Colored Nonwoven Topsheet with Partial Transparency for Visual Signal Visibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a continuous need to improve the visual appearance of absorbent articles in a simple and cost-effective manner, as existing designs often rely on complex patterns and materials that are not easily achievable or economical.
Innovation Solution
The absorbent article features a topsheet with a non-white, partially transparent color and a visual signal underneath, comprising a first colored portion and a second non-colored portion, which provides a dual color appearance and an impression of depth when the opacity index of the topsheet is between 28% and 50%, and the color difference between the portions is at least 2 units in the L*,a*,b* color system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If the topsheet is made more transparent to improve visibility of the visual signal, then the visibility of the underlying visual signal is improved, but the depth effect is reduced or disappears
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes the opacity index parameter of the topsheet to a specific range (28-50%) to simultaneously achieve sufficient visibility of the visual signal and maintain the depth effect. This parameter optimization resolves the contradiction by finding the optimal balance point rather than maximizing one extreme.
2Shape
If the topsheet is made more opaque to enhance depth effect, then the depth perception is improved, but the visibility of the underlying visual signal is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent establishes a minimum opacity index threshold of 28% to ensure the depth effect remains visible, while maintaining it below 50% to preserve signal visibility. This parameter range resolution allows both depth effect and signal visibility to coexist.
3Shape
If a colored topsheet is used to create dual color appearance, then the visual appearance is improved, but the cost and complexity of manufacturing increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies color to the topsheet material itself rather than using separate printed layers or coatings, achieving dual color appearance through the interaction of the colored topsheet with the visual signal underneath. This approach simplifies manufacturing compared to multi-layer printing while maintaining aesthetic appeal.
4Loss of information
If the color difference between portions is increased to improve contrast, then the visibility of the visual signal is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent specifies a minimum color difference of 2 units in the L*,a*,b* color system to ensure sufficient contrast and visibility. This quantitative parameter specification provides clear manufacturing guidance while ensuring the visual signal remains clearly visible against the colored topsheet background.
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 design enhances the visual appearance of the wearer-facing side of absorbent articles by creating a dual color effect and depth perception without increasing complexity or cost, while ensuring sufficient visibility of the underlying visual signal.
Implementation Method 1
The topsheet is a nonwoven which has a non-white color (for example comprising teal pigments), and is partially transparent. The topsheet has an opacity index of at least 28%.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~3a
AI summary
An absorbent article (20) having a wearer-facing side and garment-facing side, the article comprising:- a nonwoven topsheet (24) on the wearer-facing side, wherein the topsheet has a first color which is not white and comprises thermal bonds; - a backsheet (25) on the garment facing-side; - an absorbent core (28) between the topsheet and the backsheet; - optionally an acquisition layer (52); and - a visual signal disposed on the topsheet or a layer of the article under the topsheet; wherein the visual signal comprises a first portion having a first appearance and a second portion having a different second appearance. The topsheet has an opacity index of at least 28% as measured by the opacity index test as described herein and the visual signal is visible on the wearer-facing side of the article.