PROCESSES AND APPARATUS FOR MAKING ABSORBENT ARTICLES WITH CHANNELS

Abstract

A method for manufacturing an absorbent article comprising an absorbent core comprising one or more channels, the method comprising the steps of: i. providing a first endless moving surface comprising a plurality of molds, each mold comprising a non-porous insert therein, typically said insert having the inverse shape of said channel(s), wherein the molds are in fluid communication with a source under pressure except for said insert; ii. feeding a first nonwoven mesh onto said first endless moving surface and onto one or more of said molds; iii. depositing an absorbent material, comprising cellulose fibers and / or superabsorbent polymer particles, onto at least a portion of said nonwoven mesh; iv. removing said absorbent material from areas of the nonwoven mesh corresponding to said insert; v.applying a second nonwoven mesh directly or indirectly over the absorbent material, or folding said first nonwoven mesh so that said absorbent material is sandwiched between the upper and lower layers of said nonwoven mesh(s); vi. joining said upper and lower layers together at least in the areas of the nonwoven mesh(s) corresponding to the insert to form an absorbent core having one or more channels substantially free of absorbent material; vii. optionally attaching an acquisition distribution layer to said absorbent core, typically a surface of said upper layer facing the skin; viii. optionally laminating said absorbent core and acquisition distribution layer between a liquid-permeable upper sheet and a liquid-impermeable back sheet; wherein step vi.It comprises the step of selectively applying a first pressure on the absorbent core, preferably alone, in a central part thereof and a second pressure, preferably alone, along the peripheral longitudinal side edges thereof that run opposite and parallel to each other and are outside the central part, said central part corresponding to at least a region of the core comprising said channel(s), and wherein said first and second pressures are successively applied along a machine direction (MD).

