MX2007011538A - Absorbent article with embossing. - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention describes a novel absorbent core for the absorbent article in which the top surface of the core is embossed in a pattern that is made from curves rather than straight lines or polygons. In a preferred embodiment, the top surface is embossed with a pattern made by circles with spacing between consecutive circles. The novel article is not only less rigid and smoother on the body surface, but also exhibits better absorptive capacity. Various other embodiments are described and are within the scope of the invention.

Description

ABSORBENT ARTICLE WITH RELIEF FIELD OF THE INVENTION In accordance with the present invention, an absorbent article having improved absorbency characteristics and a production method thereof is disclosed. More particularly, the present invention describes an absorbent core of an airborne material having a relief configuration on its upper surface. The use of absorbent articles has become quite frequent in today's w.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION They have been improved and modified to have different shapes, sizes and characteristics according to the particular application. For example, baby diapers are large soft items with high absorbent capacity, therefore making it possible for the baby to use the item for a long period of time. At the same time, sanitary pads or pantiliners used by women are relatively small items that are not observable from the outside, thus avoiding any accident to the user. One of the areas in this field where a significant amount of research has been given is in the construction of the absorbent core of the article. The absorbent core generally absorbs and retains bodily fluids so that they can be easily removed.

Ref. 184792 To improve the absorbency, retention and other desired properties of the core, various natural and synthetic materials have been introduced into its construction. The objective is that the core should be an optimized result of the weight of its constituents and the absorbency and retention it offers. In the more simplistic construction of an absorbent article, this core is placed between an upper sheet facing the liquid-permeable body and a posterior sheet facing liquid-impermeable clothing. However, since this portion forms the volume of the article, it contributes significantly to the comfort factor when the article is used. Moreover, when the article is used, this portion is placed in the user's crotch region, where even a slight amount of discomfort is less desirable. In addition, since a combination of natural and synthetic fibers are used in the production of an efficient absorbent core, it is important to join the materials together to provide uniformity as well as strength. To provide the desired amount of strength, softness, as well as appearance, a common procedure in the field is to join the absorbent core fibers by embossing the core. The embossing also achieves a combination of high-density embossed regions and / or lining with only low-density non-relief regions. This combination creates lines, or depressions, in the absorbent core that help in an efficient absorption of the fluids released by the body. U.S. Patent No. 4,518,451, issued by Luceri et al., Discloses an embossed pantiprotector where the side facing the body is graded with a relatively deep configuration of depressed areas, and the longitudinal edges are engraved with a configuration of depressed areas relatively shallow. This results in a pantyhose that has aesthetically effective embossing while providing comfortable longitudinal edges. U.S. Patent No. 4,623,340, issued by Luceri, discloses an absorbent pantiprotector provided with a configuration of depressed areas. The outer cover of the pantiprotector is made of a relatively light opaque sheet material and the inner layer is at least partially thermoplastic and relatively dark in color. When the cover is embossed, the depressed areas appear darker than the areas without relief. U.S. Patent No. 5,514,104 issued by Cole et al, describes an absorbent article comprising an absorbent core having a side facing the body and a side facing the garment. The side facing the garment of the absorbent core, that is, lower layer, is embossed to form a configuration of areas of different density. The raised configuration in the lower layer of the absorbent core improves the removal of urine or other fluids from the discharge area to be ready for the next discharge. U.S. Patent Publication No. 2004/0267220 to Raymond, discloses an absorbent article having a raised configuration defined as a raised portion in an upper layer. The relief configuration of a typeface, word, brand, shading line, number, logo, etc. applies However, the embossed configuration with square or diamond edges is observed to be rigid to the user. The description of the publications and patents mentioned above are incorporated herein by reference to these in their entirety. Due to the nature of the embossing process and the embossed design configuration, the absorbent core is not very soft or comfortable when worn close to the body. If the configuration is polygonal, it returns to the full core very rigid. Sometimes the edges of the polygon are also added to the user's discomfort. In addition, due to the polygonal nature of the configuration, narrow channels are formed thereby limiting the storage capacity of the liquid that will still be absorbed by the core. Therefore, it is desirable to have an absorbent core configuration that is comfortable to be used as well as to offer improved absorption properties. An object of the present invention is to provide an improved core that is soft to the body and comfortable to the user. A further object of the invention is to provide a core with increased fluid holding and storage capacity. Still another object of the present invention is to have the desired stiffness in the absorbent core.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION In order to achieve the objects mentioned above, and to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art, the present invention provides an absorbent core that is embossed with a circular or oval configuration. Such a configuration of a pattern of embossing results in a softer upper surface as well as increased spacing between the individual padded areas, and provides more space for the body exudates to accumulate until they are absorbed by the core. The present invention describes an absorbent article comprising a topsheet, a backsheet, an absorbent core positioned between the topsheet and the backsheet, and a fluid transfer layer positioned between the topsheet and the absorbent core. The absorbent core of the absorbent article is made of a material transported by air. Alternatively, the absorbent core can also be provided with an airborne material having from 45% to about 95% by weight of a superabsorbent polymeric material. Furthermore, an important aspect of the present invention is that the absorbent core is embossed, preferably in a circular configuration along its entire upper surface. The invention also includes a method for producing an absorbent article that includes