Washable absorbent assembly

Abstract

A washable absorbent assembly (100) adapted to be permanently or detachably secured in a woven pant (10). The absorbent assembly (100) comprises:-a liquid permeable layer (120),-a liquid impermeable layer (150); and-an absorbent member (140) located between the liquid permeable layer (120) and the liquid impermeable layer (150), the absorbent member (140) comprising a liquid collection structure (141) and a liquid retention structure (142) and being arranged between the liquid permeable layer (120) and the liquid retention structure (142). The liquid permeable layer (120) has a basis weight of less than 300 g / m2; the liquid collection structure (141) comprises or consists of a spacer fabric (138) comprising a top web (138a), a bottom web (138b), and an intermediate section (138c) comprising pile filaments connecting the top web (138a) and the bottom web (138b). The spacer fabric (138) has a density of 0.1 g / cm3 or less, and the liquid retention structure (142) has a higher density than the liquid collection structure (141).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a washable absorbent assembly adapted to be permanently or removably fixed to an outer textile pant. Furthermore, the present disclosure relates to a washable absorbent sanitary undergarment including an outer textile pant, wherein the absorbent assembly is permanently fixed in the outer textile pant, and to a washable absorbent assembly for a washable pad adapted to be removably fixed to an outer textile pant. The absorbent assembly includes a liquid-permeable layer, a liquid-impermeable layer, and an absorbent member located between the liquid-permeable layer and the liquid-impermeable layer. Background Art

[0002] The washable and reusable absorbent sanitary undergarments and pads disclosed herein are intended for use by people leading a normal social and physically active life but suffering from mild to moderate urinary incontinence (from 1 ml to about 100 ml of body fluid, such as urine).

[0003] Providing such washable absorbent undergarments and pads is a matter of concern, where the washable absorbent undergarments and pads are as similar as possible to ordinary undergarments, and are comfortable and well-fitting and can be worn unobtrusively under normal clothes, and also provide sufficient urine absorbency and leakage security. As needed, the washable absorbent undergarment includes layers and materials not present in conventional undergarments, such as a liquid-permeable top layer that allows liquid to pass through into the underlying liquid absorbent member. It is generally also preferred that a liquid barrier layer is disposed on the clothing-facing side of one or more layers of the absorbent member to prevent liquid from escaping through the incontinence protection undergarment and wetting the user's outer clothing.

[0004] Unlike disposable incontinence articles, washable incontinence garments typically do not contain superabsorbent materials, which makes the liquid retention capacity of such articles less than that of comparable disposable articles containing superabsorbent materials. Merely increasing the amount of absorbent material in the washable absorbent undergarment will directly detract from the underwear-likeness of the garment, as this will make the garment bulky and less comfortable and well-fitting as desired.

[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to provide an improved washable absorbent sanitary undergarment and pad having sufficient absorbency and leakage protection performance for mild to moderate urinary incontinence and improved similarity to ordinary undergarments. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The above and additional objects can be achieved by a washable absorbent assembly adapted to be permanently or removably fixed to an outer textile pant according to claim 1. Variations of the present disclosure are set forth in the dependent claims and the following description.

[0007] The present disclosure relates to a washable absorbent assembly adapted to be permanently or removably fixed in an outer textile pant (10), having an extent in a longitudinal direction (y), a transverse direction (x), and a thickness direction (z) perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (y) and the transverse direction (x), and comprising:

[0008] - a liquid-permeable layer (120),

[0009] - a liquid-impermeable layer (150); and

[0010] - an absorbent member (140) located between the liquid-permeable layer (120) and the liquid-impermeable layer (150), the absorbent member (140) comprising a liquid collection structure (141) and a liquid retention structure (142), the liquid collection structure (141) being arranged between the liquid-permeable layer (120) and the liquid retention structure (142), wherein

[0011] the liquid-permeable layer (120) has a basis weight of less than 300 g / m 2 ;

[0012] the liquid collection structure (141) comprises or consists of an openwork fabric (138), the openwork fabric (138) comprising a top web (138a), a bottom web (138b) and an intermediate section (138c), the intermediate section (138c) comprising pile filaments extending in the thickness direction (z) and connecting the top web (138a) to the bottom web (138b), the openwork fabric (138) having a density of 0.1 g / cm 3 or less at an applied pressure of 0.5 kPa, and the liquid retention structure (142) has a higher density than the liquid collection structure (141).

[0013] The density difference between the liquid collection structure and the liquid retention structure in the absorbent assembly determines that the preferred liquid transfer direction between the structures is from the liquid collection structure to the liquid retention structure.

[0014] Furthermore, the present disclosure relates to a washable absorbent undergarment, wherein the absorbent assembly is permanently fixed in the pant (10). The pant (10) is preferably a textile pant (10).

[0015] Furthermore, the present disclosure relates to a washable absorbent pad, wherein the washable absorbent pad is an absorbent assembly adapted to be removably fixed in a user's underwear.

[0016] In the washable absorbent assembly disclosed herein, the density of the liquid retention structure may be higher than the density of the openwork fabric in the liquid collection structure. The density of the liquid retention structure may be 20% higher than the density of the openwork fabric, or more than 50% or more than 80% higher than the density of the openwork fabric.

[0017] The liquid collection structure discharges liquid from the liquid-permeable layer and serves as a temporary reservoir for the liquid until the liquid is absorbed by the underlying liquid retention structure. The liquid can be distributed in the x and y directions by flowing through the internal space of the spacer fabric. In a higher density liquid retention structure, the liquid distribution depends to a greater extent on capillary action in the capillaries formed between the fibers in the structure. Due to the density difference, the transport of liquid from the high-looseness / low-density liquid collection structure occurs rapidly after liquid intrusion, which means that the liquid collection structure returns to the inflated and fluffy state within seconds after wetting and is ready to respond to new liquid intrusion. Additionally, the liquid collection structure can act as an inflated and pressure-resistant distance element between the liquid absorbed in the liquid retention structure and the wearer's body. This is beneficial because it provides a less wet and cold feeling for the absorption component in the underwear and because the inflated space in the spacer fabric counteracts the return of liquid to the liquid-permeable layer. In the washable absorption component disclosed herein, the liquid collection structure can consist of a single layer of spacer fabric or a layer of spacer fabric and one or more additional material layers. In addition to the spacer fabric layer, the liquid collection structure can also include additional layers, such as a second spacer fabric layer and / or an open mesh material disposed between the top layer and the spacer fabric.

[0018] The spacer fabric in the liquid collection structure is a relatively rigid and incompressible material. The high compressibility resistance in the spacer fabric is beneficial because it allows the liquid collection structure to maintain a large liquid receiving and liquid containing space within the internal network formed by the pile filaments connecting the top and bottom layers of the spacer fabric, even when exposed to the compression forces typically generated during underwear use.

