Incontinence article in the form of underpants with channel

Abstract

The present invention relates to an incontinence article in the form of underpants for one-time use, comprising a stomach section and a back section, which are interlinked during manufacture at side seam zones on both sides, wherein the stomach section and / or the back section has at least one elastic region, and comprising an absorbing unit which has an absorption element having a length LA. The absorption element comprises a first absorbing element layer, which has an ultra-absorbent material and at least one channel, oriented in a longitudinal direction, with a length LK, wherein the channel comprises, or is formed from, a recess which extends through the first absorbing element layer in a direction of thickness.

Description

[0001] Title: Incontinence product in panty form with channel

[0002] Description

[0003] The present invention relates to an incontinence article in the form of pants, i.e. a “pants” article, for adults for single use for the absorption of body excretions.

[0004] Panty-type incontinence articles have an outer shell forming the chassis, wherein the outer shell may extend from the abdominal section to the back section as a unit or in the form of a modular structure, wherein the abdominal section and the back section are spaced apart from one another in the longitudinal direction.

[0005] For example, incontinence articles in the form of briefs with a modular, three-component structure with the main components abdominal section, back section and crotch section are known from document EP 2 211 812 B1.

[0006] Such panty-style incontinence products typically comprise an absorbent unit with an absorbent body. The absorbent unit can be single- or multi-layered and have a topsheet facing the body and a backsheet facing away from the body. The absorbent body often contains synthetic or natural fibers such as cellulose fibers and superabsorbent material, particularly a superabsorbent polymer (SAP). SAP has a very high absorption capacity for body fluids such as urine. High-performance SAPs can also bind the absorbed urine even under pressure. Therefore, SAPs contribute significantly to reducing the rewetting of an absorbent body during use. Therefore, absorbent bodies with a high content of superabsorbent materials, particularly SAP, and a comparatively low fiber content have been developed.However, absorbent bodies with a high SAP content are disadvantageous when the absorbent body is used to absorb large amounts of urine in a very short period of time. Already swollen SAP carries the risk of so-called gel blocking, meaning the urine is not absorbed quickly enough by the SAP, and there are no cavities for temporary storage of the urine.

[0007] Absorbent layers that contain a lot of superabsorbent material such as SAP therefore often have a so-called absorption and distribution layer (ADL) facing the body, which typically does not contain superabsorbent material such as SAP. A typical ADL can advantageously absorb a large amount of urine quickly and temporarily store it until the absorbent layer containing superabsorbent material located beneath the ADL can absorb and permanently store the urine. However, ensuring this function with the ADL alone requires correspondingly bulky materials, which can impair comfort and increase the product's manufacturing costs.

[0008] As an alternative or in addition to an ADL, absorbent bodies have been developed that have differently shaped recesses, particularly channel-like recesses. Such a recess is also suitable for absorbing gushes of urine and thus counteracting the problem of gel blocking. Such recesses also appear to advantageously contribute to the desired three-dimensional shape during use. However, the solutions known from the prior art carry the risk of leading to uncontrolled deformations or even undesirable damage to the absorbent body in question during use, with the absorbent body tearing or breaking starting at the recess. Last but not least, the known recesses in SAP-containing absorbent layers are often perceived by consumers as a product defect.

[0009] It was therefore the object of the invention to provide an incontinence article in the form of panties of the type described above which avoids the disadvantages of the prior art.

[0010] This object is achieved by an incontinence article in the form of briefs for single use for the absorption of body excretions, having a longitudinal direction and a transverse direction, comprising a front abdominal section and a rear back section, which are joined together by the manufacturer to form a continuous abdominal and back band in the transverse or hip circumferential direction with a hip opening closed in the hip circumferential direction at both side seam areas to form leg openings, wherein the abdominal section and / or the back section has at least one elastic region and comprising an absorbent unit, wherein the absorbent unit has an absorbent body, wherein the absorbent body extends over a length LA from a front end to a rear end of the absorbent body, and starting from the front end in the longitudinal direction, a front section of 25% of the length LA,adjacent to a central portion 32 of 50% of the length LA, adjacent thereto a rear portion of 25% of the length LA, wherein the absorbent body comprises a first absorbent body layer, wherein the first absorbent body layer comprises superabsorbent material, wherein the first absorbent body layer has at least one channel oriented in a longitudinal direction with a length LK from a front end to a rear end of the channel, wherein the channel comprises or is formed from a recess extending through the first absorbent body layer in a thickness direction, wherein the channel is arranged on a longitudinal center axis of the absorbent body, wherein the length LK of the channel is at most 30% of the length LA of the absorbent body, wherein a width BK of the channel in the central portion of the absorbent body is at most 22% of a minimum width BA of the absorbent body in the central portion of the absorbent body,where the areal extent of the channel is 0.5% - 5.0% of the areal extent of the absorption body.

[0011] The at least one channel in the first absorbent layer containing superabsorbent material advantageously enables primary absorption of body fluids such as urine and their transfer to adjacent regions and / or layers of the absorbent body. Furthermore, the risk of fluid accumulation caused by gel blocking and leakage of the incontinence article is reduced.

[0012] The channel is arranged at least partially, in particular completely, in the middle section.

[0013] The term "longitudinally oriented" in the context of this invention means that the length LK of the channel is greater than the width BK of the channel in the central section of the absorbent body, i.e., that the maximum extension of the channel in the longitudinal direction of the incontinence article is greater than its maximum extension in the transverse direction of the incontinence article in the central section of the absorbent body. The inventors have found that for rapid liquid conduction in the longitudinal direction, it is precisely those channels whose extension in the longitudinal direction of the incontinence article is greater than their extension in the transverse direction of the incontinence article, since liquids absorbed in the channel can reach more distant areas of the rear and / or front section of the absorbent body more quickly.By orienting the channel in the longitudinal direction, the absorbent body can also more easily assume a favorable three-dimensional shape during use. In particular, it is provided that the ratio of the length LK of the channel to the width BK of the channel in the central section of the absorbent body has a value of 3-15, in particular 4-12, and further in particular 5-10.

[0014] Furthermore, it has proven advantageous if the ratio of the length LK of the channel to the width BK of the channel in the central section of the absorption body has a higher value than a ratio of the length LA of the absorption body to the minimum width BA of the absorption body in the central section of the absorption body.

[0015] Preferably, the at least one channel runs linearly in the longitudinal direction of the incontinence article. This advantageously allows the fluid to spread more freely in the channel in the longitudinal direction of the incontinence article.

[0016] However, a wavy, jagged or curved or any other design of the channel that the expert considers appropriate is also conceivable.

[0017] The at least one channel has a channel shape defined by a channel outline. Rectangular, almond-shaped, or oval channels have proven particularly advantageous because, due to their more uniform, substantially straight or curved channel outlines in the longitudinal and transverse directions, they can better withstand stresses during production and / or in use, thus reducing the risk of damage to the absorbent body.

[0018] However, other channel shapes such as bone-shaped, T-shaped, triangular, star-shaped or branched are also conceivable.

[0019] Typically, the absorbent body is designed to be substantially mirror-symmetrical to its longitudinal central axis. In the case of an incontinence article designed to be mirror-symmetrical to a longitudinal central axis of the incontinence article, the longitudinal central axis of the absorbent body corresponds to a longitudinal central axis of the incontinence article.

[0020] The at least one channel is arranged on the longitudinal center axis of the absorption body as described above.

[0021] Such an arrangement of the channel on the longitudinal center axis of the absorbent body offers the advantage that liquid absorbed in the channel has equal access to the absorbent material of the absorbent body on both sides of the channel and can therefore be absorbed more evenly. This can advantageously improve wearing comfort. To further improve liquid distribution, the at least one channel is preferably centered on the longitudinal center axis of the absorbent body, in particular arranged mirror-symmetrically to the longitudinal center axis of the absorbent body. This can reduce uneven swelling of the absorbent material on both sides of the channel during use and the associated reduction in wearing comfort.

[0022] In addition, such an arrangement further reduces the risk of the user perceiving a product defect.

[0023] As described above, the at least one channel comprises or is formed from a recess extending through the first absorbent body layer in the thickness direction.

[0024] The recess is therefore essentially free of absorbent materials. To this end, the channel can be formed by omitting the absorbent material or by removing the absorbent material, particularly by cutting, punching, or brushing it out.

[0025] Channels formed by embossing or compressing the first absorbent layer are well known in the prior art. A recess according to the invention has the advantage over embossing or compression in that there is no compaction of the absorbent material in the region of the channel, which could slow or reduce absorption.