providing a top sheet material and a back sheet material. The method also includes preparing an absorbent core having a circular relief pattern, and placing the absorbent core between the top sheet material and the backsheet material. The method further includes preparing a fluid transfer layer comprised of three dimensional aperture films, and placing the transfer layer between the upper sheet material and the absorbent core. The transfer layer can be a nonwoven, tracing, or any other material known in the art. The core can be made from a material transported by air containing SAP. In one embodiment, the absorbent article has a topsheet, a fluid transfer layer positioned beneath the topsheet, a backsheet, and an absorbent core positioned between the fluid transfer layer and the backsheet. The absorbent core is made of a material transported by air and can be free of any superabsorbent polymeric material. In addition, the absorbent core is embossed with a circular configuration on its upper surface. The fluid transfer layer is provided with a longitudinal length and side width of a smaller dimension when compared to the absorbent core. Preferably, the fluid transfer layer is a strip which does not cover the entire crotch region of the absorbent article. In another embodiment of the present invention, the absorbent core is embossed with an oval-shaped configuration. The absorbent article of the invention preferably has a third discharge penetration time of about 80 seconds, more preferably less than about 75 seconds, even more preferably less than about 70 seconds, and most preferably less than about 65 seconds. In addition, the absorbent article preferably has a third discharge rewet value of less than about 1.25 grams, more preferably less than about 1.1 grams, and most preferably less than about 1.0 grams.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES Figure 1 shows a partially cut-away top view of an absorbent article of the invention 30. Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of the absorbent article shown in Figure 1. Figure 3 is a conventional absorbent article that it has an embossing pattern in the form of a diamond in an absorbent core. Figure 4 shows the absorbent article of the invention having a circular embossing pattern in the absorbent core according to one embodiment of the invention. Figure 5 shows the absorbent article of the invention having an oval embossing pattern in the absorbent core according to another embodiment of the invention.

Figure 6 shows still another embodiment of the absorbent article of the invention. Figure 7 shows an alternative embodiment of the absorbent article of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to an absorbent article having improved absorbance characteristics and a method for producing the same. More particularly, the present invention describes an absorbent core of an airborne material having a circular relief pattern on its upper surface. The present invention provides an absorbent article having superior properties of absorbency, leakage protection, and / or skin welfare, as well as being aesthetically pleasing. As used herein, the terms "absorbent article", "absorbent article", or simply "article" or "article" refer to devices that absorb and contain body fluids and other body exudates. More specifically, these terms refer to garments that are placed against or in proximity to the body of a wearer to absorb and contain various exudates discharged from the body. A non-exhaustive list of examples of absorbent garments includes pantiliners, sanitary napkins, feminine hygiene products, protective underwear, diapers, diaper covers, disposable diapers, underwear trainers, and adult incontinence products. Such garments may essentially comprise a unique inseparable structure ("unitary" garments), or may comprise replaceable inserts or other interchangeable parts. The present invention can be used with all prior classes of absorbent articles, without limitation, if they are disposable or in another form. The absorbent article of the present invention is optionally a pantiprotector, sanitary napkin, feminine sanitary ware, protective underwear, diaper, incontinent truss, trainer briefs, diaper covers, diaper lining, or combinations thereof. In the embodiments described herein, an exemplary structure of a pantiprotector is provided. However, this is not proposed to limit the claimed invention. It will be understood that the invention includes, without limitation, all classes, and types of absorbent articles, including those exemplified herein. The term "longitudinal", as used herein, refers to an axis or direction in the plane of the absorbent article that is generally aligned with a vertical plane which divides into two parts a user standing in right-body halves and left when the absorbent article is used. The term "lateral" refers to the line, axis, or direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, which is located within the plane of the absorbent article. The length on the longitudinal axis and lateral axis represents the length and width of an absorbent article. Throughout this description, the term "placed" and the expressions "placed upon", "placed on", "placed on", "placed between" and variations thereof (for example, a description of the article that is "placed") interposed between the words "placed" and "on") are proposed to mean that an element may be integral with another element, or that an element may be a separate structure attached to or placed with or placed near another element. Accordingly, a component that is "placed on" an item of the absorbent article can be formed or applied directly or indirectly to a surface of the element, formed or applied between the layers of a multiple layer element, formed or applied to a substrate that it is placed with or close to the element, formed or applied within a layer of the element or other substrate, or other variations or combinations thereof. Throughout this description, the terms "top sheet" and "back sheet" denote the relationship of these materials or layers with respect to the absorbent core. It is understood that additional layers may be present between the absorbent core and the top sheet and back sheet, and that additional layers and other materials may be present on the opposite side of the absorbent core either from the top sheet or the back sheet. The phrases "objective", "objective point", or "target region" or "target area" are each used synonymously and refer to the area or location on an absorbent article where a download is normally administered by a user, or a nozzle or other device in an experimental method. The term "penetration" is used herein to denote the amount of time it takes for a liquid to pass through the material being tested. Penetration is a measure of the material's fluid acquisition properties, and can be referred to as the absorbency rate. Penetration is measured in accordance with the test procedures defined below. Unless stated otherwise, penetration values are reported in seconds in seconds. The term "rewet" is used herein to mean the retransmission of liquid from the absorbent core to the body or user side of the top sheet when the disposable absorbent