Description

PROCESSES AND APPARATUS FOR MAKING ABSORBENT ARTICLES WITH CHANNELS TECHNICAL FIELD This disclosure pertains to the technical field of absorbent hygiene products and methods for making them. In particular, this disclosure relates to apparatus and methods for making absorbent systems comprising an absorbent core and additional distribution layers (such as acquisition distribution layers and / or core wrapper layers that typically have additional functional characteristics of such acquisition distribution layers) that can be used within an article to absorb body fluids and exudates, such as urine and feces, or blood, menstrual fluid, and vaginal fluids.More specifically, this disclosure relates to absorbent garments (or articles), such as disposable diapers or diaper pants, disposable incontinence diapers or underwear, and which are configured to collect and contain fecal matter and prevent leakage, or sanitary napkins or panty liners, which are configured to collect and contain blood, menstrual fluid, urine, vaginal fluids and prevent leakage. BACKGROUND The disclosure relates to apparatus and processes for making an adsorbent core for an adsorbent article, particularly for hygiene articles, to absorbent articles comprising such an adsorbent core, and to processes for providing such an adsorbent core. It also relates in particular to cores having one or more channels through them. Absorbent cores have undergone considerable improvements and innovations over time to address needs such as enhanced fluid absorption and distribution, as well as comfort, and there is a need for continuous improvement. These needs are ever-present in today's demanding consumer environment. The following paragraphs clarify some of the relevant disclosures related to this topic. EP 1077052 A1 and EP 1078617 A2 disclose a sanitary napkin that allows controlled deformation in response to lateral compression during use. The sanitary napkin has preferential flex zones extending along a longitudinal axis formed by a perforating, slitting, cutting, or embossing process. EP 1959903 B1 discloses an incontinence pad comprising a pair of fold lines that divide the absorbent core material into a central portion and a pair of longitudinal side portions to better conform to the user's body. The fold lines are formed by compression of the absorbent material. EP 2211808 B1 discloses an absorbent core comprising an upper absorbent core and a lower absorbent core. The upper absorbent core includes folding features that allow the core to assume a predetermined three-dimensional shape when subjected to pressure in the width direction. The folding features are cuts or compression lines that may or may not extend completely through the upper core. / CfrLLn / L7n7 / E / Yli Document EP 1349524 B1 discloses a panty liner comprising at least one fold line defining a central area and two lateral areas that allow the panty liner to be adjusted by folding it along the fold line. The fold lines are embossed lines. EP 1267775 B1 discloses a sanitary napkin that conforms to body confinement. The sanitary napkin comprises a wide front portion and a narrow back portion, and at least two preformed fold lines on the upper or lower surface of the narrow portion. The fold lines can be selected from mechanically pressed lines, chemically bonded constituents forming the lines, heat-generated lines, laser-generated lines, adhesive-generated lines, and / or lines generated by mechanical vibrations. Document EP1088536 A2 discloses a sanitary napkin provided with ridges that make it possible to adapt the sanitary napkin to the user's underwear. US patent 5,756,039 A discloses an absorbent core comprising distinct segments that can be moved independently by means of a lifting member. The lifting member ensures that the upper sheet conforms to the user's body. US patent 2006 / 0184150 A1 discloses an absorbent core with variable flexibility that acts as a shaping element for improved body fit. The absorbent core may have lines of reduced flexural strength that are formed by removing material, for example, in the form of openings or slots. US patent 6,503,233 B1 discloses an absorbent article comprising a combination of downward-sloping fold lines and an upward-sloping shaping line to achieve a geometry for improved body fit. The fold lines are formed by embossing the absorbent material. The shaping line is formed by perforation or notching. US patent 2015 / 0088084 A1 discloses a method for manufacturing an absorbent structure having a three-dimensional topography, which includes placing at least a portion of the absorbent structure between opposing mold surfaces. At least one of the mold surfaces has a three-dimensional topography. The three-dimensional topography of the mold surface is imparted onto the absorbent structure such that the absorbent structure has a three-dimensional topography corresponding to the three-dimensional topography of the mold surface. Document EP3342386A1 discloses an absorbent core comprising substantially continuous zones of one or more high fluid distribution structures and discontinuous zones of fluid absorption structures surrounding the one or more high fluid distribution structures, wherein the one or more high fluid distribution structures are arranged to distribute fluid through the absorbent core at a rate that is faster than the rate of fluid distribution through the absorbent core by said discontinuous fluid absorption structures, and wherein said continuous zones extend along a path that is substantially parallel to at least a portion of the perimeter of the core, said portion of the perimeter of the core comprising at least a portion of the sides of the core and one of the ends of the core. / CfrLLn / L7n7 / E / Yli The apparatus and processes for manufacturing such cores are described in EP3342386A1 and involve the use of a 3D-printed insert having the inverse shape of the desired channels in combination with a vacuum source. However, it is desirable to improve the adhesion between the upper and lower layers of the core shell that forms the channels free of absorbent material. Document EP2905001A1 describes an apparatus and method for manufacturing an absorbent structure for an absorbent article, comprising a support sheet and an absorbent layer thereon, the absorbent layer comprising an absorbent material. According to the disclosure, a first movable auger surface is provided having one or more first coupling strips extending substantially longitudinally, and at least one other auxiliary movable auger is provided with second coupling strips on its surface acting against the first coupling strips. Pressure is applied between the first and second coupling strips and the first and second support sheets at least within a portion of the channel area, to adhere the first and second support sheets to each other.Such a coupling strip arrangement requires positioning the additional auxiliary moving auger surface so that it acts directly on the first moving auger surface in order to avoid the need for a registered process. However, there is a need to improve the adhesion of core wrapping sheets on absorbent cores comprising channels that allow for improved process flexibility and limit wear on the respective apparatus components, especially at high production speeds for extended continuous periods of time. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION In a first aspect, the disclosure relates to a method for manufacturing an absorbent article comprising an absorbent core comprising one or more channels, the method comprising the steps of: i. providing a first endless moving surface comprising a plurality of molds, each mold comprising a non-porous insert therein, typically said insert having the inverse shape of said channel(s), wherein the molds are in fluid communication with a source under pressure except for said insert; ii. feeding a first nonwoven mesh onto said first endless moving surface and onto one or more of said molds; iii. depositing an absorbent material, comprising cellulose fibers and / or superabsorbent polymer particles, onto at least a portion of said nonwoven mesh; iv. removing said absorbent material from areas of the nonwoven mesh corresponding to said insert; v.applying a second nonwoven mesh directly or indirectly over the absorbent material, or folding said first nonwoven mesh so that said absorbent material is sandwiched between the upper and lower layers of said nonwoven mesh(s); vi. joining said upper and lower layers together at least in the areas of the nonwoven mesh(s) corresponding to the insert to form an absorbent core having one or more channels substantially free of absorbent material; vii. optionally attaching an acquisition distribution layer to said absorbent core, typically a surface of said upper layer facing the skin; viii. optionally laminating said absorbent core and acquisition distribution layer between a liquid-permeable upper sheet and a liquid-impermeable back sheet; wherein step vi.It comprises the step of selectively applying a first pressure on the absorbent core, preferably alone, in a central part thereof and a second pressure, preferably alone, along the peripheral longitudinal side edges thereof that run opposite and parallel to each other and outside of said central part, said central part corresponding to at least a region of the core comprising said channel(s), and wherein said first and second pressures are applied successively along a machine direction (MD). In a second aspect, the disclosure relates to a method for manufacturing an absorbent article comprising an absorbent core comprising one or more channels, the method comprising the steps of: i. providing a first endless moving surface comprising a plurality of molds, each mold comprising a non-porous insert therein, typically said insert having the inverse shape of said channel(s), wherein the molds are in fluid communication with a low-pressure source except for said insert; ii. feeding a first nonwoven mesh onto said first endless moving surface and onto one or more of said molds; iii. depositing an absorbent material, comprising cellulose fibers and / or superabsorbent polymer particles, onto at least a portion of said nonwoven mesh; iv. removing said absorbent material from areas of the nonwoven mesh corresponding to said insert; v.applying a second nonwoven mesh directly or indirectly over the absorbent material, or folding said first nonwoven mesh so that said absorbent material is sandwiched between the upper and lower layers of said nonwoven mesh(s); vi. joining said upper and lower layers together at least in the areas of the nonwoven mesh(s) corresponding to the insert to form an absorbent core having one or more channels substantially free of absorbent material; vii. optionally attaching an acquisition distribution