EP0444140A1 - Produit absorbant a usage personnel - Google Patents

Produit absorbant a usage personnel

Info

Publication number
EP0444140A1
EP0444140A1 EP90900514A EP90900514A EP0444140A1 EP 0444140 A1 EP0444140 A1 EP 0444140A1 EP 90900514 A EP90900514 A EP 90900514A EP 90900514 A EP90900514 A EP 90900514A EP 0444140 A1 EP0444140 A1 EP 0444140A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
layer
absorbent
tissue
fluff
core
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Withdrawn
Application number
EP90900514A
Other languages
German (de)
English (en)
Other versions
EP0444140A4 (en
Inventor
Winalee G. Mitchell
Andrew J. Szypka
Paul S. Rankin
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
PRINCIPLE BUISINESS ENTERPRISES Inc
Original Assignee
PRINCIPLE BUISINESS ENTERPRISES Inc
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by PRINCIPLE BUISINESS ENTERPRISES Inc filed Critical PRINCIPLE BUISINESS ENTERPRISES Inc
Publication of EP0444140A1 publication Critical patent/EP0444140A1/fr
Publication of EP0444140A4 publication Critical patent/EP0444140A4/en
Withdrawn legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61F—FILTERS IMPLANTABLE INTO BLOOD VESSELS; PROSTHESES; DEVICES PROVIDING PATENCY TO, OR PREVENTING COLLAPSING OF, TUBULAR STRUCTURES OF THE BODY, e.g. STENTS; ORTHOPAEDIC, NURSING OR CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICES; FOMENTATION; TREATMENT OR PROTECTION OF EYES OR EARS; BANDAGES, DRESSINGS OR ABSORBENT PADS; FIRST-AID KITS
    • A61F13/00—Bandages or dressings; Absorbent pads
    • A61F13/15—Absorbent pads, e.g. sanitary towels, swabs or tampons for external or internal application to the body; Supporting or fastening means therefor; Tampon applicators
    • A61F13/53—Absorbent pads, e.g. sanitary towels, swabs or tampons for external or internal application to the body; Supporting or fastening means therefor; Tampon applicators characterised by the absorbing medium
    • A61F13/534—Absorbent pads, e.g. sanitary towels, swabs or tampons for external or internal application to the body; Supporting or fastening means therefor; Tampon applicators characterised by the absorbing medium having an inhomogeneous composition through the thickness of the pad
    • A61F13/535—Absorbent pads, e.g. sanitary towels, swabs or tampons for external or internal application to the body; Supporting or fastening means therefor; Tampon applicators characterised by the absorbing medium having an inhomogeneous composition through the thickness of the pad inhomogeneous in the plane of the pad, e.g. core absorbent layers being of different sizes
    • A61F13/536—Absorbent pads, e.g. sanitary towels, swabs or tampons for external or internal application to the body; Supporting or fastening means therefor; Tampon applicators characterised by the absorbing medium having an inhomogeneous composition through the thickness of the pad inhomogeneous in the plane of the pad, e.g. core absorbent layers being of different sizes having discontinuous areas of compression
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61F—FILTERS IMPLANTABLE INTO BLOOD VESSELS; PROSTHESES; DEVICES PROVIDING PATENCY TO, OR PREVENTING COLLAPSING OF, TUBULAR STRUCTURES OF THE BODY, e.g. STENTS; ORTHOPAEDIC, NURSING OR CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICES; FOMENTATION; TREATMENT OR PROTECTION OF EYES OR EARS; BANDAGES, DRESSINGS OR ABSORBENT PADS; FIRST-AID KITS
    • A61F13/00—Bandages or dressings; Absorbent pads
    • A61F13/15—Absorbent pads, e.g. sanitary towels, swabs or tampons for external or internal application to the body; Supporting or fastening means therefor; Tampon applicators
    • A61F13/51—Absorbent pads, e.g. sanitary towels, swabs or tampons for external or internal application to the body; Supporting or fastening means therefor; Tampon applicators characterised by the outer layers
    • A61F13/514—Backsheet, i.e. the impermeable cover or layer furthest from the skin
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61F—FILTERS IMPLANTABLE INTO BLOOD VESSELS; PROSTHESES; DEVICES PROVIDING PATENCY TO, OR PREVENTING COLLAPSING OF, TUBULAR STRUCTURES OF THE BODY, e.g. STENTS; ORTHOPAEDIC, NURSING OR CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICES; FOMENTATION; TREATMENT OR PROTECTION OF EYES OR EARS; BANDAGES, DRESSINGS OR ABSORBENT PADS; FIRST-AID KITS
    • A61F13/00—Bandages or dressings; Absorbent pads
    • A61F13/15—Absorbent pads, e.g. sanitary towels, swabs or tampons for external or internal application to the body; Supporting or fastening means therefor; Tampon applicators
    • A61F13/15577—Apparatus or processes for manufacturing
    • A61F2013/15821—Apparatus or processes for manufacturing characterized by the apparatus for manufacturing
    • A61F2013/15861—Apparatus or processes for manufacturing characterized by the apparatus for manufacturing for bonding
    • A61F2013/1591—Apparatus or processes for manufacturing characterized by the apparatus for manufacturing for bonding via adhesive
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61F—FILTERS IMPLANTABLE INTO BLOOD VESSELS; PROSTHESES; DEVICES PROVIDING PATENCY TO, OR PREVENTING COLLAPSING OF, TUBULAR STRUCTURES OF THE BODY, e.g. STENTS; ORTHOPAEDIC, NURSING OR CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICES; FOMENTATION; TREATMENT OR PROTECTION OF EYES OR EARS; BANDAGES, DRESSINGS OR ABSORBENT PADS; FIRST-AID KITS
    • A61F13/00—Bandages or dressings; Absorbent pads
    • A61F13/15—Absorbent pads, e.g. sanitary towels, swabs or tampons for external or internal application to the body; Supporting or fastening means therefor; Tampon applicators
    • A61F13/15577—Apparatus or processes for manufacturing
    • A61F2013/15821—Apparatus or processes for manufacturing characterized by the apparatus for manufacturing
    • A61F2013/15918—Apparatus or processes for manufacturing characterized by the apparatus for manufacturing for die cutting
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61F—FILTERS IMPLANTABLE INTO BLOOD VESSELS; PROSTHESES; DEVICES PROVIDING PATENCY TO, OR PREVENTING COLLAPSING OF, TUBULAR STRUCTURES OF THE BODY, e.g. STENTS; ORTHOPAEDIC, NURSING OR CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICES; FOMENTATION; TREATMENT OR PROTECTION OF EYES OR EARS; BANDAGES, DRESSINGS OR ABSORBENT PADS; FIRST-AID KITS
    • A61F13/00—Bandages or dressings; Absorbent pads
    • A61F13/15—Absorbent pads, e.g. sanitary towels, swabs or tampons for external or internal application to the body; Supporting or fastening means therefor; Tampon applicators