article is in use. Therefore, rewetting is a measure of the fluid retention capabilities of the absorbent article under load. Low rewetting means low re-transmission of liquid from the fluid transport layer and / or absorbent core to the body or side of the user of the top sheet. The rewetting property of an absorbent article is determined by the procedure summarized in the section on subsequent testing procedures. Unless stated otherwise, the rewet values are reported in grams. The present invention relates to the construction and configuration of the absorbent core that is present in the absorbent articles such as diapers, underpants, sanitary napkins, and pantyhose. The invention improves the absorbent core to make it a better absorbent article in terms of absorbent capacity as well as its sensation to the portions of the body that come into contact with it. The configuration of the rest of the absorbent article, such as its shape and size, does not belong to the invention and does not directly affect the operation of the invention. However, they can be auxiliary features that are added to the final result of the absorption and sensing capacity of the core. More particularly, the present invention relates to absorbent articles, and in particular to an absorbent article containing a topsheet, a backsheet, an absorbent core positioned at least partially between the topsheet and the topsheet, and a transfer layer of fluids placed between the upper sheet and the absorbent core. The absorbent core is comprised of a material transported by air. The airborne material can be provided without superabsorbent polymer, or can be provided with from about 45% to about 95% by weight superabsorbent polymer. The fluid transfer layer can be prepared with a three dimensional aperture film. The absorbent article of the invention has a third discharge penetration time of less than about 80 seconds, and a third discharge rewet value of less than about 1.25 grams. The invention also generally relates to a method for producing an absorbent article that includes providing a top sheet material and a top sheet material. The method also includes preparing an absorbent core of an airborne material having a circular relief pattern and placing the absorbent core between the top sheet and the backsheet. The method further includes preparing a fluid transfer layer comprising a three-dimensional aperture film, and placing the fluid transfer layer between the top sheet and the absorbent core to form an absorbent article having a third penetration time. discharge of less than approximately 80 seconds, and a third discharge rewet value of less than about 1.25 grams. The absorbent article of the invention preferably has two longitudinal edges, one leading end and one trailing end, and two side edges. Those skilled in the art will recognize that "anterior" and "posterior" in the context of the invention denote for purposes of clarity only the front and rear of a user, and that the absorbent article may be reversed whereby the "anterior" portion thereof. "previously described becomes the" posterior "portion, and vice versa. In the present invention, the absorbent article preferably has a third discharge penetration of less than about 80 seconds, and a third discharge rewet of less than about 1.25 grams. More preferably, the absorbent article has a third discharge penetration of less than about 75 seconds, and a third discharge rewet of less than about 1.20 grams, and even more preferably, a third discharge penetration of less than about 70 seconds, and a third discharge rewet of less than about 1.10 grams. Most preferably, the absorbent article has a third discharge penetration of less than about 65 seconds, and a third discharge rewet of less than about 1.0 grams. Although described together, the preferred absorbent articles do not need to have the same combination of preferred penetration and rewet, thus enabling an absorbent article having, ie, a third discharge penetration of less than about 75 seconds, and a third discharge rewet of less than about 1.0 grams. It is preferred in the present invention to characterize the absorbent articles by their values of rewet and penetration of third discharges. This is believed to be because many materials will have comparable first discharge and rewind penetration values, but materials that prevent leakage will be differentiated from the other materials in the second and third discharge values. In addition, rewet data and first discharge penetration do not provide much information about an absorbent article in a stressed condition. Therefore, rewet values and first discharge penetration are not necessarily good predictors of materials that will have good rewet and third discharge penetration. In addition, it is not practical to change an absorbent article after the first discharge, and at sunset, three or more discharges typically occur prior to the change of the absorbent article. Accordingly, absorbent articles having good rewet and third discharge penetration will be more suitable for extended use of absorbent articles. In addition, absorbent garments having low rewet values of third discharge are believed to keep skin drier immediately after use, and since dry skin helps maintain healthy skin, consumers recognize low rewet as a benefit. Finally, it is believed that absorbent garments having low third discharge penetration can improve the performance against leakage of the absorbent article. The present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying figures. The figures will be used to illustrate the inventive concept, and do not propose to limit the invention to the modalities shown herein. With reference to the figures, Figure 1 is a partially cut-away representation of an exemplary embodiment of an absorbent article 10 of the present invention as shown. The embodiment shown in Fig. 1 is a feminine hygiene product, such as a pantyhose, pad, or sanitary napkin. However, this representation is not proposed to limit the invention. The absorbent article 10 has a longitudinal axis 100 and a lateral axis 102 extended along the length and width of the absorbent article. The absorbent article 10 has a first longitudinal end 12, a second longitudinal opposite end 14, and an intermediate region 16 located between the first longitudinal end 12 and the second longitudinal end 14. The absorbent article 10 comprises an upper sheet 22, a rear sheet 28, a fluid transfer layer 24 and an absorbent core 26 positioned between the topsheet 22 and the fluid transfer layer 24. When the absorbent article 10 is being used, the topsheet 22 faces the wearer's body, and the backsheet 28 faces away from the wearer. The fluid transfer layer 24 is placed below the top sheet 22. Preferably, the fluid transfer layer 24 is provided in the vicinity of the target region. Figure 2 represents a cross-sectional view of the absorbent article 10 described in Figure 1. The absorbent article is provided with the topsheet 22, backsheet 28, absorbent core 26, and the fluid transfer layer 24. The absorbent layer Fluid transfer is placed below the topsheet 22, and the absorbent core 26 is placed between at least a portion of the backsheet 28 and the fluid transfer layer 24.