layer to said absorbent core, typically a surface of said upper layer facing the skin; viii. optionally laminating said absorbent core and acquisition distribution layer between a liquid-permeable upper sheet and a liquid-impermeable back sheet; wherein step vi.It comprises the step of selectively applying a first pressure on the absorbent core, preferably alone, in a central part thereof, and an additional pressure on the absorbent core, preferably alone, in the central part thereof, wherein said additional pressure is applied upwards from said first pressure and is arranged to provide a pre-compression force on the absorbent core in an area of ​​said core corresponding to said channels. In a third aspect, the disclosure relates to an apparatus for manufacturing an absorbent article comprising an absorbent core comprising one or more channels, said apparatus comprising: a first endless movable surface in the form of a rotating drum, said drum comprising a plurality of cavity-shaped molds successively placed along a circumference of said drum, wherein each mold comprises a non-porous insert therein, said insert preferably having the inverse shape of said channel(s),wherein the molds are in fluid communication with a lower pressure source, except for said insert, to form one or more non-suction zones corresponding to said non-porous insert and a suction zone surrounding said non-porous insert; a first feeding unit for feeding a first non-woven net onto said first endless moving surface and onto one or more of said molds; a first adhesive application unit for applying an adhesive pattern onto a skin-facing surface of said first non-woven net; an absorbent material deposition unit for depositing an absorbent material, typically comprising cellulose fibers and / or superabsorbent polymer particles,on at least a portion of said first nonwoven mesh; a second feeding unit for feeding a second nonwoven mesh directly or indirectly onto the absorbent material so as to interpose said absorbent material between the upper and lower layers of said nonwoven mesh to form an absorbent core; or a folding unit for folding said first nonwoven mesh so as to interpose said absorbent material between the upper and lower layers of said nonwoven mesh to form an absorbent core; optionally, a second adhesive application unit for applying an adhesive pattern onto a garment-facing surface of said second nonwoven mesh positioned above a bonding position of said second nonwoven mesh to said first nonwoven mesh; optionally,a removal unit for removing said absorbent material from the areas of the nonwoven mesh corresponding to said insert such that at least a portion of the nonwoven mesh located above the suction zone is covered with absorbent material and substantially no absorbent material is present in the portions corresponding to the non-suction zone; a first endless moving auxiliary surface for applying a first pressure to the upper and lower layers of said nonwoven mesh(s); wherein the apparatus further comprises a second and a third endless moving auxiliary surface for applying a second pressure to the upper and lower layers of said nonwoven mesh(s), wherein said first endless moving surface, said first auxiliary endless moving surface, said second auxiliary endless moving surface and said third auxiliary endless moving surface each have an axis of rotation that is substantially parallel to each other,and wherein the first endless moving surface and the auxiliary endless moving surfaces act upon each other applying pressure to the upper and lower layers of said moving surface of the nonwoven mesh(s), and wherein said first auxiliary endless moving surface is arranged to selectively apply said first pressure upon the absorbent core, preferably alone, in a central portion thereof, and said second and third auxiliary endless moving surfaces are arranged to selectively apply said second pressure, preferably alone, along the peripheral longitudinal lateral edges of said absorbent core that run opposite and parallel to each other and are outside of said central portion, said central portion corresponding to at least a region of the core comprising said channel(s). In a further aspect, the disclosure relates to the use of an apparatus, according to the above embodiments described herein, for manufacturing an absorbent article comprising an absorbent core comprising one or more channels, wherein the upper and lower layers of the nonwoven mesh(s) are joined in an area corresponding to the channel(s) and, preferably sequentially thereafter, in areas corresponding to the peripheral longitudinal side edges of said absorbent core that run opposite and parallel to each other and are outside the central portion of the absorbent core comprising the channel(s), to increase the production speed and / or avoid the registration of the process / CfrLLn / L7n7 / E / Yli BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a part of an apparatus according to one modality of the present. Figure 2 shows a side view of the apparatus in Figure 1. Figure 3 shows a perspective view of a part of an apparatus according to one modality of the present. Figure 4 shows a side view of the apparatus in Figure 3. Figure 5 is an illustration of a side view of the endless auxiliary moving surface(s) according to one modality of the present. Figure 6 is a schematic drawing that illustrates a process according to a modality in this document. Figure 7 is a schematic cross-section of cavities comprising an insert according to one modality of the present. DETAILED DESCRIPTION Unless otherwise defined, all terms used to describe the features of this disclosure, including technical and scientific terms, have the meanings commonly understood by someone skilled in the field to which this disclosure pertains. Definitions of terms are included in an additional guide to enhance your understanding of the information provided in this disclosure. As used in this document, the following terms have the following meanings: “A”, “an”, and “the” as used herein refer to both singular and plural referents unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. For example, “a compartment” refers to one or more compartments. “Approximately,” as used herein when referring to a mean value, such as a parameter, quantity, duration, and the like, means encompassing variations of ±20% or less, preferably ±10% or less, more preferably ±5% or less, even more preferably ±1% or less, and still more preferably ±0.1% or less from and away from the specified value, to the extent such variations are appropriate to realize in the disclosed information. It is understood, however, that the value to which the modifier “approximately” refers is also specifically disclosed. “Comprises”, “comprising”, “comprising” and “comprised by”, as used herein, are synonyms of “includes”, “including”, or “contains”, “containing”, “containing” and are inclusive or open terms that specify the presence of what follows, e.g., component and do not exclude or preclude the presence of additional components, features, elements, members, steps, not enumerated, known in the art or described therein. / CfrLLn / L7n7 / E / Yli The term “% by weight” (weight percentage), in this case and throughout the description unless otherwise defined, refers to the relative weight of the corresponding component based on the overall weight of the formulation. The enumeration of numerical intervals by extreme values ​​includes all numbers and fractions encompassed within that interval, as well as the enumerated extreme values, unless otherwise specified.“Absorbent article” refers to devices that absorb and contain liquid, and more specifically, to devices that are placed against or near the user's body to absorb and contain various exudates discharged from the body. Absorbent articles include, but are not limited to, diapers, adult incontinence briefs, training pants, diaper holders and liners, sanitary napkins and the like, as well as surgical dressings and sponges. Absorbent articles preferably comprise a longitudinal axis and a transverse axis perpendicular to said longitudinal axis. The longitudinal axis is conventionally chosen to run from front to back of the article when referring to the article being worn, and the transverse axis is conventionally chosen to run from left to right of the article when referring to the article being worn.Disposable absorbent articles may include a liquid-permeable top sheet, a back sheet bonded to the top sheet, and an absorbent core positioned and held between the top and back sheets. The top sheet is operationally impermeable to the liquids that are intended to be retained or stored by the absorbent article, and the back sheet may or may not be substantially impermeable or otherwise operationally impermeable to the intended liquids. The absorbent article may also include other components, such as liquid-absorbing layers, liquid-gathering layers, liquid-distributing layers, transfer layers, barrier layers, wrap layers, and the like, as well as combinations thereof. Disposable absorbent articles and their components may function to provide a body-facing surface and a garment-facing surface. An absorbent article, such as a diaper, comprises a front waist region, a back waist region, and an intermediate crotch region that interconnects the front and back waist regions. As used herein, a reference to the “front” portion refers to the part of the absorbent article that is generally located on the front of a subject, such as an infant or adult, when in use. A reference to the “back” portion refers to the part of the absorbent article that is generally located on the back of the subject, such as an infant or adult, when in use, and a reference to the “crotch” portion refers to the part that is generally located between the legs of the subject, such as an infant or adult, when in use. The crotch region is an area where repeated fluid ingestion typically occurs within the absorbent article assembly. “Mechanical bonding” is a fastening between two or more elements, components, regions or networks and may comprise thermal bonding, pressure bonding, ultrasonic bonding, dynamic mechanical bonding or any other suitable non-adhesive bonding means or combinations of these bonding means as known in the art. “Acquisition and Distribution Layer,” “ADL,” or “repeated rise control part” refers to a sublayer, preferably a non-woven absorbent layer, beneath the top sheet of an absorbent product. This sublayer accelerates the transport and improves the distribution of fluids throughout the absorbent core. The repeated rise control part is typically less hydrophilic than the retention part and has the ability to quickly collect and temporarily retain repeated rises in fluid and transport the fluid from its initial point of entry to other parts of