[0019] The spacer fabric in the liquid collection structure of the washable absorbent underwear can have a looseness of 10 cm 3 / g or greater under an applied pressure of 5 kPa. The looseness value is the reciprocal of the density value, so a spacer fabric with a looseness of 10 cm 3 / g under an applied pressure of 5 kPa has a density of 0.10 g / cm 3 under an applied pressure of 5 kPa.

[0020] Also, the spacer fabric in the liquid collection structure can have a looseness of 8 cm 3 / g or greater under an applied pressure of 10 kPa. Additionally, under an applied pressure of 20 kPa, the looseness can be 5 cm 3 / g or greater.

[0021] The spacer fabric in the liquid collection structure is a relatively rigid and non-extensible material. As disclosed herein, the high compressibility resistance of the spacer fabric is beneficial because it allows the liquid collection structure to maintain a liquid receiving and liquid containing space within an internal network formed by the pile filaments in the intermediate section of the spacer fabric between the outer layers, even when exposed to the compressive forces typically generated during the use of an undergarment.

[0022] In the washable absorbent undergarment disclosed herein, the liquid retention structure can be composed of a single layer of material or two or more separate layers of material. If the liquid retention structure comprises more than one layer of textile absorbent material, it may be beneficial for these layers to provide a density gradient in the z-direction, where the density in the layers of the liquid retention structure increases from the top layer facing the liquid-permeable layer to the bottom layer facing the liquid-impermeable layer.

[0023] The spacer fabric can have a thickness of 2 mm or greater. The spacer fabric can have a relatively low basis weight, such as 150 g / m 2 to 300 g / m 2 or 170 g / m 2 to 270 g / m 2 . The basis weight of the liquid retention structure can preferably be higher than the basis weight of the liquid collection structure.

[0024] In the liquid collection structure, the spacer fabric layer can be in direct contact with the liquid-permeable layer or can be indirectly in contact with the liquid-permeable layer by means of an intermediate layer such as a mesh textile layer or the like.

[0025] In the washable absorbent assembly disclosed herein, the spacer fabric layer can be in direct contact with the liquid retention structure. This arrangement can be beneficial because it promotes the transfer of liquid from the spacer fabric to the liquid retention structure and facilitates the rapid drainage of the spacer fabric after liquid intrusion.

[0026] In the washable absorbent assembly disclosed herein, the density of the bottom web of the spacer fabric can be higher than the density of the top web of the spacer fabric. The higher density in the bottom web of the spacer fabric can promote liquid drainage away from the top web and further into the liquid retention structure.

[0027] The spacer fabric can have a looseness of 10 cm 3 / g or greater under an applied pressure of 5 kPa.

[0028] The spacer fabric layer can be in direct contact with the liquid-permeable layer or can be indirectly in contact with the liquid-permeable layer by means of an intermediate layer such as a mesh textile layer or the like.

[0029] The "density of pile filaments" is defined as the number of pile filament junctions per square centimeter. The density of the pile filament junctions can be 50 - 150 / cm2 , preferably 70 - 100 / cm 2 . The pile filaments can have a fineness of 80 - 130 decitex (dtex), preferably 90 - 120 decitex. The pile filaments can be monofilament yarns, which result in high compression strength while maintaining a low gram weight.

[0030] The spacer fabric can have 5 - 15, preferably 8 - 12 wales / cm in the fabric's manufacturing direction and 6 - 12, preferably 7 - 10 courses / cm in the fabric's cross - direction.

[0031] The bottom layer of the spacer fabric can have a denser structure and smaller openings than the top layer.

[0032] In the washable absorbent assembly disclosed herein, the pile filaments extending in the thickness direction z between the top ply and the bottom ply form the intermediate section of the spacer fabric, and the density (g / cm 3 ) of the top ply is higher than that of the intermediate section. The relatively high density in the top ply of the spacer fabric can facilitate the drainage of liquid from the liquid - permeable layer. Similarly, it may be beneficial for the density of the bottom ply of the spacer fabric to be higher than that of the intermediate section of the spacer fabric, thereby facilitating the drainage of the intermediate section of the spacer fabric into the bottom ply of the spacer fabric. Additionally, the density of the bottom ply of the spacer fabric is preferably lower than the density of the adjacent layer of the liquid - retaining structure to facilitate the drainage of liquid from the bottom ply of the spacer fabric into the liquid - retaining structure.

[0033] The layers of the absorbent assembly can be joined by means of seams or welding. The joining seam is preferably a flat seam, creating a smooth transition between the material layers. The use of flat seams helps to make the washable absorbent sanitary underwear as comfortable as possible.

[0034] In the washable absorbent assembly disclosed herein, the liquid - retaining structure can be attached to the liquid - impermeable layer, for example, by lamination. The combined components form an absorbent liquid - impermeable composite, which can be handled as a single component when manufacturing the washable absorbent assembly.

[0035] The washable absorbent underwear disclosed herein can be a washable absorbent sanitary underwear for male users, such as boxer shorts or briefs. In the washable absorbent male underwear, the absorbent structure is typically rotated such that all or at least a major portion of the absorbent material is in the front portion of the underwear. The liquid collection structure and optionally the liquid retention structure can have a generally triangular shape in the x-y plane, where the base of the triangle is aligned with the waistband of the underwear and the tip of the triangle is directed downward in the y direction toward the crotch of the washable absorbent underwear. The liquid retention structure can be arranged to provide supplementary absorbent material in a region of the washable absorbent underwear that can be subjected to wetting but is not part of the main wetting and absorption zone covered by the liquid collection structure. Such a region can include a portion of the washable absorbent underwear that is in the x direction outside of the main wetting region in the waist region of the washable absorbent underwear and / or a portion of the washable absorbent underwear that is in the crotch of the washable absorbent underwear.

[0036] Optionally, the washable absorbent underwear disclosed herein can be a washable absorbent underwear for female users, such as panties. In the washable absorbent female underwear, the absorbent structure is typically positioned such that the major portion of the absorbent material is in the crotch and lower front portion of the underwear, where initial wetting of the washable absorbent underwear is most likely to occur.

[0037] Furthermore, the washable absorbent underwear disclosed herein can be unisex washable absorbent underwear.

[0038] The liquid retention structure in the absorbent assembly can have a larger area than the liquid collection structure in the absorbent assembly and can be used to provide additional absorbency in a region of the washable absorbent underwear that is outside of the main wetting and absorption zone but can still be subjected to wetting. The liquid collection structure in the absorbent assembly can be completely overlapped with the liquid retention structure and have an area that is 65% or less of the area of the liquid retention structure.

[0039] Optionally, the liquid collection structure in the absorbent assembly can have a larger area than the liquid retention structure in the absorbent assembly. The liquid retention structure in the absorbent assembly can be completely overlapped with the liquid collection structure and have an area that is 65% or less of the area of the liquid collection structure.