The top sheet 22 and back sheet 28 can be constructed from a wide variety of materials known in the art. The invention is not intended to be limited to any of the specific materials for these components. The top sheet 22 and back sheet 28 can be shaped and sized according to the requirements of each of the various types of absorbent articles, or to accommodate various other sizes. In one of the configurations of the absorbent article of the invention, such as a pantiprotector or feminine hygiene product, the topsheet 22, backsheet 28, or both, may have an oval or rectangular shape. Alternatively, in another configuration of the absorbent article of the invention, such as an incontinent adult diaper or trick, the topsheet 22, backsheet 28, or both may have a rectangular, trapezoidal, "T" or other shape. The moisture permeable topsheet 22 can be made of any suitable relatively liquid permeable material currently known in the art or later discovered to permit the passage of a liquid therethrough. Examples of suitable top sheet materials include non-woven or carded spunbond fabrics of polypropylene, polyethylene, nylon, polyester, and mixtures of these materials, and the like. The nonwoven materials with exemplary because such materials readily allow the passage of liquids to the underlying absorbent core 26. The topsheet 22 preferably comprises a single-end non-woven material that can be made from carded fibers, either adhesively or thermally bonded , fibers joined by spinning, or fibers entangled in water, which generally weigh from 0.3-0.7 oz / square yard (10-24 gsm), and have proper and effective machine direction resistance and cross (cross) direction of the machine suitable for use as a top sheet material for the given application. The present invention is not intended to be limited to any particular material for top sheet 22, and other top sheet materials will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art. The top sheet 22 may additionally comprise various regions having different properties. In one embodiment of the present invention, the laterally distant portions of the topsheet 22 are preferably substantially fluid impervious and hydrophobic, while the remainder of the topsheet 22 is hydrophilic and fluid permeable. The different top sheet properties, such as fluid porosity and hydrophobicity, can be imparted to the topsheet 22 by treating the topsheet 22 with adhesives, surfactants, or other chemicals, using a composite of different materials, or by other means. Alternatively, different properties can be achieved by making the top sheet of three components separated, ie a central fluid permeable portion, and two lateral fluid impermeable portions that can also serve to form foot folds. The topsheet 22 can also be treated in specific areas similar to the crotch region, with aloe and vitamin E-like skin-wellness ingredients. The backsheet 28 is generally made of any suitable collapsible liquid-impermeable material known in the art. the technique or later discovered. Typical backing sheet materials include polyethylene, polypropylene, polyester, nylon, and polyvinyl chloride films and mixtures of these materials. For example, the backsheet 28 can be made from a polyethylene film having a thickness in the range of 0.02-0.04 mm (0.8-1.2 mils). The backsheet 28 can be pigmented with, for example, titanium dioxide, calcium carbonate, and other white pigments, to provide the absorbent article 10 with a pleasing color or to turn the backsheet 28 quite opaque than the exudates that are contained by the absorbent article 10 are not visible from the outside of the garment. The back sheet 28 can also be dyed with different color pigments, such as, for example, pink, blue, peach and other colors. In addition, the backsheet 28 can be formed such that it is opaque, for example, by using various inert components in the polymeric film and then biaxially stretching the film. Other backsheet materials will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art. The backsheet 28 should preferably have sufficient liquid impermeability to prevent any leakage of fluids through the backsheet 28. The required level of liquid impermeability may vary between different locations in the absorbent article 10. The backsheet 28 may further comprise regions that have different properties. In a preferred embodiment, the portions of the backsheet 28 are air-permeable to improve the breathing capacity, and thus the comfort, of the absorbent article 10. The different regions can be formed by making the backsheet 28 of a compound of different sheet materials, chemical treatment, heat treatment, or other processes or methods known in the art. Some regions of the backsheet 28 may be fluid permeable. In one embodiment of the invention, the backsheet 28 is impervious to fluids in the intermediate region 16, but is permeable to fluids in portions of the first and second longitudinal ends 12, 14. The backsheet 28 can also be made from a laminate of superimposed sheets of material. In embodiments described in Figure 1, the topsheet 22 and backsheet 28 are substantially coextensive, or may have different shapes and sizes. The particular design of the top sheet and back sheet can be dictated by manufacturing considerations, cost considerations, and operating considerations. Preferably, the topsheet 22 is large enough to completely cover the absorbent core 26, and the backsheet 28 is large enough to prevent leakage of the absorbent article 10. The design of the upper sheets 22 and backsheets 28 is known in the art. , and a skilled artisan will be able to produce an appropriate top sheet 22 and an appropriate back sheet 28 without undue experimentation, using the guidelines provided herein. The top sheet 22 and the back sheet 28 can be associated with each other