Absorbent body with composite spacer
By using an absorbent body with a composite isolation sheet in the absorbent product, the irritation problem caused by contact with the skin is solved, and economical production is achieved in the high-speed manufacturing process, maintaining the accommodating performance and wearing comfort.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202280100331.5
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2022-09-28
- Publication Date
- 2025-04-18
AI Technical Summary
Existing absorbent articles may cause skin irritation and redness when feces come into contact with the skin and are difficult to produce in high-speed manufacturing processes because elasticity is required along the forming opening or in various directions deviating from the machine direction.
An absorbent body with a composite spacer is employed, which includes a water-permeable top sheet, a water-impermeable backsheet, an absorbent core and a composite spacer bonded to the top sheet facing the wearer side. The composite separator has an anterior, a central portion and a rear portion with an inelastic opening edge and a longitudinally elasticized side edge for isolating the feces and accommodating the anus and urethral opening of the wearer.
Effectively isolate feces from the skin, reducing skin irritation and redness, while maintaining containment performance and wear comfort in economical manufacturing processes.
Smart Images

Figure CN119855572A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] The present invention relates to an absorbent body for an absorbent article such as a diaper having a composite barrier sheet for isolating body exudates from the skin of the wearer. Background Art
[0002] Absorbent articles for personal hygiene such as disposable diapers, disposable pants and adult incontinence underwear are designed to absorb and contain various body exudates, including urine, menstrual fluid, low viscosity fecal matter and solid fecal matter. It is often difficult to remove feces from the user's skin, especially from sensitive skin such as that of infants and skin such as around the genitals. In addition, it is known that when feces and urine come into contact on the skin, this may cause skin irritation and redness, and sometimes even skin dermatitis.
[0003] One solution for reducing feces on the skin is to provide a means for isolating feces away from the skin immediately after discharge. For example, diapers have been developed that have an elasticized sheet closest to the wearer with an opening through which feces can pass to the void space between the sheet closest to the wearer and the rest of the absorbent body. The feces is then stored under the sheet closest to the wearer, away from the skin.
[0004] Absorbent articles having features for isolating feces are known in the art, such as in EP 357298 A and JP 3130365 B. Although such absorbent articles are known, they have disadvantages that have prevented significant commercial success. For example, those known in the art may be difficult to produce in today's high-speed manufacturing processes because of the need for elasticity along the shaped opening or in various directions offset from the machine direction.
[0005] Based on the foregoing, there is a need for an absorbent article having a composite barrier sheet for isolating body exudates from the wearer's skin while maintaining containment and wearing comfort. There is also a need for such an absorbent article that can be manufactured economically. Summary of the invention
[0006] The present invention relates to an absorbent body for an absorbent article, the absorbent article having a transverse direction, a longitudinal direction, a front end, a rear end, a front region, a rear region, a central region, a clothing-facing direction and a wearer-facing direction, the absorbent body comprising:
[0007] 1) Water-permeable topsheet;
[0008] 2) Water-impermeable backsheet;
[0009] 3) an absorbent core disposed between the top sheet and the back sheet;
[0010] 4) A composite barrier sheet bonded to the wearer-facing side of the top sheet, the composite barrier sheet comprising:
[0011] a) a front portion in the front region, the front portion having a front longitudinal endpoint and a pair of front opening edges, wherein the pair of front opening edges are not elasticized;
[0012] b) a central portion located in the central region, the central portion having a pair of side edges that are elasticized in the longitudinal direction;
[0013] c) a rear portion in the rear region, the rear portion having a rear longitudinal endpoint and a pair of rear opening edges, wherein the pair of rear opening edges are not elasticized;
[0014] d) a longitudinal elastic element disposed on at least one of the front portion and the rear portion, wherein the longitudinal elastic element extends substantially in the longitudinal direction; and
[0015] e) an opening defined by the pair of front opening edges, the pair of side edges, and the pair of rear opening edges, wherein the opening accommodates the anus and urethra opening of a wearer when worn. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0016] While the specification concludes with claims particularly pointing out and distinctly claiming the invention, which are considered to form a part hereof, it is believed that the invention will be better understood from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals are used to designate substantially the same elements, and wherein:
[0017] Figure 1 is a schematic plan view of one embodiment of an absorbent body and absorbent article of the present invention, showing the wearer-facing side and wherein any elastic elements are fully stretched.
[0018] Figure 2A For along Figure 1 A transverse schematic cross-sectional view taken along line AA of , wherein the thickness is exaggerated and the elastic element is contracted.
[0019] Figure 2B For along Figure 1 A transverse schematic cross-sectional view taken along line BB of , wherein the thickness is exaggerated and the elastic element is contracted.
[0020] FIG. 3A to FIG. 3F is a schematic cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a composite separator of the present invention.
[0021] definition
[0022] As used herein, the following terms shall have the meanings specified below:
[0023] "Absorbent article" refers to an article of wear that may be in the form of a belt diaper, a pant diaper, an incontinence brief, a feminine hygiene undergarment, etc. "Absorbent article" may be so constructed as to absorb and contain various exudates discharged from the body, such as urine, feces, and menstrual fluid. "Absorbent article" may refer to a combination article of an outer cover adapted to be joined to a separate disposable absorbent insert for providing absorption and containment functions, such as those disclosed in PCT Publication WO 2011 / 087503A.
[0024] "Longitudinal" means the direction extending substantially perpendicularly from one waist edge to the opposite waist edge of the article and generally parallel to the greatest linear dimension of the article.
[0025] "Transverse" refers to a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.
[0026] "Proximal" and "distal" refer to locations closer to or farther from, respectively, the longitudinal center of the article.
[0027] "Wearer-facing" and "garment-facing" refer to the relative position of an element or the relative position of surfaces of an element or group of elements, respectively. "Wearer-facing" means that the element or surface is closer to the wearer during wear than some other elements or surfaces. "Garment-facing" means that the element or surface is farther from the wearer during wear than some other elements or surfaces (i.e., the element or surface is near the wearer's clothing, which may be worn over a disposable absorbent article).