the absorbent structure, particularly the retention part. This configuration can help prevent fluid from pooling and accumulating on the part of the absorbent garment placed against the wearer's skin, thereby reducing the wearer's sensation of wetness. Preferably, the repeated rise control part is positioned between the top sheet and the retention part. The term “adhesive” as used herein is intended to refer to any suitable hot-melt, water-based, or solvent-based adhesive that can be applied to a film-layer surface in the required pattern or network of adhesive areas to form the nonwoven film laminate of this disclosure. Accordingly, suitable adhesives include conventional hot-melt adhesives, pressure-sensitive adhesives, and reactive adhesives (i.e., polyurethane). As used herein, the “skin-facing,” “body-facing,” or “body-side” surface means the surface of the article or component that is intended to be placed toward or adjacent to the user’s body during normal use, whereas the “outside,” “outward-facing,” or “garment-side” surface is on the opposite side and is intended to be placed away from the user’s body during normal use. Such an outer surface may be positioned facing or adjacent to the user’s undergarments when the absorbent article is worn. “Joined” refers to the joining, adhesion, connection, fixing, or similar, of at least two elements. Two elements shall be considered to be joined together when they are joined directly to each other or indirectly to each other, such as when each is directly joined to intermediate elements. The phrase “consisting essentially of” does not exclude the presence of additional materials that do not significantly affect the desired characteristics of a given composition or product. Examples of such materials would include, but are not limited to, pigments, antioxidants, stabilizers, surfactants, waxes, flow promoters, solvents, particulates, and materials added to improve the composition's processability. The term “disposable” is used herein to describe absorbent articles that are generally not intended to be washed, restored, or otherwise reused as an absorbent article (i.e., they are intended to be disposed of after a single use and preferably recycled, composted, or otherwise disposed of in an environmentally compatible manner). As used herein, the terms “elastic,” “elastomeric,” “elasticity,” or derivatives thereof are used to describe the ability of various materials and objects comprising them to undergo reversible deformation under stress—for example, to stretch or extend—in at least one direction when a force is applied to the material and to return substantially to its original dimensions upon relaxation, i.e., when the force is released, without rupture or breakage. Preferably, it refers to a material or composite that can elongate in at least one direction by at least 50% of its relaxed length, i.e., elongates to at least 150% of its relaxed length, and that will recover at least 40% of its elongation upon release of the applied stress. Accordingly, upon release of the applied stress at 50% elongation, the material or composite contracts to a relaxed length of no more than 130% of its original length.Some examples of suitable elastomeric materials include polyether-polyamide block copolymers, polyurethanes, linear synthetic block copolymers ABA and AB, chlorinated rubber / EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate) combinations, EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) rubbers, EPM (ethylene-propylene monomer) rubbers, EPDM / EPM / EVA combinations, and the like. As used herein, the term “garment” means any type of clothing that can be worn. This includes diapers, training pants, incontinence products, surgical gowns, industrial workwear and coveralls, underwear, pants, shirts, jackets, and the like. “Joining,” “joined,” “together,” or variations thereof, when used to describe the relationship between two or more elements, means that the elements can be connected to each other in any suitable manner, such as by heat sealing, ultrasonic bonding, thermal bonding, adhesives, stitching, or similar means. Furthermore, the elements can be joined directly to each other, or they can have one or more elements interposed between them, all of which are connected to each other. By “channels,” it is meant that the structure referred to (e.g., the absorber core) comprises recessed regions forming visible channels or passages that typically extend along the longitudinal axis of the core and have a depth perpendicular to that longitudinal axis. By “visible,” it is meant here to be clearly visible to the naked eye, and typically that the channels have a width generally greater than 1 mm, preferably from 5 mm to 50 mm, more preferably from 8 mm to 40 mm, more preferably from 10 mm to 30 mm, and even more preferably from more than 10 mm to less than 25 mm. By “interconnected”, it is meant that the structure being referred to (e.g., channels) forms a substantially continuous path such as from a first end of a channel to a second end of the same channel. By “substantially,” we mean at least the majority of the structure being referred to. For example, with reference to interconnected channels, “substantially interconnected” means that most of the channel is interconnected and, in general, where a direct and continuous path can be traced from one end of the channel to the other end of the channel. These ends (also referred to herein as terminal positions) may be distal to each other in a direction across the width of the core and proximal to a portion of the perimeter of the core, preferably its sides. / CfrLLn / L7n7 / E / Yli By “directly on”, it is meant that the feature being referred to is placed on the structure being referred to in such a way that the two are in direct contact with each other at least in a substantial part of that structure. By “indirectly on,” it is understood that the feature referred to is placed on the structure referred to, but in such a way that the two are not in direct contact with each other, at least over a substantial part of that structure. For example, a nonwoven mesh applied indirectly to a three-dimensional absorbent material comprises an additional layer of material between the nonwoven mesh and the three-dimensional absorbent material. “Superabsorbent polymer particles” or “SAPs” refers to water-swellable, water-insoluble organic or inorganic materials capable, under the most favorable conditions, of absorbing at least approximately 10 times their weight, or at least approximately 15 times their weight, or at least approximately 25 times their weight in an aqueous solution containing 0.9 percent by weight of sodium chloride. In absorbent articles, such as diapers, incontinence pads, etc., the particle size typically ranges from 100 to 800 µm, preferably from 300 to 600 µm, and more preferably from 400 to 500 µm. The following describes embodiments of the articles and processes in accordance with the disclosure. It is understood that the technical features described in one or more embodiments may be combined with one or more other embodiments without departing from the intent of the disclosure and without generalizing from it as defined in the appended claims. THE DEVICE As exemplified in Figure 1-2, the apparatus (6) for manufacturing an absorbent article (as used herein, absorbent articles are typically disposable) comprising an absorbent core comprising one or more channels, said apparatus comprising: a first endless movable surface (1) in the form of a rotating drum, said drum comprising a plurality of molds (2) in the form of cavities successively placed along a circumference of said drum, wherein each mold (2) comprises a non-porous insert (3) therein, said insert (3) preferably having the inverse shape of said channel(s), wherein the molds (2) are in fluid communication with a pressurized source,except for said insert (3) to form one or more non-suction zones corresponding to said non-porous insert (3) and a suction zone surrounding said non-porous insert (3); a first feeding unit (7) for feeding a first non-woven net (4) onto said first endless moving surface (1) and onto one or more of said molds (2); a first adhesive application unit (8) for applying an adhesive pattern onto a skin-facing surface of said first non-woven net (4); an absorbent material deposition unit (9) for depositing an absorbent material, typically comprising cellulose fibers and / or superabsorbent polymer particles, onto at least a portion of said first non-woven net (4); a second feeding unit for feeding a second non-woven net (5) directly or indirectly onto the absorbent material so as to interpose said absorbent material between the upper and lower layers of said non-woven nets (4,5) to form an absorbent core; or a folding unit for folding said first nonwoven mesh (4) so ​​as to interpose said absorbent material between the upper and lower layers of said nonwoven mesh (4) to form an absorbent core; optionally,a second adhesive application unit (10) for applying an adhesive pattern onto a garment-facing surface of said second nonwoven mesh (5) positioned above a bonding position of said second nonwoven mesh (5) to said first nonwoven mesh (4); optionally an extraction unit (11) for removing said absorbent material from the areas of the nonwoven mesh (4) corresponding to said insert (3) so that at least a portion of the nonwoven mesh (4) located above the suction zone is covered with absorbent material and substantially no absorbent material is present in the portions corresponding to the non-suction zone; a first auxiliary endless moving surface (12) for applying a first pressure to the upper and lower layers of said nonwoven mesh(s) (4,5); wherein the apparatus (6) further comprises second and third auxiliary endless movable surfaces for applying a second pressure to the upper and lower layers of said nonwoven mesh(s) (4, 5), wherein said first endless movable surface (1), said first auxiliary endless movable surface (12), said second auxiliary endless movable surface (13), and said third auxiliary endless movable surface (14) each have an axis of rotation that is substantially parallel to each other, and wherein the first endless movable surface (1) and the auxiliary endless movable surfaces (12, 13, 14) act upon each other by applying pressure to the upper and lower layers of said nonwoven mesh(s) (4, 5), and wherein said first auxiliary endless movable surface (12) is arranged to selectively apply said first pressure to the absorbent core, preferably alone, in a central portion thereof, and said second and third auxiliary endless movable surfaces (13,14) are arranged to selectively apply said second pressure, preferably alone, along the peripheral longitudinal side edges of said absorbent core that run opposite and parallel to each other