RU2387431C2 - Absorbent product masking stains - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: medicine.

SUBSTANCE: there is offered a sanitary towel including a coating turned to the body and an absorbent system adjoining said coating to absorb liquid therefrom; the towel has improved properties of processing a fluid medium and masking.

EFFECT: group of inventions allows improving properties of masking stains.

45 cl, 1 tbl, 13 dwg

Description

Technical field

The present invention generally relates to absorbent articles, such as sanitary napkins intended for women. More specifically, the present invention relates to a sanitary napkin having improved fluid handling and stain masking capabilities.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The use of films with holes in personal care products is well known in the art. These films can be used as body-contacting layers as layers for treating fluids or as other components of personal care products. When using such films in hygienic protective products designed for women as a body-contacting layer, it was generally established that the larger the film’s flow area, the more efficient the film will be to move the menstrual fluid to the lower layers (for example, transporting core absorbing layer) of the article. Unfortunately, it was also found that the larger the throughput area of the film, the less effective the film is at “masking” the spots created by the absorbed menstrual fluid after moving the menstrual fluid into the underlying layers of the product. That is, the larger the film cross-sectional area, the more visible the stain of the menstrual fluid will be after absorption by the product.

An object of the present invention is to provide an absorbent article having improved fluid processing properties. More specifically, it is an object of the present invention to provide an absorbent article having improved fluid processing properties while also having improved stain masking properties.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In view of the foregoing, in accordance with the first aspect of the present invention, a sanitary napkin is provided including a cover layer facing the body and an absorbent system adjacent to the cover layer for receiving liquid from it, the lining having a masking index of less than about 115,000, an average fluid penetration time of less than about 45 seconds and an average rewet value of less than about 0.05 grams in co sponds to the test procedure described herein.

In accordance with a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a sanitary napkin including a cover layer and an absorbent system adjacent to said cover layer for receiving liquid from it, the gasket having an average masking rate of less than about 60,000 and an average fluid penetration time less than about 45 seconds.

In accordance with a third aspect of the present invention, a sanitary napkin is provided comprising a cover layer of a foil film with openings and an absorbent system adjacent to said cover layer for receiving liquid therefrom, the liner having an average masking rate of less than about 55,000 and an average a fluid penetration time of less than about 45 seconds.

Brief Description of the Drawings

Figa is a schematic view of a three-dimensional film intended for use in absorbent products in accordance with the present invention.

Fig. 1b is a partially exploded perspective view of the film shown in Fig. 1a, with the tear being made along line 1B in Fig. 1a.

Fig. 1c is an enlarged micrograph of the three-dimensional film schematically shown in Fig. 1a showing its upper surface.

Fig. 1d is an enlarged micrograph of the three-dimensional film schematically shown in Fig. 1c showing its lower surface.

Fig. 1e is a schematic view of a three-dimensional film in accordance with a second embodiment for use in absorbent articles in accordance with the present invention.

Fig. 1f is a partially exploded perspective view of the film shown in Fig. 1e, with the tear being made along the line “1f” in Fig. 1e.

Fig. 1g is a micrograph of the upper surface of a three-dimensional film schematically shown in Fig. 1e.

Fig. 1 h is a micrograph of the lower surface of the three-dimensional film shown in Fig. 1g.

FIG. 1i is an enlarged micrograph of a portion of the three-dimensional film shown in FIG. 1g, wherein said portion corresponds to a portion of the film surrounded by a circle “1f” in FIG.

Fig. 1j is a micrograph of the portion of the three-dimensional film shown in Fig. 1i, showing its lower surface.

Figure 2 is a schematic illustration of one type of three-dimensional topographic support element suitable for the manufacture of the film of the present invention.

Figure 3 is a schematic illustration of a device for laser sculpting a workpiece to form a three-dimensional topographic support element suitable for the manufacture of a film used in absorbent products in accordance with the present invention.

Figure 4 is a schematic illustration of a computer control system for the device of Figure 3.

FIG. 5 is a graphical representation of a file for laser sculpting a workpiece to produce a three-dimensional topographic support element for making a film with holes shown in FIGS. 1a-1d.

Fig. 5a is a graphical representation of the file shown in Fig. 5, which shows an enlarged portion of it.

Fig. 5b is a graphical representation of a file for laser sculpting a workpiece to produce a three-dimensional topographic support element for making a film with holes shown in Figs. 1e-1j.

Fig. 5c is an enlarged portion of a graphical representation of the file shown in Fig. 5b, showing a portion of the file surrounded by a circle 5c in Fig. 5b.

Fig. 5d is an enlarged portion of a graphical representation of the file shown in Fig. 5b, showing a portion of the file surrounded by a circle 5d in Fig. 5b.

Fig. 5e is an enlarged portion of the graphical representation shown in Fig. 5d, showing a portion of the file surrounded by a circle 5e in Fig. 5d.

