A new channel system for absorbent hygiene products

Abstract

The invention belongs to the technical field of absorbent hygiene products and relates to a new channel system (10) for faster absorption and more efficient dispersion of fluid, prevention of leakage, and utilization of the absorbent core layer (1) at maximum capacity in disposable or multi-use hygiene products.

Description

[0001] A NEW CHANNEL SYSTEM FOR ABSORBENT HYGIENE PRODUCTS

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The invention belongs to the technical field of absorbent hygiene products and relates to a new channel system for more efficient dispersion of fluid, prevention of leakage, and utilization of the absorbent core layer at maximum capacity in disposable or multiuse hygiene products.

[0004] The invention also has an arrangement showing when disposable or multi-use hygiene products need to be changed at the most appropriate time by incorporating a wetness indicator element, cooperating with the new channel system.

[0005] PRIOR ART

[0006] Absorbent hygiene products comprise at least one fluid-permeable top layer, at least one fluid-impermeable bottom layer, and at least one absorbent core layer sandwiched between these layers. The design, number and size of the top, bottom, and absorbent core layers may vary according to the users and their place of use.

[0007] In absorbent hygiene products, the absorbent core layer sandwiched between the bottom and top layer is the most critical component. The main function of the absorbent core layer is to absorb and trap bodily fluids, such as urine. In order to absorb and trap body fluids, the absorbent core layer must have the properties of high and fast fluid absorption, fluid retention capacity, and flexibility.

[0008] The absorbent core layer contains both elements that provide fast and highly efficient absorption of body fluid and contain super absorbent polymer (SAP) materials, and a channel system that does not contain SAP materials and ensures effective distribution of the fluid, prevention of leakage, and maximum capacity utilization of the absorbent core.

[0009] The channel systems are systems that have variable lengths and depth in the absorbent core layers and allow the fluid to be distributed to other regions of the absorbent core. In addition to this fluid distribution, the channel systems can also contain elements that help prevent leakage.

[0010] Channel systems are developed for the fast, effective, and even dispersion of the fluid in single or multi-use hygiene products and to obtain maximum absorption capacity. In particular, absorbent hygiene products which carry out fluid distribution quickly, effectively, and evenly provide hygiene, health, and comfort of use to users. Therefore, it is critical to obtain absorbent hygiene products with effective channel systems to increase their usability.

[0011] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] Inadequate fluid management of absorbent hygiene products in the relevant technical field leads to inadequate distribution and absorption of fluid, leakage, and a damp feeling on the skin. The inability of absorbent hygiene products to keep the skin dry causes a lack of comfort for the user, while also creating skin problems such as irritation and rash.

[0013] The primary object of the inventors of the present invention is to introduce a channel system eliminating technical problems caused by inadequate fluid management and providing maximum absorption performance by being positioned within the absorbent core layer.

[0014] It is crucial that body fluids are effectively and quickly dispersed within the absorbent core layer, as well as that they do not leak. Another object of the inventors of the present invention is to introduce a channel system with increased leakage prevention performance.

[0015] The inventors of the present invention introduce a wetness indicator configuration that cooperates with the improved channel system to ensure that the alert is given at the most appropriate time. The wetness indicator configured within the channel system shows a synergistic effect with other elements to provide the most appropriate information compared to other wetness indicators in the present art.

[0016] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS Figure 1 shows the representative top view of the absorbent core layer and the channel system, along with the main elements thereof subject to the invention, within the absorbent hygienic product.

[0017] Figure 2 shows the representative top view of the front channel path, front connection path, rear channel path, and rear connection path elements.

[0018] Figure 3 shows the representative top view of the stopper connection channel, stopper rear channel, and wetness indicator elements.

[0019] Figure 4 shows a representative top view of multiple wetness indicator elements in the channel system.

[0020] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF REFERENCES

[0021] I Absorbent Core Layer

[0022] 10 Channel System

[0023] I I Channel Front Structure

[0024] I I I Front Channel Path

[0025] 112 Front Connection Path

[0026] 12 Channel Rear Structure

[0027] 121 Rear Channel Path

[0028] 122 Rear Connection Path

[0029] 123 Stopper Rear Channel

[0030] 13 Connection Path

[0031] 131 Stopper Connection Channel

[0032] 14 Wetness Indicator y: along the length of the front part of the absorbent core layer x: along the width of the front part of the absorbent core layer

[0033] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION In this detailed description, the subject of the invention relates to a channel system (10) for absorbent hygiene products, and is described only with the examples that will not create any limiting effect for a better understanding of the subject.