[0026] The recess preferably extends completely through the first absorbent layer in the thickness direction. This offers the advantage that, for a given areal extent of the channel, the volume of the channel assumes a maximum value when the recess extends completely in the thickness direction, and the channel can therefore absorb a maximum amount of liquid.

[0027] In an alternative embodiment, the recess may extend only partially through the first absorbent body layer in the thickness direction.

[0028] In a preferred embodiment, the length LK of the channel is at most 25%, in particular at most 22%, in particular at most 20%, in particular at least 10% of the length LA of the absorbent body. This advantageously further reduces the risk of damage to the absorbent body in areas without a channel, in particular in the front and / or rear section of the absorbent body. Furthermore, the perceptibility of the channel by the user and thus the risk of the appearance of a product defect can be further reduced.

[0029] The length LK of the channel is to be understood in the context of this invention as the maximum extension of the channel in the longitudinal direction of the incontinence article.

[0030] The length LA of the absorbent body is to be understood as the maximum extension of the absorbent body in the longitudinal direction of the incontinence article.

[0031] Preferably, the areal extent of the channel is 0.5-3.0%, in particular 0.6-3.0%, in particular 0.7-3.0%, in particular 0.8-3.0% of the areal extent of the absorbent body. This advantageously reduces the potential contact area between the user's skin and the body fluid accumulating in the channel during use, thereby reducing the risk of skin irritation, for example, from urine.

[0032] The areal extent of the channel is to be understood as the area arranged within the channel outline and limited by the channel outline when the incontinence article is spread out flat.

[0033] In a preferred embodiment, the width BK of the channel in the central portion of the absorption body is at most 20%, in particular at most 18%, in particular at most 15%, in particular at least 4% of the minimum width BA of the absorption body in the central portion of the absorption body.

[0034] The width BK of the channel in the middle section of the absorbent body is to be understood in the context of this invention as the maximum extension of the channel in the transverse direction of the incontinence article in the middle section of the absorbent body.

[0035] The minimum width BA of the absorbent body in the central section of the absorbent body is to be understood as the minimum extension of the absorbent body in the transverse direction of the incontinence article in the central section of the absorbent body. Within the scope of this invention, the minimum width BA of the absorbent body in the central section of the absorbent body is to be measured orthogonally to the longitudinal center axis of the absorbent body within the central section.

[0036] In a further preferred embodiment, a distance of the front end of the channel from the front end of the absorbent body is at least 20% of the length LA of the absorbent body and / or a distance of the rear end of the channel from the rear end of the absorbent body is at least 30% of the length LA of the absorbent body. This advantageously reduces undesired deformations of the absorbent body in the front and / or rear portion during use. For example, the formation of a longitudinal fold in the rear portion and the resulting reduction in wearing comfort, particularly when sitting, can be counteracted.

[0037] This can advantageously reduce excessively rapid transfer, particularly in the case of a surge of body excretions, and thus the risk of leakage in the rear and / or front area of ​​the absorption body.

[0038] In addition, the false perception of the channel as a product defect can be further reduced in an advantageous manner, since due to the rather flatter shape of the rear and / or front section of the absorption body, the channel would be more visually prominent there than in the middle section.

[0039] Further preferably, the distance between the front end of the channel and the front end of the absorbent body is smaller than the distance between the rear end of the channel and the rear end of the absorbent body. This provides improved leakage protection in the rear region of the incontinence article and allows easier access of excreted urine to the channel.

[0040] In a preferred embodiment, the distance of the channel in the transverse direction from a longitudinal edge of the absorbent body in the central section is at least 30%, in particular at least 35%, in particular at least 40% of the minimum width BA of the absorbent body in the central section of the absorbent body. The distance of the channel from the longitudinal edge of the absorbent body in the central section is to be understood as the smallest distance of the channel from the longitudinal edge of the absorbent body within the central section in the transverse direction.

[0041] This advantageously reduces the risk of lateral leakage during use, as there is a relatively large absorption capacity at the side of the canal, so that the existing amounts of fluid can be absorbed in a controlled manner, both during several consecutive micturitions and during a single attack of a larger volume of fluid.

[0042] The absorbent body may be rectangular, triangular, oval, T-shaped, anatomically hourglass-shaped, asymmetrical or in any other shape deemed suitable by a person skilled in the art.

[0043] It should be noted that the absorbent body and / or the first absorbent body layer can have a uniform thickness and / or a uniform density. It is also conceivable that the absorbent body and / or the first absorbent body layer have a thickness or height profile or a density profile.

[0044] Further preferably, the incontinence article has crotch elastication means extending substantially in the longitudinal direction on both sides, wherein a distance KS of the crotch elastication means from the channel is at least 3 times, in particular at least 4 times, in particular at least 5 times, in particular at least 6 times, in particular at least 7 times, in particular at least 8 times, in particular at most 12 times the width BK of the channel in the central section of the absorption body.

[0045] The longitudinally extending crotch elasticizing elements advantageously contribute to the desired three-dimensional shape during use. Furthermore, such a dimensioned distance KS can reduce the risk of uncontrolled deformation and / or damage to the channel during use. Furthermore, such a distance KS can advantageously support a balance between efficient fluid transfer through the channel and improved absorbency at the sides of the channel.

[0046] The distance KS is to be understood as the smallest distance to be measured in the transverse direction between the channel outline and a crotch elasticizing means which is closest to the channel outline in the direction of the lateral longitudinal edge of the suction unit closest to the channel outline in a flat, spread-out state of the incontinence article.

[0047] Crotch elasticizers are generally known and common in the art. Any elastic materials known in the art and considered suitable by a person skilled in the art, such as elastic threads or elastic foam materials, can be used as crotch elasticizers.

[0048] One or more crotch elasticating means, in particular one to three crotch elasticating means, can be provided on both sides of the incontinence article.

[0049] Preferably, the distance KS of the channel from the step elasticizing means is at least 30%, in particular at least 35%, in particular at least 40%, of a distance AS of the step elasticizing means.

[0050] This advantageously further reduces the risk of uncontrolled deformation and / or damage to the channel, particularly due to forces exerted by the crotch elastication means. Within the scope of this invention, the distance AS of the crotch elastication means is to be understood as a distance, measured in the transverse direction, between the two crotch elastication means closest to the channel outline in the direction of the lateral longitudinal edges of the suction unit when the incontinence article is spread out flat.

[0051] In a preferred embodiment, the first absorbent layer comprises at least 10 percent by weight of superabsorbent material, in particular at least 15 percent by weight, in particular at least 20 percent by weight, in particular at least 25 percent by weight, in particular at most 60 percent by weight, in particular at most 50 percent by weight, in particular at most 40 percent by weight.

[0052] Further components of the first absorbent layer can be materials known from the prior art, such as cellulose fibers ("fluff") or synthetic fibers. An advantage of a blend with the preferred content of superabsorbent material is that the first absorbent layer can permanently bind body fluids using the superabsorbent material, thereby reducing rewetting compared to absorbent bodies without superabsorbent material. At the same time, the risk of gel blocking and impaired comfort can be reduced compared to absorbent bodies with a very high content of superabsorbent material.

[0053] In an advantageous embodiment, the superabsorbent material is evenly distributed in the first absorbent layer.

[0054] This results in advantages during production, since, for example, the superabsorbent material can be uniformly premixed with one or more other materials of the first absorbent layer and a more difficult separate dosing and / or arrangement of the superabsorbent material, such as SAP, at high machine speeds can be eliminated.

[0055] Typically, the superabsorbent material can absorb at least 15 times, especially 20 times its weight of 0.9 wt% saline solution (measured according to NWSP 242.0. R2(15)).

[0056] The superabsorbent material can, for example, be in particle or fiber form or in sheet or foam form.

[0057] The superabsorbent material may further comprise or consist of a substantially single-variety polymer material or a mixture of two or more polymer materials. Preferably, the areal extent of the first absorbent body layer corresponds to at least 70%, in particular at least 75%, in particular at least 80%, in particular at least 85% of the areal extent of the absorbent body.

[0058] This advantageously ensures that the majority of the body-facing side of the absorbent body is covered with superabsorbent material, allowing rapid and permanent absorption of body fluids, especially in areas farther away from the canal. Furthermore, this improves the rewetting of the incontinence product across a large portion of the skin contact surface.