Fig.6 is a micrograph of the workpiece after sculptural processing using the file of Fig.5.

Fig.6a is a micrograph of the workpiece after sculpting it using the file shown in Fig.5b-5e.

Fig.6b is an enlarged part of the workpiece shown in Fig.6a, while this enlarged part corresponds to the area surrounded by a circle 6b in Fig.6a.

Fig. 7 is a view of a support member used to make a film according to the invention instead of a film forming apparatus.

Fig. 8 is a schematic view of an aperture making apparatus in accordance with the present invention.

Fig.9 is a schematic view of the surrounded part of Fig.8.

10 is an average histogram showing spot intensity for an absorbent article in accordance with the present invention.

11 is a graphical representation of a file for flashing a workpiece using firmware by raster scanning to obtain a three-dimensional topographic support element for making a film with holes.

12 is a sectional view of an absorbent article in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 13a and 13b show three- and four-layer embodiments of a second absorbent layer that can be used in sanitary napkins in accordance with the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed to an absorbent article, such as a sanitary napkin for women, which has improved fluid handling capabilities and at the same time has effective stain masking properties.

12 shows a first embodiment of the present invention, namely a sanitary napkin 800. The sanitary napkin 800 includes a cover layer 842, a first absorption layer 846, a second absorption layer 848 and a barrier layer 850. Each of these layers is described below with further details. .

Covering layer

The cover layer 842 is preferably a film material with holes, and more preferably, the cover layer 842 is a film material with holes of the type as described in more detail below with reference to FIGS. 1a-1j.

Next, Figs. 1a-1d are shown which show a foil 10 with holes in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. The film 10 includes a plurality of repeating frames 12 connected to each other. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1a-1d, each frame 12 includes opposite end zones 12a and 12b and opposite side walls 12c and 12d. The end zones 12a and 12b are each located at a certain distance from each other, and the opposite side walls 12c and 12d are each at a certain distance from each other. In the specific embodiment shown in FIGS. 1a-1d, each of the frames 12 is connected to an adjacent frame 12. More precisely, as shown, each frame 12 has a common side wall 12c, 12d with a frame 12 immediately adjacent to it. Similarly, each frame 12 has a common end zone 12a, 12b with a frame 12 immediately adjacent to it. The foil 10 with holes further includes first and second transverse elements 14a and 14b. As shown, the transverse element 14b extends from the first side wall 12c to the opposite side wall 12d of the frame 12. Similarly, the transverse element 14a extends from the end zone 12a to the opposite end zone 12b. In the embodiment of the invention shown in FIGS. 1a-1e, the transverse elements 14a and 14b are shown intersecting in the center of the frame. In addition, in the embodiment of the invention shown in FIGS. 1a-1e, the transverse elements 14a and 14b are arranged orthogonally relative to each other.

Despite the fact that in the embodiment of the invention shown in FIGS. 1a-1d, the apertured film 10 has two transverse elements 14a and 14b, it is possible that only one transverse element can be used, provided that the transverse element extends across a cross-sectional area bounded by a frame 12. Furthermore, although the frame 12 is shown to be substantially hexagonal in shape, it is possible to use other shapes for the frame 12. Each of the transverse elements 14a and 14b is preferred no a width "a" (see. 1b) in the range from about 4.0 mil to about 24.0 mil (1 mil = 0.001 inch). Each of the transverse members 14a and 14b preferably has a length “b” (see FIG. 1b) in the range of about 30.0 mils to about 150.0 mils. If desired, the film 10 may include a plurality of bulges 11 or the like located on the surface of the film, as best seen in FIG. 1a.

The film 10 further includes a plurality of holes 16. Each hole 16 is bounded by at least a portion of the frame 12 and at least a portion of one of the transverse elements 14a and 14b. Next, Fig. 1b is considered, which is an illustration of a partially exploded perspective view of the film 10 shown in Fig. 1, with the tear being made along line 1B in Fig. 1a. Each hole is bounded by at least a portion of each of the transverse elements 14a and 14b, as well as a portion of the frame 12. More precisely, as best seen in FIG. 1b, each of the holes 16 is bounded by a corresponding inner wall 22, 24 of the corresponding side wall 12c 12d of the frame portion (frame) 12. Each hole 16 is further delimited by a respective inner wall 26 or 28 of the transverse element 14b and a corresponding inner wall 30, 32 of the transverse element 14a. Finally, each hole 16 is bounded by a corresponding inner wall 34, 36 of the corresponding end zone 12a, 12b.