[0028] "Disposed" means that an element is located in a specific position or location.
[0029] "Joined" refers to configurations in which one element is directly secured to another element by being directly attached to the other element; it also refers to configurations in which one element is indirectly secured to another element by being attached to an intermediate member which is then attached to the other element.
[0030] "Film" refers to a sheet of material in which the length and width of the material greatly exceed the thickness of the material. Typically, a film has a thickness of about 0.5 mm or less.
[0031] "Nonwoven", "nonwoven layer" or "nonwoven web" are used interchangeably to refer to an engineered fiber assembly that is primarily planar and has been given a designed level of structural integrity by physical and / or chemical means, but does not include weaving, knitting or papermaking (ISO 9092:2019 definition). Directed or randomly oriented fibers are bonded by friction and / or cohesion and / or adhesion. These fibers may be derived from natural or synthetic sources and may be staple fibers or continuous filaments or fibers formed in situ. Commercially available fibers have a diameter range of less than about 0.001 mm to greater than about 0.2 mm, and they have several different forms, such as 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 webs can be formed by many methods, such as meltblowing, spunbonding, solution spinning, electrospinning, carding, and air-laid. The basis weight of nonwoven webs is usually expressed in grams per square meter (g / m 2 or gsm).
[0032] "Water-permeable" and "water-impermeable" refer to the permeability of a material within the context of the intended use of a disposable absorbent article. Specifically, the term "water-permeable" refers to a layer or layered structure having pores, openings, and / or interconnected void spaces that permit liquid water, urine, or synthetic urine to penetrate through its thickness in the absence of an applied pressure. Conversely, the term "water-impermeable" refers to a layer or layered structure wherein liquid water, urine, or synthetic urine cannot penetrate through the thickness of the layer or layered structure in the absence of an applied pressure (other than natural forces such as gravity). According to this definition, a water-impermeable layer or layered structure may be permeable to water vapor, i.e., may be "vapor-permeable".
[0033] "Hydrophilic" has described the substrate surface that can be wetted by aqueous fluid (for example, aqueous body fluid) deposited on these substrates.Hydrophilicity and wettability are usually defined according to fluid for example by contact angle and the soak-through time of nonwoven fabric.In the publication of the American Chemical Society entitled " Contact angle, Wettability and Adhesion " (copyright 1964) compiled by Robert F. Gould, this is discussed in detail.When the contact angle between fluid and the surface is less than 90 °, or when fluid tends to spread spontaneously along the substrate surface, it can be said that this substrate surface is wetted (i.e. hydrophilic) by fluid, and these two conditions coexist usually.On the contrary, if the contact angle is greater than 90 ° and fluid can not spread spontaneously along the fiber surface, then think that substrate is " hydrophobic ".
[0034] "Extensibility" and "extensible" mean that the width or length of a component in a relaxed state can be extended or increased.
[0035] "Elasticated" and "elasticized" mean that the component includes at least a portion made of an elastic material.
[0036] "Extensible material," "extensible material," or "stretchable material" are used interchangeably and refer to a material that, upon application of a biasing force, can be stretched to an elongated length of at least about 110% of its relaxed initial length (i.e., can be stretched to more than 10% of its initial length) without rupturing or breaking, and exhibits minimal recovery upon release of the applied force, i.e., recovers less than about 20% of its elongation without completely rupturing or breaking, as measured by EDANA method 20.2-89. In the event that such an extensible material recovers at least 40% of its elongation upon release of the applied force, the extensible material will be considered "elastic" or "elastomeric." For example, an elastic material having an initial length of 100 mm can be extended to at least 150 mm, and upon removal of the force, it retracts to a length of at least 130 mm (i.e., exhibits 40% recovery). In the event that the material recovers less than 40% of its elongation upon release of the applied force, the extensible material will be considered "substantially inelastic" or "substantially non-elastomeric." For example, an extensible material having an initial length of 100 mm may extend to at least 150 mm and retract to a length of at least 145 mm when the force is removed (ie, exhibit a 10% recovery).
[0037] Unless otherwise specified, the "size", "length", "width", "pitch", "diameter", "aspect ratio", "angle" and "area" of the article are measured as follows: the article is stretched to the fully stretched circumference W1, which is measured according to the "full article force value measurement" in this article and using a ruler or a small magnifying glass.
[0038] "Observation original image" refers to the visual representation that can be observed by the naked eye, provided by printing or other means and has color. Printing includes various methods and equipment well known to those skilled in the art, such as lithography, screen printing, flexographic printing and gravure inkjet printing.
[0039] As referred to herein, "color" or 'colored' includes any primary color other than white, i.e., black, red, blue, violet, orange, yellow, green, and indigo, and any variation thereof or mixture thereof. According to the CIE L*a*b* color system, white is defined as those colors having an L* value of at least 94, an a* value equal to 0±2, and a b* value equal to 0±2. DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0040] Absorbent body and absorbent article
[0041] Figure 1 The present invention is a schematic plan view of a belt-type absorbent article (20) carrying an absorbent body (38) of the present invention. The absorbent article (20) and the absorbent body (38) have a longitudinal centerline LX also used as a longitudinal axis, a transverse centerline TX also used as a transverse axis, a front end and a rear end. The absorbent body (38) has a wearer-facing surface, a clothing-facing surface, a liquid-permeable top sheet, a liquid-impermeable back sheet, an absorbent core disposed between the top sheet and the back sheet, and a composite isolation sheet bonded to the wearer-facing side of the top sheet. The absorbent body (38) of the present invention can be assembled together with an application component, wherein the application component is selected from the group consisting of a fastening component and an elastic belt. Figure 1 The exemplary absorbent article of the present invention comprises a fastening part, which includes a pair of elongated members (190) and a receiving member (192), the elongated members (190) protruding laterally from the left and right edges of the back region and being fastened with the receiving member (192) provided on the front region. Although not shown, the application part may also be an elastic belt, and the absorbent article (20) may take the form of pants.