[0034] In the present invention, “absorbent hygiene products” refers to baby diapers, adult incontinence products, diaper pants, absorbent pads, panty liners, and wound dressing pads. In this invention, the products can be both disposable or multi-use.

[0035] In this invention, the absorbent hygiene product contains at least one bottom layer and at least one top layer. The bottom layer, as known in the art, is fluid-impermeable, while the top layer is fluid-permeable. Between this top layer and the bottom layer, there is at least one absorbent core layer (1 ) for controlled absorption and optimal distribution of the fluid.

[0036] In this invention, "fluid" refers to urine, blood or anything similar that is intended to be absorbed from the body of the user using the product.

[0037] Within the absorbent core layer (1 ), there are elements that allow the fluid to be absorbed and distributed. Absorption of the fluid is ensured by absorbent elements including super absorbent polymers. Absorbent elements can also be at least one of the group of fluff pulp, fabrics, bio-based or biodegradable absorbent material. If preferred, several of these materials can be combined as absorbent elements from the absorbent core layers.

[0038] As is known in the art, the absorbent core layer (1) comprises a channel system allowing the fluid to be distributed in a controlled manner. The channel system (10) ensures that the fluid is evenly distributed in the absorbent core layer (1 ) as aimed and prevents the formation of leaks caused by fluids during this distribution process.

[0039] The channel system (10) is required to maximize the performance of the absorbent core layer (1 ). With an effective and fast fluid distribution system, each of the absorbent elements within the absorbent core layer (1 ) will become usable, thus ensuring that the fluid is absorbed effectively and preventing the feeling of dampness for the users. The inventors of the present invention introduce as the primary object a channel system (10) that provides effective and rapid fluid distribution to the absorbent core layer (1). By ensuring fast and effective fluid distribution, possible fluid leaks in the absorbent core layer (1) and channel system (10) can be prevented.

[0040] In this invention, the channel system (10) is located inside the absorbent core layer (1 ). The channel system (10) is essentially grooves or cavities within the absorbent core layer (1) designed to allow fluid to move quickly and distribute evenly. The grooves or cavities mentioned here can improve the utilization performance of the absorbent core layer (1) with the achieved designs.

[0041] In the present invention, the channel system (10) comprises a channel front structure

[0042] (I I ) and a channel rear structure (12).

[0043] The channel front structure (11 ) is the part located in the front region of the absorbent core layer (1 ), which also includes the so-called fluid discharge region. The fluid discharge region is the first region wherein the fluid from the user's body comes into contact with and is absorbed in the absorbent core layer (1 ). Since the front channel structure (11 ) is the first collection region of the fluid from the user's body, it receives the fluid collected here and allows it to disperse throughout the absorbent core layer (1) together with the other elements of the channel system (10). In addition, the fluid collected here should not cause leakage. Figure 1 shows the subject and design of the channel front structure (11) as a representation.

[0044] To achieve this, the channel front structure (11) includes at least one front channel path

[0045] (I I I ). In particular, the front channel path (111) ensures efficient and rapid dispersion of the fluid from the fluid discharge region in the front part of the absorbent core layer (1 ) as well as its delivery towards the rear part of the absorbent core layer (1 ).

[0046] In a preferred embodiment, the front channel structure (11) contains multiple front channel paths (111). In the case there are multiple, the front channel paths (111) are located parallel to each other at certain distances. The length of the front channel paths (111 ) is determined to ensure an effective fluid distribution along the length of the front part of the absorbent core layer (1) (along the y-coordinate). If multiple front channel paths (111) are placed side by side parallel to each other, the absorbent core layer (1 ) provides effective fluid distribution along the width of the front part (along the x- coordinate).

[0047] Referring to Figure 2; in a preferred embodiment, the channel front structure (11 ) comprises at least one front connection path (112) which, in the case of multiple front channel paths (111 ), integrates these front channel paths (111 ). The front connection path (112) connects the front channel paths (111 ) to each other, ensuring that the necessary delivery is carried out for the distribution of the fluid. In addition, the front connection path (112) connects the channel front structure (11) with other channel system (10) elements and ensures the efficient and fast delivery of fluid to other elements.

[0048] In a most preferred embodiment, the channel front structure (11 ) contains three front channel paths (111 ) and a front connection path (112) for connecting at least a part of these front channel paths (111). Said front channel paths (111) are at certain and equal distances from each other. In this way, it ensures efficient distribution of fluid across the width in the front part of the absorbent core layer (1). Front channel paths (111 ) also ensure efficient distribution of fluid along the length of the front part of the absorbent core layer (1).