    • A61F13/45—Absorbent pads, e.g. sanitary towels, swabs or tampons for external or internal application to the body; Supporting or fastening means therefor; Tampon applicators characterised by the shape
    • A61F2013/4512—Absorbent pads, e.g. sanitary towels, swabs or tampons for external or internal application to the body; Supporting or fastening means therefor; Tampon applicators characterised by the shape folded in special shape during use
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61F—FILTERS IMPLANTABLE INTO BLOOD VESSELS; PROSTHESES; DEVICES PROVIDING PATENCY TO, OR PREVENTING COLLAPSING OF, TUBULAR STRUCTURES OF THE BODY, e.g. STENTS; ORTHOPAEDIC, NURSING OR CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICES; FOMENTATION; TREATMENT OR PROTECTION OF EYES OR EARS; BANDAGES, DRESSINGS OR ABSORBENT PADS; FIRST-AID KITS
    • A61F13/00—Bandages or dressings; Absorbent pads
    • A61F13/15—Absorbent pads, e.g. sanitary towels, swabs or tampons for external or internal application to the body; Supporting or fastening means therefor; Tampon applicators
    • A61F13/45—Absorbent pads, e.g. sanitary towels, swabs or tampons for external or internal application to the body; Supporting or fastening means therefor; Tampon applicators characterised by the shape
    • A61F2013/4587—Absorbent pads, e.g. sanitary towels, swabs or tampons for external or internal application to the body; Supporting or fastening means therefor; Tampon applicators characterised by the shape with channels or deep spot depressions on the upper surface
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61F—FILTERS IMPLANTABLE INTO BLOOD VESSELS; PROSTHESES; DEVICES PROVIDING PATENCY TO, OR PREVENTING COLLAPSING OF, TUBULAR STRUCTURES OF THE BODY, e.g. STENTS; ORTHOPAEDIC, NURSING OR CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICES; FOMENTATION; TREATMENT OR PROTECTION OF EYES OR EARS; BANDAGES, DRESSINGS OR ABSORBENT PADS; FIRST-AID KITS
    • A61F13/00—Bandages or dressings; Absorbent pads
    • A61F13/15—Absorbent pads, e.g. sanitary towels, swabs or tampons for external or internal application to the body; Supporting or fastening means therefor; Tampon applicators
    • A61F13/45—Absorbent pads, e.g. sanitary towels, swabs or tampons for external or internal application to the body; Supporting or fastening means therefor; Tampon applicators characterised by the shape
    • A61F13/49—Absorbent articles specially adapted to be worn around the waist, e.g. diapers
    • A61F13/49007—Form-fitting, self-adjusting disposable diapers
    • A61F13/49009—Form-fitting, self-adjusting disposable diapers with elastic means
    • A61F13/4902—Form-fitting, self-adjusting disposable diapers with elastic means characterised by the elastic material
    • A61F2013/49031—Form-fitting, self-adjusting disposable diapers with elastic means characterised by the elastic material being elastic in longitudinal direction
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61F—FILTERS IMPLANTABLE INTO BLOOD VESSELS; PROSTHESES; DEVICES PROVIDING PATENCY TO, OR PREVENTING COLLAPSING OF, TUBULAR STRUCTURES OF THE BODY, e.g. STENTS; ORTHOPAEDIC, NURSING OR CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICES; FOMENTATION; TREATMENT OR PROTECTION OF EYES OR EARS; BANDAGES, DRESSINGS OR ABSORBENT PADS; FIRST-AID KITS
    • A61F13/00—Bandages or dressings; Absorbent pads
    • A61F13/15—Absorbent pads, e.g. sanitary towels, swabs or tampons for external or internal application to the body; Supporting or fastening means therefor; Tampon applicators
    • A61F13/45—Absorbent pads, e.g. sanitary towels, swabs or tampons for external or internal application to the body; Supporting or fastening means therefor; Tampon applicators characterised by the shape
    • A61F13/49—Absorbent articles specially adapted to be worn around the waist, e.g. diapers
    • A61F2013/49068—Absorbent articles specially adapted to be worn around the waist, e.g. diapers characterized by the shape of the outline
    • A61F2013/49076—Absorbent articles specially adapted to be worn around the waist, e.g. diapers characterized by the shape of the outline as "I"-shaped
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61F—FILTERS IMPLANTABLE INTO BLOOD VESSELS; PROSTHESES; DEVICES PROVIDING PATENCY TO, OR PREVENTING COLLAPSING OF, TUBULAR STRUCTURES OF THE BODY, e.g. STENTS; ORTHOPAEDIC, NURSING OR CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICES; FOMENTATION; TREATMENT OR PROTECTION OF EYES OR EARS; BANDAGES, DRESSINGS OR ABSORBENT PADS; FIRST-AID KITS
    • A61F13/00—Bandages or dressings; Absorbent pads
    • A61F13/15—Absorbent pads, e.g. sanitary towels, swabs or tampons for external or internal application to the body; Supporting or fastening means therefor; Tampon applicators
    • A61F13/53—Absorbent pads, e.g. sanitary towels, swabs or tampons for external or internal application to the body; Supporting or fastening means therefor; Tampon applicators characterised by the absorbing medium
    • A61F2013/530007—Absorbent pads, e.g. sanitary towels, swabs or tampons for external or internal application to the body; Supporting or fastening means therefor; Tampon applicators characterised by the absorbing medium being made from pulp
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61F—FILTERS IMPLANTABLE INTO BLOOD VESSELS; PROSTHESES; DEVICES PROVIDING PATENCY TO, OR PREVENTING COLLAPSING OF, TUBULAR STRUCTURES OF THE BODY, e.g. STENTS; ORTHOPAEDIC, NURSING OR CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICES; FOMENTATION; TREATMENT OR PROTECTION OF EYES OR EARS; BANDAGES, DRESSINGS OR ABSORBENT PADS; FIRST-AID KITS
    • A61F13/00—Bandages or dressings; Absorbent pads
    • A61F13/15—Absorbent pads, e.g. sanitary towels, swabs or tampons for external or internal application to the body; Supporting or fastening means therefor; Tampon applicators
    • A61F13/53—Absorbent pads, e.g. sanitary towels, swabs or tampons for external or internal application to the body; Supporting or fastening means therefor; Tampon applicators characterised by the absorbing medium
    • A61F2013/530481—Absorbent pads, e.g. sanitary towels, swabs or tampons for external or internal application to the body; Supporting or fastening means therefor; Tampon applicators characterised by the absorbing medium having superabsorbent materials, i.e. highly absorbent polymer gel materials
    • A61F2013/530489—Absorbent pads, e.g. sanitary towels, swabs or tampons for external or internal application to the body; Supporting or fastening means therefor; Tampon applicators characterised by the absorbing medium having superabsorbent materials, i.e. highly absorbent polymer gel materials being randomly mixed in with other material