[0042] Top sheet and bottom sheet
[0043] The absorbent body (38) of the present invention includes a water-permeable top sheet (24) that can be positioned to at least partially contact or be in close proximity to the wearer. Suitable top sheets (24) can be made from a wide range of materials, such as porous foams; reticulated foams; open-cell plastic films; or woven or nonwoven webs composed of natural fibers (e.g., wood fibers or cotton fibers), synthetic fibers (e.g., polyester fibers or polypropylene fibers), or a combination of natural fibers and synthetic fibers. The top sheet (24) is typically compliant, soft-feeling, and non-irritating to the wearer's skin. The top sheet (24) is liquid-permeable, thereby allowing body fluids to easily penetrate through the thickness of the top sheet (24). A top sheet (24) that can be used herein is purchased from Fibertex NiLai, Malaysia under the trade name H30501221 or from FQN Hazlet NJ under the trade name SB1206169. Any portion of the topsheet (24) may be coated with a lotion or skin care composition as is known in the art. Examples of suitable lotions include those described in U.S. Patent Nos. 5,607,760; 5,609,587; 5,635,191; and 5,643,588.
[0044] The absorbent body (38) of the present invention comprises a water-impermeable backsheet (25) designed to prevent exudates absorbed by and contained in an absorbent core (59) from soiling articles that may contact the absorbent article, such as bed sheets and underwear. The backsheet (25) may be positioned so that it extends beyond the absorbent core (62) in both the longitudinal and transverse directions. Suitable backsheet (25) materials include films, such as those manufactured by Plaster Argentina under the trade name PLBA NBBS 10-12GSM PR V1. Other suitable backsheet (25) materials may include breathable materials that allow vapor to escape from the absorbent article while still preventing exudates from passing through the backsheet (25). Exemplary breathable material can include material such as woven fiber web, nonwoven fiber web, composite material such as nonwoven fiber web of film coating, and microporous membrane, such as manufactured by Daika Japan with trade name MPF DKH-180 15G V7 and manufactured by Berry Nashville, TN with trademark BR-137P V13 microporous membrane.This breathable composite material is described in more detail in PCT application number WO 95 / 16746 and U.S. Patent number 5,865,823.Other breathable backsheets including nonwoven fiber web and apertured formed film are described in U.S. Patent number 5,571,096.Exemplary suitable backsheet is disclosed in U.S. Patent number 6,107,537.Other suitable materials and / or manufacturing techniques can be used to provide suitable backsheet, including but not limited to surface treatment, specific film selection and processing, specific filament selection and processing etc.
[0045] Absorbent core
[0046] refer to Figure 1 The absorbent body (38) of the present invention includes an absorbent core (62) disposed on the wearer-facing side for absorbing and containing body exudates. The absorbent core (62) may include an absorbent layer and an acquisition system (51). The absorbent layer is an area in which an absorbent material (29) with a high retention capacity, such as a superabsorbent polymer, is present. The absorbent layer may be substantially free of cellulose. Alternatively, the absorbent layer may contain cellulose. There may be an absorbent layer mainly containing cellulose, and another absorbent layer mainly containing superabsorbent polymer.
[0047] The superabsorbent polymer of the absorbent layer may be disposed between a first material layer and a second material layer fixed by a fiber layer of a thermoplastic adhesive material. The first material layer and the second material layer may be a nonwoven fiber web, including synthetic fibers, such as single-component fibers of PE, PET and PP, multi-component fibers such as side-by-side, core / skin or island-in-the-sea fibers. Such synthetic fibers may be formed via a spunbond process or a meltblown process.
[0048] The absorbent body (38) may also include an acquisition system (51) for facilitating the acquisition and distribution of body exudates and may be placed between the top sheet (24) and the absorbent layer. The acquisition system (51) may include cellulose fibers. Multiple absorbent layers may be provided in the absorbent core (62). Portions of the absorbent layer may be configured to be substantially free of absorbent material to form a channel or multiple channels. The channel may be used to enable the absorbent core (62) to bend when swollen by fluid so that the crotch region conforms to the wearer's body after swelling and prevents the product from sagging. The channel may also be formed in the acquisition system (51) and may be configured to at least partially match the channel of the absorbent layer in the thickness direction. The acquisition system (51) may include a liquid management layer (53) located directly below the top sheet (24). The function of such a layer is to quickly acquire fluid from the top sheet (24) away from the wearer-facing side and / or distribute it over a larger area so that it is more effectively absorbed by the absorbent core. Such a liquid management layer (53) may also be placed between the back sheet (25) and the absorbent core. The liquid management layer may be a hydroentangled nonwoven comprising viscose, PET, CoPET / PET fibers, and combinations thereof.
[0049] The absorbent core (62) may include a high loft material comprising superabsorbent polymers. The term "high loft" refers to a low density loose fabric compared to a flat paper fabric. High loft webs are characterized by a relatively high porosity. This means that there is a relatively high amount of void space in which superabsorbent polymer particles can be distributed. The high loft material of the present invention (without superabsorbent particles) may have a density of less than 0.20 g / cm at a pressure of 4.14 kPa (0.6 psi). 3 , especially at 0.05g / cm 3 Up to 0.15g / cm 3 The high loft layer (without superabsorbent particles) may have a density of less than 0.20 g / cm at a pressure of 2.07 kPa (0.3 psi). 3 , especially at 0.02g / cm 3 Up to 0.15g / cm 3 The high loft layer of the present invention (without superabsorbent particles) may have a density of less than 0.15 g / cm at a pressure of 0.83 kPa (0.12 psi). 3 , especially 0.01g / cm 3 Up to 0.15g / cm 3 The absorbent core (62) may have a density in the range of 15 gsm to 500 gsm, and a basis weight of 30 gsm to 200 gsm, such as those described in US 2021 / 0361497 Al. The absorbent core (62) comprising a high loft material including superabsorbent polymers may also contain channels.