As also shown in FIG. 1b, the film 10 typically includes a first, substantially flat, upper surface 18 in an imaginary plane 23 and an opposite, substantially flat, second lower surface 21 in an imaginary plane 25. The upper surface 38 of the side walls 12c and 12d and the upper surface 40 of the end zones 12a and 12b are coplanar with the plane 23. However, the upper surfaces 42 and 44 of the transverse elements 14a and 14b are recessed with respect to the plane 23. More precisely, the upper surfaces 42 and 44 of the transverse elements 14a and 14b are located in the plane 27, split zhennoy below both planes 23 and 25. Preferably, the upper surfaces 42 and 44 of cross members 14a and 14b are recessed relative to the top surface 18 of the film, i.e. recessed relative to plane 23, to a depth in the range from about 3.0 mils to about 17.0 mils. The upper surfaces 42 and 44 of the transverse elements 14a and 14b are preferably substantially parallel to the imaginary planes 23 and 25.

The inner walls 22, 24 of the side walls 12c and 12d, the inner walls 26, 28 of the transverse element 14a, the inner walls 30, 32 of the transverse element 14b and the inner walls 34, 36 of the end zones 12a, 12b cooperate to limit the holes 16, and each of these internal of the walls extends below the plane 25 so that the lower initial part of each hole 16 is located below the lower flat surface 21 of the film, that is, below the imaginary plane 25. More precisely, the inner walls 22, 24 of the side walls 12c and 12d, the inner walls 26, 28 of the transverse element 14a, inside the side walls 30, 32 of the transverse element 14b and the inner walls 34, 36 of the end zones 12a, 12b extend downward so that the lower initial part of each hole is located in an imaginary plane 29, which is located below the imaginary planes 23, 25 and 27. It should be noted that all imaginary planes 23, 25, 27 and 29 are essentially parallel to each other.

Since the upper surfaces 42, 44 of the transverse elements 14a and 14b are recessed relative to the upper surface 18 of the film 10, that is, recessed relative to the imaginary plane 23, a first relatively large hole is actually formed from the upper surface 18 of the film 10 to the upper surfaces 42, 44 of the transverse elements. The transverse elements 14a and 14b serve to divide this larger hole into four relatively smaller holes that communicate with the larger hole from the upper surfaces 42, 44 of the transverse elements 14a and 14b through the lower initial part of each hole 16. In other words, in each frame element [frame ] 12 a relatively large hole is formed from plane 23 to plane 27, and a plurality of relatively smaller holes that communicate with a larger hole are formed from plane 27 to plane 29. In an embodiment, 1a-1d, each of the smaller holes formed from plane 27 to plane 29 has an area that is less than one quarter of the total area of the larger hole formed from plane 23 to [plane] 27. In an embodiment, in which used one transverse element, each of the smaller holes bounded by the transverse element will have an area that is less than half the total area of the larger hole. Readers are notified that, for simplicity and clarity in the drawings, both “smaller” and “larger” openings discussed above are generally designated 16 here.

Next, Figs. 1e-1j are shown, which show an aperture film 100 in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention. In Figs 1e-1j, the same or similar reference numbers are used as those used in Figs 1a-1d to indicate the same and / or corresponding structure similar to that shown in Figs 1a-1d and described above.

As best seen in FIGS. 1e and 1g, the film 100 includes at least a first part 102 and at least a second part 104. The first part 102 is formed by a plurality of repeating interconnected frames 12 defining the boundaries of the plurality holes 16, similar to those described above. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1e-1j, each frame 12 includes opposite end zones 12a and 12b and opposite side walls 12c and 12d. The aperture film 100 also includes first and second transverse members 14a and 14b. The transverse members 14a and 14b preferably have a width "a" in the range of from about 4.0 mils to about 24.0 mils. Each of the transverse members 14a and 14b preferably has a length "b" in the range of from about 30.0 mils to about 150.0 mils. Preferably, the upper surfaces 42 and 44 of the transverse members 14a and 14b are recessed relative to the upper surface 18 of the film, i.e. recessed relative to the plane 23, to a depth in the range of from about 3.0 mils to about 17.0 mils.

As shown in FIG. 1f, the film 100 typically has a substantially flat upper surface 18 in an imaginary plane 23 and an opposite, substantially flat second lower surface 21 in an imaginary plane 25. End zones 12a and 12b and portions 12 c ′ and 12d 'of the side walls 12c and 12d in the areas in which the transverse element 14b intersects the side wall 12c and 12d are formed so that at least part of the upper surface of the film in these areas is recessed relative to an imaginary plane 23. In a specific embodiment 100 films shown m in FIG. 1f, the end zones 12a and 12b and the portions 12c 'and 12d' of the side walls 12c and 12d in the areas in which the transverse element 14b intersects with the side wall 12c and 12d are substantially w-shaped or sinusoidal, in this case, a pair of depressions 111 and a peak 113 formed between the depressions 111 are formed in cross section. As shown, the upper surface 115 of the film in the region of depressions 111 is located in a plane 35 that is recessed relative to an imaginary plane 23. In particular, the plane 35 is located between the plane 23 and plane 25. Preferably s 111 at their point of most "recessed" with respect to plane 23 have a depth ranging from about 2 to about 5 mils with respect to the plane 23.

