1 to 103 wherein the support layer material seam extends into the structuring layer. [0282] 105. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 1 to 104 wherein the support layer material seam extends into, but less than entirely through the structuring layer. [0283] 106. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 1 to 105 wherein the support layer material seam extends entirely through the structuring layer. [0284] 107. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 1 to 106 wherein less than the entire amount of the support layer material seam that extends into the structuring layer is bonded to the structuring layer. [0285] 108. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 1 to 107 wherein the support layer material seam is bonded to the structuring layer at one or more bond sites. [0286] 109. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 108 wherein at least one of the one or more bond sites comprises a thermal bond site. [0287] 110. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 108 or 109 wherein at least one of the one or more bond sites comprises a chemical bond site. [0288] 111. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 108 to 110 wherein at least one of the one or more bond sites comprises an adhesive bond site. [0289] 112. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 1 to 111 wherein the support layer material seam is mechanically entangled with the structuring layer. [0290] 113. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 112 wherein the support layer material seam is interwoven with the structuring layer. [0291] 114. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 112 or 113 wherein the support layer material seam is interlocked with the structuring layer. [0292] 115. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 1 to 114 wherein the support layer material seam comprises at least one support layer material seam portion that is associated with the structuring layer. [0293] 116. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 115 wherein the support layer material seam comprises two or more support layer material seam portions that are associated with the structuring layer. [0294] 117. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 115 or 116 wherein the at least one support layer material seam portion extends into the structuring layer. [0295] 118. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 117 wherein the at least one support layer material seam portion extends into, but less than entirely through the structuring layer. [0296] 119. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 117 or 118 wherein the at least one support layer material seam portion extends entirely through the structuring layer. [0297] 120. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 117 to 119 wherein less than the entire amount of the at least one support layer material seam portion that extends into the structuring layer is bonded to the structuring layer. [0298] 121. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 120 wherein the at least one support layer material seam portion is bonded to the structuring layer at one or more bond sites. [0299] 122. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 121 wherein at least one of the one or more bond sites comprises a thermal bond site. [0300] 123. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 121 or 122 wherein at least one of the one or more bond sites comprises a chemical bond site. [0301] 124. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 121 to 123 wherein at least one of the one or more bond sites comprises an adhesive bond site. [0302] 125. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 115 to 124 wherein the at least one support layer material seam portion is mechanically entangled with the structuring layer. [0303] 126. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 125 wherein the at least one support layer material seam portion is interwoven with the structuring layer. [0304] 127. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 125 or 126 wherein the at least one support layer material seam portion is interlocked with the structuring layer. [0305] 128. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 115 to 127 wherein the at least one support layer material seam portion comprises one or more fibrous element ends that are associated with the structuring layer. [0306] 129. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 128 wherein at least one of the one or more fibrous element ends is bonded to the structuring layer. [0307] 130. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 128 or 129 wherein at least one of the one or more fibrous element ends extends into the structuring layer. [0308] 131. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 130 wherein the one or more fibrous element ends extends into the structuring layer at least partially along the support layer material seam's length. [0309] 132. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 128 to 131 wherein the one or more fibrous element ends extends into the structuring layer and terminates in the support layer. [0310] 133. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 132 wherein the one or more fibrous element ends at least partially passes through a different support layer material seam portion of the support layer material seam. [0311] 134. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 133 wherein the one or more fibrous element ends extends into a support layer material non-seam portion of the support layer. [0312] 135. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 134 wherein the one or more fibrous element ends at least partially passes through the at least one support layer material seam portion. [0313] 136. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 135 wherein the one or more fibrous element ends extends into a support layer material non-seam portion of the support layer. [0314] 137. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 115 to 136 wherein the at least one support layer material seam portion comprises one or more fibrous element ends that are associated with the support layer. [0315] 138. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 137 wherein the support layer comprises a woven material comprising a plurality of fibrous elements comprising the one or more fibrous element ends. [0316] 139. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 137 or 138 wherein the support layer comprises a nonwoven material comprising a plurality of fibrous elements comprising the one or more fibrous element ends. [0317] 140. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 137 to 139 wherein the support layer comprises a batt material comprising a plurality of fibrous elements comprising the one or more fibrous element ends. [0318] 141. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 137 to 140 wherein the support layer comprises a felt material comprising a plurality of fibrous elements comprising the one or more fibrous element ends. [0319] 142. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 1 to 141 wherein the support layer material seam comprises an abut support layer material seam. [0320] 143. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 142 wherein the abut support layer material seam comprises a first abut support layer material seam portion and a second abut support layer material seam portion, wherein at least one of the first abut support layer material seam portion and the second abut support layer material seam portion is associated with the structuring layer. [0321] 144. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 143 wherein at least one of the first abut support layer material seam portion and the second abut support layer material seam portion extends into the structuring layer. [0322] 145. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 144 wherein at least one of the first abut support layer material seam portion and the second abut support layer material seam portion extends into, but less than entirely through the structuring layer. [0323] 146. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 144 or 145 wherein at least one of the first abut support layer material seam portion and the second abut support layer material seam portion extends entirely through the structuring layer. [0324] 147. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 144 to 147 wherein less than the entire amount of at least one of the first abut support layer material seam portion and the second abut support layer material seam portion that extends into the structuring layer is bonded to the structuring layer. [0325] 148. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 147 wherein the at least one of the first abut support layer material seam portion and the second abut support layer material seam portion is bonded to the structuring layer at one or more bond sites. [0326] 149. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 148 wherein at least one of the one or more bond sites comprises a thermal bond site. [0327] 150. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 148 or 149 wherein at least one of the one or more bond sites comprises a chemical bond site. [0328] 151. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 148 to 150 wherein at least one of the one or more bond sites comprises an adhesive bond site. [0329] 152. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 143 to 151 wherein at least one of the first abut support layer material seam portion and the second abut support layer material seam portion is mechanically entangled with the structuring layer. [0330] 153. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 152 wherein the at least one of the first abut support layer material seam portion and the second abut support layer material seam portion is interwoven with the structuring layer. [0331] 154. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 152 or 153 wherein the at least one of the first abut support layer material seam portion and the second abut support layer material seam portion is interlocked with the structuring layer. [0332] 155. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 1 to 154 wherein the support layer material seam comprises an overlap support layer material seam. [0333] 156. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 155 wherein the overlap support layer material seam comprises a first overlap support layer material seam portion and a second overlap support layer material seam portion, wherein at least one of the first overlap support layer material seam portion and the second overlap support layer material seam portion is associated with the structuring layer. [0334] 157. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 156 wherein the first overlap support layer material seam portion and the second overlap support layer material seam portion interlock to form an overlap support layer material x-y interlocking seam. [0335] 158. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 156 or 157 wherein the first overlap support layer material seam portion and the second overlap support layer material seam portion interlock to form an overlap support layer material z interlocking seam. [0336] 159. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 156 to 158 wherein at least one of the first overlap support layer material seam portion and the second overlap support layer material seam portion extends into the structuring layer. [0337] 160. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 159 wherein at least one of the first overlap support layer material seam portion and the second overlap support layer material seam portion extends into, but less than entirely through the structuring layer. [0338] 161. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 159 or 160 wherein at least one of the first overlap support layer material seam portion and the second overlap support layer material seam portion extends entirely through the structuring layer. [0339] 162. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 159 to 161 wherein less than the entire amount of at least one of the first overlap support layer material seam portion and the second overlap support layer material seam portion that extends into the structuring layer is bonded to the structuring layer. [0340] 163. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 162 wherein the at least one of the first overlap support layer material seam portion and the second overlap support layer material seam portion is bonded to the structuring layer at one or more bond sites. [0341] 164. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 163 wherein at least one of the one or more bond sites comprises a thermal bond site. [0342] 165. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 163 or 164 wherein at least one of the one or more bond sites comprises a chemical bond site. [0343] 166. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 163 to 165 wherein at least one of the one or more bond sites comprises an adhesive bond site. [0344] 167. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 156 to 166 wherein at least one of the first overlap support layer material seam portion and the second overlap support layer material seam portion is mechanically entangled with the structuring layer. [0345] 168. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 167 wherein the at least one of the first overlap support layer material seam portion and the second overlap support layer material seam portion is interwoven with the structuring layer. [0346] 169. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 168 wherein the at least one of the first overlap support layer material seam portion and the second overlap support layer material seam portion is interlocked with the structuring layer. [0347] 170. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 1 to 169 wherein the support layer material seam comprises a gap support layer material seam. [0348] 171. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 170 wherein the gap support layer material seam comprises a first gap support layer material seam portion and a second gap support layer material seam portion, wherein at least one of the first gap support layer material seam portion and the second gap support layer material seam portion is associated with the structuring layer. [0349] 172. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 171 wherein at least one of the first gap support layer material seam portion and the second gap support layer material seam portion extends into the structuring layer. [0350] 173. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 172 wherein at least one of the first gap support layer material seam portion and the second gap support layer material seam portion extends into, but less than entirely through the structuring layer. [0351] 174. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 172 or 173 wherein at least one of the first gap support layer material seam portion and the second gap support layer material seam portion extends entirely through the structuring layer. [0352] 175. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 172 to 181 wherein less than the entire amount of at least one of the first gap support layer material seam portion and the second gap support layer material seam portion that extends into the structuring layer is bonded to the structuring layer. [0353] 176. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 175 wherein the at least one of the first gap support layer material seam portion and the second gap support layer material seam portion is bonded to the structuring layer at one or more bond sites. [0354] 177. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 176 wherein at least one of the one or more bond sites comprises a thermal bond site. [0355] 178. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 176 or 177 wherein at least one of the one or more bond sites comprises a chemical bond site. [0356] 179. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 176 to 178 wherein at least one of the one or more bond sites comprises an adhesive bond site. [0357] 180. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 171 to 179 wherein at least one of the first gap support layer material seam portion and the second gap support layer material seam portion is mechanically entangled with the structuring layer. [0358] 181. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 180 wherein the at least one of the first gap support layer material seam portion and the second gap support layer material seam portion is interwoven with the structuring layer. [0359] 182. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 180 or 181 wherein the at least one of the first gap support layer material seam portion and the second gap support layer material seam portion is interlocked with the structuring layer. [0360] 183. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 1 to 182 wherein the support layer material seam comprises at least two support layer material seam portions that are associated differently with the structuring layer. [0361] 184. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 1 to 183 wherein one or more support layer material non-seam portions of the structuring layer is associated with the support layer. [0362] 185. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 184 wherein at least one of the one or more support layer material non-seam portions extends into the structuring layer. [0363] 186. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 185 wherein at least one of the one or more support layer material non-seam portions extends less than entirely through the structuring layer. [0364] 187. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 185 or 186 wherein at least one of the one or more support layer material non-seam portions extends entirely through the structuring layer. [0365] 188. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 185 to 187 wherein less than the entire amount of at least one of the one or more support layer material non-seam portions that extends into the structuring layer is bonded to the structuring layer. [0366] 189. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 185 to 188 wherein at least one of the one or more support layer material non-seam portions is bonded to the structuring layer at one or more bond sites. [0367] 190. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 189 wherein at least one of the one or more bond sites comprises a thermal bond site. [0368] 191. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 296 wherein at least one of the one or more bond sites comprises a chemical bond site. [0369] 192. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 189 to 191 wherein at least one of the one or more bond sites comprises an adhesive bond site. [0370] 193. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 184 to 192 wherein at least one of the one or more support layer material non-seam portions is mechanically entangled with the structuring layer. [0371] 194. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 193 wherein the at least one of the one or more support layer material non-seam portions is interwoven with the structuring layer. [0372] 195. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 194 wherein the at least one of the one or more support layer material non-seam portions is interlocked with the structuring layer. [0373] 196. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 1 to 195 wherein the support layer material seam exhibits a support layer material seam strength of greater than 2 pli. [0374] 197. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 1 to 196 wherein the support layer material seam exhibits a different value of a common intensive property than a non-seam portion of the support layer. [0375] 198. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 197 wherein the common intensive property is selected from the group consisting of: density, elevation, opacity and mixtures thereof. [0376] 199. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 198 wherein the common intensive property is density. [0377] 200. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 199 wherein the density value of the support layer material seam is greater than the density value of a support layer material non-seam portion.