[0050] Alternatively, the absorbent core (62) may include an absorbent layer having a superabsorbent polymer disposed between a first nonwoven material layer and a second nonwoven material layer secured by a fiber layer (not shown) of a thermoplastic adhesive material. The first nonwoven material layer and the second nonwoven material layer may be relatively low basis weight nonwoven fiber webs including synthetic fibers, such as single component fibers of PE, PET and PP, multicomponent fibers such as side-by-side, core / skin or island-in-the-sea fibers. Such synthetic fibers may be formed via a spunbond process or a meltblown process. Such an embodiment is exemplarily shown in the novel Figure 2A In such embodiments, a) the intermediate layer (60) may be hydrophobic and the lower substrate layer (46) may be hydrophilic; or b) both the intermediate layer (60) and the lower substrate layer (46) may be hydrophilic, and the intermediate layer (60) may be less hydrophilic than the lower substrate layer (46); or c) both the intermediate layer (60) and the lower substrate layer (46) may be hydrophobic, and the lower substrate layer (46) may be less hydrophilic than the intermediate layer (60).
[0051] Composite isolation sheet
[0052] refer to Figure 1 The absorbent body (38) of the present invention includes a composite isolation sheet (CIS) bonded to the wearer-facing side of the top sheet for isolating body exudates from the wearer's skin. The composite isolation sheet (CIS) includes: a) a front portion (FC) located in the front region (26); b) a central portion (BLC) located in the central region (30), the BLC having a pair of side edges that are elasticized in the longitudinal direction; c) a rear portion (BC) located in the rear region (28); d) a longitudinal elastic element; and e) an opening (CO), wherein the opening (CO) accommodates the wearer's anus and urethra when worn. The region and area of the composite isolation sheet (CIS) are defined by the front end of the absorbent body, the rear end of the absorbent body, the left end (CISL) and the right end (CISR), and the left end and the right end (CISL, CISR) are bonded to the top sheet (24). Although the substrate for providing the composite isolation sheet (CIS) may extend into other elements of the absorbent body (38) (such as the outer hoop described later), such other elements are not considered to be a composite isolation sheet (CIS). The central region (30) is defined by a line extending parallel to a transverse axis matching the front end (F1) of the pair of side edges and a line extending parallel to a transverse axis matching the rear end (B1) of the pair of side edges. The front region (26) extends from a line defining a central portion (BLC) on the front side (F1) to the front end of the absorbent body. The rear region (28) extends from a line defining a central portion (BLC) on the rear side (B1) to the rear end of the absorbent body.
[0053] Still reference Figure 1The front portion (FC) of the composite insulation sheet (CIS) has a front longitudinal endpoint (101) and a pair of front opening edges (102, 103), wherein the front opening edges (102, 103) are configured so that the front longitudinal endpoint (101) is positioned at the front end of the opening (CO). The front opening edges (102, 103) can be curved, straight or formed by a series of straight lines. The front portion (FC) has a longitudinal dimension (F1), which F1 can be about 22% to about 50% of the longitudinal dimension (L1) of the absorbent body (38). When the longitudinal elastic body is fully stretched if present, the distance from the front longitudinal endpoint (101) to the front end is represented by F2. The dimensions F1, F2 and the shape of the front opening edges (102, 103) can be configured so that when the front longitudinal elastic element is fully stretched, the area of the opening (CO) in the front region (26) is about 5% to about 30% of the composite insulation sheet (CIS) in the front region (26). Similarly, the rear portion (BC) of the composite insulation sheet (CIS) has a rear longitudinal endpoint (111) and a pair of rear opening edges (112, 113), wherein the rear opening edges (112, 113) are configured such that the rear longitudinal endpoint (111) is positioned at the rear end of the opening (CO). The rear opening edges (112, 113) can be curved, straight or formed by a series of straight lines. The rear portion (BC) has a longitudinal dimension (B1) that can be from about 5% to about 35% of the longitudinal dimension (L1) of the absorbent body. When fully stretched if a longitudinal elastic body is present, the distance from the rear longitudinal endpoint (111) to the rear end is represented by B2. The dimensions B1, B2 and the shape of the rear opening edges (112, 113) can be configured such that the area of the opening (CO) in the rear region (28) is smaller than the area of the opening in the front region (26). In the rear portion (BC), B1 can be equal to B2.
[0054] Still reference Figure 1, a central portion (BLC) in the central area (30) is positioned between the front portion (FC) and the back portion (BC) and forms a pair of side edges that are elasticized in the longitudinal direction along the longitudinally extending side edges (122, 123) of the opening (CO) of the composite isolation sheet (CIS). A pair of side edges (122, 123) of the central portion (BLC) are elasticized by a longitudinally extending elastomer (35) disposed adjacent to the side edges (122, 123). The elastomer for elasticizing the side edges (122, 123) of the central portion (BLC) may be disposed in a plurality of elastic strands (35). The composite isolation sheet (CIS) in the central portion (BLC) may have a transverse dimension (T1) between the left and right ends (CISL, CISR) of about 120 mm to about 170 mm. Such a transverse dimension may be the same for the entire composite isolation sheet (CIS). When the center portion (BLC) is completely laid flat on the top sheet, the lateral distance (T2) between the side edges (122, 123) may be from about 60 mm to about 140 mm.