[0059] Further preferably, the absorbent body has a second absorbent body layer, wherein the second absorbent body layer is arranged on a side of the first absorbent body layer facing away from the body during use.

[0060] The second absorbent layer and its arrangement not on the side facing the body advantageously increases the total absorption capacity of the absorbent body without impairing the control of rewetting by the first absorbent layer containing superabsorbent material.

[0061] The second absorbent layer advantageously increases wearer comfort, especially for a close-fitting incontinence product, as the backsheet side creates a softer tactile impression of the incontinence product. Furthermore, an additional absorbent layer meets the needs of some users for a haptically thicker absorbent core and a perceived lower risk of leakage.

[0062] Preferably, the second absorbent body layer does not comprise a recess extending through in the thickness direction.

[0063] This offers the advantage that the channel of the first absorbent layer is covered by the second absorbent layer, making it less visually noticeable during use.

[0064] More preferably, the second absorbent layer comprises less than 20 weight percent, in particular less than 15 weight percent, more particularly less than 10 weight percent, more particularly less than 5 weight percent superabsorbent material. In particular, the second absorbent layer is free of superabsorbent material. This results in an advantageous, softer feel on the side of the absorbent body facing away from the body, thus improving wearing comfort.

[0065] In addition, the liquid transfer within the second absorbent layer and / or the delivery of the liquid to the first absorbent layer can be improved.

[0066] It is also known to those skilled in the art that particulate superabsorbent material, in particular, can exert abrasive forces that can damage a substantially liquid-impermeable backsheet (described in more detail below), in particular a liquid-impermeable backsheet film of the absorbent unit, and lead to leakage of the incontinence article. Therefore, the second absorbent layer also offers the advantage of reducing the risk of damage to the backsheet film during manufacturing or use of the incontinence article.

[0067] The second absorbent layer can preferably comprise or consist of materials well known in the art, such as cellulose fibers ("fluff") or plastic fibers, or mixtures thereof. It is also conceivable to form the second absorbent layer of the absorbent body by arranging one or more layers of different materials, in particular nonwoven material.

[0068] More preferably, the areal extent of the first absorbent layer is at least 70%, in particular at least 75%, in particular at least 80%, in particular at least 85% of a areal extent of the second absorbent layer.

[0069] This has the advantage that the softer, tactile second absorbent layer completely covers the first absorbent layer containing superabsorbent material on the side of the absorbent body facing away from the body, thus improving the comfort of the incontinence product. Furthermore, the superabsorbent material, and thus its absorption capacity, is distributed over a relatively large area, preventing the formation of local hard spots caused by swollen "islands" of superabsorbent material during use.

[0070] In a preferred embodiment, the suction unit has at least one fluid acquisition and distribution layer (ADL), wherein the ADL preferably completely covers the channel.

[0071] A channel completely covered by the ADL offers the advantage of less rewetting during use, thus improving comfort and reducing the risk of skin irritation. Alternatively, the ADL can also only partially cover the channel.

[0072] With a suction unit with ADL, body fluids such as urine can be advantageously absorbed, distributed and passed on to the first absorbent layer and / or into the canal more quickly.

[0073] The ADL is therefore preferably arranged on a body-facing side of the absorbent body, in particular between the top sheet described in more detail below and the first absorbent body layer.

[0074] ADLs are already known in the field and are typically made of a fibrous material, particularly a nonwoven material.

[0075] The fibers can be of natural or synthetic origin and can be of defined length (staple fibers) or continuous ("endless") or formed in situ. The fibers can be formed from a single polymer or polymer blend (monocomponent fiber) or from more than one single polymer and / or polymer blend (multicomponent fiber).

[0076] A multicomponent fiber has a cross-section comprising more than a single section, each of which comprises a different polymer or polymer blend. The term multicomponent fiber includes, but is not limited to, a bicomponent fiber. The various components of multicomponent fibers are arranged in substantially distinct regions across the cross-section of the fiber and extend continuously along the length of the fiber. A multicomponent fiber may have an overall cross-section comprising subsections of the two or more different components of any shape or arrangement, including, for example, coaxial subsections, core and sheath subsections, juxtaposed subsections, radial subsections, island-shaped subsections, etc.

[0077] A bicomponent fiber having a "core / sheath structure" has a cross-section comprising: two discrete sections, each consisting of a polymer or polymer blend, wherein the sheath polymer or sheath polymer blend component is disposed around the core polymer or core polymer blend component.

[0078] The basis weight of nonwoven materials is usually measured in grams per square meter (g / m 2 ) is indicated.

[0079] In a preferred embodiment, the ADL comprises multi-component fibers, in particular bi-component fibers, more particularly bi-component fibers containing polyester, so-called bico / PES fibers. The multi-component fibers, in particular the bi-component fibers, preferably have a circular or trilobal cross-section.

[0080] Preferred combinations of components in bicomponent fibers are polyethylene terephthalate (PET) / polyethylene (PE), PET / polypropylene (PP), PET / polyester copolymers (CoPET), polylactic acid (PLA) / polylactide copolymers (COPLA), PLA / PE and PLA / PP.

[0081] As an alternative, it is known in the art to use a material made of chemically modified pulp fibers, for example cross-linked pulp fibers, as ADL.

[0082] The ADL may also include or consist of other materials such as perforated films or foams or the like.

[0083] The ADL can preferably comprise or consist of exactly one layer, optionally also two or more identical or different layers. Multi-layered ADLs can have separate fluid absorption and distribution layers, i.e., layers with different functions. Alternatively, the same layer or layers can be provided for both the function of fluid absorption and fluid distribution.

[0084] The ADL can overlap the absorbent body substantially completely or only partially, thus having substantially the same areal extent or at least a smaller extent in some regions than the first absorbent body layer and / or the second absorbent body layer of the absorbent body in the longitudinal and / or transverse direction of the flat incontinence article. The ADL preferably overlaps the first absorbent body layer and / or the second absorbent body layer of the absorbent body by 5-100%, in particular by 10-90%, further in particular by 15-80%, further in particular by 15-70% of its areal extent.

[0085] Preferably, the ADL is arranged at least in one area where the micturition fluid is highly likely to contact the incontinence article during use (micturition area). In particular, the ADL extends over and in the area of ​​a transverse central axis of the absorbent body.

[0086] Preferably, the areal extent of the channel is 2 - 15%, in particular 3 - 12%, further in particular 3 - 10% of a areal extent of the ADL.

[0087] This has the advantage that the ADL can better cover the canal, making it less noticeable to the user. Furthermore, the ADL can advantageously channel absorbed body fluids not only into the canal but also directly to the absorbent material adjacent to the canal, allowing the fluid to be permanently bound more quickly.

[0088] In a preferred embodiment, the first absorbent layer has a first region with a first basis weight and a second region with a second basis weight, wherein the first basis weight is greater, in particular at least 40% greater, further in particular at least 50% greater, further in particular at least 70% greater, further in particular at least 100% greater than the second basis weight.

[0089] The basis weight of components of the absorbent body such as absorbent layers is usually measured in grams per square meter (g / m 2 ) is indicated.

[0090] This allows the first area to have a higher absorption capacity and less rewetting than the second area, allowing fine-tuning of the suction power.

[0091] Preferably, the first region is surrounded by the second region. More preferably, the first region overlaps at least one micturition area.

[0092] This has the advantage that, particularly in an area where a larger amount of fluid typically accumulates, for example the urination area, a higher absorption capacity can be provided than in areas with typically lower fluid accumulation.

[0093] In a preferred embodiment, the channel is arranged at least partially, in particular entirely, in the first region with the first basis weight. Larger amounts of liquid absorbed by the channel can thus advantageously be passed on all sides to the first region with its higher absorption capacity, where they can be absorbed relatively quickly.

[0094] More preferably, the suction unit has a single channel.

[0095] This advantageously allows the absorbent unit to be more stable than if the absorbent material were perforated by multiple recesses. Furthermore, the risk of the absorbent body being perceived as damaged by the user can be further reduced.

[0096] In an alternative embodiment, the absorbent unit can have more than one channel, in particular 2-5, and more particularly exactly 2 channels. In the preferred embodiment of a single channel, the single channel is arranged along a longitudinal center axis of the absorbent unit and more particularly along a longitudinal center axis of the incontinence article.

[0097] According to a preferred embodiment, the absorbent unit and / or the absorbent body can additionally have embossings or compression lines, in particular embossings or compression lines oriented in the longitudinal direction, and in particular embossings or compression lines arranged at least laterally on both sides of the at least one channel. Such embossings can further support the shape of the incontinence article, in particular the absorbent unit, during use, increase wearing comfort, and / or improve fluid transfer and distribution.

