Absorbent article

Abstract

The invention relates to an absorbent article for external use. More specifically, the present invention relates to a folded absorbent article having a wing and an emulsion pattern comprising an emulsion pattern region disposed on an inner side edge of the wing.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to absorbent articles for external use. More particularly, the present invention relates to a folded absorbent article having a wing and a lotion pattern including a lotion pattern area disposed on the inside edge of the wing. Background Art

[0002] Absorbent articles (such as sanitary napkins or pads) are used by women during their menstrual period to receive and hold blood discharged from the vagina. In addition to collecting body fluids (such as menstrual fluids), it is also expected that these products protect the wearer's underwear from body fluid contamination. These products generally include a top sheet as a liquid-permeable body-facing layer, a back sheet as a clothing-facing layer, and an absorbent core between the top sheet and the back sheet. Body fluids are collected through the top sheet and are subsequently stored in the absorbent core. The back sheet usually prevents the absorbed fluid from wetting the wearer's clothes.

[0003] Absorbent articles usually include adhesive on the clothing-facing side of the backsheet, and the adhesive can be protected by a stripping film (e.g., a siliconized paper sheet). Absorbent articles (such as sanitary napkins or pads) are often sold in a folded configuration, wherein the article is folded once, twice, three times or more around a folding line, which is usually parallel to the transverse centerline of the absorbent pad, but can also be parallel to its longitudinal centerline and / or have any other direction. In the most common configuration, the absorbent pad has two folding lines parallel to the transverse axis of the absorbent pad. Usually, the absorbent pad is folded and wrapped with a thin plastic (wrapper) film each, and its inner surface can be processed with a stripping agent (such as silicone); therefore, the film itself can also be used as a stripping film, which protects the adhesive and releases the adhesive when the wrapper of the absorbent pad is removed.

[0004] The pad is designed to be worn close to the wearer's crotch (e.g., placed between the wearer's crotch and her underwear). Typically, the pad is designed to be attached to the wearer's underwear so as to be held proximal to the wearer's genitals and / or anus. Some pads include side flaps or wings that are disposed on the side edges of the pad and are designed to be folded around the crotch edge of the underwear to protect the underwear from side leakage. However, as the wearer moves in their daily life, the absorbent article may shift relative to the wearer's body, which may result in uncomfortable friction between the wearer and the absorbent article and concomitant skin irritation (e.g., at the inside of the thigh).

[0005] A known method of addressing the friction effect between the wearer and the absorbent article is to provide an absorbent article (such as a diaper) comprising a leg cuff coated with a lotion composition, wherein the lotion composition minimizes friction between the cuff and the skin and reduces irritation in the area where the cuff contacts the wearer's skin. In addition, folded absorbent pads having a cuff on each of the side edges extending along the entire length of the article are known, wherein a skin care agent is provided on the skin surface side of the cuff. Such known absorbent articles can reduce friction between the wearer's skin and the absorbent article, but these articles may have several disadvantages, for example, the lotion may have a negative impact on the absorption performance and / or form outflow leakage before being transferred to the wearer's skin. In particular, in the context of a three-fold absorbent pad, the application (or migration) of the lotion outside the center portion of the pad (the portion located between the two fold lines), especially the application (or migration) to the back of the pad (which is usually folded over the center portion), may interfere with the packaging material / wrapping (causing soiling of the packaging material or lotion leakage) and / or the wings (specifically, the adhesive provided on the clothing-facing side of the wings).

[0006] Therefore, there is a need for an absorbent article having a lotion pattern that is optimized (eg, size and placement) to reduce friction between the absorbent article and the skin and provide skin care benefits without adversely affecting the appearance or performance of the absorbent article. Summary of the invention

[0007] The present disclosure relates to a folded absorbent pad having a longitudinal centerline and a transverse centerline in its flattened unfolded configuration, the pad comprising: a top sheet, a back sheet, an absorbent core disposed between the top sheet and the back sheet, wherein the top sheet and the back sheet are joined to form wings on the longitudinal sides of the pad; one or more fold lines, the one or more fold lines defining a front, a center portion, and a back portion of the pad; and a lotion pattern disposed on a body-facing surface of the top sheet, the lotion pattern comprising at least two lotion pattern areas, the at least two lotion pattern areas being disposed at the inner edges of the wings parallel to the longitudinal centerline, wherein the back portion of the pad is substantially free of the lotion pattern areas.

[0008] These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art from a reading of the present disclosure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] Figure 1a and Figure 1b is a top view of an exemplary absorbent article according to the present disclosure.

[0010] Figure 2 For along Figure 1a to Figure 1b A side cross-sectional view taken along line 2-2.

[0011] Figure 3 for Figure 1a to Figure 1b Exploded view of the layers of an absorbent article in FIG.

[0012] Figure 4 is a top view of another exemplary absorbent article according to the present disclosure.

[0013] Figure 5a For along the basis Figure 4 A simulated diagram of a cross-sectional view of the product taken along line H.

[0014] Figure 5b for Figure 4 A mimetic diagram of a cross-sectional view of a modified embodiment of the embossing depth in an article is shown.

[0015] Figure 6 is a top view of another exemplary absorbent article according to the present disclosure.

[0016] Figure 7 is a top view of another exemplary absorbent article according to the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0017] All ranges are inclusive and combinable. The number of significant digits limits neither the quantity indicated nor the precision of the measurement.

[0018] The term "absorbent article" is used in a broad sense herein and includes any article capable of receiving and / or absorbing and / or containing and / or retaining body fluids / body exudates (such as menses, vaginal discharge, and urine). Exemplary absorbent articles include disposable sanitary absorbent articles, such as feminine hygiene absorbent articles, e.g., sanitary napkins, panty liners, absorbent pads. Absorbent articles may include any type of structure from a single absorbent layer to a more complex multi-layer structure.

[0019] As used herein, a component is considered "absorbent" if such component not only transports such liquids, but is also capable of retaining a portion of the liquids deposited upon such component.

[0020] The term "disposable" is used herein to describe an article that is not intended to be laundered or otherwise restored or reused as an article.

[0021] As used herein, the term "longitudinal centerline" refers to a line centered between the longitudinal sides of an absorbent article and generally aligned with a vertical plane that divides a standing wearer's body into left and right halves, and is represented on the diagram by line L. The length Y of the article indicates the longest length of the article in the longitudinal direction.

[0022] As used herein, the term "lateral centerline" refers to an imaginary line T centered between the lateral side edges of an absorbent article and perpendicular to the longitudinal centerline.

[0023] "Liquid-impermeable" - refers to one or more properties or characteristics of a film, web material, or laminate thereof that renders it resistant to the passage of aqueous liquid therethrough (from one major surface to the other opposing major surface) under conditions of ordinary use of an absorbent article. A film, web material, or laminate thereof may be liquid-impermeable but may also be vapor-permeable ("breathable").

[0024] As used herein, the term "liquid permeable" refers to components that allow liquids to pass through without significantly preventing or blocking the passage of such liquids.

[0025] As used herein, the term "flexible" refers to materials that are compliant and will readily conform to the shape of the body or respond by easily deforming in the presence of external forces.