[0055] Still reference Figure 1 , the composite isolation sheet (CIS) further comprises a longitudinal elastic element (FE, BE) arranged on at least one of the front portion (FC) and the back portion (BC), wherein the longitudinal elastic element extends substantially in the longitudinal direction. The longitudinal elastic element may be arranged only on the front portion (FC). The longitudinal elastic element may be arranged only on the back portion (BC). The longitudinal elastic element may be arranged on both the front portion (FC) and the back portion (BC). The longitudinal elastic element may be arranged in a single or multiple longitudinal elastic bodies. The longitudinal elastic body may be an elastic band or an elastic strand. When the longitudinal elastic element is a single elastic band or strand, the longitudinal elastic body (FE, BE) may be arranged on the front end or the back end and extend along the longitudinal axis (LX) between the front longitudinal endpoint (101) and the front end or between the rear longitudinal endpoint (111) and the back end. Figure 1 , the front longitudinal elastic body (FE) and the rear longitudinal elastic body (BE) are each depicted as matching the longitudinal axis (LX). Although not shown, the longitudinal elastic elements can be arranged in pairs and in symmetrical positions on the left and right parts of the front (FC) relative to the longitudinal axis (LX). Although not shown, the longitudinal elastic elements can be arranged in pairs and in symmetrical positions on the left and right parts of the rear (BC) relative to the longitudinal axis (LX). Although not shown, the longitudinal elastic elements can be 3 bodies and arranged in symmetrical positions along the longitudinal axis (LX) and on the left and right parts of the front (FC) relative to the longitudinal axis (LX). In a similar manner, 3 longitudinal elastic bodies can be arranged on the rear (BC). Regardless of the number and position, any longitudinal elastic element arranged on the front (FC) or the rear (BC) extends substantially in the longitudinal direction.
[0056] refer to Figure 1 , when disposed on the front portion (FC), the longitudinal elastic body (FE) may extend from the front longitudinal endpoint (101) toward the front end. The front longitudinal elastic body (FE) may extend only a portion of F2. Although not shown, the longitudinal elastic body (FE) may extend the entire F2, or extend at a position closer to the front end, or extend in the middle of a line extending between the front longitudinal endpoint (101) and the front end. When fully contracted by the front longitudinal elastic body (FE), the distance from the front longitudinal endpoint (101) to the front end is represented by F3. The force provided by the front longitudinal elastic body (FE) may be such that F3 may be about 30% to about 85% of F2. When disposed on the rear portion (BC), the longitudinal elastic body (BE) may extend from the rear longitudinal endpoint (111) toward the rear end. The rear longitudinal elastic body (BE) may extend only a portion of B2. Although not shown, the longitudinal elastic body (BE) may extend the entire B2, or extend at a position closer to the rear end, or extend in the middle of a line extending between the rear longitudinal endpoint (111) and the rear end. When fully contracted by the rear longitudinal elastic body (BE), the distance from the rear longitudinal end point (111) to the rear end is represented by B3. The force provided by the rear longitudinal elastic body (BE) may be such that B3 may be about 30% to about 85% of B2.
[0057] Therefore, still refer to Figure 1 , the opening (CO) of the composite isolation sheet (CIS) is defined by a pair of front opening edges (102, 103), a pair of side edges (122, 123) and a pair of rear opening edges (112, 113). When worn, when contracted, the composite isolation sheet (CIS) protrudes from the top sheet (24) because the composite isolation sheet (CIS) maintains the tension provided by the combination of the elastic body (35) and the longitudinal elastic elements (FE, BE) at the side edges. The size of the opening and the tension provided by the elastic body (35) and the longitudinal elastic elements at the side edges are adjusted so that when worn, the opening (CO) accommodates the anus and urethra of the wearer. Reference Figure 2A represents the area taken along line AA in the center portion (BLC) Figure 1 Schematic cross section of , only the elasticized side edges (122, 123) are observed. Figure 2B represents the intersection along line BB in the front (FC) Figure 1, also observing the front and optional front longitudinal elastic elements (FE). The composite isolation sheet (CIS) of the present invention lacks elasticity along a pair of front opening edges (102, 103) and a pair of rear opening edges (112, 113). Even if such elasticity is lacking around certain portions of the periphery of the opening (CO), the composite isolation sheet (CIS) can provide sufficient tension through the combination of elasticized side edges (122, 123) and longitudinal elastic elements. Such configuration of the composite isolation sheet (CIS) makes it possible to provide elasticization that is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis (LX) of the absorbent body. The advantage of such configuration of the composite isolation sheet (CIS) of the present invention is that when the machine direction used to manufacture the absorbent body matches the longitudinal direction, any elastomer to be arranged on the composite isolation sheet (CIS) can also be advanced in the machine direction for attachment.
[0058] The material for preparing composite insulation film (CIS) can be made of material that is substantially impermeable to liquid. The material can be SMS nonwoven material or SMMS nonwoven material or comprise nonwoven layering of fine denier fibers with an average diameter less than 1 micron. A useful combination of nonwoven fabric webs can include spunbond, meltblown, spunbond (" SMS ") webs, which include the outer layer of spunbond thermoplastics (e.g., polyolefin) and the inner layer of meltblown thermoplastics. Suitable composite insulation film materials that can be used for this article include those composite insulation film materials of SMS type purchased from Toray Polytech Nantong China with trade name LIVSEN SMS 13, purchased from FQN Hazlet NJ with trade name SM15009270, and purchased from Fibertex Aalborg Denmark with trade name B10160HS. Material can be processed by lotion or hydrophobic surface coating to provide various physical properties in regions or partial regions. The material used to make the composite isolation sheet (CIS) may have a hydrostatic head of greater than about 2 mbar, or greater than about 3 mbar, or greater than about 4 mbar. The material may have a hydrostatic head of less than about 200 mbar, or less than about 100 mbar, or less than about 75 mbar, or less than about 50 mbar, or less than about 25 mbar, or less than about 15 mbar. The material may have an opacity of about 15% to about 50% Hunter opacity, or about 20% to about 45% Hunter opacity. The material may have an opacity of about 45% to about 75% Hunter opacity; or about 50% to about 70% Hunter opacity. The material may have an opacity of less than about 50m 3 / m 2 / min; or less than about 45m 3 / m 2 / min. The material may have an air permeability greater than about 5m 3 / m2 / min; or greater than about 10m 3 / m 2 / min; or greater than about 15m 3 / m 2 / min; or greater than about 20m 3 / m 2 / min air permeability.