    • A61F2013/530496—Absorbent pads, e.g. sanitary towels, swabs or tampons for external or internal application to the body; Supporting or fastening means therefor; Tampon applicators characterised by the absorbing medium having superabsorbent materials, i.e. highly absorbent polymer gel materials being randomly mixed in with other material being fixed to fibres
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61F—FILTERS IMPLANTABLE INTO BLOOD VESSELS; PROSTHESES; DEVICES PROVIDING PATENCY TO, OR PREVENTING COLLAPSING OF, TUBULAR STRUCTURES OF THE BODY, e.g. STENTS; ORTHOPAEDIC, NURSING OR CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICES; FOMENTATION; TREATMENT OR PROTECTION OF EYES OR EARS; BANDAGES, DRESSINGS OR ABSORBENT PADS; FIRST-AID KITS
    • A61F13/00—Bandages or dressings; Absorbent pads
    • A61F13/15—Absorbent pads, e.g. sanitary towels, swabs or tampons for external or internal application to the body; Supporting or fastening means therefor; Tampon applicators
    • A61F13/53—Absorbent pads, e.g. sanitary towels, swabs or tampons for external or internal application to the body; Supporting or fastening means therefor; Tampon applicators characterised by the absorbing medium
    • A61F2013/530481—Absorbent pads, e.g. sanitary towels, swabs or tampons for external or internal application to the body; Supporting or fastening means therefor; Tampon applicators characterised by the absorbing medium having superabsorbent materials, i.e. highly absorbent polymer gel materials
    • A61F2013/53051—Absorbent pads, e.g. sanitary towels, swabs or tampons for external or internal application to the body; Supporting or fastening means therefor; Tampon applicators characterised by the absorbing medium having superabsorbent materials, i.e. highly absorbent polymer gel materials being only in particular parts or specially arranged
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61F—FILTERS IMPLANTABLE INTO BLOOD VESSELS; PROSTHESES; DEVICES PROVIDING PATENCY TO, OR PREVENTING COLLAPSING OF, TUBULAR STRUCTURES OF THE BODY, e.g. STENTS; ORTHOPAEDIC, NURSING OR CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICES; FOMENTATION; TREATMENT OR PROTECTION OF EYES OR EARS; BANDAGES, DRESSINGS OR ABSORBENT PADS; FIRST-AID KITS
    • A61F13/00—Bandages or dressings; Absorbent pads
    • A61F13/15—Absorbent pads, e.g. sanitary towels, swabs or tampons for external or internal application to the body; Supporting or fastening means therefor; Tampon applicators
    • A61F13/53—Absorbent pads, e.g. sanitary towels, swabs or tampons for external or internal application to the body; Supporting or fastening means therefor; Tampon applicators characterised by the absorbing medium
    • A61F13/534—Absorbent pads, e.g. sanitary towels, swabs or tampons for external or internal application to the body; Supporting or fastening means therefor; Tampon applicators characterised by the absorbing medium having an inhomogeneous composition through the thickness of the pad
    • A61F2013/53445—Absorbent pads, e.g. sanitary towels, swabs or tampons for external or internal application to the body; Supporting or fastening means therefor; Tampon applicators characterised by the absorbing medium having an inhomogeneous composition through the thickness of the pad from several sheets
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61F—FILTERS IMPLANTABLE INTO BLOOD VESSELS; PROSTHESES; DEVICES PROVIDING PATENCY TO, OR PREVENTING COLLAPSING OF, TUBULAR STRUCTURES OF THE BODY, e.g. STENTS; ORTHOPAEDIC, NURSING OR CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICES; FOMENTATION; TREATMENT OR PROTECTION OF EYES OR EARS; BANDAGES, DRESSINGS OR ABSORBENT PADS; FIRST-AID KITS
    • A61F13/00—Bandages or dressings; Absorbent pads
    • A61F13/15—Absorbent pads, e.g. sanitary towels, swabs or tampons for external or internal application to the body; Supporting or fastening means therefor; Tampon applicators
    • A61F13/53—Absorbent pads, e.g. sanitary towels, swabs or tampons for external or internal application to the body; Supporting or fastening means therefor; Tampon applicators characterised by the absorbing medium
    • A61F13/539—Absorbent pads, e.g. sanitary towels, swabs or tampons for external or internal application to the body; Supporting or fastening means therefor; Tampon applicators characterised by the absorbing medium characterised by the connection of the absorbent layers with each other or with the outer layers
    • A61F2013/53908—Absorbent pads, e.g. sanitary towels, swabs or tampons for external or internal application to the body; Supporting or fastening means therefor; Tampon applicators characterised by the absorbing medium characterised by the connection of the absorbent layers with each other or with the outer layers with adhesive
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61F—FILTERS IMPLANTABLE INTO BLOOD VESSELS; PROSTHESES; DEVICES PROVIDING PATENCY TO, OR PREVENTING COLLAPSING OF, TUBULAR STRUCTURES OF THE BODY, e.g. STENTS; ORTHOPAEDIC, NURSING OR CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICES; FOMENTATION; TREATMENT OR PROTECTION OF EYES OR EARS; BANDAGES, DRESSINGS OR ABSORBENT PADS; FIRST-AID KITS
    • A61F13/00—Bandages or dressings; Absorbent pads
    • A61F13/15—Absorbent pads, e.g. sanitary towels, swabs or tampons for external or internal application to the body; Supporting or fastening means therefor; Tampon applicators
    • A61F13/56—Supporting or fastening means
    • A61F13/58—Adhesive tab fastener elements
    • A61F2013/588—Adhesive tab fastener elements on waist panels
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61F—FILTERS IMPLANTABLE INTO BLOOD VESSELS; PROSTHESES; DEVICES PROVIDING PATENCY TO, OR PREVENTING COLLAPSING OF, TUBULAR STRUCTURES OF THE BODY, e.g. STENTS; ORTHOPAEDIC, NURSING OR CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICES; FOMENTATION; TREATMENT OR PROTECTION OF EYES OR EARS; BANDAGES, DRESSINGS OR ABSORBENT PADS; FIRST-AID KITS
    • A61F13/00—Bandages or dressings; Absorbent pads
    • A61F13/15—Absorbent pads, e.g. sanitary towels, swabs or tampons for external or internal application to the body; Supporting or fastening means therefor; Tampon applicators
    • A61F13/84—Accessories, not otherwise provided for, for absorbent pads
    • A61F2013/8488—Accessories, not otherwise provided for, for absorbent pads including testing apparatus
    • A61F2013/8491—Accessories, not otherwise provided for, for absorbent pads including testing apparatus including test methods