[0040] As used herein, "washable" means the ability of the absorbent sanitary underwear to withstand at least 100 washes at 40 °C without any significant loss of appearance, integrity, and / or functionality. When used herein, washing means that the absorbent underwear can be subjected to an aqueous solution containing a detergent.

[0041] As used herein, the term "washable absorbent undergarment" refers to a garment that is worn as underwear and is intended to be placed against the skin of a wearer to absorb and contain body fluids such as urine and / or menses. The undergarments disclosed herein are undergarments or panties intended for use by persons suffering from mild to moderate incontinence. The absorbent undergarment is a fabric undergarment, also referred to as a textile undergarment, as opposed to a diaper. The undergarments according to the present disclosure are intended to be worn in the same manner as conventional undergarments and are washed after use for reuse as absorbent incontinence protection undergarments.

[0042] A washable absorbent hygiene undergarment can be a washable absorbent incontinence undergarment.

[0043] The term "washable absorbent pad" refers to a washable absorbent component adapted to be removably secured within a textile panty. The washable absorbent pad can be a washable absorbent pad for female users or male users.

[0044] As used in the present disclosure, the term "fabric" refers to a web of single or multiple layers of textile material. The fabric can be knitted or woven, where knitting is a method of constructing a fabric by interlocking a series of loops of one or more yarns. There are two main categories of knitting, namely warp knitting and weft knitting. Weaving is a method or process of making a woven fabric by interlacing yarns so that they cross each other at right angles. The warp yarns extend longitudinally in the fabric, and the filling threads (weft) or weft yarns extend from one side to the other.

[0045] The term "fiber" is used herein in a broad sense and includes fibers having a measurable length, such as staple fibers, as well as filaments that do not have a measurable length and are commonly referred to as "continuous". The term "fiber" is also intended to cover microfibers and fibrils. The fibers in the textile material used in the washable absorbent undergarments disclosed herein can be spun into yarns or threads, each yarn or thread being composed of multiple fibers.

[0046] When used herein, "permanently attached" refers to an attachment that is intended to remain intact and not be disrupted before, during, or after use of the washable absorbent hygiene undergarments disclosed herein. A permanently attached absorbent component is an absorbent component that cannot be separated from the textile panty of the washable absorbent hygiene undergarment without breaking or otherwise damaging the washable absorbent undergarment. The absorbent component does not have to be directly bonded to the textile panty, but can be attached via a leg opening seam or adhered by means of an intermediate device such as a sealing tape.

[0047] The washable absorbent component can exclude superabsorbent particles, and according to this embodiment, the washable absorbent component does not contain superabsorbent particles. However, the washable absorbent component can contain superabsorbent fibers within the liquid retention structure.

[0048] According to an alternative embodiment, the washable absorbent assembly comprises neither superabsorbent particles nor superabsorbent fibers. According to one embodiment, the washable absorbent assembly does not contain any kind of superabsorbent material.

[0049] The spacer fabric may contain a proportion of absorbent cellulose fibers in the top and bottom layers, or may be free or substantially free of absorbent fibers. The spacer fabric may not contain any kind of superabsorbent material. It has also been found that in washable textile absorbent hygiene underwear that does not include superabsorbent material, liquid has a higher tendency to migrate downwards under the influence of gravity. This means that the risk of leakage under an absorbent core placed in the front of an incontinence product without superabsorbent is higher than for a product containing superabsorbent.

[0050] The liquid permeable layer in the washable absorbent underwear disclosed herein may have a 300 g / m 2 or less, for example less than 200 g / m 2 Basis weight or 150g / m 2 The liquid permeable layer may have a basis weight of 50 g / m 2 With 300g / m 2 The basis weight between.

[0051] In the washable absorbent underwear disclosed herein, the liquid holding capacity of the liquid spacer fabric can be lower than the liquid holding capacity of the liquid holding structure. The liquid holding capacity of the liquid spacer fabric can be 0.2 g / cm 2 or less, and the liquid holding capacity in the liquid holding structure may be 0.3 g / cm 2 or larger.

[0052] It has been found that a particularly effective combination of comfort properties with absorbent and leak-proof properties can be achieved by combining an absorbent assembly having the following characteristics: Basis weight of 300 g / m 2 or less liquid permeable layer, including a density of 0.1 g / cm 3 or smaller spacer fabric liquid acquisition structure, the liquid retention capacity in the spacer fabric is 0.2g / cm 2 or less, the liquid holding capacity in the absorbent holding structure is 0.3 g / cm 2 or greater. The density of the liquid retention structure may be 20% higher than the density of the liquid acquisition structure. The density of the liquid retention structure may be 50% higher than the density of the spacer fabric in the liquid acquisition structure.

[0053] When viewed in a direction from the wearer-facing interior surface of the washable absorbent sanitary undergarment toward the garment-facing exterior surface of the washable absorbent sanitary undergarment, the absorbent assembly comprises the following components:

[0054] Liquid-permeable layer

[0055] The liquid-permeable layer is a liquid wicking and transfer layer. The liquid-permeable layer is preferably a hydrophilic layer that can attract aqueous liquids and allow the liquids to pass through the layer to the underlying layer of the absorbent assembly, such as a lower liquid collection layer that can drain the liquid from the liquid-permeable layer.

[0056] The liquid-permeable layer can be made of any suitable material that can withstand repeated washing. Suitable textile materials include fibrous knitted or woven materials such as warp-knitted materials, and mesh materials such as polymer meshes, perforated plastic materials, and the like.

[0057] The layer can comprise or consist of natural fibers such as cotton, regenerated cellulose fibers such as viscose fibers, or synthetic fibers such as polyester fibers, polyolefin fibers, etc. Synthetic fibers can be single-component, bicomponent, or multicomponent fibers. Different types of fibers can be combined in the layer, for example, to facilitate liquid wicking through the layer while maintaining a dry surface feel. It can be preferred that the liquid-permeable layer comprises at least a portion of inherently wettable (hydrophilic) fibers, which can facilitate liquid uptake and wicking in the layer. The liquid-permeable layer can include at least a portion of synthetic fibers that do not absorb or retain liquids. The layer can, for example, comprise or consist of a combination of viscose or other regenerated fibers and polyolefin fibers (such as polypropylene fibers). However, liquid-permeable layers made solely of natural or regenerated cellulose fibers and liquid-permeable layers made solely of synthetic fibers are also contemplated for the washable absorbent sanitary underwear disclosed herein. Unless having a large opening area, a liquid-permeable layer made entirely of synthetic inherently non-wettable fibers will generally be treated, for example, by surfactant treatment, to make the outer surface of the fibers hydrophilic and wettable.