[0049] If preferred, there can be two the front connection path (112) to connect the front channel paths (111) at both ends.

[0050] Referring to Figure 2; in the most preferred embodiment, the channel front structure (11 ) has a "I1" shaped configuration. Accordingly, the front channel structure (11) comprises front channel paths (111) located parallel to each other at equal distances and a front connection path (112) allowing these front channel paths (111) to be connected from the bottom part. The front connection path (112) also extends towards the rear part of the absorbent core layer (1) to connect with other channel system (10) elements.

[0051] The channel rear structure (12) is a part located on the rear side of the absorbent core layer (1). It is configured to manage the dispersion of fluid from the user through the absorbent core layer (1) to the rear side and to prevent leakage in the rear region. Figure 1 shows the location and design of the channel back structure (12) as a representation.

[0052] The channel rear structure (12) of the invention comprises at least one rear channel path (121) located at certain lengths and along the length of the absorbent core layer (1) for effective dispersion of fluids in the rear part of the absorbent core layer (1 ).

[0053] In this invention, if an absorbent core layer (1) were hypothetically placed in a coordinate system, its length would refer to the y coordinate and its width would refer to the horizontal x coordinate. Figure 1 shows a representation of this hypothetical narrative.

[0054] In a preferred embodiment, the rear channel structure (12) contains multiple rear channel paths (121 ). In the case there are multiple, the rear channel paths (121) are located parallel to each other at certain distances. The length of the rear channel paths (121 ) is determined to ensure an effective fluid distribution along the length of the rear part of the absorbent core layer (1) (along the y-coordinate). If multiple rear channel paths (121) are placed side by side parallel to each other, the absorbent core layer (1 ) provides effective fluid distribution along the width of the rear part (along the x- coordinate). Figure 2 shows a representative view of the channel system (10) in the case it comprises multiple rear channel paths (121 ).

[0055] In a preferred embodiment, the channel rear structure (12) comprises at least one rear connection path (122) which, in the case of multiple rear channel paths (121), integrates these rear channel paths (121). The rear connection path (122) connects the rear channel paths (121) to each other, ensuring that the necessary delivery is carried out for the distribution of the fluid. In addition, the rear connection path (122) connects the other channel system (10) elements with the channel back structure (121 ) and ensures that fluids from other elements (especially from the liquid discharge region) can also be positioned at the rear part of the absorbent core layer (1).

[0056] In a most preferred embodiment, the channel rear structure (12) contains three rear channel paths (121) and a rear connection path (122) for connecting at least a part of these rear channel paths (121). Said rear channel paths (121) are at certain and equal distances from each other. In this way, it ensures efficient distribution of fluid across the width in the rear part of the absorbent core layer (1 ). Rear channel paths (121) also ensure efficient distribution of fluid along the length of the rear part of the absorbent core layer (1 ). Figure 2 shows the rear channel path (121) and rear connection path (122) elements as a representation.

[0057] If preferred, there can be two the rear connection path (122) to connect the rear channel paths (121 ) at both ends.

[0058] Referring to Figure 2; in the most preferred embodiment, the channel rear structure (12) has a "r ” shaped configuration. It comprises rear channel paths (121 ) located at equal distances and parallel to each other and a rear connection path (122) allowing these rear channel paths (121 ) to be connected from the bottom part. The rear connection path (122) also extends towards the front part of the absorbent core layer (1) to connect with other channel system (10) elements.

[0059] As mentioned before, the fluid discharge region is located in the region coinciding with the front channel structure. Therefore, it is possible that the front structure of the channel (11 ) is in contact with more fluid than the other elements of the channel system (10). Considering that the liquid discharge point is predominantly in the front part and the fluid moves forward in the y-coordinate, the inventors of the present invention have determined that the channel rear structure (12) has to occupy more volume than the channel front structure (11) in order for the fluid to move evenly to the rear part.

[0060] The volumes of the front (11) and rear channel structures (12) are mostly determined by the front and rear channel paths (111 , 121). Accordingly, the channel structure with a long and wide channel path will be more than the other channel structure.

[0061] In a preferred embodiment, the length of the rear channel path (121 ) : the length of the front channel path (111 ) may have a ratio of 1 :1 . If the rear channel path (121 ) and the front channel path (111 ) are of equal length, as can be expected, the channel system (10) will include the channel rear structure (12) and the channel front structure (11) in equal volumes. As mentioned, if there are equal volumes of channel rear structure (12) and channel front structure (11) in the channel system (10), it can be ensured that the fluid from the user is first delivered to the channel front structure (11 ) and then an equal amount is quickly delivered to the channel rear structure (12). By evenly distributing the fluid from the user to the channel front structure (11) and the channel back structure (12), homogeneity can be achieved for the distribution of the fluid in the channel system (10) and a lack of comfort for the user can be prevented. Further, the accumulation of fluid mostly in the channel front structure (11 ) or the channel rear structure (12) will lead to an amount of fluid that these structures are unable to handle. Providing the channel rear structure (12) and the channel front structure (11) in equal volumes will prevent this technical problem from occurring.