[0026] As used herein, the term "hydrophilic" describes fibers, fiber surfaces, or material surfaces that are wetted by aqueous fluids (e.g., aqueous body fluids) deposited on these fibers. Hydrophilicity and wettability can be defined based on, for example, the contact angle and / or strike-through time of a fluid through a material, as discussed in detail in the American Chemical Society publication entitled "Contact Angle, Wettability and Adhesion," edited by Robert F. Could (Copyright 1964).

[0027] As used herein, the term "nonwoven" is an artificial sheet, web or batt layer bonded by friction and / or gluing and / or adhesion or felted by wet grinding of oriented or randomly oriented fibers, excluding paper and products of yarn or filaments combined by weaving, knitting, tufting, stitching, whether or not they are sewn in addition. These fibers may have natural or artificial sources, and may be staple fibers or continuous filaments or fibers formed in situ. Commercially available fibers have a diameter in the range of less than about 0.001 mm to greater than about 0.2 mm, and they have several different forms: staple fibers (known as chemical staple fibers or chopped fibers), continuous single fibers (filaments or monofilaments), untwisted continuous filament bundles (tows) and twisted continuous filament bundles (yarns). Nonwoven fabrics can be formed by many methods such as meltblowing, spunbonding, solution spinning, electrostatic spinning and carding. The basis weight of nonwoven fabrics is usually expressed in grams per square meter (gsm).

[0028] The term "joined" refers to a condition in which a first component is directly attached (or connected) to a second component; or indirectly attached (or connected) to a second component, in which the first component is attached (or connected) to an intermediate component, which in turn is attached (or connected) to the second component. The joining condition between the first component and the second component is intended to last for the life of the sanitary napkin. Conversely, if the components can be separated and separated from each other without damage or unintended overall deformation, the components are considered to be "removably attached".

[0029] With respect to absorbent articles, "body-facing" is a relative positional term that refers to a feature of a component or structure of the article that, when in use, is closer to the wearer's body than another feature of the component or structure positioned along the same z-direction line. For example, a topsheet has a body-facing surface that is closer to the wearer than an opposing, outwardly facing surface of the topsheet.

[0030] With respect to absorbent articles, "outwardly facing" is a relative positional term that refers to a feature of a component or structure of the article that is further away from the wearer when in use than another feature of the component or structure positioned along the same z-direction line. For example, a topsheet has an outwardly facing surface that is further away from the wearer than an opposite, body-facing surface of the topsheet.

[0031] The terms "top", "bottom", "upper", "lower", "above", "below", "below", "adjacent above", "adjacent below" and similar vertical position terms, when used herein to refer to a layer, component or other feature of a wearable absorbent article, are to be interpreted relative to the article as it would appear when opened and laid flat on a horizontal surface with its body-facing surface facing upward and its outwardly facing surface facing downward.

[0032] As used herein, the term "inside" is defined as the direction toward the longitudinal centerline L of the absorbent article 10. The term "outside" is defined as the opposite direction (away from the longitudinal centerline L and toward the longitudinal sides of the absorbent article).

[0033] As used herein, the term "body fluid" or "fluid" includes, but is not limited to, menstrual fluid, vaginal secretions, blood, sweat, and combinations of these substances.

[0034] As used herein, the term "ambient conditions" refers to environmental conditions at about one atmosphere of pressure, at about 50% relative humidity, and at about 25°C.

[0035] Absorbent articles according to the present disclosure generally comprise a fluid permeable topsheet, a backsheet which may be fluid impermeable and / or may be water vapor and / or gas permeable, and an absorbent core comprised therebetween.

[0036] Now, reference will be made to FIGS. 1 to Figure 7The absorbent article of the present disclosure will be described in detail. Figure 1a to Figure 1b Each shows a folded absorbent pad 10 having a longitudinal centerline (L) and a transverse centerline (T) in its flattened, unfolded configuration. The absorbent article 10 includes a top sheet 12, a back sheet 14, and an absorbent core 16 disposed between the top sheet 12 and the back sheet 14, such as Figure 2 a to Figure 2 b. The article further comprises one or more fold lines (F1, F2). The fold lines may have any direction, and different fold lines may have different directions. In some embodiments (such as the depicted embodiment), the fold lines are parallel to the transverse centerline (C). The fold lines may be parallel to the longitudinal centerline (L). In some aspects, some fold lines may be parallel to the transverse centerline (T), and some fold lines may be parallel to the longitudinal centerline (L).

[0037] Preferably, fold lines F1, F2 are parallel to the transverse centerline. F1 can be positioned at a distance F of about 100 mm to about 235 mm, or about 165 mm to about 225 mm, or about 110 mm to about 210 mm, or about 110 mm to about 165 mm, or about 130 mm to about 210 mm, or about 150 mm to about 210 mm, or about 130 mm to about 185 mm, or about 130 mm to about 180 mm from the front end of pad 15. F2 can be positioned at a distance E of about 30 mm to about 115 mm, or about 40 mm to about 105 mm, or about 40 mm to about 90 mm, or about 40 mm to about 80 mm, or about 45 mm to about 95 mm, or about 55 mm to about 95 mm, or about 55 mm to about 105 mm from the front end of pad 15. The absorbent article includes a lotion pattern area 6 that can overlap fold lines F1, F2.

[0038] Figure 1a to Figure 1b The body-facing surface of a folded absorbent article 10 is shown in its flattened, unfolded configuration, the folded absorbent article having a longitudinal centerline (L) and a transverse centerline (T). The pad (10) includes: a top sheet (12), a back sheet (14), and an absorbent core (16) disposed between the top sheet (12) and the back sheet (14), and one or more fold lines (F1, F2). Figure 2 Shown is a view taken along line 2-2 Figure 1a to Figure 1b A cross-sectional view of an absorbent article in FIG. Figure 3 To show Figure 1a to Figure 1b Exploded view of the layers of an absorbent article in FIG.

[0039] Figure 4The body-facing surface of another exemplary absorbent article 20 according to the present disclosure is shown. The body-facing surface of the absorbent article 20 shows a topsheet 22, a lateral topsheet 28 having an embedded area 26, which includes a compressed area 25, 25a on each lateral topsheet. Figures 5(a) and 5(b) are simulated views of a cross-sectional view of an exemplary absorbent article according to the present disclosure, showing the topsheet 22, the lateral topsheets 28, the compressed areas 25, 25a, and the absorbent core 26 and the backsheet 24. Figure 6 and Figure 7 1 to 2 show the body-facing surface of an exemplary absorbent article according to the present disclosure. It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to FIG. Figure 7 Configuration shown.

[0040] Absorbent products

[0041] See also Figure 1a to Figure 1b , the absorbent article 10 may include a liquid-permeable top sheet 12, a liquid-impermeable back sheet 14, and an absorbent core 16 disposed between the top sheet 12 and the back sheet 14. The top sheet 12 and the back sheet 14 may extend beyond the outer periphery of the absorbent core 16 and may be bonded together in a laminated configuration by any suitable mechanism (including but not limited to adhesive bonding, thermal bonding, pressure bonding, etc.) to maintain and fix the absorbent core 16 in a suitable position between the top sheet 12 and the back sheet 14. The outer surface of the back sheet forming the lower side of the absorbent article 10 can have an adhesive deposit thereon. Adhesive deposits can be provided so that the user can adhere the article to the inner side of his underwear in his crotch area. When the article 10 is packaged, the adhesive deposit may be covered by one or more release films or papers, which cover / protect the adhesive deposit from contacting other surfaces until the user is ready to remove the release film or paper and put the absorbent article into his underwear. Other additional elements that improve the performance of the article may also be used and presented, such as a second top sheet 13 and / or a second back sheet.