[0058] Liquid collection structure

[0059] The liquid collection structure drains the liquid from the liquid-permeable layer, distributes the liquid therein, and transfers the liquid to the underlying liquid absorbent layer, such as a liquid retention structure. The liquid collection structure preferably has a high degree of looseness and an internal volume that allows the liquid to be received and temporarily retained in the layer. The liquid collection structure can also serve as a spacer element to isolate the liquid from the wearer's skin and also prevent the absorbed liquid from returning to the liquid-permeable layer when the washable absorbent sanitary underwear is exposed to pressure during use.

[0060] The liquid collection structure can be composed of one or more layers of woven, knitted, or non-woven textile materials, such as three-dimensional spacer materials, terry cloth materials, or washable non-woven materials.

[0061] As disclosed herein, the liquid collection structure used in a washable absorbent sanitary undergarment may preferably comprise or consist of a spacer fabric. The spacer fabric includes two outer layers, such as two warp-knitted layers, which are connected to each other by spacer elements extending substantially vertically between the layers. The spacer elements are formed of pile filaments which are relatively bend-resistant and elastic compared to the fibers in the outer layers.

[0062] The spacer fabric can be knitted into an integral structure. The outer layers may include wettable absorbent fibers, such as natural or regenerated cellulose fibers, and the spacer elements may be made of a synthetic material that will retain its elasticity in the wet state.

[0063] When a washable absorbent sanitary undergarment or pad is used, body fluids such as urine and / or menses that pass through the liquid-permeable layer and into the liquid collection structure can be absorbed by the outer layers of the spacer fabric. The non-absorbent pile filaments create liquid-receiving and accommodating spaces between the outer layers of the spacer fabric. The liquid-receiving and accommodating spaces are also referred to herein as the intermediate section of the spacer fabric. The liquid accommodation space can serve as a reservoir for the liquid, which can then be absorbed by the lower of the two outer layers and additional absorbent materials disposed below the liquid collection structure. The liquid can flow relatively freely within the spaces of the channel network formed by the pile filaments between the outer layers of the spacer material, thereby allowing the liquid to spread over a larger area of the absorbent structure and increasing the area of the absorbent structure over which the liquid can be transferred to one or more lower layers.

[0064] Liquid retention structure

[0065] The liquid retention structure can consist of one or more layers of woven, knitted, or non-woven textile materials, which are arranged to receive liquid from the liquid collection structure.

[0066] The liquid retention structure can be made of a three-dimensional spacer material, a terry cloth material, or a washable non-woven material. The liquid retention structure preferably has a higher ability to absorb and retain liquid within the structure than the liquid collection structure and is capable of discharging liquid from the liquid collection structure.

[0067] The liquid retention structure can include synthetic fibers, natural fibers, or man-made cellulose fibers, as described above for the liquid collection structure. The liquid retention structure can contain superabsorbent fibers. The liquid retention structure can include any mixture or composition of suitable fibers.

[0068] Liquid-impermeable layer

[0069] The liquid-impermeable layer is used to retain liquid within the absorbent members of the absorbent assembly and prevent the liquid from leaking through the textile pants or being absorbed by the textile pants material.

[0070] The liquid-impermeable layer is typically a polymeric film layer or membrane. The polymeric membrane is preferably breathable, allowing air and water vapor to pass through the membrane but forming a liquid barrier. A breathable polyurethane membrane can be used for the liquid-impermeable layer. The liquid-impermeable layer can be directly attached to the absorbent layer, such as the absorbent layer in a liquid retention structure. The attachment can be, for example, by a seam or by lamination. Laminating the liquid-impermeable layer to the liquid retention structure can be carried out by means of a structural adhesive or by extruding the liquid-impermeable layer onto the absorbent layer of the liquid retention structure. The structural adhesive can be, for example, a polyurethane-based adhesive.

[0071] The washable absorbent assembly can be a washable absorbent pad adapted to be removably fixed to a textile pant.

[0072] The present disclosure also relates to a washable absorbent sanitary underwear, which comprises an absorbent assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 19, and a textile pant, wherein the absorbent assembly is permanently fixed in the textile pant. The absorbent sanitary underwear has an extent in a longitudinal direction (y), a transverse direction (x), and a thickness direction (z) perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (y) and the transverse direction (x), and the textile pant includes a front portion, a rear portion, and a crotch portion. The washable absorbent sanitary underwear can be a washable absorbent incontinence underwear.

[0073] The material in the textile pant is preferably a warp-knitted material, such as a cotton warp-knitted material including an elastic material such as elastane. The washable absorbent sanitary underwear is preferably provided with a separately applied elastic waistband. The elastic waistband can include the same warp-knitted material as the outer pant material or any other suitable textile material. The elastic waistband preferably includes a waist elastic element, such as an elastic thread or one or more elastic bands.

[0074] In the washable absorbent underwear, the liquid-permeable layer, one or more absorbent layers, and the liquid-impermeable layer of the absorbent assembly can be attached to the textile pant by means of a seam. A liquid-impermeable band can be applied around the peripheral edge of the absorbent assembly. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0075] The washable absorbent assembly disclosed herein will be further explained below by way of non-limiting examples and with reference to the drawings, wherein:

[0076] Figure 1 A perspective front view of an absorbent underwear for a female user is shown;

[0077] Figure 2 is shown from the inside facing the wearer Figure 1 of the absorbent underwear, and is in a flat state with the side seams open;

[0078] Figure 3 A cross-section taken along line III-III in Figure 2 is shown;

[0079] Figure 4 Shows a perspective front view of an absorbent undergarment for male users;

[0080] Figure 5 Shows a perspective view of an exemplary spacer fabric.

[0081] Figure 6 Shows the ratio curves of thickness / grammage measured for the spacer fabric of the present invention and a reference spacer fabric under different applied pressures. Detailed Description

[0082] It should be understood that the drawings are schematic and that the individual components or features (such as material layers) are not necessarily drawn to scale.

[0083] The absorbent hygiene undergarment shown in the drawings is provided only as an example and should not be considered a limitation of the invention disclosed herein. Although the washable absorbent assembly shown in the drawings is permanently fixed to the washable absorbent undergarment, it should be understood that the washable absorbent assembly can be a washable absorbent pad detachably fixed to a textile pant.

[0084] The washable absorbent hygiene undergarment disclosed herein should not be construed as limited to the aspects set forth herein, but may vary within the scope of the appended claims. Although Figure 1 and Figure 2 the washable absorbent undergarment shown takes the form of an incontinence pant for female users, it should be understood that the washable absorbent undergarment can be an incontinence undergarment for male users or can be an unisex incontinence undergarment. The washable absorbent undergarment can be of any useful design, such as panties, briefs, boxers, etc. known in the art.