Definitions

  • This invention relates to the field of absorbent products, especially for use by persons with incontinence. Specifically, the invention is concerned with diapers or underpants type products, as well as absorbent pads and the like, which are
  • the polymers on a weight basis, have an absorption capacity which is far greater than fluff.
  • super absorbent polymers retain absorbed liquid, even under pressure, far better than fluff which is subject to
  • Super absorbent polymers because they are finely powdered, present manufacturing difficulties in terms of satisfactorily incorporating into absorbent products.
  • Super absorbent polymers have been incorporated into absorbent products in a variety of ways. In some cases, super absorbent polymer is sprinkled into a fluff layer or deposited between two fluff layers, as disclosed in US Patent No. 4,381,782, but these approaches are plagued by problems arising from the migration of the powder from the place it is deposited.
  • Another approach entails the use of tissue with super absorbent polymer powder fixed to it. Such tissue, also known as laminate, has been used in absorbent products alone and in combination with conventional fluff.
  • US Patent No. 4,055,180 discloses an absorbent article including super absorbent polymer powder disposed in pockets formed in an absorbent pad.
  • a product distributed under the trademark Slimline comprises a backing sheet, a facing sheet, a layer of laminate adjacent to the facing sheet and a layer of fluff between the laminate and the backing sheet.
  • the insert comprises a fluff layer physically integrated to at least one layer of laminate.
  • the insert is positioned in the absorbent article so that the laminate will be adjacent to a wearer.
  • the fluff layer and the laminate are embossed between rollers that physically integrate the two layers and produce transfer sites through which liquid is rapidly transferred into the fluff layer, away from a wearer.
  • an absorbent insert is produced by embossing a laminate between a smooth roller and a patterned roller and trimming and folding the embossed laminate. The insert is folded to produce an insert with a central region with an exposed pattern of embossed depressions and, on each side of the central region, lateral regions with an exposed, smooth surface.
  • an absorbent insert is produced by depositing super absorbent polymer powder on a portion of a layer of fluff, covering the powder with at least one tissue layer, and embossing the assembly to produce an integrated absorbent insert with transfer sites through which liquid is rapidly transferred into the fluff layer, away from a wearer.
  • an absorbent insert is produced by depositing super absorbent polymer powder on a portion of a layer of fluff, covering at least a portion of the fluff with polymer deposited thereon with at least one laminate layer, and embossing the assembly to produce an integrated absorbent insert with transfer sites through which liquid is rapidly transferred into the fluff layer for absorption by the polymer powder dispersed in the fluff.
  • FIG. 1 is an exploded, perspective view of the absorptive components of one embodiment of an absorbent product according to the present invention.
  • FIG. 2 is an exploded, perspective view of the absorptive components illustrated in FIG. 1, and upper and lower tissue layers.
  • FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an absorbent core comprising the components illustrated in FIG. 2, after they have been integrated by an embossing operation.
  • FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the absorbent core during a trimming operation.
  • FIG. 5 is an exploded, perspective view of the components of one embodiment of an absorbent product incorporating the absorbent core illustrated in FIG. 4.
  • FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a completed absorbent product according to one embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of the absorptive components of a second embodiment of an absorbent product according to the present invention.
  • FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the absorptive components illustrated in FIG. 7 after they have been joined together by an embossing operation.
  • FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a tissue wrapping operation applied to the embossed components illustrated in FIG. 8.
  • FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the embossed components after a cutting and folding operation.
  • FIG. 11 is an exploded, perspective view of a second embodiment of an absorptive product incorporating the tissue wrapped, embossed absorptive components illustrated in FIG. 10.
  • FIG. 12 is a perspective view of apparatus for depositing polymer to produce one of the absorptive components of third and fourth embodiments of an absorbent product according to the present invention.
  • FIG. 13 is a perspective view of absorbent components of a third embodiment of the invention, including a component produced on the apparatus illustrated in FIG. 12.
  • FIG. 14 is an exploded, perspective view of the absorptive components illustrated in FIG. 13, and upper and lower tissue layers.
  • FIG. 15 is a perspective view of an absorbent core comprising the components illustrated in FIG. 14, after they have been integrated by an embossing operation.
  • FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the absorbent core during a trimming operation.
  • FIG. 17 is a perspective view of absorbent components of a fourth embodiment of the invention, including a component produced on the apparatus illustrated in FIG. 12.
  • FIG. 18 is an exploded, perspective view of the absorptive components illustrated in FIG. 17, and upper and lower tissue layers.
  • FIG. 19 is a perspective view of an absorbent core comprising the components illustrated in FIG. 18, after they have been integrated by an embossing operation.
  • FIG. 20 is a perspective view of the absorbent core during a trimming operation.
  • absorptive components of one embodiment of an absorptive product are indicated generally at 20.
  • One of the absorptive components 20 is a relatively thick, fluff layer of moisture absorbing material 22, such as cellulose fluff, fluffed wood pulp, batting or the like.
  • the other one of the absorptive components 20 is a layer of laminate 24 comprising tissue with particles of a super absorbent polymer deposited thereon and secured thereto.
  • a preferred material for the laminate layer 24 is a laminate containing a super absorbent polymer of the modified acrylic type. Such a laminate is available from Gelok International under the trademark "Gelok 6000 double ply/double ply (1080)".
  • the laminate layer 24 is superposed on a central target area 26 of the fluff layer 22, as indicated by dotted lines in FIG. 1.
  • the laminate layer 24 does not extend the full length or width of the fluff layer 22, although a larger laminate layer may be used.
  • the laminate layer 24 has an extremely high absorption capacity but the laminate itself is relatively expensive. Accordingly, the laminate layer is advantageously restricted to the target area 26 which coincides with the area where urine voided by a wearer will first contact the absorptive product. In the target area 26, the need for absorptive capacity is the greatest and the laminate layer 24 meets this need.
  • water is sprayed on the central region 26 of the fluff layer 22.
  • the moisture serves to adhere the laminate layer 24 to the fluff layer 22 during subsequent assembly operations.
  • the amount of water to be sprayed is not critical, but there should be enough water to provide some modicum of adhesion between the layers 22 and 24. On the other hand, the amount of water should be only enough to moisten the upper surface of the fluff layer 22.
  • the laminate layer 24 is deposited on the fluff layer 22 in the target area 26, as shown in FIG. 2.
  • An upper layer of tissue 28 is positioned on top of the layers 22 and 24 while a lower layer of tissue 30 is positioned below the layer 22.
  • a smooth roller (not shown) is applied to the lower tissue layer 30 and a patterned roller (not shown) is applied to the opposed, upper tissue layer 28 to produce an embossed absorbent core 32.
  • a suitable diamond embossing pattern is shown in FIG. 3, reflected in the pattern shown on the surface of the tissue layer 30.
  • the embossing pattern on the embossing die (not shown) applied to the upper tissue layer 28 produces a pattern of channels 34 in the surface of the tissue.layer 28, in the laminate layer 24, and in the fluff layer 22. As is explained below, these channels 34 constitute transfer sites through which liquid is absorbed quickly from above the upper tissue layer 28, through the laminate layer 24, to the fluff layer where it will be absorbed.
  • the channels 34 are interconnected in a continuous networkwhich promotes excellent wicking characteristics. In the channels 34, there is a high density interface between the tissue layer 28, the laminate layer 24 and the fluff layer 22. In this interface, there is a physical bond between the layers 28, 24 and 22 which gives the absorbent core 32 physical integrity. In the areas between the channels 34, the layers 28, 24 and 22 have a lower density than these layers have in the channels 34.
  • the embossing step can be carried out advantageously with approximately 50 to 175 lbs of pressure per lineal inch of the embossing rollers.
  • a variety of patterns would be suitable for the patterned embossing roller, beside the one reflected in the upper tissue layer 28 shown in FIG. 3. Particulars about the embossing pattern are discussed below in connection with some • examples of the invention.