[0042] like Figure 4 , Figure 5a and Figure 5bAs shown, in some embodiments, absorbent article can include top sheet 22, back sheet 24, absorbent core 23 arranged between top sheet 22 and back sheet 24 and a pair of transverse top sheets 28 with embedding zone 26 on each longitudinal side of the absorbent article on top sheet 22. Lateral top sheet 28 can improve the prevention of fluid lateral leakage. Top sheet 22 and lateral top sheet 28 partially or completely form the body-facing surface of article, and the back sheet that is joined to top sheet and / or lateral top sheet forms the surface facing clothes. Top sheet 22 covers the whole upper side of absorbent core 23, and extends outwards slightly laterally from the longitudinal side of absorbent core 23. In addition, it extends outwards from the front and rear ends of absorbent core 23, and engages with back sheet 24 at the extension. Lateral top sheet 28 is deposited to cover two side portions of absorbent core 23, so that the lateral top sheet covers a part of top sheet 22 and extends outwards to engage back sheet 24, to cover the side of absorbent article.

[0043] The lateral top sheet 28 can be made, for example, from all conventional types of nonwoven fabrics (such as heat bonding, spunbond, hydroentanglement, meltblown nonwoven fabrics that are carded into a web) and using a full range of suitable synthetic or natural fibers (such as polypropylene, polyethylene, polyester, rayon, cotton, and in a mixed form or in the form of a single component, a bicomponent fiber). For example, Pegas as (Czech Republic) provides a suitable nonwoven based on bicomponent fibers, which is made of polypropylene (PP) as a core and polyethylene (PE) as a sheath, with the following polymer ratio: PP core 70% / PE sheath 30%. It may be preferred that the lateral top sheet 28 is made of a material (in other words, a hydrophobic material) with water-repellent properties to help prevent the side leakage or rewetting of the body-facing surface of the article. Examples of hydrophobic materials suitable for lateral top sheets include hydrophobic nonwoven fabrics and the above-mentioned synthetic polymer materials, particularly polyethylene, polypropylene and their mixtures.

[0044] The lateral topsheet 28 may take the form of two parallel strips extending substantially along the entire length of the longitudinal sides of the absorbent article 20. In such cases, typically, the outer edges of the lateral topsheets are adjacent to the longitudinal sides of the article at their peripheries. The inner edges of the lateral topsheets may be straight or have any other shape. Figure 4 As shown, the lateral topsheet may project laterally outwardly to form side flaps or wing portions 18 with portions of the backsheet 24.

[0045] like Figure 4 As shown, in some embodiments, the absorbent article comprises an embedded area 26 on each of the lateral topsheets 28 in the longitudinal direction of the article. The embedded area 26 is an area extending in the longitudinal direction of the absorbent article and has a plurality of compressed areas 25, 25a.

[0046] like Figure 5aAs shown, the embedded area 26 includes a compressed area 25, 25a in which the lateral top sheet 28 and the top sheet 22 are compressed together so that at least a portion of the lateral top sheet is embedded in the top sheet. Figure 2 Shown in (b), embedded area 26 may include compressed area, in which absorbent cores 23 is also embossed at least partially with lateral top sheet 28 and top sheet 22. In compressed area 25, 25a, the lateral top sheet embedded in the top sheet is a single layer. Embedded area 26 has a plurality of compressed areas, in which the lateral top sheet is embedded in the hydrophilic top sheet, because the embedded structure provides more fluid suction and effectively directs fluid to the inside of the absorbent article by the hydrophilic top sheet, so the fluid at the top of the lateral sheet can be effectively collected to the inside of the absorbent article. In addition, the existence of compressed area and lateral top sheet also effectively prevents fluid from crossing the lateral diffusion of the absorbent core side. Can enhance the prevention of fluid leakage in the absorbent article by adopting hydrophobic lateral top sheet. Alternatively, lateral top sheet 28 and top sheet 22 can be bonded together by adhesive.

[0047] The embedded region 26 can be formed in a linear shape. Figure 4 As shown, the width W of the embedded area 26 is the longest distance between two compressed areas in the transverse direction. The width W of the embedded area 26 can be constant in the longitudinal direction, or can be inconstant. For example, the width W of the embedded area 26 at a point relatively close to the transverse centerline T can be greater than the width W of the embedded area 26 at another point relatively close to the front end or the rear end. The width of the embedded area can be in the range of about 2 mm to about 30 mm, preferably about 5 mm to about 20 mm. The distance I between the embedded areas 26 can be in the range of about 30 mm to about 80 mm, preferably about 50 mm to about 70 mm.

[0048] The length of the embedded area 26 in the lateral top sheet 28 in the longitudinal direction has a length ratio of about 50% or more relative to the length Y of the article, and intersects the transverse centerline T. In some embodiments, the embedded area 26 may extend to at least one of the front end edge and the rear end edge of the absorbent article. When the embedded area 26 extends to the front end edge and the rear end edge of the absorbent article, it can bond the lateral top sheet 28 and the top sheet 22 without using additional bonding components (such as glue) by providing sufficient bonding strength to the lateral top sheet 28 and the top sheet 22.

[0049] The embedded region 26 preferably has about 50%, more preferably 60%, of the compressed areas 25, 25a based on the total area of ​​the embedded region 26.

[0050] In some embodiments, the compressed areas 25, 25a formed in the embedded area 26 can be arranged substantially continuously in the longitudinal direction. In another embodiment of the present invention, the compressed areas 25, 25a formed in the embedded area 26 can be arranged substantially continuously in the transverse direction. As used herein, the term "substantially continuous in the longitudinal direction" is defined as follows: in the plane view of the absorbent article, an imaginary straight line perpendicular to the longitudinal direction is moved in the longitudinal direction. When the line intersects the compressed areas 25, 25a over 80%, preferably 90%, and more preferably 100% of the length G of the embedded area 26, the compressed area is considered to be "(substantially) continuous in the longitudinal direction". Similarly, as used herein, the term "substantially continuous in the longitudinal direction" means the following: in the plane view of the absorbent article, an imaginary straight line perpendicular to the transverse direction is moved in the transverse direction. When the line intersects the compressed areas 25, 25a over 70%, preferably 90%, and more preferably 100% of the length of the width W of the embedded area 26, the compressed area is considered to be "(substantially) continuous in the transverse direction".

[0051] In the following, Figure 4 As shown, "overhang" means the distance J between the inner edge of the lateral top sheet 28 and the compressed zone 25a, which is the compressed zone closest to the inner edge. The overhang is preferably less than about 2mm, more preferably less than about 1mm, and more preferably substantially zero.

[0052] The outer side edge of the embedded area 26 can extend to the side edge of the absorbent core 23 in the transverse direction. Preferably, the outer side edge of the embedded area 26 can extend outward from the side edge of the absorbent core 23.