using a variety of methods known in the art. For example, they can be thermally, ultrasonically, chemically, or thermally mechanically joined together. They can also be joined using hot-melt adhesive lines or mechanical fasteners, such as yarns, clips, or staples. In one embodiment, a hydrophilic adhesive, such as CYCLOFLEX (National Starch, Bridgewater, NJ), is used to bond the top sheet 22 to the back sheet 28. The particular bonding method can be dictated by the types of materials selected for upper sheet 22 and back sheet 28. The absorbent core 26 is preferably placed between the upper sheet 22 and the back sheet 28 in at least the crotch region 16. The absorbent core 26 can be extended either in both of the first and second longitudinal ends 12, 14. Although the absorbent core 26 shown in Figure 1 has a substantially oval shape, other shapes may be used, such as a "T" shape, an hourglass shape, or a rectangular shape. The shape of the absorbent core 26 may be selected to provide the greatest absorbency with a reduced amount of material. The size and capacity of the absorbent material may correspond to the desired end use of the absorbent article, for example, an incontinent trick for an adult may require an absorbent core larger than a diaper for a child. The absorbent core can be associated with the topsheet 22, backsheet 28, or any other suitable part of the absorbent article 10 by any method known in the art., to fix the absorbent core 26 in place. The absorbent core 26 of the present invention is suitably constructed of an airborne material. Various types and sources of airborne materials are known to a person of ordinary skill in the art. An example of the airborne material used to prepare the absorbent core of the present invention is obtained from the company EAM. The present invention is not restricted to a particular type of material transported by air. Preferably, the absorbent core 26 further comprises a superabsorbent polymer distributed within the airborne material. The types of superabsorbent materials suitable for use in the present invention are known to those skilled in the art, and can be in any conformation, shape, and operational size, such as particulates, fibers, fiber-coated particles or other additives, or films. , for example. The superabsorbent material can be a hydrogel-forming polymeric absorbent material which can be formed from organic hydrogel-forming polymeric materials, and can include natural material such as agar, pectin and guar gum.; modified natural materials such as carboxymethyl cellulose and other biodegradable superabsorbent materials, carboxyethyl cellulose, and hydroxypropyl cellulose; and synthetic hydrogel-forming polymers. Synthetic hydrogel-forming polymers include, for example, alkali metal salts of polyacrylic acid, polyacrylamides, polyvinyl alcohol, polyalkylene oxide, ethylene maleic anhydride copolymers, polyvinyl ethers, polyvinyl morpholinone, polymers, and vinyl sulfonic acid copolymers. , polyacrylates, polyacrylamides, polyvinyl pyridine, and the like. Other suitable hydrogel-forming polymers include starch grafted with hydrolyzed acrylonitrile, starch grafted with acrylic acid, and copolymers of hydrolyzed isobutylene maleic anhydride and mixtures thereof. The hydrogel-forming polymers are preferably slightly cross-linked to render the material substantially water insoluble. The crosslinking may, for example, be by irradiation or covalent, ionic, van der Waals, or hydrogen bonding. Suitable materials are available from several commercial vendors. A superabsorbent material suitable for the present invention is BASF-3900, a company having offices located in Ludwigshafen, Germany. Other superabsorbent materials include multi-component superabsorbent particulate gels. Such material is BASF E1231-99, also available from BASF. The multi-component superabsorbent gel particles and methods for preparing them are described in the patent literature, such as, for example, U.S. Patent Nos. 5,981,689; 6,072.101; 6,087,448; 6,121,409; 6,159,591; 6,194,631; 6,222,091; 6,235,965; 6,342,298; 6,376,072; 6,392,116; 6,509,512; and 6,555,502; U.S. Patent Publications 2001/01312; 2001/07064; 2001/29358; 2001/44612; 2002/07166; 2002/15846; and 2003/14027; and PCT Publications WO 99/25393; O 99/25745; WO 99/25748; WO 00/56959; WO 00/63295; WO 02/10032; WO 03/18671; and WO 03/37392; the descriptions of which are incorporated herein by reference in a manner consistent with the present disclosure. An important aspect of the present invention is that the absorbent core 26 is further provided with a plurality of patterns embossed on its upper surface. These configurations are usually formed in curvilinear shapes. By "curvilinear" is generally understood free round shapes of any inflexible angles. Embossing is generally performed minimally without affecting the core speck. It is usually done in line configurations in which the raised lines have high density and the area enclosed by these lines is slightly elevated and less dense. Usually the line configuration is chosen in such a way to form a complete configured design on the surface of the absorbent core. The embossing improves the integrity of the product. Figure 3 shows an absorbent article in which an absorbent core 26 is embossed with diamond configuration 40 on its upper surface. However due to the presence of edges in diamonds and other forms of polygon, such as square, rectangle and trapezoid, etc., the surface of the article is rigid and can cause discomfort to the user. Furthermore, the high density region formed by these lines creates a very narrow depression in which the liquid can flow and collect, up to the time it is absorbed by the absorbent core. The absorbent article according to the present invention can solve this problem by embossing