Although in a particular embodiment 100, the end zones 12a and 12b and the portions 12c 'and 12d' of the side walls 12c and 12d in the zones in which the transverse element 14b intersects the side wall 12c and 12d are formed so that they have essentially w-shaped cross-section, these zones can be formed with other shapes and configurations, with at least part of the upper surface of the film in those areas in which the transverse elements 14a and 14b intersect the frame 12, recessed relative to the plane 23. By 100 film runs in those areas x, in which the transverse element 14a intersects the end zones 12a and 12b, and in those areas in which the transverse element 14b intersects the side walls 12c and 12d so that at least part of it is recessed relative to the plane 23, the degree of perceived softness of the film. Despite the fact that in the particular embodiment shown in FIG. 1f, the film 100 is formed in the end zones 12a and 12b and in the portions 12c 'and 12d' of the side walls 12c and 12d so that at least part of the surface of the film will be recessed relative to the plane 23, it is possible to create a film so that only one of these zones will be recessed relative to the plane 23. For example, only sections 12c 'and 12d' can be recessed or, alternatively, only the end zones 12a and 12b can be recessed .

As best seen in FIG. 1e, the second hole film portion 104 includes a second plurality of holes 106 that can be visually distinguished from the first plurality of holes 16. The term “visually distinguishable (distinguishable)” as used herein means that each of the second set of holes 106 has a shape and / or size that are sufficiently different from the shape and / or size of each of the holes 16 of the first set of holes 16, so that when viewed with the naked eye, each of the second set of holes 106 can izualno distinguished from each of the first plurality of apertures 16. In one embodiment of the invention shown in Figure 1a-1j, each of the second plurality of apertures 106 has a substantially elliptical shape with a major axis "y" and minor axis "z". The major y axis and the minor z axis preferably each have a length in the range of from about 5 mils to about 150 mils. In one particular embodiment, the major axis has a length of approximately 43 mils, and the minor axis has a length of approximately 16 mils. In one preferred embodiment, the holes from the second plurality of holes 106 are each spaced “n” apart from about 10 mils to about 100 mils when measured from the center of one hole to the center of the hole adjacent horizontally along the horizontal the lines and holes from the second plurality of holes 106 are each located at a distance “o” from the hole 106 adjacent in the vertical direction, and this distance is from approximately flax 10 mils to about 70 mils when measured from the center of one hole to the center of the hole adjacent in a vertical direction along a diagonal connecting the centers of each of the holes. In a particular embodiment, the distance “n” is 40 mils and the distance “o” is 34 mils.

Holes from the second plurality of holes 106 may be arranged in the form of a configuration intended to form a pattern, characters, text, or the like, or combinations thereof. For example, in the embodiment of FIGS. 1e and 1g, the openings from the second plurality of openings 106 are arranged so as to form a butterfly pattern. Despite the fact that in a particular embodiment of the invention shown and described with reference to FIGS. 1e-1j, a butterfly pattern is shown, any other series of patterns is possible.

The film 100 shown in FIGS. 1e-1j is also provided with a boundary element 108 that separates the first plurality of holes 16 from the second plurality of holes 106. Preferably, the boundary element has a shape and size such that it is visually distinguishable when viewed with the naked eye from each of the first plurality of holes 16 and each of the second plurality of holes 106. Preferably, the boundary element 108 has a width of “x” (see FIG. 1e) in the range of about 25 mils to 90 mils. In one preferred embodiment of the invention, the boundary element 108 is made without holes. The surface 109 of the film, which is within the area bounded by the boundary element 108, is preferably recessed relative to the upper, essentially flat surface 18 of the film. In other words, the film surface 109 bounded within the boundary element 108 is recessed with respect to the plane 23. Preferably, the film surface 109 is recessed with respect to the plane 23 from about 2 mils to about 5 mils. The film surface forming the boundary element 108 itself is preferably located in the plane 23.

Preferably, the boundary element 108 interacts with a second plurality of holes 106 to define visually distinguishable borders of a pattern, characters, text, or the like. For example, in the illustrated embodiment of the film 100, the boundary element interacts with a second plurality of holes 106 to form a butterfly pattern.

Although a single butterfly is shown in FIG. 1e for simplicity, a plurality of such elements may be spaced apart from one another on the surface of the film. For example, in one particular embodiment, the film may have a plurality of such butterflies spaced apart from each other on the film material. In addition, drawings of different sizes can be used, for example, in one particular embodiment, many relatively large butterflies and many smaller butterflies are used in the same film.