Support Layer Material

[0378] 201. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 1 to 200 wherein the support layer comprises a material selected from the group consisting of: thermoplastic polymers, non-thermoplastic polymers, thermoset polymers, biodegradable polymers, non-biodegradable polymers, compostable polymers and combinations thereof.

Associating Layer

[0379] 202. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 1 to 201 wherein both the support layer and the structuring layer comprise seams, wherein at least one of the seams is associated with the other layer. [0380] 203. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 1 to 202 wherein the web material structuring belt further comprises an associating layer present between the support layer and the structuring layer. [0381] 204. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 1 to 203, further comprising an associating layer disposed between the support layer and the structuring layer, wherein at least a portion of the first association engages the associating layer. [0382] 205. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 1 to 204 wherein the structuring layer comprises a non-termini seam that is associated with the associating layer. [0383] 206. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 205 wherein the non-termini seam comprises at least one non-termini seam portion that is associated with the associating layer. [0384] 207. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 206 wherein the non-termini seam comprises at least two non-termini seam portions that are associated with the associating layer. [0385] 208. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 204 to 207 wherein the support layer comprises a support layer material seam that is associated with the associating layer. [0386] 209. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 208 wherein the support layer material seam comprises at least one support layer material seam portion that is associated with the associating layer. [0387] 210. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 209 wherein the support layer material seam comprises at least two support layer material seam portions that are associated with the associating layer. [0388] 211. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 203 to 210 wherein the associating material comprises an associating material seam. [0389] 212. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 1 to 211 wherein the web material structuring belt further comprises a bonding material.

Spiral Wind

[0390] 213. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 1 to 212, wherein the structuring layer comprises one or more strips, and wherein at least one of the one or more strips is spirally wound about the support layer. [0391] 214. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 213 wherein the spirally wound structuring layer material strip comprises a major axis that is oriented at an angle of from 0 to 45 relative to the web material structuring belt's machine direction. [0392] 215. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 213 or 214 wherein the spirally wound structuring layer material strip comprises a major axis that is oriented at an angle of from 0 to less than 45 relative to the web material structuring belt's cross machine direction. [0393] 216. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 213 to 215 wherein the web material structuring belt comprises two or more spirally wound structuring layer material strips. [0394] 217. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 216 wherein at least two of the two or more spirally wound structuring layer material strips comprise major axes that are oriented at an angle of from 0 to 45 relative to the web material structuring belt's machine direction. [0395] 218. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 261 or 217 wherein at least two of the two or more spirally wound structuring layer material strips comprise major axes that are oriented at an angle of from 0 to less than 45 relative to the web material structuring belt's cross machine direction. [0396] 219. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 216 to 218 wherein at least one of the two or more spirally wound structuring layer material strips comprises a major axis that is oriented at an angle of from 0 to 45 relative to the web material structuring belt's machine direction and at least another of the two or more spirally wound structuring layer material strips comprises a major axis that is oriented at an angle of from 0 to less than 45 relative to the web material structuring belt's cross machine direction. [0397] 220. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 216 to 219 wherein at least two of the two or more spirally wound structuring layer material strips comprise major axes that are oriented at different angles relative to the machine direction. [0398] 221. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 216 to 220 at least two of the two or more spirally wound structuring layer material strips comprise at least two termini portions that form a termini portion structuring layer material seam. [0399] 222. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 221 wherein the termini portion structuring layer material seam comprises an abut seam. [0400] 223. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 221 or 222 wherein the termini portion structuring layer material seam comprises a gap seam. [0401] 224. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 221 to 223 wherein the termini portion structuring layer material seam comprises an overlap seam. [0402] 225. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 224 wherein the overlap seam is an x-y interlocking overlap seam. [0403] 226. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 224 or 225 wherein the overlap seam is a z-interlocking overlap seam. [0404] 227. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 221 to 226 wherein the termini portion structuring layer material seam comprises a major axis that is oriented at an angle of from 0 to 45 relative to the web material structuring belt's machine direction. [0405] 228. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 221 to 227 wherein the termini portion structuring layer material seam comprises a major axis that is oriented at an angle of from 0 to less than 45 relative to the web material structuring belt's cross machine direction. [0406] 229. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 1 to 228 wherein at least one of the one or more strips of structuring layer material comprises a spirally wound structuring layer material strip and at least one of the one or more strips of structuring layer material comprises a non-spirally wound structuring layer material strip. [0407] 230. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 229 wherein the spirally wound structuring layer material strip comprises a major axis that is oriented at an angle of from 0 to 45 relative to the web material structuring belt's machine direction. [0408] 231. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 229 or 230 wherein the spirally wound structuring layer material strip comprises a major axis that is oriented at an angle of from 0 to less than 45 relative to the web material structuring belt's cross machine direction. [0409] 232. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 229 to 231 wherein the web material structuring belt comprises two or more spirally wound structuring layer material strips. [0410] 233. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 232 wherein at least two of the two or more spirally wound structuring layer material strips comprise major axes that are oriented at an angle of from 0 to 45 relative to the web material structuring belt's machine direction. [0411] 234. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 232 or 233 wherein at least two of the two or more spirally wound structuring layer material strips comprise major axes that are oriented at an angle of from 0 to less than 45 relative to the web material structuring belt's cross machine direction. [0412] 235. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 232 to 234 wherein at least one of the two or more spirally wound structuring layer material strips comprises a major axis that is oriented at an angle of from 0 to 45 relative to the web material structuring belt's machine direction and at least another of the two or more spirally wound structuring layer material strips comprises a major axis that is oriented at an angle of from 0 to less than 45 relative to the web material structuring belt's cross machine direction. [0413] 236. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 232 to 235 wherein at least two of the two or more spirally wound structuring layer material strips comprise major axes that are oriented at different angles relative to the machine direction. [0414] 237. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 232 to 236 at least two of the two or more spirally wound structuring layer material strips comprise at least two termini portions that form a termini portion structuring layer material seam. [0415] 238. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 237 wherein the termini portion structuring layer material seam comprises an abut seam. [0416] 239. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 237 or 238 wherein the termini portion structuring layer material seam comprises a gap seam. [0417] 240. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 237 to 239 wherein the termini portion structuring layer material seam comprises an overlap seam. [0418] 241. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 240 wherein the overlap seam is an x-y interlocking overlap seam. [0419] 242. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 240 or 241 wherein the overlap seam is a z-interlocking overlap seam. [0420] 243. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 237 to 242 wherein the termini portion structuring layer material seam comprises a major axis that is oriented at an angle of from 0 to 45 relative to the web material structuring belt's machine direction. [0421] 244. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 237 to 243 wherein the termini portion structuring layer material seam comprises a major axis that is oriented at an angle of from 0 to less than 45 relative to the web material structuring belt's cross machine direction. [0422] 245. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 229 to 244 wherein the non-spirally wound structuring layer material strip comprises at least two termini portions that form a termini portion structuring layer material seam. [0423] 246. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 245 wherein the termini portion structuring layer material seam comprises an abut seam. [0424] 247. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 245 or 246 wherein the termini portion structuring layer material seam comprises a gap seam. [0425] 248. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 245 to 247 wherein the termini portion structuring layer material seam comprises an overlap seam. [0426] 249. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 248 wherein the overlap seam is an x-y interlocking overlap seam. [0427] 250. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 248 or 249 wherein the overlap seam is a z-interlocking overlap seam. [0428] 251. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 229 to 250 wherein the structuring layer comprises two or more non-spirally wound structuring layer material strips.