and are outside said central portion, said central portion corresponding to at least a region of the core comprising said channel or channels. Advantageously, such selective application of pressure to the central portion of the core and separately to the longitudinally extending (i.e., parallel to the machine direction MD) peripheral edges of the core allows for the proper bonding of the core's outer layers where required without the need for profiled pressure rollers, thus avoiding the use of a patented process and further limiting component wear and therefore enabling faster production speeds.All this with a limited risk of damaging the core's outer layers by avoiding over-compression of the absorbent material in core regions where the upper and lower outer core layers should not join. In one embodiment, the extraction unit (11) is in the form of a rotating brush comprising a plurality of bristles. Alternatively, a static brush or other means such as air blowing suitable for removing any excess absorbent material that may be deposited on the nonwoven mesh corresponding to the channel or insert (3) (i.e., the non-suction zone) may be used. In one embodiment, the insert (3) has a thickness (t) along an axis perpendicular to both the axis of rotation of the first worm-like moving surface (1) and the machine direction (MD), and the mold has a depth (d) along an axis perpendicular to both the axis of rotation of the first worm-like moving surface (1) and the machine direction (MD), wherein said thickness (t) is greater than said depth (d) so that said insert protrudes outward from a vertex of said mold (2). / CfrLLn / L7n7 / E / Yli As illustrated in Figure 7, the cavities (2) herein have a perforated base (18), in fluid communication with the vacuum source that generates a vacuum force, longitudinal peripheral edges (19), and the non-porous insert (3) that protrudes beyond the longitudinal peripheral edges to form a non-suction zone corresponding to the position where the upper and lower layers of the core envelope join to form channels free of absorbent material. The insert (3) can be releasably attached to the base (18) of each cavity (2) by means of one or more screws; alternative joining means may also be used, provided the insert is releasable for quick interchangeability and replacement as required. In a preferred embodiment, the insert (3) is substantially U-shaped. This is useful for forming absorbent cores comprising a single interconnected (substantially U-shaped) channel extending along a longitudinal axis (corresponding to an axis) substantially parallel to the direction of the MD machine and a transverse axis (corresponding to an axis substantially parallel to the axis of rotation of the first endless moving surface, such as the drum core former, and perpendicular to the direction of the MD machine) of said core. Although this arrangement is preferred, it will be evident to a person skilled in the art that other channel geometries can be achieved equally well by changing the shape of the insert. For example, interconnected shapes such as substantially V-shaped, X-shaped, Ω-shaped, a-shaped, π-shaped, T-shaped, I-shaped, Y-shaped, etc., are also contemplated herein.The interconnected channel can also be a single, substantially I-shaped channel extending along the centerline of the absorbent core. In this case, the insert can be I-shaped and positioned to coincide with the cavity centerline extending along the MD machine direction. Furthermore, a plurality of channels (either straight or curved) is also contemplated. For example, the single interconnected insert per cavity can be replaced with a plurality of inserts for each cavity, where each insert is shaped like the desired channels and can be arranged symmetrically on either side of a cavity centerline extending along the MD machine direction. In one embodiment, the auxiliary moving surfaces of the present invention are endless, for example, in the form of rollers, as will be explained in more detail below. In one embodiment, the rotation axis of the first auxiliary auger moving surface (12) is positioned at a first distance from the rotation axis of the first auger moving surface (1), and the second and third auxiliary moving surfaces (13, 14) are positioned at a second distance from the rotation axis of the first auger moving surface (1), wherein the first distance is greater than the second distance. Advantageously, this allows the correct pressure to be applied to join the longitudinal peripheral edges and the central portion of the core while limiting the risk of damaging the core's outer layers or crushing the superabsorbent polymer particles.Indeed, the peripheral edges of the core are free of absorbent material and typically extend over a circumferential distance that is closer to the axis of rotation of the first endless moving surface compared to the channel regions that sit on the insert as will be described in more detail later, and therefore, such arrangement / CfrLLn / L7n7 / E / Yli ensures that no unwanted high pressure is applied to the central part of the core in areas other than the channel area to join the upper and lower core shell layers together in that region. In one embodiment, the second and third auxiliary moving surfaces (13, 14) are positioned below the first auxiliary moving surface (12) along a machine direction (MD). It is desirable that the first auxiliary endless moving surface (12) be as close as possible to the joining point of the upper and lower core wrapping layers to ensure good bonding when joining the respective layers in the channel regions. This ensures limited contamination of the channel by absorbent material and helps keep channels free of absorbent during the bonding stage of the process. Preferably, the second and third movable auxiliary surfaces (13, 14) are spaced at a distance extending parallel to their axis of rotation, preferably where the axis of rotation of said second and third auxiliary surfaces (13, 14) substantially coincide, and more preferably where the second and third movable auxiliary surfaces (13, 14) are rotatably connected by a common housing. Advantageously, this arrangement allows pressure to be applied only to the peripheral longitudinal areas of the core, thus avoiding pressure on other regions of the core comprising absorbent material, such as the central region. Preferably, as illustrated in Figure 3-4, the apparatus comprises a fourth auxiliary movable surface (15) arranged to provide a third pressure on the absorbent core, preferably alone, in the central part thereof, wherein said third pressure is applied upwards from said first pressure, preferably said third pressure arranged to provide a pre-compression force on the absorbent core, and more preferably wherein the third pressure is less than the first pressure, preferably such that the pre-compression force is less than a force generated by the first pressure on said absorbent core.It has been found that applying a pre-compression stage before the final pressure by the first auxiliary screw surface allows for a stronger bonding force between the upper and lower core sheath layers in the channel region, while at the same time allowing the use of lower individual pressures, which are beneficial in avoiding undesirable damage to the surrounding areas comprising absorbent material. Preferably, the second pressure is greater than or equal to the first pressure. Alternatively, the second pressure is less than or equal to the first pressure. In one embodiment, the first, second, third and / or fourth auxiliary movable surfaces (12, 13, 14, 15) comprise an outer surface (also referred to herein as the “abrasive surface”) that is made of a substantially flexible material typically selected from the group consisting of plastic, rubber and silicone, preferably flexible material comprising polyurethane, more preferably elastic polyurethane. In a preferred embodiment, the first, second, third, and / or fourth auxiliary moving surfaces (12, 13, 14, 15) comprise a substantially smooth outer surface, typically free of raised and / or protruding coupling members. This outer surface is made of a substantially malleable material typically selected from the group consisting of plastic, rubber, and silicone, preferably a malleable material comprising polyurethane, more preferably elastic polyurethane. Advantageously, this improves fatigue resistance and allows for higher production speeds without registration. In one embodiment, the first, second, third and / or fourth auxiliary movable surfaces (12, 13, 14, 15) are made of a material comprising polyurethane and having a Shore A hardness at 85°C of 55 to 95, measured according to DIN 53505. In one embodiment, the first, second, third and / or fourth auxiliary moving surfaces (12, 13, 14, 15) are made of a material comprising polyurethane and having a tensile strength of 9 to 55 MPa, measured according to DIN 53504. Advantageously, this helps to allow the omission of the use of additional springs and / or shock absorbers. Preferably, each of the first, second, third and / or fourth auxiliary moving surfaces (12, 13, 14, 15) comprises, preferably consists of, rotating pressure rollers. In a preferred embodiment, the first auxiliary moving surface (12) has a width, extending perpendicular to the direction of the machine and parallel to the axis of rotation thereof, that is greater than the width of each of the second and third auxiliary moving surfaces (13, 14), and preferably wherein the fourth auxiliary moving surface (15) has a width, extending perpendicular to the direction of the machine and parallel to the axis of rotation, that is greater than or equal to the width of the first auxiliary moving surface (12). In one embodiment, the width of the first auxiliary moving surface (12), and / or fourth auxiliary moving surface (15), is at least equal to the largest distance (D) between insert portions taken along an axis perpendicular to the machine direction and parallel to the axis of rotation (i.e., perpendicular to the longitudinal peripheral edges (19) of the cavities (2)). It is evident that, although Figure 1 illustrates the largest distance (D) when the insert is a single insert of substantial (U) shape, it will be evident to a person skilled in the art that the same will apply to the largest distance (D) between separate, opposingly arranged inserts forming a plurality of distinct channels. In one embodiment, the first, second, third, and / or fourth auxiliary moving surfaces (12, 13, 14, 15) are connected to one or more compression springs and / or dampers. This has the advantage of absorbing shocks generated by the rotating inserts, as will be described in more detail below. Preferably, the first, second, third, and / or fourth auxiliary moving surfaces (12, 13, 14, 15) comprise an outer abrasion