  • the embossing operation was carried out with and without the step of spraying water on the fluff layer. In the cases where no water was sprayed, the embossing step did not result in a physical bond between the fluff layer and the laminate layer. Rather, the laminate layer and the fluff layer remained discreet layers, like the layers in the prior art Slimline product. However, when the embossing operation was carried out after water had been sprayed on the fluff layer, a physical bond was produced between the fluff layer and the laminate layer.
  • the manufacturing steps described above with reference to FIGS. 1-3 can be applied to bulk materials supplied, for example, from rolls.
  • the fluff layer 22, the laminate layer 24 and the tissue layers 28 and 30 can be manufactured into an embossed, absorbent core 32 of infinite length which can later be cut to appropriate length and incorporated into an absorbent product according to the instant invention.
  • the absorbent core 32 After the absorbent core 32 has been embossed, it is preferably subjected to a de- bulking operation in which it is passed between two compression rollers (not shown) . This step adds further integrity to the embossed absorbent core 32 and promotes more economical packaging by producing thinner absorbent products.
  • the embossed absorbent core 32 is illustrated after ears 36 have been trimmed therefrom to produce an absorbent insert 38, with leg cut outs 40, for incorporation in an absorbent product.
  • the cut outs 40 extend inwardly toward, but terminate just short of, the laminate layer 24.
  • the ears 36 can be recycled, if desired, to yield material suitable for producing additional fluff layers 22.
  • the trimming can be carried out with a die-cutter which may include a cutter for cutting the embossed absorbent core 32 to produce an absorbent . insert 38 of a given length. Alternatively, a separate cutter may be used to cut absorbent core material to an appropriate length.
  • a water impervious backing sheet 42 is illustrated below the absorbent insert 38.
  • a plurality of lines 44 of a hot melt type adhesive are applied longitudinally to the backing sheet 42, across the entire width thereof.
  • elastic means 46 are secured to the backing sheet 42 in spaced, parallel relationship to one another.
  • the elastic means 46 comprise a plurality of individual elastic threads secured to the backing sheet 42 by an adhesive which is applied thereto and to the backing sheet 42.
  • a center portion 48 of the elastic means 46 is stretched, and the stretched elastic means 46 are applied to the adhesive on the backing sheet 42.
  • gathers 58 FIG. 6 are formed by the center portion 48 of the elastic means 46.
  • FIG. 5 Also shown in FIG. 5 is a facing sheet 50 which has the same length and width as the backing sheet.
  • the facing sheet 50 is composed of a non-woven material through which liquid will readily pass for absorption in the absorbent insert 38.
  • Several sprays 52 of hot melt adhesive are applied longitudinally to the facing sheet 50, over a central portion having a width corresponding generally with the width of the absorbent insert 38.
  • the components shown in FIG. 5 are assembled by positioning the absorbent insert 38 centrally on the backing sheet 42 and positioning the facing sheet 50 thereon. After assembly, these components are passed between compression rollers (not shown) to promote good bonding therebetween.
  • FIG. 6 an absorbent product 54 is illustrated after leg cut outs 56 have been trimmed therefrom.
  • Gathers 58 are formed, adjacent to a central portion of the leg cut outs 56, by the central portion 48 (FIG. 5) of the elastic means 46.
  • the gathers 58 serve to prevent leakage by promoting a snug fit of the absorbent product 54 around the legs of a wearer.
  • Adhesive tab fasteners 60 are secured to a rear panel 62 of the absorbent product 54 in a known fashion.
  • the tab fasteners 60 include an adhesive side 64 which remains secured to a release paper 66, until the absorbent product 54 is to be worn, with the absorbent product 54 positioned on a wearer, the tab fasteners 60 are lifted from the release paper 66 and the adhesive side 64 is applied to the outside of the backing sheet 42 on a front panel 68 of the absorbent product 54, thereby securing the absorbent product 54 to the wearer.
  • the adhesive on the side 64 of the tab fasteners is one which can be released from and refastened to the backing sheet 42, so that the tab fasteners 60 are refastenable. '
  • EXAMPLE 1 An absorbent core corresponding with the core 32 was produced from cellulose fluff and Gelok 6000 double ply/double ply (1080) laminate.
  • the super absorbent polymer in the laminate was a polyacrylate product which is distributed by Che dal under the trade name Aridall 1080.
  • the core was embossed with a 1 inch by 1 inch diamond pattern on an upper surface thereof.
  • the channels had a width of approximately h inch. Approximately 45% of the surface area of the core was constituted by channels and the remaining 55% of the surface area of the core was not channelled.
  • Absorbent core A consisted of embossed cellulose fluff having the same base weight as the cellulose fluff used in Example 1. Core A was embossed with the same diamond pattern as the core of Example 1.
  • Absorbent core B comprised unembossed cellulose fluff having the same base weight as the fluff used in producing Example 1.
  • Absorbent core C comprised a layer of the Gelok 6000 double ply/double ply (1080) laminate on top of a cellulose fluff layer. This core differed from Example 1 only in that it was not embossed. This core corresponds with the core of a product that is distributed under the trademark Slimline.
  • Absorbent core D comprised a layer of embossed cellulose fluff on top of which Aridall 1080 polyacrylate super absorbent polymer had been sprinkled. The amount of super absorbent polymer was controlled to provide the same weight thereof, per square inch of the cellulose fluff, as the weight of super absorbent polymer in the Gelok 6000 double ply/double ply (1080) laminate, per square inch thereof.
  • Absorbent core E comprised a layer of unembossed cellulose luff on top of which Aridall 1080 polyacrylate super absorbent polymer had been sprinkled. The amount of super absorbent polymer was controlled to provide the same weight thereof, per square inch of the cellulose fluff, as the weight of super absorbent polymer in the Gelok 6000 double ply/double ply (1080) laminate, per square inch thereof.
  • Absorbent core F corresponds with Example 1 except for the embossing pattern. Rather than the diamond shaped embossing pattern, absorbent core F was embossed between smooth upper and lower embossing rollers.
  • Absorbent core G comprises cellulose fluff which has been split into two layers, between which Aridall 1080 polyacrylate super absorbent polymer had been sprinkled.
  • the amount of super absorbent polymer was controlled to provide the same weight thereof, per square inch of the cellulose fluff, as the weight of super absorbent polymer in the Gelok 6000 double ply/double ply (1080) laminate, per square inch thereof.
  • Example 1 The absorbent insert of Example 1 and the absorbent cores A-G were tested for absorbency (rate) , wicking and skin wetness. The procedure for each test is described below. The results of each test are set forth in Table I.
  • a four inch by four inch square sample of absorbent core material is placed on a level surface.
  • a test plate with a plurality of evenly spaced apertures is placed on the sample.
  • the test plate has sides to retain a test liquid until it passes through the apertures to the absorbent core.
  • the test liquid is a 1.0% NaCl solution.
  • a timer is started after 10.0 milliliters of the test liquid has been introduced into the test plate. The timer is stopped when the test liquid has emptied from the test plate, through the apertures and into the absorbent core. The results of this kind of test are indicative of the rate at which an absorbent product will absorb urine.
  • an absorbent core with a 2 second time in this absorbency test will absorb urine at a faster rate than an absorbent core with a 5 second time in this absorbency test.
  • SKIN WETNESS In this test, a three inch by five inch rectangular sample of absorbent core, with a water impervious backing, is placed on a level surface. In the center of the sample, a 50 milliliter sample of a 1.0% NaCl solution is deposited at the rate of 7.0 milliliters per second. Absorbent paper toweling is cut into three inch by five inch rectangles and a stack of the paper toweling weighing approximately eighteen grams is weighed and its dry weight is recorded.
  • a pair of small measurements for an absorbent core indicates that the core does a relatively poor job of distributing or wicking fluid so that fluid may puddle in one area of the absorbent core while the absorptive capacity of remote, dry areas of the absorbent core is wasted. Conversely, a pair of large measurements for an absorbent core indicates that the core does a relatively good job of wicking fluid so that liquid will be well distributed throughout the absorbent core.
  • ABSORBENCY SKIN WETNESS WICKING time in sec- (grams of li- (side-to (top to onds until quid absorbed side dia- bottom fully absor- by toweling) meter of diameter bed) liquid) of liq.
  • Core C* only gave up 2.2 grams of liquid, while Core F* gave up 8.4 grams. This indicates that Core C* with no channels retains liquid much better than Core F* which corresponds with 100% channels. Thus, after 1 minute, liquid can flow back through the laminate, out of Core F*, whereas Core C* with no channels gave up very little liquid in the Skin Wetness test.