the absorbent core with a shape having no edges and corners, such as, a circle, an oval, a clover shape, a "coarse" shape, a waviness, or any combination thereof. The embossing pattern in the absorbent core of the present invention is used to maintain sufficient bending strength to prevent bunching of the absorbent core or formation of pieces therein when used, or to be considered too flexible, soft and subtle by consumers. With reference to Figure A, a top view of one embodiment of the absorbent article of the invention is shown. The absorbent article is provided with a top sheet (not shown), a back sheet 28, an absorbent core 26, and a fluid transfer layer 24. In this embodiment, a circular embossing pattern is applied on the top surface of the absorbent core 26. The circular embossing pattern 30 perforated in the absorbent core 26 improves the extensibility and maintains sufficient bending strength of the absorbent material in the absorbent core. The circular shape allows an absorbent core transported by air to be soft and comfortable to the user. The embossing pattern circulating is provided on the upper surface of the absorbent core. The circular configuration 30 in the absorbent core 26 can be arranged randomly or can be arranged in a regular manner over the entire surface. The circular configurations do not cross each other and are considerably spaced apart from each other. This forms a line, or depression, between two consecutive high density peripheral sections of either of the two circles. These lines, depressions, act as miniature deposits that hold the liquid, until it is absorbed by the nucleus. The circumference of the circles and the distance between them is dictated by the desired property of softness and absorbency of the core. Alternatively, the geometry of the embossing pattern may vary depending on the specific wishes of the user and the utility of the article. The embossing pattern can either extend essentially over the entire surface of the absorbent core or only selected sections thereof: for example, the central area of the absorbent core or peripheral sections such as front and rear sections and / or side sections. The embossing pattern of a shape such as an oval, curve, ripple or any combination thereof can be used in the absorbent core 26 of the absorbent article of the invention. In another embodiment of the invention, shown in Figure 5, the absorbent core is embossed with an oval-shaped configuration. In addition, it may also be possible to have a multi-lobed embossing pattern, provided that the edges of such multi-lobed design have circular or curved edges. The absorbent core can also be made in such a way as to take advantage of the rigidity provided by the embossing of the polygonal configuration and the softness provided by the curvilinear configurations. As shown in Figure 6, the central portion of the core has a circular configuration, while the extremities have lines.

The pattern of embossing in the absorbent core can be produced by various means known to a person of ordinary skill in the art, such as heat or ultrasonic waves, and mechanical thermal. The absorbent core of the invention can be used in one or more configurations as required when the desired absorbent article is produced. In the preferred embodiment, shown in Figure 4, the absorbent article of the invention includes a fluid transfer layer comprised of a three dimensional aperture film. The fluid transfer layer 24 is preferably placed between the topsheet (not shown) and the absorbent core 26. The fluid transfer layer 24 preferably extends from the first longitudinal end 12, through the intermediate region 16, and at the second longitudinal end 14, and typically substantially corresponds to the shape of the absorbent core 26. The absorbent core 26 is placed on the backsheet 28 in the crotch region of the absorbent article. The majority of the central portion of the core is covered by a three-dimensional fluid transfer layer 24. At the top of this layer, a top sheet (not shown) is placed. These layers are then joined together to form a single piece article. This joint may be using embossing, adhesives or seams, or any other suitable means or any combination thereof. Alternatively, the fluid transfer layer can be provided with the same longitudinal and lateral dimensions of the absorbent core, or it can be provided with dimensions smaller or narrower than the absorbent core. The fluid transfer layer 24 as shown in Figures 1, 2, 4 and 5, has a longitudinal length and lateral width of smaller size than the respective width and length of the underlying absorbent core 26, and is mainly placed, for example , in the crotch region of the absorbent article. In an alternate configuration, shown in Figure 7, the fluid transfer layer 24 can be provided with a longitudinal length which is co-terminus with the absorbent core 26 and a lateral width which is smaller when compared to the width lateral of the absorbent core. The present invention also relates to a method for producing an absorbent article that includes providing an upper sheet material 22 and a back sheet material 28. The method also includes preparing an absorbent core 26 having a circular embossed pattern, and placing the absorbent core 26 between the topsheet 22 and the backsheet 28. The method further includes preparing a fluid transfer layer 24 comprising a three-dimensional aperture film, and placing the transfer layer 24 between the topsheet 22 and the absorbent core 26. The embodiments illustrated in Figures 3, 5 and 7 can be prepared in accordance with the method of the invention simply by providing the fluid transfer layer 24 of different dimensions with respect to the dimension of the absorbent core 26. invention will be further illustrated by the following non-limiting examples.