The hole films of the present invention preferably have a throughput in the range of from about 20% to about 30%. The cross-sectional area can be determined by using image analysis to measure the relative percentages of the areas of the zones representing the holes and the zones not representing the holes, or “pads”. In essence, when analyzing images, an optical image is converted from an optical microscope into an electronic signal suitable for processing. The electron beam scans the image line by line. When scanning each line, the output signal changes in accordance with the illumination. White zones give a relatively high voltage, and black zones give a relatively low voltage. An image of a formed film with holes is obtained, and in this image, the holes are white, while the solid zones of the thermoplastic material have different gray levels.

The denser the solid zone, the darker the gray zone will be obtained. Each line of the image that is being measured is divided into measuring points or pixels. The following equipment can be used to perform the analysis described above: the Quantimet Q520 image analyzer (with v.5.02B software and the Gray Store Option) sold by LEICA / Cambridge Instruments Ltd. in conjunction with the Olympus SZH microscope based on the principle of transmitted light , with a projection lens with a single magnification and an eyepiece with 2.5x magnification. The image can be obtained using the DAGE MTI CCD72 camcorder.

A representative piece of each material to be analyzed is placed on the microscope stage and a clear image is obtained on the screen of the video equipment when setting the microscope zoom to 10-fold. The cross-sectional area is determined from operational measurements of representative zones. The result of calculations using the Quantimet program is the mean value and standard deviation for each sample.

A suitable starting film for making a three-dimensional film with holes in accordance with the present invention is a thin, continuous, continuous film of a thermoplastic polymer material. This film may be vapor permeable or vapor tight; it can be embossed or non-necklace; it may be corona treated from one or both of its main surfaces, or it may be free from such corona treatment; it can be treated with a surfactant after film formation by applying a surfactant in the form of a coating on the film, applying a surfactant to the film by spraying or printing, or the surfactant can be included as a mixture in a thermoplastic polymer material before film formation. The film may contain any thermoplastic polymeric material, including polyolefins, such as high density polyethylene, linear low density polyethylene, low density polyethylene, polypropylene; copolymers of olefins and vinyl monomers, such as copolymers of ethylene and vinyl acetate or vinyl chloride; polyamides; polyesters; polyvinyl alcohol and copolymers of olefins and acrylate monomers, such as copolymers of ethylene and ethyl acrylate and ethylene methacrylate, but thermoplastic polymeric materials are not limited to the above. Films containing mixtures of two or more of these polymeric materials may also be used. The relative elongation (extensibility) in the machine direction (MD) and the transverse direction (CD) of the original film in which the holes should be formed should be at least 100% when determined in accordance with test No. D-882 according to the American Society for Testing Materials standard, run on an Instron test instrument with clamping jaw speeds of 50 inches per minute (127 cm per minute). The thickness of the starting film is preferably uniform and can range from about 0.5 to about 5 mils or from about 0.0005 inches (0.0013 cm) to about 0.005 inches (0.076 cm). Co-extruded films can be used, as well as films that have been modified, for example, by treatment with a surfactant. The starting film can be made by any known method, such as casting, extrusion or blown extrusion.

The method of forming holes in the films in accordance with the present invention includes placing the film on the surface of the support element with a relief. The film is exposed to a large differential pressure of the fluid when the film is on the support member. The differential pressure of the fluid, which may be liquid or gaseous, causes the film to take on the surface topography of the supporting element with the topography. If the support element with the relief has openings made therein, portions of the film located above the openings can be destroyed by the differential pressure of the fluid to create a film with openings. The method of forming a film with holes is described in detail in US patent 5827597, issued in the name of James and others, included in the present application by reference.

Such a three-dimensional film with holes is preferably formed by placing a thermoplastic film from edge to edge of the surface of the support element with holes and with a relief corresponding to a given final shape of the film. The flow of hot air is directed to the film to increase its temperature in order to cause its softening. After that, the film is subjected to rarefaction in order to ensure its conformity to the surface shape of the support element. The film portions located above the holes in the support member are further stretched until they collapse to create holes in the film.

A suitable support element with holes designed to receive data of three-dimensional films with holes is a three-dimensional topographic support element made by laser sculpting of the workpiece. A schematic illustration of an exemplary workpiece that has been laser sculpted to be converted into a three-dimensional topographic support element is shown in FIG. 2.

The workpiece 102 includes a thin-walled tubular cylinder 110. The workpiece 102 has untreated surface portions 111 and a laser sculpted center portion 112. The preferred blank for producing the support member of the present invention is a thin-walled seamless acetal tube in which all residual internal voltage. The workpiece (workpiece) has a wall thickness of 1 to 8 mm, more preferably 2.5 to 6.5 mm. Exemplary workpieces intended for use in forming support members have a diameter of one to six feet and have a length in the range of two to sixteen feet. However, these dimensions are a matter of design choice. For the workpiece, other forms and compositions of materials can be used, such as acrylic resins, urethanes, polyesters, high molecular weight polyethylene and other polymers that can be treated with a laser beam.