[0098] In a preferred embodiment, the suction unit comprises a topsheet which is at least partially liquid-permeable and a backsheet which is impermeable to liquid, and the absorption body is arranged between the topsheet and the backsheet, wherein in particular the topsheet and / or the backsheet extend in the transverse and / or longitudinal direction beyond edges of the absorption body in order to form an overhang.

[0099] Preferably, the overhang does not contain any absorbent material. This can enhance the perception of the high quality of the incontinence product and increase user confidence in the leakage protection.

[0100] The backsheet can, in particular, comprise or be formed by a breathable yet liquid-tight film material. The topsheet is preferably formed, at least in some areas, from a nonwoven-based material that is at least partially liquid-permeable.

[0101] The abdominal section and the back section of the incontinence product in the form of panties are connected to each other at their lateral edges, often forming side seams, in a non-detachable manner by the manufacturer, sometimes also detachably.

[0102] According to a further embodiment, the absorbent body can have one or more absorbent body wrap layers. In the context of this invention, absorbent body wrap layers are understood to mean additional planar components of the absorbent body, which are typically arranged between the absorbent material of the absorbent body and one or more other components such as the backsheet, topsheet, and / or ADL of the absorbent unit. Absorbent body wrap layers can, for example, comprise or consist of nonwoven materials and typically have a low volume and / or a high density. They are typically designed to be liquid-permeable, at least in regions, and completely or partially surround or enclose the absorbent material.Absorbent body wrap layers are essentially in direct contact with the absorbent material of the absorbent body and / or form, at least in some regions, an outer surface of the absorbent body. Such absorbent body wrap layers can be bonded, at least in some regions, to the absorbent material by means of a binding agent such as an adhesive. The typical function of the absorbent body wrap layer is to reduce uncontrolled migration of the absorbent material, in particular particulate superabsorbent material, within the absorbent unit, while not temporarily storing the body fluids to be absorbed during use or inhibiting their passage to the absorbent material. Therefore, absorbent body wrap layers must be distinguished from other components of the absorbent unit, such as an ADL or the layers of the absorbent body, which typically contain superabsorbent material and / or cellulose fibers.In contrast, the absorbent body preferably does not have any absorbent body covering layers. This improves the transfer of body fluid to the layers of the absorbent body, which are intended to permanently store the body fluid.

[0103] In a preferred embodiment, the channel is arranged closer to the front end of the absorbent body than to the rear end of the absorbent body. In the context of this invention, this is to be understood as meaning that the incontinence article is brought into a spread-out state relative to the front and / or rear end of the absorbent body for determining the channel position. If necessary, crotch elastication means or other optionally present elastication means must be deactivated. A transverse axis MK bisecting the channel in its longitudinal extent must be determined. The channel is therefore to be considered arranged closer to the front end of the absorbent body than to the rear end of the absorbent body if the transverse axis MK bisecting the channel in its longitudinal extent is arranged between the transverse central axis of the absorbent body and the front end of the absorbent body.

[0104] Preferably, a distance of the front end of the channel from a front end of the first absorbent body layer is at most 95%, in particular at most 90%, further in particular at most 80%, further in particular at most 70% of a distance of the rear end of the channel from a rear end of the first absorbent body layer.

[0105] This supports a favorable three-dimensional shape of the incontinence product during use. It also positively influences rewetting in the rear section.

[0106] In a preferred embodiment, the channel is arranged closer to a front end of the suction unit than to a rear end of the suction unit. The channel is considered to be arranged closer to the front end of the suction unit than to the rear end of the suction unit if the transverse axis MK bisecting the channel in its longitudinal extent is located between a transverse center axis of the suction unit and the front end of the suction unit.

[0107] Advantageously, the channel is arranged in the longitudinal direction of the incontinence article in the area where urine hits during use (micturition area).

[0108] This allows the channel to quickly absorb body fluids, reducing the risk of fluid accumulation on the surface of the incontinence product.

[0109] More preferably, the step elasticizing means are arranged closer to the front end of the suction unit than to the rear end of the suction unit.

[0110] This further supports the desired three-dimensional shape, allowing the suction unit to better adapt to the user's anatomy.

[0111] This means that a distance SH of a transverse axis MS bisecting the crotch elastication means in the longitudinal direction from the rear end of the absorbent unit is greater than a distance SV of the transverse axis MS bisecting the crotch elastication means in the longitudinal direction from the front end of the absorbent unit. The above-mentioned distances SH and SV are measured with the incontinence article in a flat, spread-out state.

[0112] If necessary, the crotch elasticators are in a stretched state.

[0113] Further preferably, the channel is free of elasticizing agents. In this case, the channel is not covered by any elasticizing agent along its longitudinal and transverse extension. This advantageously avoids the tensile forces inherent in an elasticizing agent in the area of ​​the channel, so as not to impair the shape of the channel.

[0114] In a preferred embodiment of the incontinence article, the front abdominal section and the rear back section are spaced apart from one another in the longitudinal direction, the abdominal section and the back section each have a transverse end facing the crotch, and the suction unit extends as a crotch section in the longitudinal direction between the abdominal section and the back section and is permanently attached to the abdominal section in a front overlap region and to the back section in a rear overlap region, so that the crotch section, the abdominal section and the back section together delimit the leg openings of the incontinence article.

[0115] In this modular design of the incontinence article, the desired properties for the suction unit can be advantageously realized and a cost-effective and technically simplified, because modular, provision of incontinence articles is possible.

[0116] The suction unit or the crotch section preferably has straight longitudinal side edges.

[0117] In particular, an embodiment of the incontinence article is provided, wherein the front end of the channel ends in front of a crotch-facing transverse end of the abdominal section and / or the rear end of the channel ends in front of a crotch-facing transverse end of the back section.

[0118] Because the channel ends before the respective transverse end of the abdominal section and / or back section, the channel is not subjected to any direct, channel-deforming influences by the abdominal section and back section extending in the transverse direction.

[0119] In particular, the design of the incontinence article can be such that a transverse axis MK bisecting the length LK of the channel is arranged at a distance KF from the transverse end of the abdominal section facing the crotch and at a distance KB from the transverse end of the back section facing the crotch, and wherein a ratio KF / KB of the distance KF to distance KB is at least 0.45 and preferably at most 1.55. In particular, it can also be provided that the front end of the channel ends in front of a crotch-facing end of the side seam region and / or the rear end of the channel ends in front of a crotch-facing end of the side seam region (44). This can at least reduce the introduction of forces onto the channel through the abdominal section and back section.

[0120] In particular, an embodiment of the incontinence article is preferred, wherein the length LK of the channel to the product length L1 of the incontinence article is at most 0.20, in particular at most 0.15, further in particular at most 0.14, further in particular at least 0.08.

[0121] Further preferred is an incontinence article, wherein the length LK of the channel to the length L2 of the suction unit is at most 0.30, in particular at most 0.26, further in particular at least 0.12.

[0122] With a small portion of the channel in the incontinence product within the product length of the incontinence product and / or also within the suction unit, the desired functionality is primarily retained within the suction unit.

[0123] In a preferred embodiment of the incontinence article, a transverse axis MK bisecting the length LK of the channel is arranged between a transverse center axis of the incontinence article and a hip opening edge of the abdominal section delimiting the hip opening.

[0124] The panty-shaped incontinence product is specifically an adult incontinence product.

[0125] The incontinence article in the form of panties can be separable, in particular along a predetermined breaking line, in particular in a side seam area, for example for removing a used incontinence article.

[0126] At this point, it should be noted that in the present invention, any dimensioning specifications regarding transverse extent, longitudinal extent or spacing or distance of sections are determined in the flat, spread-out state of the flat materials forming the incontinence article, i.e., if necessary, after separation of the side seams already applied by the manufacturer, so that the incontinence article in question can be brought into the flat configuration shown by way of example in the figures, unless another reference to a deviating state is given.If the incontinence article has been elasticized, for example, using thread-like elasticizing agents in the so-called "stretchbond process," the sheet materials are considered, as indicated in the figures, to be stretched to the extent that they are supplied as flat materials by the manufacturer or can subsequently be stretched out to their natural initial extent without elasticizing agents and placed on a flat surface. The transverse extensions, longitudinal extensions, dimensions, spacings, or distances are then determined on this flat surface. This condition occurs naturally with non-stretchable chassis materials based on nonwovens, films, or nonwoven / film composites.