EXAMPLE The absorbent article of the present invention exhibits improved absorbency characteristics as demonstrated by the following Examples and Tables. Sample Preparation: The absorbent articles were prepared for the test in accordance with the following procedures. The absorbency, penetration and rewet characteristics of the absorbent articles of the invention are compared to conventional absorbent articles using the following test procedure.

Test Procedure Appliances that were used for the rewet calculations included a 4"x 4" (10.16 x 10.16 cm) Lucite cylinder block with an opening of 1"(2.54 mm) in diameter that was used to define the area to be tested, a flat plate weighing 0.05 kilograms (square Lucite of 4"x 4" x 1/8"(1.16 cm x 10.16 x 0.31 cm), a weight of 2.2 kilograms, a cylinder of 25 ml capacity and an electronic balance of top load, accuracy of ± 0.01 g In addition, stained 1% saline solution (reference STM -2000), VWR Filter paper, Grade # 417, 9 cm diameter or equivalent was used The test procedure was as follows: Prepare the product to be tested by placing the flat on a level surface 2. Center the cylinder block on the cover sheet of the product 3. Pour the measured amount of 1% saline into the opening of the cylinder block. 4. Measure salt quantities by product type: a. Daily protectors - 2 mi; b. Contour pantyliners - 2 ml c. Minitoallas - 5 mi; d. Light incontinence - 10 ml; and e. The rest of the sanitary articles - 10 mi. 5. Remove the cylinder block and allow the product to remain for 5 minutes. 6. Weigh 10 filter papers and record the weight. 7. After 5 minutes, place the heavy filter paper, clear Lucite plate, and 2.2 kilograms (approximately 0.5 psi) in the center of the product simultaneously. Leave in this position for 15 seconds. 8. Remove the weight and plate and weigh the filter papers. Calculations were determined by initially weighing the filter paper in grams before and after the liquid discharge. In addition, the average was reported. Measurement of Penetration and Re-Moisture The apparatus for determining Penetration includes a Burette clamp, 125 ml separatory funnel, Ring holder or equivalent, beaker or large bottle, at least 100 ml and a penetration plate (Tester Absorbency Rate) of 4"x 4" (10.16 cm x 10.16 cm), weight - 7.8 lbs (3.54 kg). In addition, a 1% saline solution (STM 2000), a stopwatch, Ahlstrom filter papers, 2"x 4" (5.08 cm x 10.16 cm) (md x cd), Stanley knife or scissors and a rectangular weight of 4.4 Ib ( 1.9 kg) (2"x 4" (5.08 cm x 10.16 cm)). Weight = 0.5 psi. The procedure was as follows: 1. Remove the towel by cutting the front and the back of the towel. 2. Cut the towels by cutting the elastic filaments (ie Lycra) on both sides. 3. Remove the top sheet and / or sublayer and replace with experimental materials. 4. Tapping the towel on the table with taper and stretch to make it flat. 5. Place the absorbance speed tester on the center of the product in the predicted discharge area. 6. Slide the separating funnel over the center of the product, so that the hole in inclination through the plate is centered under the tip of the funnel. 7. Have the safe stop valve in the separator funnel closed and the stopwatch set to zero. 8. Distribute the solution of the plastic beaker in the separating funnel. 9. The solution quantities were as follows: a. Protectors 30 ml 1% saline b. Protections 30 ml 1% saline c. Bladder Control Towels 30 ml 1% saline d. Light Bladder Control Towels 10 ml 1% saline 10. Open the stop valve of the separating funnel, distribute the fluid in the penetration plate, and start the stopwatch. Be careful to always open the stopcock in the same direction. 11. Close the stopcock. 12. Observe through the transparent cylinder until the fluid flows to the last penetration plate. 13. Record the result to the nearest 0.01 seconds. 14. Remove the absorbency rate tester and let the product stand for 10 minutes. 15. Weigh the 10 filter papers and record the weight of the filter papers. 16. After 10 minutes, the heavy filter papers are placed and the weight of 2.2 Ib (0.99 kg) in the center of the discharge area allows the weight to rest for 2 minutes. 17. Remove the weight and filter papers. Reweigh the filter papers and subtract the dry weight from the filter papers to calculate the re-moistening. 18. Repeat 5 to 17 twice more, for a total of three downloads. The calculations were conducted by weighing the filter paper before and after the discharge in grams. The absorbency rate was measured in seconds (sec) and Re-moistening the value in grams (g). The experimental protocol for measuring penetration and re-wetting properties are known to a person of ordinary skill in the art and has been further described in various patent publications, such as, US Patent No. 6,852,905 and US Patent No. 6,610,391, the relevant descriptions of which are incorporated herein by reference. Table 1 below summarizes the results obtained through the above test procedures in various examples of the article of the present invention and control of absorbent articles.