Figure 3 shows a schematic illustration of a device for laser sculptural processing of the support element. The initial tubular billet 102 is mounted on a corresponding mandrel or core 121, which ensures the preservation of the cylindrical shape of the workpiece and the possibility of rotation around its longitudinal axis in bearings 122. A rotational motion drive 123 is provided for rotating the mandrel 121 at a variable speed. The rotation control pulse generator 124 is connected to the mandrel 121 and monitors the rotation of the mandrel 121 so that its exact radial position is always known.

One or more guides 125 are parallel to the mandrel 121 and mounted outside the [rotation zone] of the mandrel 121, while these guides 125 allow the carriage 126 to move along the entire length of the mandrel 121 while maintaining a constant clearance relative to the upper surface 103 of the workpiece 102. Drive 133 the carriage allows the carriage to move along the rails 125, while the carriage control pulse generator 134 tracks the lateral position of the carriage relative to the machining my part 102. The table 127 for focusing mounted on the carriage. The focus table 127 is mounted in the focus guides 128. The focusing table 127 allows movement orthogonal to the movement of the carriage 126, and provides a means of focusing the lens 129 relative to the upper surface 103. A focus drive 132 is provided to position the focusing table 127 to focus and provide focus to the lens 129.

A lens 129 is attached to the focus table 127, which is fixed in the nozzle 130. The nozzle 130 has means 131 for injecting pressurized gas into the nozzle 130 to cool and keep the lens 129. The preferred nozzle 130 for this purpose is described in US Pat. No. 5,756,962. the name of James et al., which is incorporated herein by reference.

A mirror 135 is also mounted on the carriage 126 for a finite deflection, which directs the laser beam 136 into the focusing lens 129. The laser 137 is remotely positioned, with a possible mirror 138 for deflecting the beam, intended to direct the beam to the mirror 135 for the final deflection of the beam. Although it is possible to mount the laser 137 directly on the carriage 126 and eliminate the mirrors for deflecting the beam, spatial restrictions and the connection of the laser to the public power system make remote installation much more preferable.

When power is applied to the laser 137, the emitted beam 136 is reflected by the first mirror 138 to deflect the beam, then by the mirror 135 for the final deflection of the beam, which directs it to the lens 129. The path of the laser beam 136 has such a configuration that if the lens 129 was removed, the beam passed would be through the longitudinal centerline of the mandrel 121. If the lens 129 is in a predetermined position, the beam can be focused above, under the upper surface 103, near the upper surface 103 or near the upper surface 103.

Although this device can be used with many different lasers, the preferred laser is a high-speed carbon dioxide laser capable of delivering a beam with a nominal power of up to 2500 watts. However, slow-flow carbon dioxide lasers with a rated power of 50 watts can also be used.

Figure 4 is a schematic illustration of the control system of the device for laser sculpting in Figure 3. During operation of the laser sculpting device, control variables of focal length, rotational speed, and travel speed are transmitted from the host computer 142 by connecting 144 to the computer 140 to control the drives. The drive control computer 140 controls the focal length [focal point position?] Via the focus table drive 132. A drive control computer 140 controls the rotational speed of the workpiece 102 by means of a rotary motion drive 123 and a rotation control pulse generator 124. The drive control computer 140 controls the speed of the carriage 126 by the carriage drive 133 and the carriage control pulse generator 134. The drive control computer 140 also informs the host computer 142 of the status of the drives and possible errors. This system provides reliable positional control (position control) and actually provides for the separation of the surface of the workpiece 102 into small sections called pixels, each pixel consisting of a fixed number of control pulses of the rotary drive and a fixed number of control pulses of the drive. The host computer 142 also controls the laser 137 through a connection 143.

Laser sculpted three-dimensional topographic support element can be made in several ways. One method of manufacturing such a support element is a method comprising a combination of laser firmware and laser milling of the surface of the workpiece.

Laser firmware methods for the workpiece include shock firmware, firmware with on-the-fly activation (fire-on-the-fly), and raster scan firmware.

The preferred method is raster scan firmware. With this approach, the pattern is reduced to a rectangular repeating element 141, an example of which is shown in Fig. 11. This repeating element contains all the information necessary to obtain a given relief. When using [this repeating element] like an element of a mosaic image and placed both end-to-end and side by side, the result is a given relief of a larger size.

The repeating element 141 is further divided into a plurality of smaller rectangular elements or “pixels” 142 forming a grid. Although they are generally square, it may be more convenient to use pixels with different sizes for some purposes. The pixels themselves are dimensionless, and the actual image dimensions are set during processing, that is, the width of 145 pixels and the length of 146 pixels are set only during the actual firmware operation. During the firmware, the pixel length is set in accordance with the size that corresponds to the selected number of pulses from the carriage control pulse generator 134. Similarly, the pixel width is set in accordance with a size that corresponds to the number of pulses from the rotational motion control pulse generator 124. Thus, for ease of explanation, the pixels in Fig. 5a are shown as square, but the pixels need not be square, but they must be rectangular.