[0059] refer to FIG. 3A to FIG. 3F , various configurations for forming a composite isolation sheet (CIS) are disclosed. FIG. 3A to FIG. 3F is along Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view taken along line BB of , wherein the substrate for preparing the composite isolation sheet (CIS) is extended laterally and separated from the remaining portion of the absorbent body (38).
[0060] FIG. 3A to FIG. 3C The invention relates to configurations in which a central portion (BLC) is formed by a portion different from the front and / or rear portions (26, 28). In these configurations, the central portion (BLC) may have a configuration similar to an inner cuff extending in the longitudinal direction, wherein the inner cuff portion (31) may extend over the entire length of the absorbent body (38). When such a configuration is adopted for the central portion (BLC), at least the area matching the central portion (BLC) has active elasticity. When such a configuration is adopted for the central portion (BLC), the inner cuff portion (31) overlapping the front and rear portions (FC, BC) may lack active elasticity, particularly along the front and rear ends of the absorbent core (38).
[0061] refer to FIG. 3A to FIG. 3C , the front portion (FC) is formed by a portion bonded on the wearer-facing side of the inner cuff portion (31). The back portion (BC) may be formed in a similar manner. The substrate used to form the front and back portions (FC, BC) may be a continuous portion connected in the longitudinal direction along the inner cuff portion (31), or may be separate front and back portions that are not connected. Reference Figure 1 , the substrate for forming the front and rear parts (FC, BC) can be separate front and rear parts that are not connected. By providing the front and rear parts (FC, BC) formed by continuous parts, the center part (BLC) can be arranged in multiple substrate layers and provide improved protection. By providing the front and rear parts (FC, BC) formed in separate front and rear parts, material can be saved and the center part (BLC) can have improved breathability.
[0062] refer to Figure 3A , when the front longitudinal elastic body (FE) is included in the front portion (FC), the front longitudinal elastic body (FE) may be disposed between the outer front panel (FC1) and the inner front panel (FC2). Figure 3AAs shown, the inner front panel (FC2) may have a lateral dimension that is shorter than the lateral dimension of the outer front panel (FC1). Figure 3C , the front longitudinal elastomer (FE) can be wrapped in a single layer of material. Figure 3A or Figure 3C Such a configuration can provide a thin and breathable front portion (FC). Figure 2B and Figure 3B , the inner front panel (FC2) may have the same lateral dimensions as those of the outer front panel (FC1). Such a configuration enables a secure attachment of the front longitudinal elastic body (FE) and also provides improved protection in this area.
[0063] Figures 3D to 3F It relates to configurations in which the central portion (BLC) and at least the front portion (FC) are formed by the same integral part. In these configurations, the elasticization of the lateral edges of the central portion (BLC) and the front longitudinal elastic (FE) can be provided between an outer front panel (FC1) and an inner front panel (FC2).
[0064] for FIG. 3A to FIG. 3F In any configuration of the embodiment of the present invention, the rear portion (BC) may be formed in the same manner as the front portion (FC) as described above.
[0065] Other components
[0066] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2A The absorbent body (38) of the present invention may also include components that improve the leak-proofness, wear resistance, fit or aesthetics of the resulting absorbent product.
[0067] The absorbent body (38) may include gasketing leg cuffs (34). The gasketing leg cuffs (34) may be at least partially enclosed between the topsheet (24) and the backsheet (25) and may be positioned laterally outward relative to the composite insulation sheet (CIS). The gasketing leg cuffs (34) may provide a seal around the wearer's thighs. Typically each gasketing leg cuff (34) will include one or more elastic bands or elastic elements (33) included in the absorbent body (38), for example, between the topsheet (24) and the backsheet (25) in the leg opening area. The substrate used to prepare the composite insulation sheet (CIS) may extend laterally and be used to form the gasketing leg cuffs (34).
[0068] The absorbent body (38) of the present invention may include an outer cover (42) positioned on the garment-facing side of the backsheet (25). The outer cover (42) may be made of a soft nonwoven material. The outer cover (42) and the backsheet (25) may be joined together by an adhesive or any other suitable material or method. A particularly suitable outer cover (42) is available from Fibertex NiLai Malaysia under the trade name A10160EJ-MALAYSIA and from FQN Hazlet NJ under the trade name SM1104174.
[0069] The absorbent core (62) may include an intermediate layer (60) between the absorbent material layer and the backing film (25). The intermediate layer (60) may be in direct contact with the absorbent material layer (29) and the backing film (25). The intermediate layer (60) may be used as a masking layer to isolate the superabsorbent polymer particles in the absorbent material layer from the backing film (25), thereby reducing the granular feel and improving the tactile properties of the garment-facing side of the article, especially for absorbent cores (62) containing high levels of superabsorbent polymer particles. The intermediate layer (60) may also isolate the exudate that has been absorbed in the absorbent material layer from the garment-facing side of the article, as this may be visually unpleasant to the caregiver. Therefore, by having an intermediate layer with a relatively high opacity, stains (e.g., from urine or feces) in the absorbent material layer can be hidden and not seen when the backing film (25) of the absorbent article is viewed during use. The Hunter opacity of the intermediate layer in a dry state may be at least 25%, or at least 40%, or at least 50%, or at least 70%. The intermediate layer (60) may also help reduce residual moisture from contacting the backsheet (25), which may cause a cold / wet sensation to the caregiver and may cause the wearer to mistake the cold / wet sensation as liquid leaking from the absorbent article. The intermediate layer (60) may also serve as a temporary reservoir for liquid that is not absorbed quickly enough by the absorbent material layer.
[0070] Opacity Method
[0071] Opacity is measured using a spectrophotometer with 0° illumination / 45° detection, circular optical geometry, and computer interface, such as a HunterLabLabScan XE (available from Hunter Associates Laboratory Inc., Reston, VA) running Universal Software, or equivalent. Instrument calibration and measurements are performed using standard white and black calibration plates provided by the supplier. All tests are performed in a room maintained at 23°C ± 2°C and 50% ± 2% relative humidity.