  • Example I core includes a continuous network of channels which exhibits a demonstrated ability to promote good wicking. In fact.
  • Example 1 core had the best wicking numbers although, as indicated in Table I, a direct comparison between Cores C* and F* and the other cores is unwarranted.
  • ABSORBENCY for a second 10 ml wetting (seconds)
  • the absorptive components of an absorbent product according to a second embodiment of the invention are indicated generally at 70.
  • the absorptive components 70 comprise an upper layer 72 and a lower layer 74 of thick, air-laid tissue and, on top of the layer 74, a layer of super absorbent polymer particles, represented by dots 76 in the middle and the four corners of the layer 74.
  • the polymer particles can be relatively evenly distributed over the entire layer 74 although the polymer layer need not extend to the reaches of the two ends, 78 and 80 of the layer 74.
  • the layer 72 With the polymer powder in place on the layer 74, the layer 72 is united with the layer 74 and embossed to produce an absorbent core 82, shown in FIG. 8.
  • a preferred embossing pattern is represented by bars 84 in the middle and the four corners of the core 82.
  • the bars 84 correspond with areas of compression created during the embossing step. Surrounding the bars 84 are uncompressed, tufted areas.
  • the side of the core 82 not illustrated in FIG. 8 has a smooth surface.
  • tissue wrapping operation is illustrated in which tissue paper 86 is wrapped around the absorbent core 82.
  • tissue paper 86 is wrapped around the absorbent core 82.
  • excess tissue 86 is trimmed and the ends of the wrapped tissue 86 are glued or otherwise secured to produce a seam 88, shown in FIG. 10.
  • the wrapped core 82 is slit to define lateral regions 90 which are folded inwardly, opposite the seam 88, to produce an absorbent insert 92.
  • a smooth surface 92 is exposed.
  • the slitting and folding steps are controlled so that a substantial gap remains between the edges of the lateral regions 90 to define a central region 94.
  • the exposed surface in the central region 94 includes compressed areas represented by the bars 84.
  • An absorbent article can be produced from the absorbent insert 92, by sandwiching it between a water impervious backing sheet 98 and a non-woven facing sheet 100. Lines 102 of hot melt adhesive are applied to the backing sheet 98 to adhesively secure it to the absorbent insert 92 and the facing sheet 100. If desired, elastic means (not shown) corresponding with the means 46 (FIG. 5) can be applied to the backing sheet 98 (FIG. 11) to produce gathers in a finished absorbent product. After the insert 92 has been assembled between the backing sheet 98 and the facing sheet 100, leg cut outs would be trimmed from the assembly, as discussed above with reference to FIG. 6.
  • Layer 110 is a relatively thick layer of moisture absorbing material, such as cellulose fluff, fluffed wood pulp, batting or the like.
  • Apparatus for use in depositing polymer powder on the fluff layer 110 comprises water spray means indicated generally at 112 and polymer deposition means indicated generally at 114.
  • the water spray means comprises a spray head 116 to which water is supplied through conduit 118 at a constant pressure which may be monitored or controlled by a pressure controller 120.
  • the polymer deposition means 114 comprises a trough 122 for holding polymer powder, indicated at 124, and deposition rate control means 126 for adjusting the rate at which polymer powder 124 is released from the trough 122.
  • a vacuum integration means 128 for drawing a vacuum below the fluff layer to draw polymer powder 124 into the fluff layer where the fluff fibers will engage and retain it.
  • a central conduit 130 in the vacuum integration means 128 can be connected to a suitable vacuum source (not shown) .
  • the water spray means 112 and the polymer deposition means 114 are positioned and sized to spray water and deposit polymer powder on the fluff layer 110 in a central region 132 defined between dotted lines 134.
  • the polymer deposition means 114 may be operated continuously, or intermittently so that discreet absorbent portions of the central region 132 having polymer powder 124 deposited thereon are separated by discreet portions of the central region 132 which do not have polymer powder 114 deposited thereon. Continuous operation of the polymer deposition means 114 will produce a continuous layer of polymer powder 124 in the central region 132 of a piece 136 which has been cut from the fluff layer 110, as shown in FIG. 13. Intermittent deposition of polymer powder 124 could be used to produce a piece, like the piece 136, except that the polymer 5 powder 124 would not extend all of the way to the edges; it would be recessed from all four sides of the piece.
  • fluff material constituting the layer 110 is advanced from right to left, passing first under the polymer deposition means 114 and then
  • polymer (Aridall 1080 polyacrylate super absorbent polymer) per square meter is a good concentration. More or less polymer may be used, depending on a number of factors including the identity and capacity of the super absorbent polymer and the intended use.
  • tissue layer 138 of heavy tissue corresponding in size with the central region 132.
  • tissue layer 138 of heavy tissue corresponding in size with the central region 132.
  • the layer 30 138 is positioned on the piece 136 so that it covers the central region 132 and the polymer powder 124 deposited thereon.
  • the layer 138 is positioned on the same side of the fluff layer 110 as that on which the polymer powder 124 was deposited.
  • the layer 138, as well as the layer 24 (FIG. 1) can be
  • tissue 35 be single ply or double ply. If single ply, the tissue should have a basis weight of between 14 pounds and 18 pounds. If double ply, the tissue should have a basis weight of between 14 pounds and 22 pounds. A single ply tissue with a basis weight of 14.5 pounds produces very good results.
  • the tissue layers 138 and 24 (FIG. 1) should consist of a tissue with good stretchability; 18% to 33% machine direction stretch is preferred.
  • tissue layers 140 and 142 are positioned to be brought into contact with the upper and lower surfaces of the piece 136.
  • the tissue layers 140 and 142 are light by comparison with the tissue layer 138.
  • a 12 pound basis weight wet strength tissue is preferred for the layers 140 and 142 as well as for the layers 28 and 30 (FIG. 2) and the tissue wrap 86 (FIG. 9) .
  • a smooth roller (not shown) is applied to the lower tissue layer 142 and a patterned roller (not shown) is applied to the opposed, upper tissue layer 140 to produce an embossed absorbent core 144.
  • a suitable diamond embossing pattern is shown in FIG. 15, reflected in the pattern shown on the surface of the tissue layer 140.
  • the embossing pattern on the embossing die (not shown) applied to the upper tissue layer 140 produces a pattern of channels 146 in the tissue layer 140, the tissue layer 138, and the fluff layer 110.
  • these channels 146 constitute transfer sites through which liquid is absorbed quickly from above the upper tissue layer 140, through the tissue layer 138, to the fluff layer 110 where it will be absorbed, eventually by the polymer powder 124 dispersed therein.
  • the channels 146 are interconnected in a continuous network which promotes excellent wicking characteristics.
  • the channels 146 there is a high density interface between the tissue layers 138 and 140 and the fluff layer 110. In this interface, there is a physical bond between the layers 138, 140 and 110 which gives the absorbent core 144 physical integrity. In the areas between the channels 146, the layers 138, 140 and 110 have a lower density than these layers have in the channels 146.
  • the polymer powder 124 is, in effect, laminated between the tissue layer 138 and the fluff layer 110. This core construction is advantageous because migration of the powder 124 is resisted while swelling of the powder 124 is relatively unrestricted.
  • the channels 146 promote fast absorption. This core construction also provides very high capacity with an ability to absorb multiple wettings.
  • Core C is an absorbent core which included a super absorbent laminate with super absorbent polymer sandwiched between tissue layers. As the results set forth in TABLE III indicate, core C could not absorb a second wetting, even after two minutes.
  • the super absorbent polymer in the laminate layer in Core C had expanded and coalesced to form a two-dimensional barrier layer through which liquid could not pass.
  • the super absorbent polymer in the core 144 is not confined in a two-dimensional plane. Consequently, the core 144 can absorb multiple wettings
  • the core 144 has good skin wetness performance, i.e., it retains fluid well, even under pressure. It is believed that the three-dimensional distribution of super absorbent polymer in this core construction allows the polymer to have greater capacity because there is more room for the polymer to expand. Once liquid is taken up by the super absorbent polymer, the liquid is not released, even under pressure. Liquid that is not picked up by the polymer will be held in the fluff layer. Although liquid can be squeezed out of fluff, this core construction resists the squeeze out of liquid, back through the upper tissue layer 140. The polymer powder in the core 144 is concentrated on and near the upper surface of the fluff layer 110.