[0085] Figure 1 and 4 Show a front perspective view of the washable absorbent undergarment 1 as seen from the outer side 2 facing the clothing. Figure 1 The absorbent undergarment 1 in Figure 4 is an incontinence pant for female incontinent persons, and Figure 1 and 4 the absorbent undergarment 1 in

[0086] Figure 2 Show the undergarment 1 as seen from the inner side 3 facing the wearer, in a flat state with the side seams open. Figure 1 of

[0087] The absorbent undergarment 1 includes a textile pant 10 and includes an absorbent assembly 100 which is permanently fixed in the textile pant 10, for example, by stitching to the textile pant 10 and / or by adhesively attaching to the textile pant 10.

[0088] As Figure 2 shown, the textile pant 10, the entire absorbent undergarment 1, and the absorbent assembly 100 have an extent in a longitudinal direction y, a transverse direction x, and a thickness direction z perpendicular to the longitudinal and transverse directions. The absorbent undergarment 1 has a front portion 11, a rear portion 16, and a crotch portion 15 bridging the front portion 11 and the rear portion 16.

[0089] Figure 1 and Figure 2 shown, the absorbent undergarment 1 includes an elastic waistband 20 for providing improved retention of the absorbent undergarment 1 on the wearer's body. The elastic waistband is an optional component of the absorbent undergarment 1 disclosed herein and can be applied to the textile pant 10 of the absorbent undergarment 1 as a separate component, or can be integrally formed with the textile pant 10, for example, as part of the textile pant 10 having increased elasticity compared to other parts of the textile pant 10. In the first case, the waistband can be any type of waistband used in conventional undergarments, such as a waistband made of cotton and elastic fibers. In the latter case, the textile material in the waistband is generally the same as the fabric material in other parts of the textile pant 10, such as cotton. The waistband integrally formed with the textile pant 10 can be formed by folding an edge portion of the textile pant 10 onto itself to form a waistband including two layers of pant material. Another way to manufacture a unique integral waistband is to have a smaller textile gauge at the waist of the textile pant. The waistband can include additional elastic elements to provide enhanced elasticity at the waist of the textile pant.

[0090] The textile pant 10 can also include leg cuffs disposed around the leg openings of the pant. The leg cuffs can be elasticized leg cuffs which include additional elastic elements providing enhanced elasticity at the leg openings.

[0091] The material of the textile pant 10 is typically a conventional undergarment material, such as a knitted (warp knitted) material, and can include natural-derived fibers, man-made fibers, and mixtures or compositions of different fibers. Useful natural-derived fibers include cotton, wool, silk, cellulose; regenerated cellulose (including rayon, viscose, modal, lyocell, and tencel), bamboo, hemp, linen, ramie, coir, or banana fiber.

[0092] Useful man-made synthetic fibers include polyamides, acrylics, polyesters. As described herein, the textile material can include a mixture or combination of natural-derived fibers and / or synthetic fibers. The fibers can be recycled fibers. The textile material can include an elastically stretchable material, such as an elastomeric filament, such that the absorbent undergarment can better conform to the wearer's body and accommodate the wearer's movement. The elastic conformability of the textile pants helps prevent liquid from leaking through the leg openings and keeps the absorbent component in place against the wearer's body. The fabric material is generally breathable, allowing vapor to escape from the wearer's skin and the absorbent component. Advantageously, the material in the textile pants is a combination of cotton and elastomeric fibers.

[0093] Absorbent component 100 is integrated with textile pants 10 and is positioned in the area of textile pants 10 most likely to be exposed to urination to provide absorbency and leakage protection in the primary wetting area of absorbent undergarment 1. In Figure 1 and Figure 2 the absorbent undergarment 1 shown, absorbent component 100 is hourglass-shaped and is positioned on longitudinal centerline L and transverse centerline T. Absorbent component 100 is present in crotch 15 and has a front portion that extends into front portion 11 of absorbent undergarment 1 and a rear portion that extends into rear portion 16 of absorbent undergarment 1. Further referring to Figure 1 and Figure 2 the example shown, absorbent component 100 has a generally hourglass shape with rounded front edge 14 and rear edge 17 and generally longitudinally extending concave side edges 18, 19. However, it should be understood that absorbent component 100 can have any useful shape within the scope of the claims, such as Figure 4 the variant triangular shape shown in

[0094] In Figure 4 the absorbent undergarment 1 shown for male users, absorbent component 100 is located in the area of front portion 11 of absorbent undergarment 1 that extends longitudinally in direction y from waistband 20 towards crotch 15. Absorbent component 100 has a generally triangular shape with rounded lower corners positioned at crotch 15 of absorbent undergarment 1. However, as disclosed herein, absorbent component 100 can extend downward into crotch 15 of absorbent undergarment 1 and can even extend through crotch 15 and into rear portion 16 of absorbent undergarment 1. It should be understood that absorbent component 100 can have any useful shape within the scope of the claims.

[0095] As disclosed herein, absorbent component 100 includes several layers of different materials stacked on top of each other. Referring to Figure 3, the absorbent assembly 100 includes a liquid-permeable layer 120, a liquid-impermeable layer 150, and an absorbent member 140 disposed between the liquid-permeable layer 120 and the liquid-impermeable layer 150. The absorbent member 140 includes a liquid collection structure 141 of textile absorbent material and a liquid retention structure 142 of textile absorbent material. It should be understood that the liquid collection structure 141 of textile absorbent material and the liquid retention structure 142 of textile absorbent material may each include two or more layers of material.

[0096] As described herein, the liquid-permeable layer 120 is a textile liquid-permeable layer having a basis weight of 300 g / m 2 or less. The liquid retention structure 142 is an absorbent component that may be composed of a single layer of absorbent textile material or may include two or more separate layers of absorbent textile material.

[0097] The absorbent assembly 100 is shown in Figure 3 to be permanently attached to the textile pant 10 in an attachment boundary 130 that extends along the peripheral edges 14, 17, 18, 19 of the absorbent assembly 100. The attachment may include or consist of seams that pass through all layers of the absorbent assembly 100 present at the peripheral edge of the absorbent assembly 100. The attachment may also include a sealing strip. The sealing strip may be adhesively applied, for example, to seal the edges of the various material layers in the absorbent assembly 100. The sealing strip is liquid-impermeable and preferably breathable and may be in the form of a polymer tape, such as a polyurethane tape.