[0127] The elastic region in the abdominal section and / or back section provides the elastic extensibility in the transverse or hip circumference direction required for an incontinence article in the form of panties. This can be advantageously achieved by providing elasticizing means in the abdominal section and / or back section that extend at a distance from one another and substantially in the transverse or hip circumference direction and thus elasticize the abdominal section and / or back section over its entire surface, or by providing the abdominal section and / or back section with sheet materials that are elastically extensible in the transverse or hip circumference direction. In particular, it can be provided that the abdominal section and / or back section are cross-elasticated over its entire surface, at least outside the absorbent body, across the longitudinal direction substantially continuously.In principle, transverse elasticization is possible by using essentially thread-like elasticizing agents, or by using strip-like elasticizing agents, or alternatively, by using sheet materials that are elastically stretchable at least in the transverse direction. In any case, it proves advantageous to combine elastically stretchable materials with essentially inextensible materials, such as nonwoven materials.

[0128] Further features, details, and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the appended claims and from the drawings and the following description of preferred embodiments of the invention and examples. The drawing shows: Figure 1: a schematic, not-to-scale plan view of an incontinence article in the form of briefs in an extended configuration.

[0129] Figure 2a schematic, not to scale representation in plan view of an absorbent unit of an incontinence article in the form of panties according to Figure 1,

[0130] Figure 2b schematically, not to scale, a cross section ll through the suction unit shown in Figure 2a with a first absorbent body layer and channel in the middle section of the absorption body, without ADL,

[0131] Figure 2c schematically, not to scale, a longitudinal section ll-ll through the suction unit shown in Figure 2a with a first suction body layer and the channel along the longitudinal center axis, without ADL,

[0132] Figure 3a schematic, not to scale, top view of an absorbent unit of an incontinence article with crotch elasticizing means,

[0133] Figure 3b schematically, not to scale, a cross section III-III through the suction unit shown in Figure 3a with step elasticizing means, without ADL,

[0134] Figure 4a schematic, not to scale, top view of an absorbent unit of an incontinence article with a second absorbent layer and with an ADL,

[0135] Figure 4b shows schematically, not to scale, a longitudinal section IV-IV through the suction unit shown in Figure 4a with a second absorbent body layer and with an ADL, Figure 5 shows schematically, not to scale, a longitudinal section through a suction unit with a first and a second region of the first absorbent body layer.

[0136] Figure 2a shows a schematic, not to scale, plan view of an absorbent unit 7 of an incontinence article 1 in the form of panties according to Figure 1. The absorbent unit 7 has an absorbent body 4. The absorbent body 4 extends in the longitudinal direction 11 over a length LA from a front end 4a to a rear end 4b of the absorbent body 4 and has a first absorbent body layer 5. The first absorbent body layer 5 has superabsorbent material (designated by reference numeral 20 in Figures 2b and 2c) and a channel 16 oriented in a longitudinal direction 11 and having a length LK. The length LK of the channel 16 is greater than a width BK of the channel 16 in a central section 32 of the absorption body 4, i.e. a maximum extension of the channel 16 in the longitudinal direction 11 of the incontinence article 1 is greater than a maximum extension of the channel 16 in the transverse direction 10 of the incontinence article 1 in the central section 32 of the absorption body 4.

[0137] The width BK of the channel 16 in the central section 32 of the absorbent body 4 is the maximum extension of the channel 16 in the transverse direction 10 of the incontinence article 1 in the central section 32 of the absorbent body 4. A minimum width BA of the absorbent body 4 in the central section 32 of the absorbent body 4 is the minimum extension of the absorbent body 4 in the transverse direction 10 of the incontinence article 1 in the central section 32 of the absorbent body 4 and is measured orthogonally to a longitudinal central axis 35 of the absorbent body 4 within the central section 32.

[0138] The channel 16 has a distance 23 in the transverse direction 10 from a longitudinal edge 24 of the absorption body 4 in the central section 32. Furthermore, the channel 16 has a distance 12 from the front end 4a of the absorption body 4 and a distance 13 from the rear end 4b of the absorption body 4.

[0139] The channel 16 has a transverse axis MK bisecting the channel 16 in its longitudinal extent. The transverse axis MK is arranged between a transverse central axis 36 of the absorption body 4 and the front end 4a of the absorption body 4. The channel 16 is therefore arranged closer to the front end 4a of the absorption body 4 than to the rear end 4b of the absorption body 4. In this exemplary embodiment, the transverse central axis 36 of the absorption body 4 corresponds to a transverse central axis 36a of the suction unit 7. Therefore, the transverse axis MK is also to be located between the transverse central axis 36a of the suction unit 7 and a front end 7a of the suction unit 7. The channel 16 is therefore arranged closer to the front end 7a of the suction unit 7 than to a rear end 7b of the suction unit 7.

[0140] The incontinence article can optionally have one or more additional channels and / or embossings and / or compressions. In this example, the absorbent unit 7 has a single channel 16. In this exemplary embodiment, the channel 16 is formed from a recess extending through the first absorbent body layer 5 in a thickness direction (designated by reference numeral 21 in Figures 2b and 2c) and is arranged on the longitudinal center axis 35 of the absorbent body 4. In this case, the longitudinal center axis 35 of the absorbent body 4 corresponds to a longitudinal center axis of the incontinence article 1, and the channel 16 is centered on the longitudinal center axis 35 of the absorbent body 4, thereby being arranged mirror-symmetrically to the longitudinal center axis 35 of the absorbent body 4.

[0141] In this case, the channel 16 is arranged entirely in the central section 32. The central section 32 is a region of the absorbent body 4 arranged in the longitudinal direction 11 of the incontinence article 1, which region extends between a front section 31 and a rear section 33 of the absorbent body 4. The rear section 33 and the front section 31 each correspond to a quarter of the extension of the absorbent body 4 in the longitudinal direction 11. The central section 32 of the absorbent body 4 corresponds to half the extension of the absorbent body 4 in the longitudinal direction 11. Alternatively, the channel can also be arranged only partially in the central section, thereby partially in the front section and / or partially in the rear section.

[0142] One channel 16 in this example runs straight in the longitudinal direction 11 of the incontinence article 1. However, other designs of the channel are also conceivable, for example wave-shaped, serrated or curved.

[0143] The channel 16 has a rectangular channel shape, which is delimited by a channel outline 17. Other channel shapes such as almond-shaped, oval, bone-shaped, T-shaped, triangular, star-shaped, or branched are also conceivable.

[0144] In this exemplary embodiment, the absorbent body is shaped in an anatomical hourglass shape. Alternatively, the absorbent body can also be rectangular, triangular, oval, T-shaped, or asymmetrical, for example. A planar extent of the first absorbent body layer 5 in this example corresponds to 100% of the planar extent of the absorbent body. Alternatively, the planar extent of the first absorbent body layer can also be less than 100% of the planar extent of the absorbent body, for example, if the absorbent body comprises a second absorbent body layer as described in more detail with reference to Figures 4a and 4b.

[0145] In the incontinence article 1, the front end 4a of the absorbent body 4 corresponds to a front end 5a of the first absorbent body layer 5, and the rear end 4b of the absorbent body 4 corresponds to a rear end 5b of the first absorbent body layer 5. A distance of the channel 16 from the front end 5a of the first absorbent body layer 5 is less than 70% of the distance of the channel 16 from the rear end 5b of the first absorbent body layer 5.

[0146] In this exemplary embodiment, the suction unit 7 comprises a liquid-permeable topsheet 2 and a liquid-impermeable backsheet 3, which together form a chassis 8 and between which the absorption body 4 is arranged. The chassis 8 is rectangular with straight longitudinal edges. An hourglass-shaped chassis with contoured longitudinal edges is also possible, for example. The topsheet 2 and the backsheet 3 extend in the transverse direction 10 and the longitudinal direction 11 over respective edges of the absorption body 4, thus over an absorption body circumferential line 25, to form an overhang.

[0147] As shown in Figures 2b and 2c, the first absorbent body layer 5, but not the overhang 8 formed by the topsheet 2 and backsheet 3, in this exemplary embodiment comprises absorbent material such as SAP 20 and fibers 19. In this example, the fibers 19 are cellulose fibers, and the superabsorbent material 20 is particulate SAP. The absorbent body 4 does not have any absorbent body wrap layers.