  • the absorbent core When the absorbent core is not under pressure, the polymer is distributed in three-dimensions, as discussed above. However, when the core is compressed after a wetting, the gelled, swollen polymer particles will be brought into close contact forming a barrier layer to prevent the squeeze out of liquid through the upper tissue layer 140.
  • the embossing step can be carried out advantageously with approximately 50 to 175 lbs of pressure per lineal inch of the embossing rollers. A variety of patterns would be suitable for the patterned embossing roller, beside the one reflected in the upper tissue layer 140 shown in FIG. 15.
  • the manufacturing steps described above with reference to FIGS. 12-15 can be applied to bulk materials supplied, for example, from rolls.
  • the fluff layer 110, the tissue layers 138, 140 and 142 can be manufactured into an embossed, absorbent core 144 of infinite length which can later be cut to appropriate length and incorporated into an absorbent product according to the instant invention.
  • the absorbent core 144 After the absorbent core 144 has been embossed, it is preferably subjected to a de-bulking operation in which it is passed between two compression rollers (not shown) . This step adds further integrity to the embossed absorbent core 144 and promotes more economical packaging by producing thinner absorbent products.
  • the embossed absorbent core 144 is illustrated after ears 148 have been trimmed therefrom to produce an absorbent insert 150, with leg cut outs 152, for incorporation in an absorbent product.
  • the cut outs 152 extend. inwardly toward, but terminate just short of, the central region 132 defined between the dotted lines 134.
  • the ears 148 can be recycled, if desired, to yield material suitable for producing additional fluff layers 110.
  • the trimming can be carried out with a die-cutter which may include a cutter for cutting the embossed absorbent core 144 to produce an absorbent insert 150 of a given length. Alternatively, a separate cutter may be used to cut absorbent core material to an appropriate length.
  • fluff refers to a web made up of loose fibers. It is also intended to encompass composite webs made up of such fibers and including other materials such as synthetic fibers.
  • Hercules distributes, under the name Pulpex, a polyethylene/polypropylene blend of fibers which can be advantageously incorporated into a fluff layer. Pulpex, in amounts of five percent can be incorporated into fluff and heated to improve the integrity of the fluff layer.
  • another embodiment of an absorbent core comprises a layer 160 of laminate and piece 162 consisting of a fluff layer 164 and super absorbent polymer powder 166 deposited in a central region 168 of the fluff layer 164.
  • the piece 162 can be readily produced on apparatus of the type described above with reference to FIG. 12. It will be appreciated that the apparatus of FIG. 12 can be operated so that it intermittently deposits polymer powder 166 on the central region 168 of the layer of fluff 164. In that case, the layer of polymer powder 166 would terminate short of the ends of the piece 162, as well as terminating short of the sides of the piece 162, as shown in FIG. 17.
  • the laminate layer 160 comprises super absorbent polymer powder dispersed in and supported on a heavy tissue.
  • the layer 160 of laminate is Gelok 6000 single ply/double ply, a laminate consisting of 1080 polyacrylate super absorbent polymer sandwiched between a single ply of 14 pound basis weight tissue and two sheets of 10.5 pound basis weight tissue.
  • the laminate layer corresponds in size with the central region 168 where the polymer powder 166 is deposited.
  • the laminate layer 160 is positioned on the piece 162 so that it covers the central region 168 and the polymer powder 166 deposited thereon.
  • the laminate layer 160 is positioned on the same side of the fluff layer 164 as that on which the polymer powder 166 was deposited.
  • the laminate layer can be single ply or double ply. If single ply, the tissue should have a basis weight of between 14 pounds and 18 pounds. If double ply, the tissue should have a basis weight of between 14 pounds and 22 pounds. A single ply tissue with a basis weight of 14.5 pounds produces very good results.
  • the laminate layer 160 should consist of a tissue with good stretchability; 18% to 33% machine direction stretch is preferred.
  • upper and lower tissue layers 170 and 172 are positioned to be brought into contact with the upper and lower surfaces of the piece 162.
  • a single ply of heavy tissue (not shown) can be positioned between the piece 162 and the tissue layer 170.
  • the tissue layers 170 and 172 are light by comparison with the tissue incorporated into the laminate layer 160.
  • a 12 pound basis weight wet strength tissue is preferred for the layers 170 and 172.
  • tissue layers 170 and 172 are brought into contact with the piece 162
  • the components are subjected to an embossing step.
  • a smooth roller (not shown) is applied to the lower tissue layer 172 and a patterned roller (not shown) is applied to the opposed, upper tissue layer 170 to produce an embossed absorbent core 174 shown in FIG 19.
  • a suitable diamond embossing pattern is shown in FIG. 19, reflected in the pattern shown on the surface of the tissue layer 170.
  • the embossing pattern on the embossing die (not shown) applied to the upper tissue layer 170 produces a pattern of channels 176 in the tissue layer 170, the laminate layer 160, and the fluff layer 164.
  • channels 176 constitute transfer sites through which liquid is absorbed quickly from above the upper tissue layer 170, through the laminate layer 160, to the fluff layer 164 where it will be absorbed, eventually by the polymer powder 166 dispersed therein.
  • the channels 176 are interconnected in a continuous networkwhich promotes excellent wicking of deposited fluid, through the channels, to portions of the embossed absorbent core 174 remote from the deposit site.
  • the polymer powder which is deposited in the fluff layer locks in liquid which is absorbed throughout the channels 176 to yield excellent skin dryness characteristics for the absorbent core 174, while the channels 176 provide excellent absorbency characteristics.
  • an absorbent core (Example I) which has been embossed to provide channels, can absorb multiple wettings.
  • the channels 176 there is a high density interface between the laminate layer 160, the tissue layer 170 and the fluff layer 164. In this interface, there is a physical bond between the layers 160, 170 and 164 which gives the absorbent core 174 physical integrity. In the areas between the channels 176, the layers 160, 170 and 164 have a lower density than these layers have in the channels 176.
  • the polymer powder 166 that has been deposited on the fluff layer 164 is, in effect, laminated between the laminate layer 160 and the fluff layer 164 . This core construction is advantageous because migration of the deposited powder 166 is resisted while swelling of the deposited powder 166 is relatively unrestricted.
  • the channels 176 provide the absorbent insert with excellent absorbency.
  • This core construction also provides very high capacity with an ability to absorb multiple wettings. These characteristics are believed to be due, in part, to what amounts to a three dimensional distribution of polymer powder in the core 144, as opposed to a two dimensional distribution of polymer powder in absorbent products which include a super absorbent polymer laminated between two tissue layers.
  • the absorbent core 174 combines the high capacity afforded by super absorbent polymer dispersed in fluff with the excellent skin wetness and core integrity afforded by the embossed laminate/fluff structure.
  • the embossing step can be carried out advantageously with approximately 50 to 175 lbs of pressure per lineal inch of the embossing rollers.
  • a variety of patterns would be suitable for the patterned embossing roller, beside the one reflected in the upper tissue layer 170 shown in FIG. 19.
  • the manufacturing steps described above with reference to FIGS. 17-19 can be applied to bulk materials supplied, for example, from rolls.
  • the fluff layer 164, the laminate layer 160, the tissue layers 170 and 172 can be manufactured into an embossed, absorbent core 174 of infinite length which can later be cut to appropriate length and incorporated into an absorbent product according to the instant invention.
  • the absorbent core 174 After the absorbent core 174 has been embossed, it is preferably subjected to a de-bulking operation in which it is passed between two compression rollers (not shown) . This step adds further integrity to the embossed absorbent core 174 and promotes more economical packaging by producing thinner absorbent products.
  • the embossed absorbent core 174 is illustrated after ears 178 have been trimmed therefrom to produce an absorbent insert 180, with leg cut outs 182, for incorporation in an absorbent product.
  • the cut outs 182 extend inwardly toward, but terminate just short of, the layer 160 of laminate.
  • the ears 178 can be recycled, if desired, to yield material suitable for producing additional fluff layers 164.
  • the trimming can be carried out with a die-cutter which may include a cutter for cutting the embossed absorbent core 174 to produce an absorbent insert 180 of a given length. Alternatively, a separate cutter may be used to cut absorbent core material to an appropriate length.
  • the absorbent inserts 150 and 180 can readily be incorporated in a diaper product such as the absorbent product 54 shown in FIG. 6. Alternatively, these inserts can be sandwiched between a layer of non-woven material and poly backing to produce pad products, such as a bed pad, without leg cut outs 56 as provided for the absorbent product 54.