[0098] In Figure 3 the illustrated embodiment, all components in the absorbent assembly 100 are coextensive. However, this is not a requirement for the absorbent assembly 100 in the washable absorbent sanitary underwear 1 disclosed herein. Embodiments in which the liquid collection structure 141 has a smaller area in the x-y plane than the liquid retention structure 142 may be useful because the liquid collection structure can then be disposed in the main wetting area of the washable absorbent underwear, where one or more absorbent layers of the liquid retention structure extend beyond the peripheral edge of the liquid collection structure to create one or more safety zones in the secondary wetting area of the absorbent assembly 100. For example, at the side edges of the liquid collection structure 141 in the crotch 15 of the absorbent sanitary underwear 1 as shown in Figure 1 , below the liquid collection structure 141 placed in the front part 11 of the absorbent sanitary underwear 1 as shown in Figure 4 or as shown in Figure 4The sub-wetting region can be useful at the upper exterior of the liquid collection structure 141 of the absorbent hygiene undergarment 1 shown. The sub-wetting region can be used to capture urine that overflows the liquid collection structure 141 during a sudden gush of urine and urine that misses the main wetting region. This is a particularly common problem in the washable absorbent hygiene undergarment 1 for male users. The male anatomy makes it more difficult to predict the location of the main wetting region. It has been found that a relatively large proportion of pant-type absorbent male incontinence products are wetted at the upper part or the waist of the front of the incontinence product. Another problem specific to washable male absorbent undergarments without superabsorbent materials is that, as Figure 4 shown, urine initially absorbed into the absorbent assembly 100 placed in the front of the absorbent undergarment 1 may flow downward under the influence of gravity into the crotch 15 of the absorbent undergarment 1. Therefore, it may be beneficial to arrange supplementary absorbent material in the crotch 15 of the washable absorbent male undergarment 1 to create an absorbent safety zone in the crotch 15.

[0099] The liquid collection structure 141 comprises or consists of a spacer fabric 138, as Figure 5 shown, where the liquid collection structure 141 is represented by a single layer of spacer fabric 138. As disclosed herein, in addition to the spacer fabric layer, the liquid collection structure 141 may also comprise additional layers, such as a second spacer fabric layer and / or an open mesh material disposed between the top layer 120 and the spacer fabric 138.

[0100] The spacer fabric 138 includes a top web 138a and a bottom web 138b, and an interconnected section 138c of pile filaments extending between the top web 138a and the bottom web 138b. The top web 138a and the bottom web 138b of the spacer fabric 138 may have different configurations to control the liquid flow in the spacer fabric 138 and the liquid transfer to the liquid retention structure 142. As disclosed herein, the top web 138a may have a lower density than the bottom web 138b. In addition, the density of the top web 138a and the bottom web 138b is higher than the density of the intermediate section 138c.

[0101] The liquid retention capacity of the spacer fabric 138 is preferably significantly lower than the liquid retention capacity of the liquid retention structure 142. Therefore, the retention capacity of the spacer fabric can be 0.2 g / cm 2 or less, and the retention capacity in the liquid retention structure 142 can be 0.3 g / cm 2 or greater.

[0102] The density of the liquid retention structure 142 is preferably significantly higher than the density of the spacer fabric 138 in the liquid collection structure 141.

[0103] The spacer fabric 138 useful in the liquid collection structure 141 disclosed herein has 0.1 g / cm3 a density of or less and a thickness of 2 mm or greater, and having a basis weight and density lower than those of the liquid retention structure 142.

[0104] The spacer fabric 138 is more compression-resistant than other components that can be used for fluid flow control in absorbent articles, but at the same time has a relatively low basis weight, such as 150 g / m 2 to 300 g / m 2 or 170 g / m 2 to 270 g / m 2 . This allows for a slender and effective liquid flow control member that will maintain its structure and fluid flow control performance when pressure is applied to it during the use of the washable absorbent sanitary undergarment 1. As described herein, the spacer fabric preferably has a looseness (thickness / basis weight ratio) of 10 cm 3 / g or greater under an applied pressure of 5 kPa.

[0105] The number of tufted filament junctions per square centimeter and the size of the tufted filaments make the material soft, but still able to withstand the pressure applied during its use. The tufted filaments of the spacer fabric 138 have high flexural elasticity, whereby the spacer fabric 138 expands almost completely to its original shape and thickness immediately after the compressive force applied to the spacer fabric 138 during its use is removed.

[0106] The tufted filaments in the intermediate section 138c of the spacer fabric 138 can together form channels, preferably in the diagonal direction of the fabric, thereby creating an internal channel network that promotes the effective distribution of liquid in the liquid collection structure 141.

[0107] The spacer fabric 138 is a highly porous material, and due to its high compression resistance, free volume also exists in the highly porous material when the absorbent member 140 is exposed to the pressure applied by the user wearing the absorbent male undergarment 1. Due to the free volume, the spacer fabric 138 is able to receive and temporarily hold a relatively large volume of liquid. Therefore, the body fluid discharged into the absorbent assembly 100 can effectively transfer from the liquid-permeable layer 120 to the spacer fabric 138 and can flow in the internal channel network in the intermediate section 138c of the spacer fabric 138 to be distributed over the area of the spacer fabric 138. Then, the distributed liquid can transfer to the liquid retention structure 142 over an area as large as the area of the spacer fabric 138. The liquid transferred to the liquid retention structure 142 is absorbed and retained in the absorbent material of the liquid retention structure 142.

[0108] The top web 138a of the spacer fabric 138 may have an open structure to ensure rapid inflow and efficient distribution of liquid within the spacer fabric 138. The spacer fabric 138 is preferably substantially free of absorbent fibers and free of superabsorbent materials. However, the top web 138a and the bottom web 138b may comprise hydrophilic fibers, such as regenerated cellulose fibers, to promote wettability and liquid transfer between the liquid-permeable layer 120 and the top web 138a and between the bottom web 138b and the liquid retention structure 142.

[0109] The spacer fabric 138 preferably comprises thermoplastic polymer fibers, preferably selected from but not limited to polyester, polyamide, and polyolefins, such as polyethylene and polypropylene, and may be a mixture or combination of any of these. The spacer fabric 138 may also advantageously comprise fibers from cotton and / or viscose. For a preferred spacer fabric 138, the yarns of the top web 138a and the bottom web 138b and the pile filaments 138c are polyester.

[0110] The spacer fabric 138 may also contain surfactants to facilitate liquid penetration into the spacer fabric 138. It is also desirable that the spacer fabric 138 be able to rapidly discharge liquid through the liquid retention structure 142, thereby restoring the free volume capacity for the next urine surge.

[0111] The spacer fabric 138 is disposed within the absorbent assembly 100, wherein the top web 138a of the spacer fabric 138 faces the liquid-permeable layer 120 and preferably contacts the liquid-permeable layer 120, and the bottom web 138b of the spacer fabric 138 faces the liquid-impermeable layer 150.

[0112] The liquid-impermeable layer 150 is typically a polymer film layer or a thin film, and is preferably breathable, allowing air and water vapor to pass through, but forming a barrier against liquid penetration. The liquid-impermeable layer 150 may be directly attached to the absorbent layer, such as the absorbent layer within the liquid retention structure 142. The attachment may be by seams or by lamination. The lamination of the liquid-impermeable layer 150 to the liquid retention structure 142 may be carried out by means of a structural adhesive or by extruding the liquid-permeable layer 150 onto the absorbent layer of the liquid retention structure. The structural adhesive may be a polyurethane-based adhesive.