surface (16) and a plurality of fan-shaped spoke members (17) converging toward the axis of rotation of said first, second, third, and / or fourth auxiliary moving surfaces (12, 13, 14, 15), preferably wherein the spoke members (17) are made of a flexible material comprising, and preferably selected from, polyurethane, more preferably being of the same material as the abrasion surface (16). Advantageously, this arrangement has been found to be beneficial in allowing the pressure rollers to absorb the shocks created by the high-speed impact / rotation inserts, thereby eliminating the need for a costly and complex spring. Preferably, the spoke-shaped members (17) have a minimum and maximum thickness, where the minimum thickness is proximal to an axis of rotation thereof, and the maximum thickness is proximal to the abrasive surface (16) and distal to said axis of rotation. Preferably, a space (or void) is formed between each consecutive spoke-shaped member (17) such that, when viewed in the cross-sectional plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation thereof (as illustrated in Figure 5), said space(s) (or void(s)) has a substantially triangular shape. In a preferred embodiment, as illustrated in Figure 5, the spoke-shaped members (17) form an angle (a) with each other and with the surrounding spoke-shaped members (17), typically where this angle (a) is from 10° to 60°, preferably from 15° to 55°, more preferably from 20° to 45°, and even more preferably from 25° to 40°. Advantageously, this arrangement efficiently and effectively allows shock absorption through the buckling effects enabled by the spokes, which, especially when made of a selected polyurethane material as described above, surprisingly allow for a very strong and robust structure with sufficient flexibility to deform and return to its original shape after the application of large forces. This has been found to further facilitate the elimination of costly and difficult-to-maintain mechanical, hydraulic, or pneumatic components such as springs and shock absorbers or the like. THE PROCESS This disclosure further relates to a process or method for manufacturing an absorbent core and article, as illustrated in Figure 6, comprising said core having one or more channels, the method may comprise the steps of: i. providing a first endless moving surface (1) comprising a plurality of molds (2), each mold comprising (2) a non-porous insert (3) thereon, typically said insert (3) having the inverse shape of said channel(s), wherein the molds (2) are in fluid communication with a source under pressure except for said insert (3); ii. feeding a first nonwoven mesh (4) to said first endless moving surface (1) and onto one or more of said molds (2); iii. depositing an absorbent material, comprising cellulose fibers and / or superabsorbent polymer particles, onto at least a portion of said nonwoven mesh (4); iv.optionally removing said absorbent material from areas of the nonwoven mesh (4) corresponding to said insert (3); v. applying a second nonwoven mesh (5) directly or indirectly over the absorbent material, or folding said first nonwoven mesh (4) so ​​that it interposes said absorbent material between the upper and lower layers (hereinafter also referred to as “core wrapping layers or surfaces”) of said nonwoven mesh(s) (4, 5); vi. joining said upper and lower layers together at least in the areas of the nonwoven mesh(s) (4, 5) corresponding to the insert (3) to form an absorbent core having one or more channels substantially free of absorbent material; vil. optionally attaching an acquisition distribution layer to said absorbent core, typically a skin-facing surface of said upper layer; vili.optionally laminate said absorbent core and acquisition distribution layer between a liquid-permeable upper sheet and a liquid-impermeable back sheet; wherein step vi. comprises the step of selectively applying a first pressure on the absorbent core, preferably alone, in a central portion thereof and a second pressure, preferably alone, along the peripheral longitudinal side edges thereof that run opposite and parallel to each other and are outside of said central portion, said central portion corresponding at least to / CfrLLn / L7n7 / E / Yli a region of the core comprising said channel(s), and wherein said first and second pressures are applied successively along a machine direction (MD). In one embodiment, the disclosure relates to a method for manufacturing an absorbent article comprising an absorbent core comprising one or more channels, the method comprising the steps of: i. providing a first endless moving surface (1) comprising a plurality of molds (2), each mold comprising (2) a non-porous insert (3) thereon, typically said insert (3) having the inverse shape of said channel(s), wherein the molds (2) are in fluid communication with a pressurised source except for said insert (3); ii. feeding a first nonwoven mesh (4) to said first endless moving surface (1) and onto one or more of said molds (2); iii. depositing an absorbent material, comprising cellulose fibers and / or superabsorbent polymer particles, onto at least a portion of said nonwoven mesh (4); iv. optionally removing said absorbent material from areas of the nonwoven mesh (4) corresponding to said insert (3); v.applying a second nonwoven mesh (5) directly or indirectly onto the absorbent material, or folding said first nonwoven mesh (4) so ​​as to interpose said absorbent material between the upper and lower layers of said nonwoven mesh(s) (4, 5); vi. joining said upper and lower layers together at least in the areas of the nonwoven mesh corresponding to the insert (3) to form an absorbent core having one or more channels substantially free of absorbent material; vii. optionally attaching an acquisition distribution layer to said absorbent core, typically a surface of said upper layer facing the skin; viii. optionally laminating said absorbent core and acquisition distribution layer between a liquid-permeable upper sheet and a liquid-impermeable back sheet; wherein step vi.It comprises the step of selectively applying a first pressure on the absorbent core, preferably alone, in a central part thereof, and an additional pressure on the absorbent core, preferably alone, in the central part thereof, wherein said additional pressure is applied upwards from said first pressure and is arranged to provide a pre-compression force on the absorbent core in an area of ​​said core corresponding to said channels. Preferably, the first pressure is applied before the second pressure. It has been found that applying pressure to the central portion / region of the absorbent core as soon as possible after the point of union of the upper and lower core sheath layers (or surfaces) achieves better adhesion of these surfaces with a limited risk of contaminating the channel region with absorbent material that would otherwise reduce the bond strength between these surfaces and / or lead to damage, such as tearing, of one or more of the core sheath layers.At the same time, applying pressures sequentially in different positions along the machine's direction allows excess air trapped between the core's wrapping layers to be evacuated from the central part to the peripheral longitudinal edges (or the opening formed by the fold), thus helping to improve core stability compared to applying the first and second pressures simultaneously. In a preferred embodiment, as illustrated in Figure 3-4 and Figure 5, step vi. comprises the additional step of applying a third pressure on the absorbent core, preferably alone, in the central part thereof, wherein said third pressure is applied upwards from said first pressure, / CfrLLn / L7n7 / E / Yli preferably said third pressure arranged to provide a pre-compression force on the absorbent core in an area of ​​said core corresponding to said channels. In one modality, the third pressure is less than or equal to the first pressure, preferably so that the pre-compression force is less than the force generated by the first pressure on said absorbent core. Preferably, the second pressure is greater than or equal to the first pressure. Alternatively, the second pressure is less than or equal to the first pressure. In one mode, the second pressure is less than or equal to the third pressure. In one embodiment, the process comprises applying an adhesive pattern to the acquisition distribution layer or a skin-facing surface of the top core layer and laminating the acquisition distribution layer to the absorbent core, wherein the adhesive pattern is positioned inward and / or outward from the channels such that substantially no adhesive pattern overlaps the channels, and wherein the acquisition distribution layer comprises a spun and / or carded nonwoven layer, typically heat-carded. Advantageously, the acquisition distribution layers selected from spun and / or carded nonwoven fabrics work synergistically with the channel or channels to provide rapid fluid drainage and reduce rewetting.Indeed, acquisition distribution layers have evolved from spunbond materials to today's higher-performance air-bonded nonwovens. However, it has been found that when a channeled core is used, the spongy behavior of highly porous air-bonded nonwovens presents rewetting disadvantages that outweigh the fluid distribution capabilities now achieved for most by the presence of the channels. Furthermore, ensuring that there is no adhesive, or minimal adhesive, in the channel region between the core and the acquisition distribution layer minimizes the drawbacks of the effective drainage provided by the channel(s), thus allowing the use of spunbond and / or carded nonwovens with added overall performance and reduced cost. Preferably, the acquisition distribution layer comprises synthetic fibers, wherein said synthetic fibers comprise at a level greater than 80% by weight of said acquisition distribution layer, and wherein said acquisition distribution layer has a basis weight of 10 to 50 g / m2, and preferably wherein the acquisition distribution layer is or consists of one or more layers, preferably a single layer, of spun or carded nonwovens, preferably heat-filled. In a preferred embodiment, the adhesive pattern has the form of a plurality of strips or spirals that are spaced on a transverse axis extending perpendicular to the machine direction. In one embodiment, the vile step comprises the step of applying pressure to the acquisition distribution layer and the absorbent core in the channel or channels so that said acquisition distribution layer is pressed into contact with the top layer of the nonwoven net or nets, preferably wherein said acquisition distribution layer is arranged to be in contact with said top layer in a dry state so as to form one or more trenches and move freely away from said top layer in a wet state.