Each column of pixels represents one pass of the workpiece past the focal point of the laser. This column is repeated as many times as necessary to fully cover the workpiece 102. A white pixel means a command to turn off the laser, and every black pixel means a command to turn on the laser. This results in a simple binary (binary) file of ones and zeros, where 1, or white, means the command for the laser to turn off, and 0, or black, means the command for the laser to turn on.

Referring again to FIG. 4, it should be noted that the contents of the file for engraving are transmitted in binary form, where 1 is a shutdown and 0 is a turn on, by the host computer 142 to the laser 137 through connection 143. By changing the time period between commands, the duration of the command adjust so that it matches the size of the pixel. After the completion of each column of the file, this column is again processed or repeated until the [processing] of the entire peripheral periphery is completed. As long as the column commands are executed, the drive moves slightly. The movement speed is set such that when engraving in the circumferential direction is completed, the movement drive moves the focusing lens to the width of the column of pixels, and the next column of pixels is processed. This continues until the end of the file is reached, and the file is repeated in the direction of the axial size again until the full specified width is reached.

With this approach, at each pass, a certain number of narrow cuts are formed in the material, and not a large hole. Since these cuts are precisely aligned to “line up” nearby and provide some overlap, the combined result is a hole.

A highly preferred method for producing laser sculpted three-dimensional topographic support elements is a method using modulation of laser radiation. Laser radiation is modulated by gradually changing the power of the laser radiation from pixel to pixel. When modulating laser radiation, simple commands to turn on or off during firmware with raster scanning are replaced by commands that provide control, based on a sequential scale, of the laser radiation power for each individual pixel of the laser radiation modulation file. Thus, a three-dimensional structure can be given to the workpiece in one pass along the workpiece.

Modulation of laser radiation has several advantages compared to other methods for producing a three-dimensional topographic support element. Modulation of laser radiation allows you to get a seamless, seamless support element without inconsistencies in the relief caused by the presence of a seam. When modulating laser radiation, the processing of the support element is completed in one operation instead of numerous operations, resulting in increased efficiency and reduced costs. Modulation of laser radiation eliminates the problems associated with the exact alignment of reliefs, which can be a problem in multi-stage sequential operation. Modulation of laser radiation also allows you to create topographic elements (features) with complex geometry at a considerable distance. By changing the commands given to the laser, it is possible to precisely control the height (depth) and shape of the element, and elements can be formed that continuously change in cross section. In addition, with laser sculpting, it is possible to maintain regular positions of the holes relative to each other.

Referring again to FIG. 4, it should be noted that during the modulation of the laser radiation, the host computer 142 can transmit commands to the laser 137 in a format other than the simple “on” or “off” format. For example, a simple binary file can be replaced with an 8-bit (byte) format, which makes it possible to change the radiation power emitted by the laser at 256 possible levels. When using the byte format, the command “11111111” means the command to turn off the laser, “00000000” means the command to the laser to emit at full power, and such a command as “10000000” means the command to the laser to emit radiation with a power that is half of the total useful laser power radiation.

A file for modulating laser radiation can be created in a variety of ways. One such way is to create a file graphically by using a gray scale for a computer image with 256 brightness levels. In such a grayscale image, black can mean full power, and white can mean no power, and varying gray levels between them mean intermediate power levels. A number of computer graphics programs can be used to visualize or create such a file for laser sculpting. When using such a file, the power emitted by the laser is modulated on a pixel-by-pixel basis and, therefore, can provide direct sculptural processing of a three-dimensional topographic reference element. Although an 8-bit byte format is described here, other levels can be used instead, such as 4-bit, 16-bit, 24-bit, or other formats.

A suitable laser for use in a laser modulation system for laser sculpting is a fast flow carbon dioxide laser with an output power of 2500 W, although a laser with a lower output power can be used. It is imperative that the laser has the ability to switch power levels as quickly as possible. A preferred switching frequency is at least 10 kHz, and even more preferred is a frequency of 20 kHz. A high power switching frequency is necessary to enable processing of as many pixels per second as possible.

FIG. 5 is a graphical representation of a file for modulating laser radiation, including a repeating element 141a, which can be used to form a support element for manufacturing the aperture film shown in FIGS. 1a-1e. Fig. 5a is an enlarged portion of a laser modulation file shown in Fig. 5.

Fig. 5b is a graphical representation of a file for modulating laser radiation, including a repeating element 141b, which can be used to form a support element for manufacturing the aperture film shown in Figs. 1e-1j. Fig. 5c is an enlarged part of the file for modulating the laser radiation shown in Fig. 5b, which corresponds to the part of the file surrounded by the circle "5c" in Fig. 5b. Fig. 5d is an enlarged portion of the file for modulating the laser radiation shown in Fig. 5b, which corresponds to a portion of the file surrounded by a circle "5d" in Fig. 5b. Fig. 5e is an enlarged part of the file for modulating the laser radiation shown in Fig. 5b, which corresponds to the part of the file surrounded by the circle "5e" in Fig. 5d.