[0113] Examples and descriptions of test methods

[0114] Example 1 - Density measurement

[0115] Measure the weight and thickness of the sample. Measure the thickness of the material at a pressure of 0.5 kPa according to the standard test method NWSP120.6, option A. Calculate the basis weight by dividing the weight by the area. Then, calculate the density by dividing the basis weight by the thickness.

[0116] The density and basis weight of the following material samples have been measured:

[0117] Sample Description <![CDATA[Density (g / cm 3 )]]> <![CDATA[Grammage (g / m 2 )]]> A Spacer fabric 0.06 247 B Spacer fabric 0.06 175 C Spacer fabric 0.08 230 D Reference spacer fabric 0.13 258 E Reference spacer fabric 0.18 400 F Abs retention structure 0.12 330 G Liquid-permeable layer 0.15 220

[0118] Samples A, B, and C are spacer fabric materials from Muller Textil.

[0119] Sample D is a reference spacer fabric material from a washable absorbent underwear named Confitex Full Brief Extra, size M. Sample E is a reference spacer fabric from a washable absorbent underwear named ProTech Dry women, size M. Both Confitex Full Brief Extra, size M and ProTech Dry women, size M are commercially available washable absorbent underwear. Sample F is an absorbent retention structure of terry material. Sample G is a liquid-permeable layer of polyester.

[0120] Example 2 - Compression resistance measurement

[0121] Compression tests have been performed on different spacer fabric materials to compare the compression resistance of the spacer fabrics in commercially available washable absorbent underwear with that of the spacer fabrics of the present invention. Samples A, B, and C are three spacer fabrics according to the present invention. Samples D and E are two reference spacer fabrics as described in Example 1.

[0122] The principle of the method is to slowly compress the material with a metal rod to a force of 62 N while continuously measuring the thickness of the material. The results consist of data points of force and extension. Given the contact area of the rod, the force is converted into pressure. The foot of the metal rod / piston has a diameter of 35 mm. The rod is mounted in a 100 N load cell in the upper fixture of an Instron testing device. The flat plate is mounted in the bottom fixture and centered under the rod so that the sample can be placed on top of the plate and compressed without movement of the plate. The movement rate of the rod is 10 mm per minute.

[0123] To test the sample, the rod is manually moved to be above the surface of the sample and the program is started. The rod moves downward at a speed of 10 mm per minute until the limit force is reached.

[0124] The area of the sample is 10 cm 2 and punched out from the material. The rod is pressed on the center of the sample, and each sample is tested twice, with a 10-minute interval between the first test and the second test to allow the material to recover.

[0125] The thicknesses of spacer fabrics A, B, C, D, and E under different applied pressures are as follows:

[0126] Spacer fabric 0.5 kPa 5.0 kPa 10 kPa 20 kPa A 4.3 4.0 3.7 2.5 B 2.7 2.3 1.7 1.0 C 3.0 2.8 2.7 2.2 D 2.2 2.0 1.7 1.2 E 3.0 2.6 2.3 1.8

[0127] Looseness (cm 3 / g) of spacer fabrics A, B, C, D, and E under different applied pressures is as follows:

[0128] Spacer fabric 0.5 kPa 5.0 kPa 10 kPa 20 kPa A 24.5 22.7 21.3 14.2 B 15.5 13.1 9.8 5.5 C 13.6 12.6 11.8 9.8 D 8.5 7.6 6.6 4.5 E 5.3 4.6 4.1 3.2

[0129] Figure 6 The ratio curves of thickness / grammage measured for the spacer fabric of the present invention and a reference spacer fabric under different applied pressures are shown.

[0130] The results show that spacer fabrics named A, B, and C have a looseness of 10 cm 3 / g or greater under an applied pressure of 0.5 kPa and under an applied pressure of 5 kPa, where spacer fabrics D and E have a looseness of less than 10 cm 3 / g under an applied pressure of 0.5 kPa and under an applied pressure of 5 kPa. The looseness value is the reciprocal of the density value, so spacer fabrics having a looseness of 10 cm 3 / g or greater under an applied pressure of 0.5 kPa and 5 kPa have a density of less than 0.10 g / cm 3 at an applied pressure of 0.5 kPa and 5 kPa.

[0131] Example 3 - Liquid retention capacity measurement

[0132] The liquid retention ability test measures the amount of liquid retained within a test sample after a specified number of soakings and vertical drainings. The amount of test liquid retained by the test sample is used to calculate and report the liquid retention ability in g / cm 2 . The test is conducted in a climate-controlled chamber maintained at 23 °C and 50% RH.

[0133] The test procedure follows Method WSP 010.1.R3 (20) Part B (Liquid Absorption Capacity) with the following modifications. The test liquid is a 0.9% saline solution. For the weighing part of the test, no cover glass is used as the test liquid is non-volatile. The sample size of the test sample is 3 cm × 5 cm and the size of the wire gauze is 4 cm × 6 cm. The sample is suspended vertically for 60 seconds.

[0134] The test sample is prepared as follows. The test sample is taken from the product using scissors and then punched out to a sample size of 3 cm × 5 cm using a stamping tool.

[0135] Then the soaking and draining procedures in Method NWSP10.1 with the above modifications are performed. The dry mass is subtracted from the wet mass and recorded as the mass of the absorbed liquid in grams, and then the mass of the absorbed liquid (g) is divided by the total area of the test sample (cm2 )。The measurement is repeated three times in total. Then, the arithmetic mean of the liquid retention capacity in g / cm 2 is calculated.

[0136] Test samples A, D, and F. Sample A is a spacer fabric from Muller Textil. Sample D is a reference spacer fabric material from a washable absorbent underwear named Confitex Full Brief Extra, size M. Confitex Full Brief Extra, size M is a commercially available washable absorbent underwear. Sample F is an absorbent retention structure of terry material.

[0137] The liquid retention capacities (g / cm 2 ) of samples A, D, and F are as follows:

[0138] Sample <![CDATA[Liquid retention capacity (g / cm 2 )]]> A 0.08 D 0.12 F 0.24

[0139] From this result, it can be seen that the retention capacity of sample A, which is a spacer fabric according to the present disclosure, is less than 0.1 g / cm 2 , and the retention capacity of sample D, which is a reference spacer fabric in the washable absorbent underwear named Confitex Full Brief Extra, size M, is greater than 0.1 g / cm 2 . In addition, sample F, which is an absorbent retention structure of the terry material layer, has a retention capacity of more than 0.2 g / cm 2 .

[0140] To further increase the liquid retention capacity, the absorbent retention structure of the present disclosure may include more than one liquid retention layer, for example, two or more layers according to the terry material of sample F, where each layer has a liquid retention capacity of 0.24 g / cm 2 . The present disclosure may include two or more liquid retention layers, for example, two or more layers according to the terry material of sample F.