[0053] The embedded area 26 can have at least one of a variety of shapes, such as circular, oval, heart-shaped, triangular, square, rectangular, linear, and irregular shapes. The size of each compressed area can have a size of about 2 mm to about 10 mm, preferably about 2 mm to about 5 mm. The distance between the points can be narrower than about 5 mm, preferably narrower than 2 mm. The points can be regularly arranged in a straight line or a shaped line or randomly arranged.

[0054] Embossing can be achieved with standard techniques such as heat bonding, ultrasonic bonding and / or pressure. An example of a suitable method is heat bonding, where the sheets are passed through two steel rollers, one of which is engraved with a visual pattern and the other is flat. In certain embodiments, one or both of the rollers are heated to a temperature suitable for at least partially melting one or more sheets or softening one or more layers, typically in the range of about 60° C. to about 170° C.

[0055] The embossing roller can be engraved using conventional techniques such as machining for most embossing patterns, but it may be desirable to use acid etching or laser engraving to provide finer engraving and thus finer embossing patterns. It may be desirable that the embossing pattern include relatively thin embossing features that are much thinner than the embossing grooves previously disclosed in the art, such as disclosed in WO2004 / 006818. Thin embossing features can provide a generally feminine and delicate appearance to the article. Therefore, the embossing tool should be capable of high-definition embossing, particularly with a resolution (minimum thickness of the embossed line) of less than about 0.75 mm, particularly but not limited to between about 0.35 mm and about 0.60 mm. Similarly, the resolution of the printed pattern (corresponding to the minimum thickness of the printed line) can be less than about 0.75 mm, particularly but not limited to between about 0.35 mm and about 0.60 mm.

[0056] Top sheet

[0057] The top sheet of the absorbent article is preferably compliant, soft and non-irritating to the wearer's skin. In addition, the top sheet is liquid permeable, allowing liquids (e.g., menstrual fluid and / or urine) to easily penetrate the top sheet. Suitable top sheets can be made of a wide range of materials, such as woven materials and nonwoven materials (e.g., nonwoven fiber webs), polymer materials such as open-cell formed thermoplastic films, open-cell plastic films and hydraulically formed thermoplastic films, porous foams, reticulated foams, reticulated thermoplastic films; and thermoplastic scrims. Suitable woven materials and nonwoven materials may include natural fibers (e.g., wood fibers or cotton fibers), synthetic fibers (e.g., polymer fibers such as polyester, polypropylene or polyethylene fibers) or a combination of natural fibers and synthetic fibers. When the top sheet includes a nonwoven fiber web, the fiber web can be manufactured by a variety of known techniques. For example, the fiber web can be processed by techniques such as spunbonding, carding, wet-laid webs, melt-blown, spunlace, a combination of the above methods. The topsheet may have a basis weight of about 10 gsm to about 100 gsm, preferably about 30 gsm to about 80 gsm, to allow fluid to quickly penetrate into the interior of the absorbent article.

[0058] The top sheet can be hydrophilic, semi-hydrophilic and / or hydrophobic. The top sheet can be processed into hydrophilic, hydrophobic or semi-hydrophilic by, for example, using surfactants or other methods known to those skilled in the art. The top sheet can be formed by one or more layers made of the above-mentioned materials, wherein one of the layers forms the upper surface of the absorbent article and one or more other layers are closely located thereunder. The layer forming the upper surface of the article is generally a nonwoven layer or a formed film.

[0059] An additional layer can optionally be present between the top sheet and the absorbent core and is often referred to as a "secondary top sheet" or "acquisition layer". This secondary top sheet is designed to collect fluid on the liquid-permeable top sheet and distribute it to the absorbent core below. To help ensure that the second top sheet transfers the fluid to the absorbent core, the second top sheet is typically made of an air cushion tissue web or synthetic nonwoven fabric that has sufficient capillary action to draw the fluid through the top sheet. To ensure that the fluid continues to flow to the absorbent core, the second top sheet is typically designed to have a higher permeability than the absorbent core and a lower capillary action than the absorbent core. The second top sheet can have a basis weight of less than 125 grams per square meter, or less than 100 grams per square meter, or less than 80 grams per square meter.

[0060] In some respects, absorbent article of the present disclosure can include a hydrophilic nonwoven top sheet 22, which can capture liquid fluid and allow fluid to easily penetrate into the absorbent core 26 of absorbent article 20. Any conventional hydrophilic nonwoven top sheet material can be used in the present disclosure. The hydrophilic nonwoven fabric can be made of a hydrophilic fiber that is processed by a treatment agent (such as a hydrophilic agent) to make the fiber hydrophilic. Alternatively or in addition thereto, the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric can be prepared by treating the nonwoven fabric (after the nonwoven fabric is formed) with a hydrophilic agent. Such hydrophilic agents can, for example, include a surfactant or be a surfactant. Treating the nonwoven fabric with a surfactant can be achieved by any common techniques known to those skilled in the art. For example, a surfactant can be applied to the nonwoven top sheet by spraying, by filler or by using a transfer roller.

[0061] Negatives

[0062] The article of the present disclosure includes a backsheet 14. The backsheet 14 can be any flexible, liquid-resistant and liquid-impermeable material. The backsheet prevents the excreta collected and contained by the sanitary napkin (and especially the excreta absorbed by the core) from escaping from the sanitary napkin and soiling the wearer's clothes and bedding. Preferably, the backsheet is noiseless to provide discretion for the wearer. In some executions, a second backsheet (as discussed below) can be placed between the core and the backsheet to support the backsheet, for example to provide liquid impermeability.

[0063] Backsheet can also be vapor permeable ("breathable"), while keeping fluid impermeable. Backsheet can be made of thin plastic film (such as microporous polyethylene or polyethylene polypropylene film) or other flexible materials (such as nonwoven fabric). Backsheet can be formed by one or more layers and can include woven material or nonwoven material, polymer film such as polyethylene or polypropylene thermoplastic film or composite material such as film-coated nonwoven material. A suitable material for backsheet can be a liquid impermeable thermoplastic film with a thickness of about 0.012mm (0.50 mil) to about 0.051mm (2.0 mil), for example including polyethylene or polypropylene. Typically, backsheet can have a basis weight of about 5g / m2 to about 35g / m2.

[0064] The back sheet and top sheet can be positioned adjacent to the clothing surface and body surface of the absorbent core respectively. The top sheet and the back sheet preferably use known technology to engage in the periphery, and can be fully engaged so that the entire periphery of the sanitary product is surrounded by this connection, or partially engage in the periphery at the periphery. The absorbent core can be engaged with the top sheet, the back sheet, or both in any known manner by attachment components such as those well known in the art. What is envisioned in the embodiments of the present disclosure is that a part of the entire absorbent core is not attached to the top sheet, the back sheet, or both. Any engagement arrangement that captures the core between the top sheet and the back sheet and provides an integrated assembly is applicable. Such an assembly has two opposite major surfaces, wherein one major surface is limited by the top sheet and one major surface is limited by the back sheet.