[0072] The spectrophotometer was configured for XYZ color scale, D65 illuminant, 10 ° standard observer, with UV filter set to nominal. The instrument was standardized using a 0.7 inch aperture size and a 0.5 inch field of view according to the manufacturer's protocol. After calibration, the software was set to the Y opacity protocol, which prompted the operator to cover the sample with a white or black calibration tile during measurement.
[0073] Before testing, the article is preconditioned at 23°C ± 2°C and 50% ± 2% relative humidity for two hours. To obtain the specimen, the article is stretched flat on a bench with the body-facing surface facing upward, and the total longitudinal length of the article is measured. The test site is selected at the longitudinal midpoint of the article or portion. Using scissors, the specimen is cut into a 60 mm square or as close to 60 mm as possible. Remove any elastic members.
[0074] Place the sample over the measurement port. The sample should completely cover the port with the surface that corresponds to the wearer-facing surface of the sample pointing to the port. Gently stretch the sample until it is taut in its longitudinal direction so that it lies flat against the port plate. Apply adhesive tape to secure the sample to the port plate in its extended state for testing. The tape should not cover any part of the measurement port. Then cover the sample with the white standard tile. Take a reading, then remove the white tile and replace it with the black standard tile without moving the sample. Take a second reading and calculate the opacity as follows:
[0075] Opacity = (Y value (black backing) / Y value (white backing)) × 100
[0076] Samples from five identical articles were analyzed and their opacity results were recorded. The average opacity was calculated and reported to the nearest 0.01%.
[0077] Air permeability test
[0078] Air permeability was measured using a TexTest FX3300 air permeability tester (available from Advanced Testing Instruments, Greer, SC) or equivalent, which had a custom-made 1 cm 2 The instrument was calibrated according to the manufacturer's protocol. All tests were conducted in a chamber maintained at 23°C ± 2°C and 50% ± 2% relative humidity.
[0079] Prior to testing, precondition the article at 23°C ± 2°C and 50% ± 2% relative humidity for two hours. To obtain the specimen, stretch the article flat on a bench with the body-facing surface facing upward, and measure the total longitudinal length of the article. Select the test site at the longitudinal midpoint of the article or portion. Using scissors, cut the specimen into 30 mm squares or as close to 30 mm as possible. Remove any elastic members.
[0080] Center the sample over the measuring port. The sample should completely cover the port with a surface that corresponds to the wearer-facing surface of the sample pointing to the port. Gently stretch the sample in its longitudinal direction until it is taut so that the sample lies flat across the port. Apply adhesive tape to secure the sample in its extended state across the port for testing. The tape should not cover any part of the measuring port. The test pressure is set to allow air to pass through the sample. For nonwoven samples, set the pressure to 125Pa; and for samples containing films, use 2125Pa. Close the sample loop and adjust the measuring range until the range indicator shows green to indicate that the measurement result is within the permissible limit of the instrument. Record the air permeability to an accuracy of 0.1m3 / m2 / min.
[0081] Hydrostatic Head Test
[0082] The hydrostatic head was tested using a TexTest FX3000 hydrostatic head tester (purchased from Advanced Testing Instruments, Greer, SC) with a custom-made 1.5 cm2 circular measuring port (also purchased from Advanced Testing Instruments). Two annular sleeve rings (same size as the gasket around the measuring port) were cut from a standard protective sleeve for fine nonwovens (part FX3000-NWH, purchased from Advanced Testing Instruments). The sleeve rings were then attached to the specimen-facing surfaces of the upper and lower gaskets of the TexTest instrument with double-sided adhesive tape to protect the specimen during clamping. The instrument was standardized according to the manufacturer's protocol. All tests were performed in a chamber maintained at approximately 23°C ± 2°C and approximately 50% ± 2% relative humidity.
[0083] Prior to testing, the article is preconditioned at about 23°C ± 2°C and about 50% ± 2% relative humidity for two hours. To obtain the specimen, the article is stretched flat on a bench with the body-facing surface facing upward, and the total longitudinal length of the article is measured. The test site is selected at the longitudinal midpoint of the article or portion. Using scissors, the specimen is cut into a 70 mm square or as close to 70 mm as possible. Remove any elastic members.
[0084] Place the specimen so that it is centered over the port of the upper test ram. The specimen should completely cover the port with the surface that corresponds to the garment-facing surface of the specimen pointing toward the port (the wearer-facing surface will then face the water). Gently stretch the specimen taut in its longitudinal direction so that it lies flat against the upper test plate. Apply adhesive tape to secure the specimen in its extended state to the test plate for testing. The tape should not cover any part of the measurement port.
[0085] Fill the TexTest syringe with distilled water and add water through the measuring port of the lower test plate. The water level should be filled to the top of the lower gasket. Mount the upper test head to the instrument and lower the test head to prepare a seal around the specimen. For specimens with a hydrostatic head of 50 mbar or less, set the test speed to 3 mbar / min and for specimens with a hydrostatic head above 50 mbar, set the speed to a speed of 60 mbar / min. Start the test and observe the surface of the specimen to detect water drops penetrating the surface. The test is terminated when a water drop is detected on the surface of the specimen or the pressure exceeds 200 mbar. Record the pressure to the nearest 0.5 mbar; or if no penetration is detected, record as >200 mbar.
[0086] A total of five identical articles were analyzed and their hydrostatic head results were recorded. The average hydrostatic head was calculated and reported to the nearest 0.1 mbar.
[0087] Example
[0088] Absorbent article Examples 1 to 2 and Comparative Example 1 were thus obtained.
[0089] Comparative Example 1: Pampers Kangaroo Taped, size 4, purchased in China in 2022.