[0141] Example 4 - Collection measurement

[0142] Collect the time required for the absorbent sample (concept) to absorb a specified amount of liquid during the test measurement. Place the collection cup on the wearer-facing side of the absorbent sample, and the wearer-facing side of the absorbent sample is the wearer-facing side of the liquid-permeable layer. Then, add a dose of 10 ml at a flow rate of 20 ml / second.

[0143] Measure the collection time for three absorbent samples. Each of absorbent samples 1, 2, and 3 includes a liquid-permeable layer, a liquid collection structure, and a liquid retention structure. Therefore, each of the tested absorbent samples includes a liquid-permeable layer and an absorbent member.

[0144] The liquid-permeable layer is sample G among absorbent samples A, B, and C. The width of the liquid-permeable layer is 6 cm, and the length of the liquid-permeable layer is 18 cm. The liquid-retaining structure is sample F among absorbent samples A, B, and C. The width of the liquid-retaining structure is 6 cm, and the length of the liquid-retaining structure is 18 cm.

[0145] As the liquid collection structure, samples A, D, and F were tested. The width of the liquid collection structure is narrower than that of the liquid-permeable layer and the liquid-retaining structure. The width of the liquid collection structure is 3.5 cm, and the length of the liquid collection structure is 18 cm.

[0146] Absorbent sample Liquid collection structure Entry time (seconds) 1 A 2.0 2 D 3.7 3 F 5.2

[0147] From this result, it can be seen that sample 1 provides a faster collection time than sample 2. Therefore, compared with the absorbent sample (sample D) with a reference spacer fabric, the absorbent sample (sample A) with a spacer fabric according to the present invention provides a faster entry time.

[0148] It can also be seen that compared with sample 3 without a spacer fabric, the absorbent samples 1 and 2 with a spacer fabric provide a faster collection time. The absorbent sample 3 has absorbent terry material as the collection structure and is thus the same material as the liquid-retaining structure.

Claims

1. A washable absorbent assembly (100) adapted to be permanently or removably fixed in a textile pant (10), the absorbent assembly (100) having an extent in a longitudinal direction (y), a transverse direction (x), and a thickness direction (z) perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (y) and the transverse direction (x), and the absorbent assembly (100) comprising: - A liquid-permeable layer (120), - A liquid-impermeable layer (150); And - An absorbent member (140) located between the liquid-permeable layer (120) and the liquid-impermeable layer (150), the absorbent member (140) comprising a liquid collection structure (141) and a liquid retention structure (142), the liquid collection structure (141) being disposed between the liquid-permeable layer (120) and the liquid retention structure (142), wherein The liquid-permeable layer (120) has a basis weight of less than 300 g / m 2 ²; The liquid collection structure (141) comprises or consists of a spacer fabric (138), the spacer fabric (138) including a top ply (138a), a bottom ply (138b) and an intermediate section (138c), the intermediate section (138c) including pile filaments extending in the thickness direction (z) and connecting the top ply (138a) to the bottom ply (138b), the spacer fabric (138) having a density of 0.1 g / cm 3 or less at an applied pressure of 0.5 kPa, and the liquid retention structure (142) having a higher density than the liquid collection structure (141).

2. The washable absorbent assembly (100) according to claim 1, wherein, The liquid retention structure (142) has a higher density than the spacer fabric (138) in the liquid collection structure.

3. The washable absorbent assembly (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The spacer fabric (138) in the liquid collection structure (141) has a looseness of 10 cm 3 / g or greater under an applied pressure of 5 kPa.

4. The washable absorbent assembly (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The spacer fabric (138) in the liquid collection structure (141) has a looseness of 8 cm 3 / g or greater under an applied pressure of 10 kPa.

5. The washable absorbent assembly (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The spacer fabric (138) in the liquid collection structure (141) has a looseness of 5 cm 3 / g or greater under an applied pressure of 20 kPa.

6. The washable absorbent assembly (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The liquid retention structure (142) has a higher basis weight than the liquid collection structure (141).

7. The washable absorbent assembly (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The spacer fabric has a basis weight between 150 g / m 2 and 300 g / m 2 or between 170 g / m 2 and 270 g / m 2 and.

8. The washable absorbent assembly (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The spacer fabric (138) has a thickness of 2 mm or more.

9. The washable absorbent assembly (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The liquid-permeable layer has a basis weight of 250 g / m 2 or less, such as 200 g / m 2 or less, or 150 g / m 2 or less.

10. The washable absorbent assembly (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The spacer fabric in the liquid collection structure has a lower liquid retention capacity than the liquid retention structure.

11. The washable absorbent assembly (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The spacer fabric in the collection structure has a liquid retention capacity of 0.2 g / cm 2 or less, and the liquid retention structure (142) has a liquid retention capacity of 0.3 g / cm 2 or more.

12. The washable absorbent assembly (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The density of the liquid retention structure (142) is 20% higher than the density of the spacer fabric (138), or more than 50% higher than the density of the spacer fabric (138).

13. The washable absorbent assembly (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The liquid collection structure (141) consists of a single layer of spacer fabric (138) or consists of one layer of spacer fabric (138) and one or more additional material layers.

14. The washable absorbent assembly (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The liquid retention structure (142) consists of a single material layer or consists of two or more independent material layers.

15. The washable absorbent assembly (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The spacer fabric (138) of the liquid collection structure (141) is in direct contact with the liquid retention structure (142).

16. The washable absorbent assembly (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The spacer fabric (138) of the liquid collection structure (141) is in direct contact with the liquid-permeable layer (120).

17. The washable absorbent assembly (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The density of the bottom web (138b) of the spacer fabric (138) is higher than the density of the top web (138a) of the spacer fabric (138).

18. The washable absorbent assembly (100) according to claim 10, wherein, The density of the top web (138a) of the spacer fabric (138) is higher than the density of the middle section (138c) of the spacer fabric (138).

19. The washable absorbent assembly (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The liquid retention structure (142) is directly attached to the liquid-impermeable layer (150), for example, by stitching or laminating to the liquid-impermeable layer (150).

20. The washable absorbent assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The washable absorbent assembly is a washable absorbent pad adapted to be removably fixed to a textile pant.

21. A washable absorbent sanitary underwear (1), comprising an absorbent assembly (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 19, and a textile pant (10), wherein the absorbent assembly is permanently fixed in the textile pant, wherein, The absorbent sanitary underwear (1) has an extent in a longitudinal direction (y), a transverse direction (x), and a thickness direction (z) perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (y) and the transverse direction (x), and the textile pant (10) comprises a front portion (11), a rear portion (16), and a crotch portion (15).

22. The washable absorbent sanitary undergarment (1) according to claim 21, wherein, The washable absorbent sanitary underwear is a washable absorbent incontinence underwear.

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