[0065] The backsheet can include panty fastening components applied to its garment-facing surface for attaching the article to the wearer's undergarments. Suitable panty fastening components include adhesives or Velcro. ® . When adhesive is present, there is usually also a release paper to protect the adhesive prior to use. Pressure sensitive adhesives have generally been found to be very suitable for this purpose. Preferably, the longitudinally oriented adhesive strips provide good protection to prevent the front or back of the article from detaching from the wearer's underwear. The adhesive strips can be continuous or intermittent. A particularly preferred arrangement utilizes two longitudinally oriented strips, one on each side of the longitudinal centerline. The backsheet typically extends throughout the entire absorbent structure and can extend into and form part or all of the side wings, side wrapping elements or wings 18 (when they exist).

[0066] Side flaps or wings are disclosed in the literature and are available on the market. Generally speaking, side flaps extend laterally from the central portion of the absorbent article and are intended to be folded around the edge of the wearer's panties in the crotch region. Therefore, the side flaps are arranged between the edge of the wearer's panties in the crotch region and the wearer's thighs. Usually, the side flaps are provided with attachment means for attaching the side flaps to the underside of the wearer's panties. In most cases, the attachment means are similar to or equivalent to the panties fastening means of the backsheet, such as an adhesive layer. The flaps can be used for at least two purposes: the flaps can prevent exudates from soiling the edge of the female wearer's panties, and the flaps can help stabilize the sanitary napkin from shifting, especially when the flaps are attached to the underside of the panties.

[0067] As mentioned above, the side flaps can be made as extensions of elements forming the absorbent article, such as the backsheet, topsheet, absorbent core, secondary topsheet (if present), or a combination thereof. The side flaps can also be separate elements attached to the sides of the absorbent article along the periphery of the absorbent article.

[0068] Absorbent core

[0069] The articles of the present disclosure may include an absorbent core 16 disposed between the topsheet 12 and the backsheet 14. As used herein, the term "absorbent core" refers to a material or combination of materials suitable for absorbing, distributing and storing aqueous fluids such as urine, blood, menses and other body exudates.

[0070] The size and shape of the absorbent core can be varied to meet absorbency requirements and provide comfort to the wearer.As with other elements of the articles of the present disclosure, there are no specific requirements for the absorbent core, and any standard liquid-absorbent material known in the art for absorbent articles is generally suitable.

[0071] Non-limiting examples of liquid-absorbent materials suitable for use as absorbent cores include comminuted wood pulp, generally referred to as airfelt; creped cellulose wadding; absorbent gelling materials, including superabsorbent polymers, such as hydrogel-forming polymer gelling agents; chemically hardened, modified or cross-linked cellulose fibers; meltblown polymers, including coformed meltblown polymers; synthetic fibers, including crimped polyester fibers; tissue, including tissue wraps and tissue laminates; capillary channel fibers; absorbent foams; absorbent sponges; synthetic stock fibers; peat moss; or any equivalent material; or combinations thereof. Like the article itself, the core may be generally planar, i.e., without significant variations in thickness.

[0072] Generally, absorbent cores are rectangular in shape for ease of manufacture. However, the shape of the core can be different, for example, wearers often prefer absorbent cores with narrower centers than ends to comfortably adapt to the legs and avoid or minimize the clustering or agglomeration of the core. Oval cores have also been proposed (see, for example, WO 2005 / 084596). Additional general information and specific information about absorbent cores can be found in, for example, WO 0207662 A1 and WO 09119471, which are hereby incorporated by reference.

[0073] Emulsion composition

[0074] The emulsion composition can be a hydrophobic emulsion or a hydrophilic emulsion. Preferably, the emulsion composition is a hydrophobic emulsion containing a hydrophobic skin-friendly ingredient (such as in a skin cream). Without being bound by theory, it is believed that the combination of a hydrophobic topsheet and a hydrophobic emulsion can provide excellent benefits. For example, the emulsion composition is considered hydrophobic when the hydrophilicity / lipophilicity balance (HLB) is less than or equal to 7.

[0075] The lotion composition is partially transferred to the wearer's skin during use of the absorbent article, where it provides a barrier to the skin to help reduce adherence of menstrual fluids, reduce friction between the skin and the absorbent article (e.g., the wings of the article), and reduce potential skin irritation.

[0076] The emulsion composition can contain a selected combination of skin treatment agents such as hexamidine, zinc oxide and niacinamide, which are very effective in preventing and treating erythema, malodor and bacterial skin diseases, especially when these emulsion compositions are applied to the skin by applying to absorbent articles. The term "skin treatment agent" as used herein refers to a substance that can prevent, reduce and / or eliminate the occurrence of any skin disease (especially skin diseases associated with erythema, malodor and bacterial infection) when applied topically and internally to the skin. The term "skin disease" as used herein refers to symptoms associated with irritation, acute or chronic skin abnormalities. Examples of such symptoms include, but are not limited to, itching, inflammation, rash, burning, stinging, redness, swelling, allergy, heat sensation, flaking / skin peeling, malodor, etc.

[0077] The emulsion composition may include hexamidine at a concentration ranging from about 0.001% to about 0.1%, from about 0.005% to about 0.1%, or even from about 0.01% to about 0.1%, by weight of the composition. Examples of hexamidine are disclosed in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2003 / 0206943, which is hereby incorporated by reference herein.

[0078] The emulsion composition may include a zinc oxide skin treatment agent in a concentration ranging from about 0.001% to about 10%, preferably from about 0.005% to about 5%, more preferably from about 0.005% to about 2%, and most preferably from about 0.01% to about 1%, by weight of the composition. Examples of zinc oxide are disclosed in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2003 / 0206943, which is hereby incorporated by reference herein. The zinc oxide skin treatment agent can be included in the composition as a single zinc oxide compound or a combination of zinc oxides, provided that the zinc oxide, alone or in combination, can be readily combined with the hexamidine and niacinamide skin treatment agents to provide an antimicrobial benefit.

[0079] The emulsion composition can contain a niacinamide skin treatment agent as a single niacinamide or as a combination of niacinamides, with a total niacinamide concentration ranging from about 0.01% to about 10%, preferably from about 0.05% to about 5%, more preferably from about 0.2% to about 2% by weight of the emulsion composition. Examples of niacinamide are disclosed in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2003 / 0206943, which is hereby incorporated by reference herein. Niacinamide skin treatment agents provide skin conditioning benefits and provide increased efficacy for skin treatment agents in controlling skin diseases.

[0080] The lotion composition may include from about 0.001% to about 10%, preferably from about 0.005% to about 5%, more preferably from about 0.05% to about 1% panthenol by weight of the lotion composition. Panthenol provides emollient benefits that can make the skin feel smooth, soothed and soft during and after the interaction of skin tissue with the skin treatment agent. The lotion composition of the present disclosure may include a single panthenol compound or a mixture of panthenol compounds. Examples of panthenol are disclosed in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2003 / 0206943, which is hereby incorporated herein by reference.

[0081] The lotion composition may contain from about 0.01% to about 10%, preferably from about 0.02% to about 5%, more preferably from about 0.05% to about 2%, by weight of the lotion composition, of glycerin. Glycerin also provides emollient benefits, such as smooth, soothed, and soft feeling skin, and acts as a dispersant for the niacinamide skin treatment agent.

