3D Film Transfer Layer for Absorbent Articles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing transfer layers in absorbent articles can cause discomfort due to stiffness and rigidity, failing to balance user comfort and performance in handling insults effectively.
Innovation Solution
A three-dimensional film with an open lattice structure and irregularly shaped apertures is used as a transfer layer, providing a hybrid approach that mimics nonwoven materials while maintaining the benefits of a single film structure, enhancing comfort and performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a transfer layer is used to improve fluid distribution and reduce rewetting, then performance in handling insults is improved, but user comfort deteriorates due to increased stiffness and rigidity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical and structural parameters of the transfer layer by using a three-dimensional formed film with controlled aperture size, shape, and distribution. This transforms the material from a traditional flat nonwoven or plastic web into a structured film with optimized fluid handling characteristics while maintaining flexibility and comfort through its three-dimensional configuration
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a composite structure within the formed film by combining regions of different aperture sizes (large scale and small scale apertures) and varying film densities. This composite approach allows the single film to exhibit both the fluid distribution capabilities of a transfer layer and the comfort characteristics of soft materials
2Strength
If a resilient plastic web with defined fibers is used to provide structure, then performance is improved, but user comfort deteriorates due to perceived rigidity and defined fiber appearance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional resilient plastic web with a thin formed film structure that maintains structural integrity through its three-dimensional configuration and aperture pattern rather than relying on defined fibers. This thin film approach provides necessary strength while delivering the softness and comfort associated with nonwoven materials
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a porous formed film structure with controlled aperture distribution to provide structural integrity. The pattern of large and small scale apertures creates a three-dimensional network that maintains strength and fluid handling capabilities without requiring the rigid, defined fiber structure of traditional plastic webs
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The three-dimensional film improves user comfort and insult handling by reducing stiffness and enhancing fluid distribution, achieving better strikethrough and rewet performance compared to traditional films, while maintaining softness comparable to nonwoven materials.
Implementation Method 1
small scale apertures sized to acquire fluids by capillary action
Implementation Method 2
sized to permit acquisition of fluids by gravity
Implementation Method 3
improve comfort by reducing rewetting or evacuation of the bodily fluids contained in the absorbent core
Data Source
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AI summary
An absorbent article with a three-dimensional film transfer layer having an open lattice structure formed from a single film for improved user properties.