[0148] The exemplary incontinence article can optionally have further features, such as elasticizations, leakage protection systems (e.g., cuffs), wetness indicators, marking means, visual or haptic elements, skin-care or odor-regulating substances or compositions, fastening means (e.g., adhesive, hooks), and other features known to the person skilled in the art or deemed appropriate. In addition to the features described with reference to Figures 1, 2a, and 2b, the absorbent unit 7 shown in Figures 3a and 3b has crotch elasticization means 18 extending on both sides substantially in the longitudinal direction 11. The crotch elasticization means 18 are spaced apart by a distance KS from the channel 16. The distance KS of the crotch elasticization means 18 from the channel 16 is 9 times the width BK of the channel in the central section of the absorbent body 4.In this embodiment, three crotch elasticators 18 are arranged on each side. Alternatively, the incontinence article can have only one or more than two crotch elasticators on each side.

[0149] In any case, the distance KS corresponds to a smallest distance to be measured in the transverse direction 10 between the channel outline 17 and a crotch elasticizing means 18a which is closest to the channel outline 17 in the direction of the lateral longitudinal edge 22 of the suction unit 7 closest to the channel outline 17 in a flat, spread-out state of the incontinence article 1.

[0150] In the case of the exemplary incontinence article 1, the crotch elasticizing means are provided in the form of elastic threads. However, alternative elastic materials, such as elastic foam materials, are also conceivable.

[0151] In this example, the crotch elasticizing means 18 run straight and outside the absorbent body 4 and the first absorbent body layer 5. Alternatively, the crotch elasticizing means can also run in an arc shape and / or at least partially within the first absorbent body layer and / or the absorbent body.

[0152] The crotch elasticizing means 18 have a distance AS. The distance AS of the crotch elasticizing means 18 corresponds to a distance, measured in the transverse direction 10, between the two crotch elasticizing means 18a closest to the channel outline 17 in the direction of the lateral longitudinal edges 22 of the suction unit 7 when the incontinence article 1 is in the flat, spread-out state. In this example, the distance KS of the channel 16 from the crotch elasticizing means 18a is 46% of the distance AS of the crotch elasticizing means 18a.

[0153] In this way, the risk of uncontrolled deformation and / or damage to the channel, in particular due to forces exerted by the step elasticizing means, can be further reduced in an advantageous manner.

[0154] Visible is a bisecting the step elasticizing means 18 in the longitudinal direction 11

[0155] Transverse axis MS. A distance SH between the rear end 7b of the suction unit 7 and the transverse axis MS is greater than a distance SV between the front end 7a of the suction unit 7 and the transverse axis MS. Thus, in this example, the crotch elasticizing means 18 are arranged closer to the front end 7a of the suction unit 7 than to the rear end 7b of the suction unit 7. The aforementioned distances SH and SV are measured when the incontinence article 1 is spread out flat. For this purpose, the crotch elasticizing means 18 may be in a stretched state.

[0156] The suction unit 7 shown in Figures 4a and 4b has, in addition to the features described with reference to Figures 2a, 2b and 2c or Figures 3a and 3b, a second absorbent layer 6. The second absorbent layer 6 is arranged on a side 28 of the first absorbent layer 5 facing away from the body during use. In this example, the second absorbent layer extends further in the longitudinal direction 11 and in the transverse direction 10 than the first absorbent layer 5. The areal extent of the second absorbent layer 6 corresponds to the areal extent of the absorption body 4. The areal extent of the first absorbent layer 5 is therefore less than the areal extent of the absorption body 4 and amounts to 90% of the areal extent of the absorption body 4 and the second absorbent layer 6.Alternatively, the first absorbent layer and the second absorbent layer can also be equally extended in the longitudinal direction and / or transverse direction, or the first absorbent layer can be further extended in the longitudinal direction and / or transverse direction than the second absorbent layer.

[0157] The second absorbent layer 6 has no recess extending through it in the thickness direction 21, and thus no channel. Furthermore, the second absorbent layer 6 consists of fibers 19, namely cellulose fibers, and is free of superabsorbent material 20. It is apparent to those skilled in the art that there is a low probability that, due to the arrangement of the second absorbent layer in direct proximity to the first absorbent layer, a small amount of superabsorbent material could undesirably migrate from the first absorbent layer into the second absorbent layer. Within the scope of the invention, it is not intended for the manufacturer to arrange superabsorbent material in the optional second absorbent layer; in any case, the second absorbent layer in this example comprises less than 5 percent by weight of superabsorbent material.

[0158] As already shown in Figures 1, 4a and 4b, an ADL 15 can additionally be provided.

[0159] The ADL 15 completely covers the canal 16. It is also conceivable for the ADL to cover the canal only in certain areas, for example, in a urination area. In this example, the ADL 15 is arranged in the thickness direction 21 between the topsheet 2 and the first absorbent layer 5, i.e., between the topsheet 2 and the absorbent body 4. Alternatively, the one ADL or one or more additional ADLs can be arranged between the first absorbent layer and the backsheet.

[0160] In the exemplary incontinence article 1, the areal extent of the canal 16 amounts to 6% of the areal extent of the ADL 15.

[0161] The ADL 15 is a single-layered, nonwoven material. One or more multi-layered ADLs are also conceivable, as are ADLs made of other materials or material blends deemed suitable by those skilled in the art.

[0162] It can also be provided, as shown schematically in Figure 5, that the first absorbent body layer 5 has a first region 26 with a first basis weight in g / m 2 and a second area 27 with a second basis weight in g / m 2 wherein the first basis weight is greater than the second basis weight. In this example, the second basis weight is 100% greater than the first basis weight.

[0163] The first region 26 is preferably completely surrounded by the second region 27. It is also conceivable that the first region is only partially surrounded by the second region, for example, in a front and / or rear region of the first absorbent body layer.

[0164] The channel 16 is arranged entirely in the first region 26. Alternatively, the channel can also be arranged only partially in the first region.

[0165] In this example, the channel 16 is completely surrounded by the first area 26. It would also be conceivable that the channel is only partially surrounded by the first area.

[0166] In the exemplary incontinence article 1, the first region 26 has the same density as the second region 27 and a greater extent in the thickness direction 21 than the second region 27. Alternatively, however, the first region may also have a greater density than the second region and / or the same extent in the thickness direction 21 as the second region.

[0167] Relative dimensions and further features of the incontinence article according to the invention are described in more detail below using an exemplary embodiment:

[0168] Figure 1 schematically shows an incontinence article in the form of a panty in its non-jointed, flat configuration, i.e., after the side seams have been separated and in a flat, flat configuration. The incontinence article shown in Figure 1 has a preferred embodiment in which the front abdominal section

[0169] 40 and the rear back section 41 are spaced apart from one another in the longitudinal direction 11, the abdominal section 40 and the back section 41 each have a crotch-facing transverse end 42, 43 and the suction unit 7 extends as a crotch section 71 in the longitudinal direction 11 between the abdominal section 40 and the back section 41 and is connected to the abdominal section 40 in a front overlapping area 72 and to the back section

[0170] 41 is permanently attached in a rear overlap region 73, so that the crotch section 71, the abdominal section 40 and the back section 41 together delimit the leg openings 60 of the incontinence article.

[0171] The abdominal section 40 has an elastic region 46 and / or the back section 41 has an elastic region 48. Such elastic regions 46, 48 can be incorporated by a variety of means. Thus, thread-like or strip-like elasticizing means can be used and / or, alternatively or additionally, sheet materials that are elastically stretchable at least in the transverse direction.