Claims

1. A method for manufacturing an absorbent article comprising an absorbent core comprising one or more channels, the method comprising the steps of: i. Providing a first endless moving surface (1) comprising a plurality of molds (2), each mold (2) comprising a non-porous insert (3) therein, wherein the molds (2) are in fluid communication with a source under pressure except for said insert (3); ii. Feeding a first nonwoven mesh (4) to said first endless moving surface (1) and onto one or more of said molds (2); iii. Depositing an absorbent material, comprising cellulose fibers and / or superabsorbent polymer particles, onto at least a portion of said nonwoven mesh (4); iv. Optionally removing said absorbent material from areas of the nonwoven mesh (4) corresponding to said insert (3); v.applying a second nonwoven mesh (5) directly or indirectly onto the absorbent material, or folding said first nonwoven mesh (4) so ​​as to interpose said absorbent material between the upper and lower layers of said nonwoven mesh(s) (4, 5); vi. joining said upper and lower layers together at least in the areas of the nonwoven mesh(s) (4, 5) corresponding to the insert (3) to form an absorbent core having one or more channels substantially free of absorbent material; vii. optionally attaching an acquisition distribution layer to said absorbent core, typically a surface of said upper layer facing the skin; viii. optionally laminating said absorbent core and acquisition distribution layer between a liquid-permeable upper sheet and a liquid-impermeable back sheet; characterized in that step vi.It comprises the step of selectively applying a first pressure on the absorbent core, preferably alone, in a central part thereof and a second pressure, preferably alone, along the peripheral longitudinal side edges thereof that run opposite and parallel to each other and are outside of said central part, said central part corresponding to at least a region of the core comprising said channel(s), and wherein said first and second pressures are applied successively along a machine direction (MD).

2. A method for manufacturing an absorbent article comprising an absorbent core comprising one or more channels, the method comprising the steps of: i. providing a first endless moving surface (1) comprising a plurality of molds (2), each mold (2) comprising a non-porous insert (3) therein, wherein the molds (2) are in fluid communication with a source under pressure except for said insert (3); ii. feeding a first nonwoven mesh (4) to said first endless moving surface (1) and onto one or more of said molds (2); iii. depositing an absorbent material, comprising cellulose fibers and / or superabsorbent polymer particles, onto at least a portion of said nonwoven mesh (4); iv. optionally removing said absorbent material from areas of the nonwoven mesh (4) corresponding to said insert (3); v.applying a second nonwoven mesh (5) directly or indirectly onto the absorbent material, or folding said first nonwoven mesh (4) so ​​as to interpose said absorbent material between the upper and lower layers of said nonwoven mesh(s) (4, 5); vi. joining said upper and lower layers together at least in the areas of the nonwoven mesh(s) corresponding to the insert (3) to form an absorbent core having one or more channels substantially free of absorbent material; vii. optionally attaching an acquisition distribution layer to said absorbent core, typically a surface of said upper layer facing the skin; vili. optionally laminating said absorbent core and acquisition distribution layer between a liquid-permeable upper sheet and a liquid-impermeable back sheet; characterized in that step vi.It comprises the step of selectively applying a first pressure on the absorbent core, preferably alone, in a central part thereof, and an additional pressure on the absorbent core, preferably alone, in the central part thereof, wherein said additional pressure is applied upwards from said first pressure and is arranged to provide a pre-compression force on the absorbent core in an area of ​​said core corresponding to said channels.

