Absorbent Core with Patterned Wet-Laid Tissue for Liquid Handling
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current absorbent articles, such as feminine hygiene products, are overdesigned in terms of absorbent core capacity, resulting in significant underutilization of the absorbent core, leading to inefficiencies and leakage issues.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of a three-dimensionally patterned, wet-laid, cellulosic tissue nonwoven material as the absorbent core, utilizing the UCTAD process with high machine-direction fiber orientation and low density to enhance liquid distribution and retention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional absorbent core is used with overdesign capacity, then leakage performance is maintained, but absorbent core utilization efficiency is low
Solution Approach 1:
The absorbent core is divided into multiple layers with different functions: a first layer with high liquid acquisition rate for initial absorption, and a second layer with high liquid retention capacity for storage. This segmentation allows each layer to perform its specific function optimally, improving overall utilization efficiency while maintaining leakage protection.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the absorbent core are designed with different properties. The first layer uses materials optimized for rapid liquid acquisition, while the second layer uses materials optimized for liquid retention. This local differentiation ensures that each part of the core contributes effectively to its intended function, reducing waste and improving efficiency.
2Ease of manufacture
If traditional creped tissue wrap sheet is used, then SAM and fluff pulp are transported and contained, but liquid management benefit is not provided
Solution Approach 1:
The absorbent core is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it transports liquid from the bodyside liner, distributes liquid evenly throughout the core, manages liquid flow to prevent leakage, and provides structural support. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate components and improves overall liquid management performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The absorbent core combines different materials with complementary properties: a first layer made of materials with high liquid acquisition rates and a second layer made of materials with high liquid retention capacities. This composite structure integrates transport, distribution, and retention functions within a single component, improving liquid management while maintaining ease of manufacture.
3Reliability
If only one-third of the absorbent core is utilized, then leakage is prevented, but significant opportunity cost is incurred
Solution Approach 1:
The absorbent core is designed with dynamic liquid distribution capabilities that adapt to the amount and distribution of menstrual flow. The first layer rapidly acquires liquid wherever it enters, and the second layer distributes and retains liquid evenly throughout its structure. This dynamic response ensures that the entire core is utilized effectively regardless of flow patterns, preventing both leakage and underutilization.
Solution Approach 2:
The absorbent core maintains continuous liquid management throughout its entire structure. The first layer continuously acquires liquid as it enters, and the second layer continuously distributes and retains liquid throughout its volume. This continuous utilization of the entire core structure ensures that no portion remains idle, maximizing efficiency while maintaining leakage prevention.
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
This solution improves absorbent core utilization efficiency, reduces leakage, and enhances the overall liquid-handling performance of absorbent articles, allowing for better distribution and retention of menses without the need for superabsorbent materials.
Implementation Method 1
wet-laid pulp material made using the UCTAD process with a suitable blend of pulp fibers under process conditions that achieve high machine-direction fiber orientation and low density through rush transfer to obtain optimal liquid distribution and retention of menses
Data Source
AI summary
An absorbent article having a liquid-handling system includes a liquid permeable bodyside liner; a liquid impermeable outer cover; and an absorbent core disposed between the liner and the outer cover, wherein the absorbent core has a longitudinal direction, wherein the absorbent core includes a layer of a three-dimensionally patterned, wetlaid, cellulosic tissue nonwoven material, and wherein the layer includes longitudinal ridges and grooves. The absorbent core can include multiple layers of a three-dimensionally patterned, wetlaid, cellulosic tissue nonwoven material, wherein each layer of the multiple layers includes longitudinal ridges and grooves, and wherein the multiple layers are joined by lines of embossing, such lines of embossing extending in the longitudinal direction. Each layer of the multiple layers can include embossed longitudinal ridges and grooves.