Table 1 Various other modalities are possible within the spirit of the invention, and the examples and embodiments mentioned above are simply understood to be for explanatory purposes, and are not intended to limit the invention in any way. The articles of the invention can be made from various types of materials available in the field and known to a person skilled in the art. Embossing can be done using several techniques prevailing in the field. The invention proposes to cover all equivalent modalities and is only limited by the appended claims. It is noted that in relation to this date, the best method known to the applicant to carry out the aforementioned invention, is that which is clear from the present description of the invention.

Claims (24)

1. CLAIMS Having described the invention as above, the contents of the following claims are claimed as property: 1. Absorbent article having a third discharge penetration time of less than about 80 seconds and a third discharge rewet value of less than about 2.5 grams, characterized in that it comprises: a top sheet a fluid transfer layer, the transfer layer of fluids is placed under the upper sheet; a back sheet; and an absorbent core positioned between the fluid transfer layer and the backsheet, the absorbent core comprises an airborne material, wherein the absorbent core is embossed with a curvilinear configuration in at least some portions of its facing upper surface to the fluid transfer layer. Absorbent article according to claim 1, characterized in that the absorbent core further comprises a superabsorbent polymeric material. Absorbent article according to claim 2, characterized in that the absorbent core comprises from about 45% to about 95% by weight of the superabsorbent polymeric material. 4. Absorbent article according to claim 1, characterized in that the fluid transfer layer is a three-dimensional aperture film. Absorbent article according to claim 1, characterized in that the penetration time of the third discharge is less than about 75 seconds. Absorbent article according to claim 5, characterized in that the penetration time of the third discharge is less than about 65 seconds. Absorbent article according to claim 1, characterized in that the rewet value of the third discharge is less than about 1.10 grams. 8. Absorbent article according to the rei indication 7, characterized in that the rewet value of third discharge is less than about 1.0 grams. 9. Absorbent article according to claim 1, characterized in that the curvilinear configuration includes circles, ovals, trefoil shapes, "coarse" shapes, a waviness, or any combination of the undulations, and any combination thereof. Absorbent article according to claim 1, characterized in that the curvilinear configuration is embossed in a random manner in the upper surface area of the absorbent core. Absorbent article according to claim 1, characterized in that the curvilinear configuration is embossed in a predetermined manner in the upper surface area of the absorbent core. Absorbent article according to claim 1, characterized in that embossing is carried out by means including hot rollers and ultrasonic connection. 13. Method for preparing an absorbent article having a third discharge penetration time of less than about 80 seconds and a third discharge rewet value of less than about 2.5 grams, characterized in that it comprises the steps of: preparing a top sheet; prepare a fluid transfer layer; place the fluid transfer layer under the top sheet; prepare a subsequent sheet; preparing an absorbent core comprising an airborne material; embossing the absorbent core with curvilinear configurations in at least some portions of its upper surface facing the fluid transfer layer; and placing the absorbent core between the fluid transfer layer and the backsheet. 14. Method according to claim 13, characterized in that the absorbent core additionally comprises superabsorbent polymeric material. 15. Method according to claim 14, characterized in that the absorbent core comprises from about 45% to about 95% by weight of superabsorbent polymeric material. 16. Method according to claim 13, characterized in that the fluid transfer layer is a three-dimensional aperture film. Method according to claim 13, characterized in that the penetration time of the third discharge is less than about 75 seconds. Method according to claim 17, characterized in that the penetration time of the third discharge is less than about 65 seconds. 19. Method according to claim 13, characterized in that the rewet value of the third discharge is less than about 1.10 grams. Method according to claim 19, characterized in that the rewet value of the third discharge is less than about 1.0 gram. 21. Method according to claim 13, characterized in that the curvilinear configuration includes circles, ovals, clover shapes, "coarse" shapes, corrugations, and any combination thereof. 22. Method according to claim 13, characterized in that the curvilinear configuration is embossed in a random manner on the upper surface area of the absorbent core. Method according to claim 13, characterized in that the curvilinear configuration is embossed in a predetermined manner on the upper surface area of the absorbent core. Method according to claim 13, characterized in that embossing is carried out by means including hot rollers and ultrasonic connection.