Absorbent Article Fluid Management Layer for Fast Uptake and Low Rewet
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing absorbent articles with nonwoven topsheets have not effectively addressed the need for rapid fluid absorption and distribution of fluid retention in the z-direction, and have not effectively addressed the need for improved performance from an acquisition and rewet perspective.
Innovation Solution
The absorbent articles incorporate a nonwoven web material with specific features to enhance visual application and provide innovative features such as channel portions and hinge portions to improve fluid management, including attenuated regions with lower fiber and filament density, and built-up regions with higher density, to facilitate rapid fluid absorption and prevent rewetting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a nonwoven topsheet is used to provide wearer comfort and cost effectiveness, then soft feel and mechanical strength are improved, but rapid fluid absorption and distribution in the z-direction are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The nonwoven topsheet incorporates through-zones with lower basis weight and higher porosity in specific regions to accelerate fluid penetration in the z-direction, while maintaining higher density in other areas for structural integrity and comfort
Solution Approach 2:
The topsheet combines multiple fiber types including hydrophilic fibers for rapid fluid uptake, hydrophobic fibers for structural support, and thermoplastic binder fibers for consolidation, creating a composite nonwoven structure that balances comfort and absorption speed
2Reliability
If a nonwoven topsheet is used to provide sufficient liquid permeability and mechanical strength, then functionality is improved, but fluid retention and avoidance of rewetting are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The nonwoven structure features localized zones with different fiber compositions and densities - through-zones with enhanced porosity for fluid egress and other regions with higher fiber density to prevent fluid migration and rewetting
Solution Approach 2:
The topsheet utilizes a controlled porous nonwoven structure with varying porosity throughout, creating preferential pathways for fluid to move through the topsheet into the absorbent core while preventing fluid from migrating back to the wearer-facing surface
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 solution enhances fluid management by promoting rapid fluid absorption and reducing the likelihood of fluid migration and rewetting, providing improved comfort and functionality.
Implementation Method 1
The nonwoven material may be formed of a blend of hydrophilic and hydrophobic fibers, and/or may have visual features formed therein such as channel portions, discrete low bulk portions, built-up regions, and/or attenuated regions
Implementation Method 2
the topsheet serve to readily receive aqueous fluid such as urine or menstrual fluid, conduct the fluid in a z-direction therethrough, and release or desorb it to an absorbent structure disposed adjacently beneath the topsheet
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
An absorbent article having a nonwoven topsheet, a backsheet, an absorbent core disposed therebetween, and a fluid management layer disposed between the topsheet and the absorbent core is disclosed. The fluid management layer is an integrated nonwoven material having a basis weight in a range of from 40 gsm to 75 gsm and has 10 percent to about 60 percent by weight of absorbent fibers, from between about 15 percent to about 70 percent of resilient fibers, and from between about 25 percent to about 70 percent stiffening fibers. The absorbent article exhibits a third dose acquisition time of less than 10 seconds, more preferably less than 8 seconds, and most preferably less than 7 seconds, and a Rewet of no greater than 0.40 g, more preferably less than about 0.3 grams, or most preferably less than about 0.2 grams.