3. A method according to claim 1, wherein the first pressure is applied before the second pressure.

4. A method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein step vi. comprises the additional step of applying a third pressure on the absorbent core, preferably alone, in the central part thereof, wherein said third pressure is applied upwards from said first pressure, preferably said third pressure is arranged to provide a pre-compression force on the absorbent core in an area of ​​said core corresponding to said channels.

5. A method according to claim 4, wherein the third pressure is less than or equal to the first pressure, preferably such that the pre-compression force is less than a force generated by the first pressure on said absorbent core.

6. A method according to claims 1 or 3 to 5, wherein the second pressure is greater than or equal to the first pressure.

7. An apparatus (6) for manufacturing an absorbent article comprising an absorbent core comprising one or more channels, said apparatus comprising: a first endless movable surface (1) in the form of a rotating drum, said drum comprising a plurality of molds (2) in the form of cavities successively placed along a circumference of said drum, wherein each mold (2) comprises a non-porous insert (3) therein,wherein the molds (2) are in fluid communication with a pressurized source except for said insert (3) so as to form one or more non-suction zones corresponding to said non-porous insert (3) and a suction zone surrounding said non-porous insert (3); 1 CfrLLn / Lznz / E / Yli a first feeding unit (7) for feeding a first non-woven net (4) to said first endless moving surface (1) and onto one or more of said molds (2); a first adhesive application unit (8) for applying an adhesive pattern onto a skin-facing surface of said first non-woven net (4); an absorbent material deposition unit (9) for depositing an absorbent material, typically comprising cellulose fibers and / or superabsorbent polymer particles,on at least a portion of said first nonwoven mesh (4); a second feeding unit for feeding a second nonwoven mesh (5) directly or indirectly onto the absorbent material so as to interpose said absorbent material between the upper and lower layers of said nonwoven meshes (4, 5) to form an absorbent core; or a folding unit for folding said first nonwoven mesh (4) so ​​as to interpose said absorbent material between the upper and lower layers of said nonwoven mesh (4) to form an absorbent core; optionally,a second adhesive application unit (10) for applying an adhesive pattern onto a garment-facing surface of said second nonwoven mesh (5) positioned above a bonding position of said second nonwoven mesh (5) to said first nonwoven mesh (4); optionally an extraction unit (11) for removing said absorbent material from the areas of the nonwoven mesh (4) corresponding to said insert (3) such that at least a portion of the nonwoven mesh (4) located above the suction zone is covered with absorbent material and substantially no absorbent material is present in the portions corresponding to the non-suction zone; a first auxiliary movable surface (12) for applying a first pressure to the upper and lower layers of said nonwoven mesh(s) (4, 5); characterized in that the apparatus (6) further comprises a second and third auxiliary movable surfaces (13,14) to apply a second pressure to the upper and lower layers of said nonwoven mesh(s) (4, 5), wherein said first movable surface (1), said first auxiliary movable surface (12), said second auxiliary movable surface (13) and said third auxiliary movable surface (14) each have an axis of rotation substantially parallel to each other, and wherein the first endless movable surface (1) and the auxiliary movable surfaces (12, 13, 14) act upon each other applying pressure to the upper and lower layers of said nonwoven mesh(s) (4, 5), and because said first auxiliary movable surface (12) is arranged to selectively apply said first pressure on the absorbent core, preferably alone, in a central part thereof and said second and third auxiliary movable surfaces (13, 14) are arranged to selectively apply said second pressure, preferably alone,along the peripheral longitudinal lateral edges of said absorbing core that run opposite and parallel to each other and are outside the central part, said central part corresponding to a region of the core comprising said channel(s).

8. The apparatus (6) according to claim 7, wherein the second and third auxiliary moving surfaces (13, 14) are located downstream of the first auxiliary moving surface (12) along a machine direction (MD). / CfrLLn / L7n7 / E / Yli 9. An apparatus (6) according to claims 7 to 8, wherein the second and third auxiliary movable surfaces (13,14) are spaced at a distance extending parallel to the axis of rotation thereof, preferably wherein the axis of rotation of said second and third auxiliary surfaces (13, 14) substantially coincide, more preferably wherein the second and third auxiliary movable surfaces (13,14) are rotatably connected by a common housing.

10. An apparatus (6) according to claims 7 to 9, further comprising a fourth auxiliary movable surface (15) arranged to provide a third pressure on the absorbent core, preferably alone, in the central part thereof, wherein said third pressure is applied upwards from said first pressure, preferably said third pressure is arranged to provide a pre-compression force on the absorbent core, and more preferably wherein the third pressure is less than the first pressure, preferably such that the pre-compression force is less than a force generated by the first pressure on said absorbent core.

11. The apparatus (6) according to claims 7 to 10, wherein the second pressure is greater than or equal to the first pressure.

12. An apparatus (6) according to claims 7 to 11, wherein the first, second, third and / or fourth auxiliary movable surfaces (12, 13, 14, 15) comprise a substantially smooth outer surface free from protruding relief and / or coupling members, said outer surface being made of a substantially malleable material typically selected from the group consisting of plastic, rubber and silicone, preferably malleable material comprising polyurethane, more preferably elastic polyurethane.

13. An apparatus (6) according to claims 7 to 12, wherein the first, second, third and / or fourth auxiliary movable surfaces (12, 13, 14, 15) each comprise a rotating pressure roller.

14. An apparatus (6) according to claims 7 to 13, wherein the first auxiliary movable surface (12) has a width, extending perpendicular to the direction of the machine and parallel to the axis of rotation thereof, that is greater than the width of each of the second and third auxiliary movable surfaces (13, 14), and preferably wherein the fourth auxiliary movable surface (15) has a width, extending perpendicular to the direction of the machine and parallel to the axis of rotation, that is greater than or equal to the width of the first auxiliary movable surface (12).

15. An apparatus (6) according to claims 7 to 14, wherein the first, second, third and / or fourth auxiliary movable surfaces (12, 13, 14, 15) are connected to one or more compression springs and / or shock absorbers.

16. An apparatus (6) according to claims 7 to 15, wherein the first, second, third, and / or fourth auxiliary movable surfaces (12, 13, 14, 15) comprise an outer abrasion surface (16) and a plurality of fan-shaped spoke members (17) converging toward the axis of rotation of said first, second, third, and / or fourth auxiliary movable surfaces (12, 13, 14, 15), preferably wherein the spoke members (17) are made of a flexible material comprising, and preferably selected from, polyurethane. / CfrLLn / L7n7 / E / Yli 17. The use of an apparatus according to claims 7 to 16 for manufacturing an absorbent article comprising an absorbent core comprising one or more channels, wherein the upper and lower layers of the nonwoven mesh(s) are joined in an area corresponding to the channel or channels and, preferably sequentially thereafter, in areas corresponding to the peripheral longitudinal side edges of said absorbent core that run opposite and parallel to each other and are outside the central part of the absorbent core comprising the channel or channels to increase production speed and / or to prevent process registration.

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