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  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Biomedical Technology (AREA)
  • Heart & Thoracic Surgery (AREA)
  • Vascular Medicine (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Animal Behavior & Ethology (AREA)
  • General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
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  • Absorbent Articles And Supports Therefor (AREA)
  • Laminated Bodies (AREA)

Abstract

Plusieurs modes de réalisation d'un insert ou d'une âme (180) absorbant sont décrits. Selon un mode de réalisation, l'insert comprend une couche de duvet intégrée dans au moins une couche de stratifié. La couche de duvet et le stratifié sont gaufrés entre des rouleaux intégrant physiquement les deux couches. Dans un autre mode de réalisation, on produit un insert absorbant par gaufrage d'un stratifié entre un rouleau lisse et un rouleau à dessin, ainsi que par ajustement et pliage du stratifié gaufré. Selon un autre mode de réalisation, on produit un insert absorbant par dépôt de poudre polymère superabsorbant sur une partie d'une couche de duvet, par couverture de la poudre à l'aide d'au moins une couche de tissu, puis par gaufrage de l'ensemble. Un autre mode de réalisation consiste à produire un insert absorbant par dépôt d'une poudre polymère superabsorbante sur une partie d'une couche de duvet, couvrant au moins une partie du duvet avec du polymère déposé sur ce dernier, avec au moins une couche (160) de stratifié, et à gaufrer l'ensemble.
EP19900900514 1988-11-16 1989-11-14 Absorbent product for personal use Withdrawn EP0444140A4 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (6)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US372030 1982-04-26
US27216088A 1988-11-16 1988-11-16
US272160 1988-11-16
US35249189A 1989-05-16 1989-05-16
US37203089A 1989-06-27 1989-06-27
US352491 1999-07-13

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EP0444140A1 true EP0444140A1 (fr) 1991-09-04
EP0444140A4 EP0444140A4 (en) 1992-03-11

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EP (1) EP0444140A4 (fr)
JP (1) JPH04503168A (fr)
CA (1) CA2002821C (fr)
DK (1) DK92391A (fr)
WO (1) WO1990005513A1 (fr)

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ZA92308B (en) 1991-09-11 1992-10-28 Kimberly Clark Co Thin absorbent article having rapid uptake of liquid
AU687766B2 (en) * 1993-02-22 1998-03-05 Mcneil-Ppc, Inc. Absorbent articles
IT1261155B (it) * 1993-12-31 1996-05-09 P & G Spa Struttura assorbente stratificata, articolo assorbente comprendente tale struttura e metodo per la sua realizzazione.
SE508244C2 (sv) * 1994-02-24 1998-09-21 Moelnlycke Ab Absorptionskropp samt anordning för framställning av en sådan absorptionskropp
JP3811000B2 (ja) * 2000-11-30 2006-08-16 ユニ・チャーム株式会社 使い捨ておむつ
JP4807997B2 (ja) * 2005-10-05 2011-11-02 花王株式会社 使い捨ておむつの製造方法
CN109223317B (zh) * 2018-10-12 2024-05-14 广东昱升个人护理用品股份有限公司 一种复合型吸收芯体的制备方法及其生产设备
JP7143362B2 (ja) * 2020-04-06 2022-09-28 ユニ・チャーム株式会社 パンツ型吸収性物品

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EP0010439A1 (fr) * 1978-10-20 1980-04-30 Grain Processing Corporation Articles absorbants stratifiés et procédé pour leur préparation
WO1980001455A1 (fr) * 1979-01-12 1980-07-24 Beghin Say Sa Procede d'insertion de produits super-absorbants dans une structure fibreuse
US4605402A (en) * 1984-08-17 1986-08-12 Personal Products Company Softening of a composite absorbent product

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US4333979A (en) * 1980-08-18 1982-06-08 Kimberly-Clark Corporation Soft, bulky, lightweight nonwoven web and method of producing; the web has both fused spot bonds and patterned embossments
US4443512A (en) * 1981-09-22 1984-04-17 Colgate-Palmolive Company Absorbent article with densified areas
US4643726A (en) * 1983-07-18 1987-02-17 E. R. Squibb & Sons, Inc. Incontinence insert
US4670011A (en) * 1983-12-01 1987-06-02 Personal Products Company Disposable diaper with folded absorbent batt

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP0010439A1 (fr) * 1978-10-20 1980-04-30 Grain Processing Corporation Articles absorbants stratifiés et procédé pour leur préparation
WO1980001455A1 (fr) * 1979-01-12 1980-07-24 Beghin Say Sa Procede d'insertion de produits super-absorbants dans une structure fibreuse
US4605402A (en) * 1984-08-17 1986-08-12 Personal Products Company Softening of a composite absorbent product

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Title
See also references of WO9005513A1 *

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
CA2002821C (fr) 2000-10-24
EP0444140A4 (en) 1992-03-11
CA2002821A1 (fr) 1990-05-16
DK92391D0 (da) 1991-05-16
JPH04503168A (ja) 1992-06-11
WO1990005513A1 (fr) 1990-05-31
DK92391A (da) 1991-05-16

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