[0429] 252. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 1 to 251, wherein the structuring layer comprises one or more strips comprising a structuring layer material, wherein the one or more strips comprise the non-termini portions, and wherein three or more non-termini portions of the one or more strips of structuring layer material form two or more non-termini portion structuring layer material gap seams. [0430] 253. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 1 to 252, wherein the structuring layer comprises one or more strips comprising a structuring layer material, wherein the one or more strips comprise the non-termini portions, and wherein at least one of the one or more strips of structuring layer material comprise one or more termini portions of the one or more strips of structuring layer material that form one or more termini portion structuring layer material seams.

Non-Spirally Wound

[0431] 254. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 1 to 253, wherein the structuring layer comprises one or more strips, and wherein at least one of the one or more strips is non-spirally wound about the support layer. [0432] 255. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 254 wherein the non-spirally wound structuring layer material strip comprises at least two termini portions that form a termini portion structuring layer material seam. [0433] 256. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 255 wherein the termini portion structuring layer material seam comprises an abut seam. [0434] 257. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 255 or 256 wherein the termini portion structuring layer material seam comprises a gap seam. [0435] 258. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 255 to 257 wherein the termini portion structuring layer material seam comprises an overlap seam. [0436] 259. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 258 wherein the overlap seam is an x-y interlocking overlap seam. [0437] 260. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 258 or 259 wherein the overlap seam is a z-interlocking overlap seam. [0439] 261. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 254 to 260 wherein the structuring layer comprises two or more non-spirally wound structuring layer material strips. [0440] 262. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 261 wherein at least two of the two or more non-spirally wound structuring layer material strips each comprises at least two termini portions that form a termini portion structuring layer material seam. [0441] 263. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 262 wherein the termini portion structuring layer material seam comprises an abut seam. [0442] 264. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 262 or 263 wherein the termini portion structuring layer material seam comprises a gap seam. [0443] 265. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 262 to 264 wherein the termini portion structuring layer material seam comprises an overlap seam. [0444] 266. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 265 wherein the overlap seam is an x-y interlocking overlap seam. [0445] 267. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 265 or 266 wherein the overlap seam is a z-interlocking overlap seam. [0446] 268. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 262 to 267 wherein at least one non-spirally wound structuring layer material strip comprises a first termini portion structuring layer material seam and at least one spirally wound structuring layer material strip comprises a second termini portion structuring layer material seam that is different from the first termini portion structuring layer material seam. [0447] 269. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 268 wherein the first termini portion structuring layer material seam comprises an abut seam and the second termini portion structuring layer material seam comprises a gap seam. [0448] 270. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 268 or 269 wherein the first termini portion structuring layer material seam comprises an abut seam and the second termini portion structuring layer material seam comprises an overlap seam. [0449] 271. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 268 to 270 wherein the first termini portion structuring layer material seam comprises a gap seam and the second termini portion structuring layer material seam comprises an overlap seam. [0450] 272. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 268 to 271 wherein the first termini portion structuring layer material seam and the second termini portion structuring layer material seam are present within the web material structuring belt at an adjacent separation distance from each other of 50% or less of the length of the web material structuring belt. [0451] 273. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 268 to 272 wherein the first termini portion structuring layer material seam and the second termini portion structuring layer material seam are present within the web material structuring belt at an adjacent separation distance from each other of less than 50% of the length of the web material structuring belt. [0452] 274. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 268 to 273 wherein the first termini portion structuring layer material seam and the second termini portion structuring layer material seam are present within the web material structuring belt at an adjacent separation distance of less than 25% of the length of the web material structuring belt. [0453] 275. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 268 to 274 wherein the first termini portion structuring layer material seam and the second termini portion structuring layer material seam are present within the web material structuring belt at an adjacent separation distance of less than 10% of the length of the web material structuring belt. [0454] 276. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 268 to 275 wherein the first termini portion structuring layer material seam and the second termini portion structuring layer material seam are present within the web material structuring belt at an adjacent separation distance of less than 5% of the length of the web material structuring belt. [0455] 277. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 268 to 276 wherein the first termini portion structuring layer material seam and the second termini portion structuring layer material seam are present within the web material structuring belt at an adjacent separation distance of about 0% of the length of the web material structuring belt.

Belt Characteristics

[0456] 278. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 1 to 277 wherein the support layer exhibits an air perm of greater than 300 scfm. [0457] 279. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 1 to 278, wherein the support layer comprises a woven fabric. [0458] 280. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 279 wherein the support layer comprises two or more layers of fibrous elements.

Pattern & Material of Structuring Layer

[0459] 281. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 1 to 280, wherein the structuring layer comprises a pattern. [0460] 282. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 284 wherein the pattern is a non-random repeating pattern. [0461] 283. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 1 to 282 wherein the structuring layer comprises a polymer. [0462] 284. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 1 to 283 wherein the structuring layer comprises a film. [0463] 285. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 1 to 284 wherein the structuring layer comprises a foam. [0464] 286. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 1 to 285 wherein the structuring layer comprises a resin.

Termini Seams

[0465] 287. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 1 to 286 wherein the structuring layer further comprises at least one termini portion structuring layer material seam. [0466] 288. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 287 wherein the structuring layer comprises a plurality of termini portion structuring layer material seams. [0467] 289. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 288 wherein the structuring layer further comprises at least one termini portion structuring layer material seam. [0468] 290. The web material structuring belt according to Paragraph 289 wherein the structuring layer comprises a plurality of termini portion structuring layer material seams.

Patterned Association of the Non-Termini Edge Portion & the Support Layer

[0469] 291. The web material structuring belt according to any one of Paragraphs 1 to 290, wherein the first association is patterned.

Further Definitions and Cross-references

[0470] The dimensions and values disclosed herein are not to be understood as being strictly limited to the exact numerical values recited. Instead, unless otherwise specified, each such dimension is intended to mean both the recited value and a functionally equivalent range surrounding that value. For example, a dimension disclosed as 40 mm is intended to mean about 40 mm.

[0471] Every document cited herein, including any cross referenced or related patent or application and any patent application or patent to which this application claims priority or benefit thereof, is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety unless expressly excluded or otherwise limited. The citation of any document is not an admission that it is prior art with respect to any invention disclosed or claimed herein or that it alone, or in any combination with any other reference or references, teaches, suggests or discloses any such invention. Further, to the extent that any meaning or definition of a term in this document conflicts with any meaning or definition of the same term in a document incorporated by reference, the meaning or definition assigned to that term in this document shall govern.

[0472] While particular embodiments of the present disclosure have been illustrated and described, it would be obvious to those skilled in the art that various other changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. It is therefore intended to cover in the appended claims all such changes and modifications that are within the scope of this invention.