[0172] In this exemplary variant shown, the absorption unit 7 is a rectangular absorption unit 7 comprising a liquid-permeable topsheet 2, a liquid-impermeable backsheet 3 and an absorbent body 4 arranged therebetween, as well as on both sides in an overhang formed by the topsheet 2 and the backsheet 3, wherein outside the absorption body 4, between the topsheet 2 and the backsheet 3, three crotch elasticizing means 18 in the form of elastic threads are introduced. The absorption unit 7 is fixed to and arranged between a belly section 40 and a back section 41, which are connected to one another by the manufacturer on both sides at side regions 44 to form side seams. The absorbent body 4 comprises a first absorbent body layer 5 and a second absorbent body layer (not shown in Figure 1), which is arranged on the side of the first absorbent body layer facing away from the body during use.The first absorbent layer 5 is formed from absorbent material consisting of superabsorbent material, such as SAP, and cellulose fibers. The first absorbent layer 5 further comprises a longitudinally oriented channel 16 formed by a recess extending through the thickness direction. The second absorbent layer (not shown in Figure 1) is made of cellulose fibers and is free of superabsorbent materials and does not have a recess extending through the thickness direction. The incontinence article further comprises an ADL 15 consisting of a nonwoven material arranged between the topsheet and the first absorbent layer. The nonwoven material comprises synthetic bicomponent fibers in the form of staple fibers. The absorbent body 4 does not have any absorbent body wrap layers.The length LK of the channel is at most 30%, in particular at most 25%, in particular at most 22%, in particular at most 20%, in particular at least 10%, in the exemplary variant 16% of the length LA of the absorption body 4. The width BK of the channel in the middle section of the absorption body is at most 22%, preferably at most 18%, in particular at most 15%, in particular at least 4%, in the exemplary variant 13% of the minimum width BA of the absorption body 4 in the middle section of the absorption body 4. The areal extent of the channel is 0.5% - 5.0%, in particular 0.5 - 3.0%, in particular 0.6 - 3.0%, in particular 0.7 - 3.0%, in particular 0.8 - 3.0%, in the exemplary variant 1.6% of the areal extent of the absorption body 4.The ratio of the length LK of the channel to the width BK of the channel in the central section of the absorption body 4 preferably has a value of 3-15, in particular of 4-12, more particularly of 5-10, in the exemplary variant of Figure 9. The distance of the front end of the channel from the front end of the absorption body 4 is preferably at least 20%, in the exemplary variant 30% of the length LA of the absorption body 4. The distance of the rear end of the channel from the rear end of the absorption body 4 is preferably at least 30%, in the exemplary variant 54% of the length LA of the absorption body 4. The distance of the channel from the front end of the absorption body 4 is therefore less than the distance of the channel from the rear end of the absorption body 4.The distance of the channel in the transverse direction from the longitudinal edge of the absorption body 4 in the central section is preferably at least 30%, in particular at least 35%, in particular at least 40%, in the exemplary variant 44% of the minimum width BA of the absorption body 4 in the central section of the absorption body 4. The first absorbent body layer 5 preferably has at least 10% by weight, in particular at least 15% by weight, in particular at least 20% by weight, in particular at least 25% by weight, in particular at most 60% by weight, in particular at most 50% by weight, in particular at most 40% by weight, in the exemplary variant 36% by weight of superabsorbent material.

[0173] The areal extent of the first absorbent body layer is preferably at least 70%, in particular at least 75%, in particular at least 80%, in particular at least 85% of the areal extent of the absorption body and / or the areal extent of the second absorbent body layer. In the exemplary variant, the areal extent of the first absorbent body layer is 90% of the areal extent of the absorption body and likewise 90% of the areal extent of the second absorbent body layer. The distance of the front end of the channel from the front end of the first absorbent body layer is preferably at most 95%, in particular at most 90%, further in particular at most 80%, further in particular at most 70% 55% of the distance of the rear end of the channel from the rear end of the first absorbent body layer, in the exemplary variant 55%.

[0174] In the exemplary variant, the distance of the transverse axis MK bisecting the channel in its longitudinal extent from the front end of the absorption body is 4220 mm, and the distance of the transverse axis MK bisecting the channel in its longitudinal extent from the rear end of the absorption body 4 is 360 mm. The channel is therefore preferably arranged closer to the front end of the absorption body 4 than to the rear end of the absorption body 4.

[0175] In the exemplary variant, the distance of the transverse axis MK from the front end of the suction unit is 7250 mm, and the distance of the transverse axis MK from the rear end of the suction unit 7 is 390 mm. The channel is therefore preferably arranged closer to the front end of the suction unit 7 than to the rear end of the suction unit 7. The distance KS of the step elasticizing means from the channel is preferably at least 3 times, in particular at least 4 times, in particular at least 5 times, in particular at least 6 times, in particular at least 7 times, in particular at least 8 times, in particular at most 12 times the width BK of the channel in the central section of the absorption body 4. In the exemplary variant, the distance KS is 9 times the width BK of the channel in the central section of the absorption body 4.The distance KS of the channel from the step elasticizing means is preferably at least 30%, in particular at least 35%, in particular at least 40%, in the exemplary variant 46% of the distance AS of the step elasticizing means.

[0176] The step elasticizing means 18 are preferably arranged closer to a front end 7a of the suction unit 7 than to a rear end 7b of the suction unit 7.

[0177] The areal extent of the first absorbent body layer 5 is preferably at least 70%, in particular at least 75%, in particular at least 80%, in particular at least 85%, in the exemplary variant 90% of the areal extent of the absorption body 4. The areal extent of the channel is preferably 2-15%, in particular 3-12%, further in particular 3-10%, in the exemplary variant 6% of the areal extent of the ADL 15.

[0178] Preferably, the first absorbent layer 5 has a first region 26 with a first basis weight and a second region 27 with a second basis weight, wherein the first basis weight is greater, in particular by at least 40% greater, further in particular by at least 50% greater, further in particular by at least 70% greater, further in particular by at least 100% greater than the second basis weight. In the exemplary variant, the first absorbent layer 5 has a first region with a first basis weight of 833 g / m 2 and a second area with a second basis weight of 416.5 g / m 2 where the first basis weight is 100% greater than the second basis weight.

[0179] The channel is preferably arranged at least in regions, in particular completely in the first region and completely surrounded by the first region.

[0180] As shown in Figure 1, the suction unit 7 preferably has a single channel 16, which is arranged in particular along a longitudinal central axis 35 of the suction unit 7 and further in particular along a longitudinal central axis 39 of the incontinence article.

[0181] The channel 16 is preferably free of any elasticizing agent. The channel is not covered by any elasticizing agent along its longitudinal and transverse extension.

[0182] In the preferred embodiment of a modular, three-component structure of the incontinence article 1 shown in Figure 1, the front end 16a of the channel 16 ends in front of a crotch-facing transverse end 42 of the abdominal section 40 and / or the rear end 16b of the channel 16 ends in front of a crotch-facing transverse end 43 of the back section 41.

[0183] Furthermore, the front end 16a of the channel 16 ends in front of a crotch-facing end 45 of the side seam region 44 and / or the rear end 16b of the channel 16 ends in front of a crotch-facing end 45 of the side seam region 44.

[0184] The arrangement of the channel within the incontinence article is in particular such that a ratio KF / KB of the distance KF to distance KB is at least 0.45 and preferably at most 1.55, wherein the distance KF is between a transverse axis MK bisecting the length LK of the channel 16 and the crotch-facing transverse end 42 of the abdominal section 40 and the distance KB is between a transverse axis MK bisecting the length LK of the channel 16 and the crotch-facing transverse end 43 of the back section 41.

[0185] When arranging the channel within the incontinence article, the length LK of the channel 16, relative to a product length L1 of the incontinence article, is preferably at most 0.20, in particular at most 0.15, furthermore in particular at most 0.14, furthermore in particular at least 0.08, in the exemplary variant 0.11. Furthermore, the length LK of the channel 16, relative to a length L2 of the suction unit 7, is preferably at most 0.30, in particular at most 0.26, furthermore in particular at least 0.12, in the exemplary variant 0.14.

[0186] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 1, the channel 16 is preferably positioned within the incontinence article such that a transverse axis MK bisecting the length LK of the channel 16 is arranged between a transverse center axis 50 of the incontinence article and a hip opening edge 52 of the abdominal section 40 that delimits the hip opening. The channel is thus arranged proportionally more in the abdominal section-side half of the product.

Claims

Patent claims 1. Absorbent incontinence article (1) in the form of briefs for single use for the absorption of body excretions, having a longitudinal direction (11) and a transverse direction (10), comprising a front abdominal section (40) and a rear back section (41), which are joined together by the manufacturer to form a continuous abdominal and back band in the transverse or hip circumferential direction (10) with a hip opening closed in the hip circumferential direction at both side seam areas (44) to form leg openings (60), wherein the abdominal section (40) and / or the back section (41) has at least one elastic region (46, 48) and comprising an absorbent unit (7), wherein the absorbent unit (7) has an absorbent body (4),which extends over a length LA from a front end (4a) to a rear end (4b) of the absorbent body (4) and, starting from the front end (4a), has in the longitudinal direction (11) a front section (31) of 25% of the length LA, adjacent to a middle section (32) of 50% of the length LA, and adjacent thereto a rear section (33) of 25% of the length LA, wherein the absorbent body (4) comprises a first absorbent body layer (5), wherein the first absorbent body layer (5) comprises superabsorbent material (20), wherein the first absorbent body layer (5) has at least one channel (16) oriented in the longitudinal direction (11) with a length LK from a front end (16a) to a rear end (16b) of the channel (16), wherein the channel (16) comprises or is formed from a recess extending through the first absorbent body layer (5) in a thickness direction (21). is,wherein the channel (16) is arranged on a longitudinal central axis (35) of the absorption body (4), wherein the length LK of the channel (16) is at most 30% of the length LA of the absorption body (4), wherein a width BK of the channel (16) in the central section (32) of the absorption body (4) is at most 22% of a minimum width BA of the absorption body (4) in the central section (32) of the absorption body (4), wherein a areal extension of the channel (16) is 0.5% - 5.0% of a areal extension of the absorption body (4).