[0090] Example 1: A belt-type absorbent article of size 4 having an overall configuration similar to that of Comparative Example 1 and also having Figure 1 , Figure 2A and Figure 2B The front and rear parts of the embodiment, wherein the dimensions are shown in Table 1 below.
[0091] Example 2: A belt-type absorbent article of size 4 having an overall configuration similar to that of Comparative Example 1 and also having Figure 1 , Figure 2A and Figure 2B , but with a rear portion having a different configuration and without a rear longitudinal elastic body, wherein the dimensions are shown in Table 1 below.
[0092] Table 1
[0093] size Example 1 Example 2 Longitudinal dimension of the absorbent body L1 (mm) 480 480 Front longitudinal dimension F1 (mm) 170 170 F1 / L1 (%) 35.4 35.4 The distance F2 (mm) from the front longitudinal end point to the front end when the front longitudinal elastic body is fully stretched 100 100 Distance F3 (mm) from the front longitudinal end point to the front end when the front longitudinal elastic body is fully contracted 70 70 F2 / F3 (%) 70 70 Opening area of composite spacer in front zone (%) 13.2 13.2 Transverse dimension T1 of composite spacer (mm) 142 142 Distance T2 between the side edges of the center part (mm) 74 74 Rear longitudinal dimension B1 (mm) 155 80 B1 / L1 (%) 32.3 16.7 Distance B2 (mm) from the rear longitudinal end point to the rear end when the rear longitudinal elastic body is fully stretched 135 75 Distance B3 (mm) from the rear longitudinal end point to the rear end when the rear longitudinal elastic body is fully contracted 102 NA B2 / B3 (%) 75.6 NA
[0094] When worn, the articles of Examples 1 and 2 provide a composite barrier sheet raised from the top sheet, wherein the openings accommodate the anal and urethral openings of the intended wearer. Examples 1 and 2 provide good isolation of body exudates from the wearer's skin while maintaining the containment performance and wearing comfort of Comparative Example 1. The articles of Examples 1 and 2 can be manufactured at about the same speed as that of Comparative Example 1.
[0095] 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." In addition, each numerical range given throughout this specification includes each narrower numerical range that falls within such broader numerical range.
[0096] 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.
[0097] Although specific embodiments of the present invention 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 invention. Therefore, it is intended that all such changes and modifications within the scope of the present invention be covered in the appended claims.
Claims
1. An absorbent body for an absorbent article, the absorbent article having a transverse direction, a longitudinal direction, a front end, a rear end, a front region, a rear region, a central region, a clothing-facing direction and a wearer-facing direction, the absorbent body comprising: 1) Water-permeable topsheet; 2) Water-impermeable backsheet; 3) an absorbent core disposed between the top sheet and the back sheet; 4) a composite barrier sheet bonded to the wearer-facing side of the top sheet, the composite barrier sheet comprising: a) a front portion located in the front region, the front portion having a front longitudinal endpoint and a pair of front opening edges, wherein the pair of front opening edges are not elasticized; b) a central portion located in said central region, said central portion having a pair of side edges which are elasticized in said longitudinal direction; c) a rear portion in the rear region, the rear portion having a rear longitudinal endpoint and a pair of rear opening edges, wherein the pair of rear opening edges are not elasticized; d) a longitudinal elastic element provided on at least one of the front portion and the rear portion, wherein the longitudinal elastic element extends substantially in the longitudinal direction; and e) an opening defined by the pair of front opening edges, the pair of side edges, and the pair of rear opening edges, wherein the opening accommodates the anus and urethra opening of a wearer when worn.
2. The absorbent body according to claim 1, wherein the front portion has a longitudinal dimension F1 of about 22% to about 50% of the longitudinal dimension of the absorbent body.
3. The absorbent body according to claim 2, wherein the longitudinal elastic member is provided on the front portion.
4. The absorbent body according to claim 3, wherein: When the front longitudinal elastic element is fully stretched, the open area in the front region is from about 5% to about 30% of the composite barrier sheet in the front region.
5. The absorbent body according to claim 3, wherein: When the front longitudinal elastic element is fully stretched, the distance from the front longitudinal end point to the front end is represented by F2, and when the front longitudinal elastic body is fully contracted, the distance from the front longitudinal end point to the front end is represented by F3, and F3 is about 30% to about 85% of F2.
6. The absorbent body according to claim 3, wherein the front longitudinal elastic element is an elastic body extending along the longitudinal axis between the front longitudinal end point and the front end.
7. The absorbent body according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the rear portion has a longitudinal dimension B1 of about 5% to about 35% of the longitudinal dimension of the absorbent body.
8. The absorbent body according to claim 7, wherein the longitudinal elastic member is provided on the rear portion.
9. The absorbent body according to claim 8, wherein: When the rear longitudinal elastic element is fully stretched, the distance from the rear longitudinal end point to the rear end is represented by B2, and when the rear longitudinal elastic body is fully contracted, the distance from the rear longitudinal end point to the rear end is represented by B3, and B3 is about 30% to about 85% of B2.
10. The absorbent body according to claim 8, wherein the rear longitudinal elastic element is an elastic body extending along the longitudinal axis between the rear longitudinal end point and the rear end.
11. The absorbent body according to claim 7, wherein the rear portion is free of longitudinal elastic members.
12. An absorbent body according to claim 1, 2 or 7, wherein the composite isolation sheet comprises an inner cuff portion and a continuous portion, wherein a pair of elasticized side edges are formed by the inner cuff portion, and the continuous portion forms the front portion and the back portion, wherein the continuous portion is connected along the inner cuff portion in the longitudinal direction.
13. An absorbent body according to claim 1 or 2 or 7, wherein the composite isolation sheet comprises an inner cuff portion, a front portion for forming the front portion, and a rear portion for forming the rear portion, wherein the front portion and the rear portion are not connected.
14. An absorbent article comprising an application member and an absorbent body according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the application member is selected from the group consisting of a fastening member and an elastic belt.
Citation Information
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