[0082] The emulsion composition may include about 0.0001% to about 10%, preferably about 0.001% to about 5%, more preferably about 0.005% to about 2% chamomile oil by weight of the emulsion composition. Chamomile oil also provides skin benefits, such as soothing. Chamomile oil is typically prepared as an oil extract of chamomile flowers. Examples of commercially available chamomile oils include Phytoconcentrol Chamomile available from Dragoco Incorporation (Totowa, New Jersey, USA).

[0083] The emulsion composition can include a carrier for the skin treatment agent. The carrier can be included in the composition as a single carrier or a combination of carrier ingredients, provided that the total carrier concentration is sufficient to provide transfer and / or migration of the skin treatment agent to the skin. The carrier can be a liquid, solid or semi-solid carrier material, or a combination of these materials, provided that the resulting carrier forms a homogenous mixture or solution at the selected processing temperature for the resulting carrier system and at the processing temperature used to mix the carrier with the skin treatment agent when formulating the emulsion composition herein. The processing temperature for the carrier system is generally in the range of about 60°C to about 90°C, more typically about 70°C to about 85°C, and even more typically about 70°C to about 80°C.

[0084] The emulsion composition typically contains a carrier in a total carrier concentration ranging from about 60% to about 99.9%, preferably from about 70% to about 98%, more preferably from about 80% to about 97%, by weight of the emulsion composition. Suitable carrier compounds include petroleum-based hydrocarbons having from about 4 to about 32 carbon atoms, fatty alcohols having from about 12 to about 24 carbon atoms, silicone compounds, fatty acid esters, alkyl ethoxylates, lower alcohols having from about 1 to about 6 carbon atoms, low molecular weight diols and polyols, fatty alcohol ethers having from about 12 to about 28 carbon atoms in their fatty chains, lanolin and its derivatives, glycerides and their derivatives (including acetylated glycerides and ethoxylated glycerides of C12-C28 fatty acids), and mixtures thereof. Alternatively or in combination, the carrier can also be composed of a polysiloxane compound, non-limiting examples of which include polydimethylsiloxane (1 centistoke to 100,000,000 centistokes), cyclomethicone, alkylated silicones (hair conditioning agents), silicone gums, silicone gels, silicone waxes, copolymers of silicones (vinyl polydimethylsiloxane polymers, phenyl vinyl polydimethylsiloxane polymers, alkylated silicone polymers, polyethylene oxide / silicone copolymers, polyethylene oxide / alkyl silicone copolymers), and mixtures thereof.

[0085] Non-limiting examples of suitable petroleum-based hydrocarbons having from about 4 to about 32 carbon atoms include mineral oil, petrolatum, isoparaffins, various other branched hydrocarbons, and combinations thereof. Mineral oil is also known as "liquid petrolatum," which generally refers to a less viscous mixture of hydrocarbons having from about 16 to about 20 carbon atoms. Petrolatum is also known as "mineral wax," "petroleum jelly," and "mineral jelly," which generally refers to a more viscous mixture of hydrocarbons having from about 16 to about 32 carbon atoms. Examples of commercially available petrolatum include those sold under the trade names Protopet ® Vaseline sold by 1S was purchased from Witco Corporation located in Greenwich, Connecticut, USA.

[0086] Non-limiting examples of suitable fatty alcohols having from about 12 to about 24 carbon atoms include saturated, unsubstituted monohydric alcohols or combinations thereof having a melting point of less than about 110° C., preferably from about 45° C. to about 110° C. Specific examples of fatty alcohol carriers used in the emulsion compositions of the present disclosure include, but are not limited to, cetyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, cetearyl alcohol, behenyl alcohol, eicosanol, lignocerol, and combinations thereof. An example of commercially available cetearyl alcohol is Stenol 1822, and an example of behenyl alcohol is Lanette 22, both of which are available from Cognis Corporation, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA.

[0087] The non-limiting examples of suitable fatty acid esters include fatty acid esters derived from mixtures of C12-C28 fatty acids and short-chain (C1-C8, preferably C1-C3) monohydric alcohols, preferably derived from mixtures of C16-C24 saturated fatty acids and short-chain (C1-C8, preferably C1-C3) monohydric alcohols. Representative examples of such esters include methyl palmitate, methyl stearate, isopropyl laurate, isopropyl myristate, isopropyl palmitate, ethylhexyl palmitate, and mixtures thereof. Suitable fatty acid esters may also be derived from esters of longer chain fatty alcohols (C12-C28, preferably C12-C16) and shorter chain fatty acids (such as lactic acid), and specific examples thereof include lauryl lactate and cetyl lactate.

[0088] Non-limiting examples of suitable alkyl ethoxylates include C12-C22 fatty alcohol ethoxylates having an average degree of ethoxylation of from about 2 to about 30. Non-limiting examples of suitable lower alcohols having from about 1 to about 6 carbon atoms include ethanol, isopropanol, butanediol, 1,2,4-butanetriol, 1,2-hexanediol, ether propanol, and mixtures thereof. Non-limiting examples of suitable low molecular weight diols and polyols include ethylene glycol, polyethylene glycol (e.g., molecular weight 200 g / mol to 600 g / mol), butanediol, propylene glycol, polypropylene glycol (e.g., molecular weight 425 g / mol to 2025 g / mol), and mixtures thereof.

[0089] In some embodiments, the carrier comprises a combination of one or more petroleum-based hydrocarbons and one or more fatty alcohols as described above. When one or more petroleum-based hydrocarbons having from about 4 to about 32 carbon atoms are used in combination with one or more fatty alcohols having from about 12 to about 22 carbon atoms, the petroleum-based hydrocarbons are included in a total concentration ranging from about 20% to about 99%, preferably from about 30% to about 85%, more preferably from about 40% to about 80% by weight of the emulsion composition; wherein the fatty alcohol is included in a concentration ranging from about 0.2% to 65%, preferably from about 1% to about 50%, more preferably from about 2% to about 40% by weight of the emulsion composition.

[0090] It is believed that the petroleum-based carrier system comprising C4-C32 hydrocarbons, C12-C22 fatty alcohols and fumed silica provides a homogenous mixture of the carrier, the skin treatment agent and any optional ingredients, wherein the homogenous mixture ensures adequate contact between the skin and the skin treatment agent to effect effective prevention and treatment of skin disorders. Fumed silica suitable for inclusion in the preferred petroleum-based carrier system or with any other carrier described herein includes colloidal fumed silica pigments, which are marketed under the trade name Cab-O-Sil ® Cab-O-Sil® is sold and commercially available from Cabot Corporation located in Tuscola, Illinois, USA. These colloidal fumed silica pigments are submicroscopic particulate fumed silica pigments having an average particle size of about 0.1 microns to about 100 microns. Cab-O-Sil® is commercially available. ® Specific examples of silica pigments include Cab-O-Sil ® TS-720 (fumed silica treated with polydimethylsiloxane), Cab-O-Sil ® TS-530 (trimethylsilylated fumed silica) and Cab-O-Sil ® TS-610 (dimethyldisilylated fumed silica). Fumed silica provides desirable viscosity or thickening properties to the emulsion composition and is typically included at a concentration ranging from about 0.01% to about 15%, preferably from about 0.1% to about 10%, more preferably from about 1% to about 5%, by weight of the emulsion composition.