2. Incontinence article according to claim 1, wherein the length LK of the channel (16) is at most 25%, in particular at most 22%, in particular at most 20%, in particular at least 10% of the length LA of the absorbent body (4).

3. Incontinence article according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the areal extent of the channel (16) is 0.5 - 3.0%, in particular 0.6 - 3.0%, in particular 0.7 - 3.0%, in particular 0.8 - 3.0% of the areal extent of the absorption body (4).

4. Incontinence article according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the width BK of the channel (16) in the central section (32) of the absorbent body (4) is at most 20%, in particular at most 18%, in particular at most 15%, in particular at least 4% of the minimum width BA of the absorbent body (4) in the central section (32) of the absorbent body (4).

5. Incontinence article according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a distance (12) of the front end (16a) of the channel (16) from the front end (4a) of the absorption body (4) is at least 20% of the length LA of the absorption body (4), and / or wherein a distance (13) of the rear end (16b) of the channel (16) from the rear end (4b) of the absorption body (4) is at least 30% of the length LA of the absorption body (4).

6. Incontinence article according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a distance (23) of the channel (16) in the transverse direction (10) from a longitudinal edge (24) of the absorbent body (4) in the central section (32) is at least 30%, in particular at least 35%, in particular at least 40% of the minimum width BA of the absorbent body (4) in the central section (32) of the absorbent body (4).

7. Incontinence article according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the incontinence article has crotch elastication means (18) running on both sides substantially in the longitudinal direction (11), wherein a distance KS of the crotch elastication means (18) from the channel (16) is at least 3 times, in particular at least 4 times, in particular at least 5 times, in particular at least 6 times, in particular at least 7 times, in particular at least 8 times, in particular at most 12 times the width BK of the channel (16) in the central section (32) of the absorption body (4).

8. Incontinence article according to claim 7, wherein the distance KS of the channel (16) from the crotch elasticating means (18) is at least 30%, in particular at least 35%. in particular at least 40% of a distance AS of the step elasticizing means (18).

9. Incontinence article according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first absorbent body layer (5) comprises at least 10 percent by weight of superabsorbent material (20), in particular at least 15 percent by weight, in particular at least 20 percent by weight, in particular at least 25 percent by weight, in particular at most 60 percent by weight, in particular at most 50 percent by weight, in particular at most 40 percent by weight.

10. Incontinence article according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a planar extension of the first absorbent body layer (5) corresponds to at least 70%, in particular at least 75%, in particular at least 80%, in particular at least 85% of the planar extension of the absorbent body (4).

11. Incontinence article according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the absorbent body (4) has a second absorbent body layer (6), wherein the second absorbent body layer (6) is arranged on a side (28) of the first absorbent body layer (5) facing away from the body during use.

12. Incontinence article according to claim 11, wherein the second absorbent layer (6) does not comprise a recess extending through in the thickness direction (21).

13. Incontinence article according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the second absorbent layer (6) comprises less than 20 percent by weight, in particular less than 15 percent by weight, further in particular less than 10 percent by weight, further in particular less than 5 percent by weight of superabsorbent material, in particular is free of superabsorbent material (20).

14. Incontinence article according to one of claims 11 to 13, wherein the areal extent of the first absorbent layer (5) is at least 70%, in particular at least 75%, in particular at least 80%, in particular at least 85% of a areal extent of the second absorbent layer (6).

15. Incontinence article according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the absorbent unit (7) has at least one liquid absorption and distribution layer (ADL) (15), wherein the ADL (15) preferably completely covers the channel (16).

16. Incontinence article according to claim 15, wherein the areal extent of the channel (16) is 2 - 15%, in particular 3 - 12%, further in particular 3 - 10% of a areal extent of the ADL (15).

17. Incontinence article according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first absorbent layer (5) has a first region (26) with a first basis weight and a second region (27) with a second basis weight and wherein the first basis weight is greater, in particular by at least 40% greater, further in particular by at least 50% greater, further in particular by at least 70% greater, further in particular by at least 100% greater than the second basis weight.

18. Incontinence article according to claim 17, wherein the channel (16) is arranged at least partially, in particular completely, in the first region (26) with the first basis weight.

19. Incontinence article according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the suction unit (7) has a single channel (16) which is arranged in particular along a longitudinal central axis (35) of the suction unit (7) and further in particular along a longitudinal central axis (39) of the incontinence article.

20. Incontinence article according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the absorbent unit (7) has a top sheet (2) which is at least partially liquid-permeable and a back sheet (3) which is impermeable to liquid, and the absorption body (4) is arranged between the top sheet (2) and the back sheet (3), and wherein in particular the top sheet (2) and / or the back sheet (3) extend in the transverse direction (10) and / or in the longitudinal direction (11) over edges of the absorption body (4) in order to form an overhang.

21. Incontinence article according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the absorbent body (4) has no absorbent body covering layers.

22. Incontinence article according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the channel (16) is arranged closer to the front end (4a) of the absorbent body (4) than to the rear end (4b) of the absorbent body (4).

23. Incontinence article according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a distance of the front end (16a) of the channel (16) from a front end (5a) of the first absorbent body layer (5) is at most 95%, in particular at most 90%, further in particular at most 80%, further in particular at most 70% of a distance of the rear end (16b) of the channel (16) from a rear end (5b) of the first absorbent body layer (5).

24. Incontinence article according to one of claims 7 to 23, wherein the crotch elasticizing means (18) are arranged closer to a front end (7a) of the suction unit (7) than to a rear end (7b) of the suction unit (7).

25. Incontinence article according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the channel (16) is free of elasticizing agents.

26. Incontinence article according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the front abdominal section (40) and the rear back section (41) are spaced apart from one another in the longitudinal direction (11), the abdominal section (40) and the back section (41) each have a transverse end (42, 43) facing the crotch, and the suction unit (7) extends as a crotch section (71) in the longitudinal direction (11) between the abdominal section (40) and the back section (41) and is non-detachably attached to the abdominal section (40) in a front overlap region (72) and to the back section (41) in a rear overlap region (73), so that the crotch section (71), the abdominal section (40), and the back section (41) together delimit the leg openings (60) of the incontinence article.

27. Incontinence article according to claim 26, wherein the front end (16a) of the channel (16) ends in front of a crotch-facing transverse end (42) of the abdominal portion (40) and / or the rear end (16b) of the channel (16) ends in front of a crotch-facing transverse end (43) of the back portion (41).

28. Incontinence article according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the front end (16a) of the channel (16) ends in front of a crotch-facing end (45) of the side seam region (44) and / or the rear end (16b) of the channel (16) ends in front of a crotch-facing end (45) of the side seam region (44).

29. Incontinence article according to claim 27, wherein a transverse axis MK bisecting the length LK of the channel (16) is arranged at a distance KF from the crotch-facing transverse end (42) of the abdominal portion (40) and at a distance KB from the crotch-facing transverse end (43) of the back portion (41), and wherein a ratio KF / KB of the distance KF to the distance KB is at least 0.45 and preferably at most 1.

55.

30. Incontinence article according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the length LK of the channel (16) relative to a product length L1 of the incontinence article is at most 0.20, in particular at most 0.15, further in particular at most 0.14, further in particular at least 0.

08.

31. Incontinence article according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the length LK of the Channel (16) relative to a length L2 of the suction unit (7) is at most 0.30, in particular at most 0.26, further in particular at least 0.

12.

32. Incontinence article according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a transverse axis MK bisecting the length LK of the channel (16) is arranged between a transverse central axis (50) of the incontinence article and a hip opening edge (52) of the abdominal section (40) delimiting the hip opening.

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