[0062] In a preferred embodiment, the length (along the y-coordinate) of the front channel paths (121 ) located in the channel rear structure (12) is greater than the length of the front channel paths (111) located in the channel front structure (11). In this way, it is ensured that the volume of the channel rear structure is more in the absorbent core layer in order for the fluid from the user's body to move to the back absorbent core part in the channel system.

[0063] In a most preferred embodiment, there is a ratio of the length of the rear channel path (121 ) : the length of the front channel path (111) at a value between 1.1 :1 to 2.5:1. According to the ratio range mentioned here, the rear channel path (121 ) will be located in the channel system with a greater volume than the front channel path (111). In this way, the front channel path (111 ) handling more fluid will provide effective solutions and advantages in delivery towards the rear channel path (121). This ratio is crucial, as the rear channel path (121) must have a certain length in order to provide the technical solutions and advantages expected.

[0064] In order to prevent the delivery of fluid to other elements of the absorbent hygiene product, the channel back structure (12) contains at least one stopper back channel (123). In a preferred embodiment, the stopper rear channel (123) can be one or multiple.

[0065] In a preferred embodiment, the stopper rear channel (123) is located such that it extends in a perpendicular position (along the x coordinate) to the rear channel paths (121 ). It is shown as representation in Figure 3. In a preferred embodiment, the stopper rear channel (123) is located such that it extends in the opposite vicinity (along the y-coordinate) parallel to the rear channel paths (121).

[0066] The channel system (10) contains a connection structure (13) that will provide effective fluid delivery between the channel front structure (11) and the channel rear structure (12). The connection structure (13) serves to ensure fast and efficient delivery of fluid from the channel front structure (11 ), which contains the fluid discharge region, towards the channel back structure (12).

[0067] In a preferred embodiment, the connection structure (13) comprises at least one stopper connection channel (131 ). The stopper connection channel (131 ) is located in the channel system (10) to prevent possible excess fluid from reaching other elements of the absorbent hygiene product during the delivery of the fluid from the liquid discharge region to the channel back structure (12). In a preferred embodiment, there are two of the stopper connection channels (131) located at certain distances to the right and left of the connection element, as shown in Figure 3. Said stopper connection channels (131) here are located along the length (along the y-coordinate) of the absorbent core layer (1).

[0068] In a preferred embodiment, the channel system (10) comprises at least one wetness indicator (14). In a preferred embodiment, said wetness indicator (14) is located in the opposite upper vicinity of the channel front structure (11 ). The wetness indicator (14) detects the need to replace the absorbent hygiene product with various configurations by contact with the absorbed liquid.

[0069] The position of the wetness indicator (14) is located along the absorbent core layer (1 ) (y-coordinate). With the contact of the fluid with the absorbent surface, the distribution of the fluid is ensured primarily by the "I1" shaped channel front structure (11). By means of the connection channel structure (13), the fluid is transferred from the "I1" shaped channel front structure (11 ) to the " rh ” shaped rear channel structure (12) and the fluid is distributed along the length of the absorbent core (1). When fluid saturation begins to occur in the rear part of the absorbent core (1 ), the fluid also progresses in the front part, activating the wetness indicator (14). Figure 3 shows the channel system (10) including the wetness indicator as a representation. If preferred, the number of wetness indicators (14) can be multiple. They can be configured at equal distances and lengths, located parallel to each other. Figure 4 shows a representative view of the channel system (10) in the case it comprises multiple wetness indicators (14).