[0091] Fumed silica can be used alone or in combination with other optional viscosity or thickening agents such as talc, bentonite (including treated bentonite), hectorite (including treated hectorite), calcium silicates (including treated calcium silicates), magnesium silicates, magnesium aluminum silicates, zinc stearates, sorbitol, colloidal silica, spermaceti, carnauba wax, beeswax, candelilla wax, paraffin wax, microcrystalline wax, castrol wax, ceresin wax, esparto wax, cocoa wax, razo wax, polyethylene wax, C12-C24 fatty acids, polyhydroxy fatty acid esters, polyhydroxy fatty acid amides, polymethacrylate polymers, polymethacrylates and styrene copolymers and combinations thereof. These other optional viscosity modifiers or thickening agents are also included in a total concentration ranging from about 0.01% to about 15% by weight of the emulsion composition. Non-limiting specific examples of other suitable viscosity or thickening agents include Benton wax, ® 38 Bentonite sold by Rheox Incorporation.

[0092] Preferably, the carrier is hydrophobic. Further, preferably, the emulsion composition of the present disclosure does not include a surfactant. Therefore, in a preferred embodiment, the emulsion has a hydrophobicity level at least as large as the top sheet, and the hydrophobicity of the emulsion is mainly due to the absence of a surfactant component. If it is necessary to improve the wettability of the hydrophobic carrier under some conditions, a wetting agent can be optionally added, such as polyoxyethylene alkyl ethers, alkyl ethoxylates, alkyl ethoxylated amines, polyethylene glycol esters and / or sorbitan fatty acid esters with a low degree of ethoxylation and an HLB value lower than about 7. Suitable additives will be miscible with the carrier to form a homogenized mixture. Typically, these wetting agents are nonionic to be mild to the skin, but also avoid other undesirable effects on any underlying tissue laminate structure, such as a reduction in tensile strength. Suitable wetting agents will typically have an HLB value lower than 10, preferably lower than 9, more preferably lower than 8 and even more preferably lower than 7.

[0093] Emulsion pattern

[0094] The emulsion is applied to the top sheet of the absorbent article according to a predetermined emulsion application pattern, which is more simply referred to as the emulsion pattern in this article. The emulsion pattern covers a specific area of ​​the top sheet, which is referred to as the emulsion pattern area in this article. Without being bound by theory, it is believed that the size and position of the emulsion pattern area can be optimally selected to allow the emulsion to effectively cover and transfer to the wearer's skin without interfering with the packaging material, the adhesive arranged on the wing and / or absorbing fluid through the top sheet. Emulsion is generally hydrophobic, so in the case where the total area covered by the emulsion pattern area is too large, it may hinder fluid absorption. The total area covered by the emulsion pattern area can be about 1% to about 15% of the coverage area of ​​the top sheet, or about 1% to about 10%, or about 1% to about 8%. Having a coverage rate lower than 1% may not be enough to provide effective emulsion deposition on the wearer's skin of a sufficiently large area, and having an emulsion pattern area higher than 15% may hinder overall fluid collection.

[0095] More specifically, in the context of a three-fold absorbent pad, the lotion is preferably confined in the center portion of the absorbent pad or in the center portion and the front portion. In particular, preferably, the rear portion of the pad is substantially free of lotion. During manufacture, the rear portion of the pad is usually folded over the center portion of the pad. It is believed that when the rear portion is folded over the center portion, the lotion is applied to the rear portion of the pad and may hinder the adhesive on the clothes-facing side of the wing, which is usually folded over the center portion and below the rear portion, or causes dirtying of packaging materials / wrappers or lotion leakage. In addition, the lotion applied to the rear portion of the pad can be transferred to the top sheet in the center region of the pad when the rear portion is folded over the center portion (especially if tracking errors occur during the folding process) and hinder the fluid absorption through the top sheet. Therefore, the lotion pattern area 6 can have a length B of about 90mm to about 150mm, preferably 100mm to about 140mm, more preferably about 130mm. Furthermore, the front end 6a of the lotion pattern area 6 may be about 30 mm to about 70 mm, or about 40 mm to about 60 mm, or about 40 mm to about 55 mm, or about 55 mm to about 70 mm, or about 60 mm to about 70 mm from the front end 15 of the pad.

[0096] Furthermore, the lotion is advantageously applied along the inner edge 9 of the wing or side flap 18, such as Figure 1a to Figure 1b , wherein the wings themselves are substantially free of lotion. In other words, the lotion can cover from about 0% to about 3%, or from about 0.01% to about 3%, or from about 0.1% to about 3% of the coverage area of ​​each wing. In particular, in embodiments of absorbent articles including embedded regions 26, such as Figure 4 As shown, the emulsion preferably covers less than 3% (e.g., from about 0.01% to about 3%) of the footprint of each wing because the overhang J (as defined above and shown in Figure 4 If the overhang J is greater than 2 mm, the emulsion (even in the case where the emulsion covers less than 3% of the footprint of each wing) can transfer to and interfere with the blade used to cut out the final shape of the pad.

[0097] It is believed that applying lotion along the inner edge of the wing significantly reduces skin irritation because the lotion reduces friction between the inside of the user's thigh and the wing. Applying lotion on the wing, for example beyond the inner edge of the wing and / or applying lotion on more than 3% of the coverage area of ​​each wing, is not believed to address skin irritation because it is the inner edge of the wing that contacts the inside of the user's thigh. Therefore, for at least some strips and advantageously for all strips, the width of strip C can be in the range of 5mm to 20mm, in particular 5mm to 15mm or 5mm to 10mm.

[0098] The lotion is also preferably applied outside the coverage area of ​​the absorbent core. In other words, the lotion applied to the top sheet preferably does not extend beyond the lateral side edges 17, 19 and the longitudinal side edges 13, 15 (such as the longitudinal side edges 13, 15) of the absorbent core 16. Figure 3 The top sheet of the absorbent core 16 is preferably made of a plurality of layers of emulsion (as shown) to overlap with the absorbent core 16. Since lotions are generally hydrophobic, it is desirable to keep the portion of the top sheet overlapping the absorbent core free of lotion. The coverage area of ​​the absorbent core is the area formed by the lateral sides 17, 19 and the longitudinal sides 13, 15 of the absorbent core. The coverage area and its area can be directly read from the manufacturer's instructions for the absorbent core, or in the case where the instructions are not directly available, the area of ​​the core coverage area can be directly measured on the absorbent core 16. The lotion pattern area can be similarly read directly from the manufacturer's instructions, or if these instructions are not available, it can be directly measured on the top sheet of the product. Due to the visual contrast between the lotion-covered area of ​​the top sheet and the lotion-free area, the lotion pattern is usually easy to identify on the top sheet. The lotion may also be slightly viscous due to some of its ingredients, so that fine powders (such as talcum) can be used to highlight the lotion pattern of unknown products. Therefore, the lotion pattern area can be experimentally measured using a ruler or by taking a digital photo and then processing it using any standard photo analysis software.

