Multi-Component Absorbent Topsheets Fluid Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional absorbent articles face challenges in reducing fluid/skin contact time and skin discomfort due to prolonged fluid residency on topsheets, and three-dimensional substrates, while effective, can be expensive.
Innovation Solution
The use of multi-component topsheets featuring three-dimensional substrates with varying z-directional heights and apertures, where first elements with a higher z-directional height act as spacers, allowing fluids to flow into second elements with a lower z-directional height and through apertures, reducing fluid contact with the skin.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If three-dimensional substrates are used to reduce fluid/skin contact time, then skin comfort is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The topsheet is divided into multiple discrete substrate layers (first discrete substrate and second discrete substrate) with different functions. The first layer provides three-dimensional spacer structures for fluid redistribution, while the second layer provides apertured structures for fluid penetration, allowing each layer to be optimized independently and manufactured separately before assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the topsheet structure serve different functions: the first discrete substrate provides three-dimensional spacer structures in areas requiring fluid redistribution, while the second discrete substrate provides apertured structures in areas requiring fluid penetration. This localized functional differentiation allows optimization of fluid management while controlling material costs.
2Productivity
If apertured topsheets are used to allow faster fluid penetration, then fluid pendency is reduced, but skin comfort during urination events is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The fluid management function is segmented into two distinct layers: the first discrete substrate with three-dimensional structures for rapid fluid redistribution away from the skin, and the second discrete substrate with apertures for rapid fluid penetration into the absorbent core. This segmentation allows each layer to specialize in one aspect of fluid management.
Solution Approach 2:
The first discrete substrate introduces a three-dimensional vertical dimension with spacer structures having varying z-heights, creating channels and pathways that redirect fluid flow in the vertical direction away from the skin surface, complementing the horizontal fluid distribution function of traditional apertured topsheets.
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 configuration enhances user comfort by minimizing fluid/skin contact time and skin wetness, while potentially reducing costs associated with advanced substrate materials.
Implementation Method 1
the fluids moves via gravity into the second elements having the second z-directional height (lower) and/or into and through the apertures
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-component topsheet for an absorbent article includes a first discrete substrate forming about 80% or more of an outer perimeter of the topsheet and a second discrete substrate wherein about 80% or more of an outer perimeter of the second discrete substrate is joined to the first discrete substrate, wherein the topsheet has a single layer of substrate in about 75% or more of the total area of the topsheet and a dual layer of substrate in about 25% or less of the total area of the topsheet.