[0070] The channel system (10) and absorbent hygiene product of the invention are expected to provide the following technical solutions and advantages:

[0071] - ensuring that the channel paths (121 , 111) in the channel rear structure (12) and the channel front structure (11) effectively distribute the fluid along both the length and the width of the absorbent core layer (1 ), thereby optimally improving the fluid absorption performance,

[0072] - by means of the rear connection paths (121 ) and the front connection paths (111 ), providing the necessary connection for the rapid delivery of the fluid through the entire absorbent core layer (1 ) by the connection structure (13),

[0073] - for the equal advancement of the fluid toward the rear part, ensuring more effective usability of the part that will interact with the fluid for the delivery thereof due to the channel rear structure (12) occupying a larger volume in the channel system than the channel front structure (11),

[0074] - preventing the delivery of excess fluid to other elements of the absorbent hygiene product with the stopper rear channel (123) contained in the channel back structure (12),

[0075] - preventing fluid leaks from being delivered to other elements of the absorbent hygiene product during the quick and efficient delivery of fluid from the channel front structure (11 ) by the stopper connection channels (131 ) contained in the connection structure,

[0076] - providing clear information with the wetness indicators (14) located in parallel in the opposite vicinity of the channel front structure (11) on when the absorbent hygiene product needs to be replaced upon effectively delivering fluid from the channel front structure (11) to the channel rear structure (12).

[0077] The scope of protection of the invention is specified in the appended claims and cannot be limited to what is described for illustrative purposes in this detailed description. It is clear that a person skilled in the art can produce similar embodiments in the light of what is explained above, without deviating from the main theme of the invention.

Claims

CLAIMS1 . A channel system (10) contained in the absorbent core layer (1 ) for efficient and rapid dispersion of liquid in an absorbent hygiene product comprising at least one bottom layer, at least one top layer, and an absorbent core layer (1 ) located between the at least one bottom layer and at least one top layer, characterized in that it contains- a channel front structure (11 ), located in the front region of the absorbent core layer (1) wherein the fluid from the user's body first comes into contact, and serving as the initial collection region for the liquid from the user's body, facilitates the distribution of the collected liquid throughout the absorbent core layer (1 ) along with other components of the channel system (10);- within said channel front structure (11), multiple front channel paths (111) located parallel and at equal distance from each other along the length (along the y-coordinate) of the absorbent core layer (1) ensuring that the fluid, especially from the fluid discharge region, is dispersed in the front part of the absorbent core layer (1) and delivered towards the rear part of the absorbent core layer (1 );- within the channel front structure (11 ), a front connection path (112) connected to the connection structure (13) by ensuring that said multiple front channel paths (111 ) are connected to each other from the bottom part;- a channel rear structure (12) located on the rear side of the absorbent core layer (1 ), configured to manage the dispersion of fluid from the user along the length and width of the absorbent core layer towards the rear side and to prevent leakage in the rear region;- within said channel rear structure (12), multiple rear channel paths (121) located parallel to and at equal distances from each other along the length (along the y- coordinate) of the absorbent core layer (1 ) to ensure distribution of the fluid along the length and width of the rear part of the absorbent core layer (1);- within the channel rear structure (12), a rear connection path (122) enabling the formation of a monolithic structure by connecting said multiple rear channel paths (121) to each other from their bottom parts and the delivery of fluid with other channel system (10) elements by connection with the connection structure- a connection structure (13) located along the length (along the y-coordinate) of the absorbent core layer (1) providing connection for the delivery of the fluid from the channel front structure (11) towards the channel rear structure (12) and that the channel rear structure (12) located in the channel system (10) is of equal volume to the channel front structure (11 ), or the channel rear structure (12) is of greater volume than the channel front structure (11 ).

2. A channel system (10) according to claim 1 , characterized in that the channel front structure (11) contains three front channel paths (111) for fluid distribution along the length and width of the absorbent core layer (1), and a front connection path (112) for connecting these front channel paths (111) at the bottom part so that they are monolithic and connected to the connection structure (13).

3. A channel system (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the channel rear structure (12) contains three rear channel paths (121) for fluid distribution along the length and width of the absorbent core layer (1 ), and a rear connection path (122) for connecting these rear channel paths at the bottom part so that they are monolithic and connected to the connection structure (13).

4. A channel system (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the ratio of the length of the rear channel path (121 ) : the length of the front channel path (111 ) it contains is at a value between 1 .1 :1 to 2.5:1.

5. A channel system (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the channel rear structure (12) contains at least one stopper rear channel (123).

6. A channel system (10) according to claim 5, characterized in that said stopper rear channel (123) is located perpendicular to the rear channel paths (121) and along the width (along the x coordinate) of the absorbent core layer (1).

7. A channel system (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said connecting structure (13) contains at least one stopper connection channel (131 ) located along the length (along the y coordinate) of the absorbent core layer (1).

8. A channel system (10) according to claim 7, characterized in that there are two of said stopper connection channels (131 ), located to the right and left of said connection structure (13).

9. A channel system (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises at least one wetness indicator (14) located along (y coordinate) the absorbent core layer (1) in a parallel opposite vicinity of the channel front structure (11 ).

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