[0099] The emulsion pattern area 6 can have at least one shape in various shapes, such as circular, oval, heart-shaped, triangle, square, rectangle, linear and irregular shapes. The emulsion pattern is advantageously applied as a plurality of longitudinally directed strips (also referred to as slots), which are separated from each other in the transverse direction. Longitudinal direction means parallel to the longitudinal direction. As is well known in the art, such emulsion patterns can be applied to the top sheet using an emulsion application device placed on a production line and having a series of emulsion outlets. The emulsion application device can be opened and closed extremely quickly to obtain the desired length and position of the strip on the top sheet of a single product. The width of these strips is limited by the width of the outlet. These strips can all have the same width, or these strips can have different widths. These strips can generally have all the same lengths in the longitudinal direction, but do not exclude that these strips can have different lengths. The emulsion pattern is generally arranged symmetrically with respect to the longitudinal center line.

[0100] The lotion pattern of the present disclosure advantageously comprises at least 2 and up to 10 longitudinally oriented strips. Each of these strips is spaced apart from each other in the transverse direction. The lotion pattern can in particular comprise 2 to 9 lotion strips, more particularly 2 to 8 strips, i.e. 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 or 9 strips. Preferably, the lotion pattern comprises 2 strips, wherein each strip corresponds to one of the user's strands. The distance D between two strips or lotion pattern areas 6 can be from about 50 mm to about 90 mm, preferably from about 50 mm to about 80 mm, more preferably 60 mm. The individual strips can be continuous, such as Figure 1a to Figure 1bThe strips are shown, but it is not excluded that one or more strips may be discontinuous. The basis weight of the applied lotion is usually the same for each strip. The typical basis weight of the lotion deposited on the top sheet can be, for example, in the range of 5 gsm to 20 gsm, in particular 10 gsm to 12 gsm.

[0101] Without being bound by theory, it is believed that it is advantageous to have at least two lotion strips, with at least one lotion strip on each side of the longitudinal centerline, to deposit the lotion more uniformly on each thigh of the wearer. The lotion strips on each side of the longitudinal centerline can include multiple narrower strips.

[0102] Second top sheet

[0103] The articles of the present disclosure can optionally include a secondary topsheet layer 20 between the topsheet 12 and the absorbent core 16 .

[0104] Such second top sheet 20 can be made of various materials, such as woven materials; nonwoven materials; polymeric materials, such as apertured formed thermoplastic films, apertured plastic films, hydraulically formed thermoplastic films; porous foams; cellular foams; cellular thermoplastic films; and thermoplastic scrims. Any of the materials described above for the top sheet can be used for the second top sheet. The second top sheet 20 can be located below the top sheet on the entire surface of the top sheet, that is, the second top sheet extends to the periphery of the top sheet so that the second top sheet is located below the top sheet on the entire inner surface of the top sheet.

[0105] The purpose of the secondary topsheet is generally to facilitate the transfer of collected body fluids from the topsheet to the absorbent core, with fluid transfer occurring not only perpendicularly across the thickness of the secondary topsheet, but also along the length and width of the absorbent product. This helps to fully utilize the fluid capacity of the underlying storage layer. Although preferred, the presence of a secondary topsheet is optional.

[0106] Second negative

[0107] Articles disclosed herein can include a second backsheet between absorbent cores 16 and backsheet 14. The use of the second backsheet is particularly noted in the presence of a breathable backsheet. The purpose of the second backsheet is to delay or prevent liquid from flowing to the outside of the product from the absorbent cores while allowing free air to flow through the second backsheet. An especially suitable example of the second backsheet is an elastic three-dimensional polymer net, which is composed of a liquid-impermeable film having an aperture forming a capillary or a cone. The film with capillary or a cone is oriented so that the apex of the cone faces the absorbent cores, thereby suppressing or preventing fluid from passing through. Capillary or a cone can have an inclined shape, so that part of the closure or complete closure when compressed.

[0108] Release paper

[0109] The outward surface of the back sheet 14 coated with adhesive can be provided with a protective cover that is removed before use. The protective cover can be a release paper, plastic film or any other cover that can be easily removed that the silicone coats. The protective cover can be in the form of a single sheet or multiple sheets, for example, to cover each adhesive zone. It can also perform other functions, such as providing personalized packaging to the product, or providing a disposal function. Any commercially available release paper or film can be used. Suitable examples include BL 30 MG-A SILOX EI / O, BL 30 MG-A SILOX 4 P / O purchased from Akrosil and the M&W film purchased from Gronau (Germany) with code X-5432.

[0110] Manufacturing method

[0111] The absorbent articles of the present disclosure can include conventional layers or components that are typically present in standard commercially available articles, and the layers can be joined together by standard methods such as embossing (eg, thermal bonding), gluing, or a combination thereof. The articles can be industrially produced by conventional methods.

[0112] The dimensions and values ​​disclosed herein should not be understood as being strictly limited to the exact numerical values ​​cited. Instead, unless otherwise indicated, each such dimension is intended to represent the stated value and a functionally equivalent range around that value. For example, a dimension disclosed as "40 mm" is intended to mean "about 40 mm".

[0113] Unless expressly excluded or otherwise limited, each document cited herein, including any cross-referenced or related patent or application, is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Citation of any document is not an admission that it is prior art to any of the present invention disclosed or claimed herein, or that it, by itself or in combination with any one or more references, proposes, suggests, or discloses any such invention. In addition, to the extent that any meaning or definition of a term in this invention 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 invention shall govern.

[0114] Although specific embodiments of the present disclosure have been illustrated and described, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various other changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, it is intended that all such changes and modifications within the scope of the present disclosure be covered in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A folded absorbent pad having a longitudinal centerline and a transverse centerline in its flattened, unfolded configuration, the pad comprising: a topsheet, a backsheet, an absorbent core disposed between the topsheet and the backsheet, wherein the topsheet and the backsheet are joined to form wings on longitudinal sides of the pad; one or more fold lines, the one or more fold lines defining a front portion, a center portion, and a back portion of the pad; and a lotion pattern disposed on the body-facing surface of the top sheet, the lotion pattern comprising at least two lotion pattern areas, the at least two lotion pattern areas being disposed at the inner edge of the wing portion parallel to the longitudinal center line, wherein the rear portion of the pad is substantially free of a lotion pattern area.

2. The absorbent pad according to claim 1, wherein each of the lotion pattern areas has a length of about 90 mm to about 150 mm, preferably about 130 mm in length.

3. An absorbent pad according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the lotion pattern areas each have a width of from about 5 mm to about 20 mm, preferably about 10 mm in width.

4. The absorbent pad according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the front end of the lotion pattern area is a distance A of about 30 mm to about 70 mm from the front end of the article.

5. The absorbent pad according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the distance D between the lotion pattern areas is from about 50 mm to about 90 mm, preferably about 60 mm.

6. The absorbent pad according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the absorbent article comprises a first fold line and a second fold line.

7. The absorbent pad of claim 6, wherein the first fold line is located a distance F of about 110 mm to about 225 mm from the front end of the pad, and the second fold line is located a distance E of about 40 mm to about 105 mm from the front end of the pad.

8. The absorbent pad according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the topsheet is a hydrophobic nonwoven sheet.

9. The absorbent pad according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the topsheet is a hydrophilic nonwoven sheet.

10. The absorbent pad according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the topsheet is a semi-hydrophilic nonwoven sheet.

11. The absorbent pad according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each of the lotion pattern areas comprises from about 5 gsm to 20 gsm, preferably from about 10 gsm to about 12 gsm of lotion.

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