In FIGS. 5-5e, black zones (sections) 154a mean pixels at which the laser is given a command to emit radiation at full power, as a result of which a hole is created in the support element, which corresponds to holes 16 in the three-dimensional film 10 with holes, illustrated in FIG. 1a-1d. Light gray zones 155 mean pixels at which the laser receives commands for radiation with a very low power level, as a result of which the surface of the support element remains essentially untouched. The zone data of the support element correspond to the protrusions 11 shown in Fig. 1a. The remaining zones depicted in FIGS. 5-5e, which are shown with different gray levels, mean the corresponding laser power levels and correspond to the various elements (features) of the films 10 and 100 shown in FIGS. 1a-1d and FIGS. 1e-1j, respectively . For example, zones 157 and 159 correspond to the transverse elements 14a and 14b of the film 10 and the film 100.

Fig.6 is a micrograph of part 161 of the support element after engraving it by using the file shown in Fig.5. The relief (pattern) on the part of the support element shown in FIG. 6 is repeated on the surface of the support element to thereby obtain a repeating relief of the film 10 shown in FIGS. 1a-1d.

Fig. 6a is a photomicrograph of part 162 of the support element after engraving it by using the file shown in Fig. 5. The relief (pattern) on the part of the support element shown in Fig. 6a is repeated on the surface of the support element to thereby obtain a film having a repeating butterfly pattern of the type shown in Figs. 1e-1j. FIG. 6b is an enlarged portion of the support member shown in FIG. 6a, which corresponds to a portion of the support member in FIG. 6a surrounded by a circle “6” b. After completion of the laser sculptural processing of the workpiece, it can be mounted in the structure shown in Fig.7, for use as a supporting element. Two end caps 235 are inserted into the interior of the machined part 236 with a laser sculpted area 237. These end caps may be inserted in a hot seat, press fit, attached by mechanical means, such as clamps 238 and screws 239, such as shown, or other mechanical means. End caps are a means of ensuring that the machined part is kept round, the finished assembly is set in motion, and the finished structure is secured in the hole forming device.

A preferred apparatus for manufacturing such three-dimensional films with holes is shown schematically in FIG. As shown here, the support member is a rotatable drum 753. In this particular device, the drum rotates counterclockwise. Outside of the drum 753, a hot air nozzle 759 is arranged to create a curtain of hot air intended to directly impact a film resting on a laser-sculpted support element. Means are provided for venting the hot air nozzle 759 to avoid overheating the film when it is stopped or moving at low speed. The blower 757 and the heater 758 cooperate to supply hot air to the nozzle 759. Directly opposite the nozzle 759, a vacuum head 760 is located inside the drum 753. The vacuum head 760 is arranged to adjust its position in the radial direction and is located so that it contacts the inner surface of the drum 753 A vacuum source 761 is provided for continuously creating a vacuum in the vacuum head 760.

A cooling zone 762 is provided in the interior of the drum 753 and is in contact with the inner surface of the drum 753. A cooling zone 762 is provided with a vacuum source 763 for cooling. In the cooling zone 762, a rarefaction source 763 for cooling draws in ambient air through the openings formed in the film to fix the relief created in the openings. The rarefaction source 763 is also a means for holding the film in place in the cooling zone 762 in the drum 753, and is a means for isolating the film from the effects caused by the tension created by winding the film after forming holes in it.

A laser continuous sculpting support element 753 has a thin continuous continuous film 751 of a thermoplastic polymer material.

An enlarged image of the surrounded area of FIG. 8 is shown in FIG. 9. As shown in this embodiment, the vacuum head 760 has two vacuum slit openings 764 and 765 extending over the entire width of the film. However, for some purposes, it may be preferable to use separate vacuum sources for each vacuum slit hole. As shown in FIG. 9, the vacuum slit hole 764 creates a retention zone of the original film as it approaches the air knife 758. The vacuum slit hole 764 is connected to the vacuum source through a channel 766. This ensures that the incoming film 751 is securely fastened to the drum 753 and provides insulation from the effects caused by the tension of the incoming film and due to the unwinding of the film. This also ensures the straightening of the film 751 on the outer surface of the drum 753. The second vacuum slit hole 765 limits the area of the formation of holes under the action of vacuum. Directly between the slotted openings 764 and 765 is an intermediate support bar 768. The vacuum head 760 is located so that the place of action of the curtain of hot air 767 is directly above the intermediate support bar 768. Hot air is supplied at a sufficient temperature, at a sufficient angle of entry relative to the film and at a sufficient distance from the film to cause softening of the film and giving it deformability under the action of the force applied to it. The geometry of the device ensures that the film 751, being softened by a curtain 767 of hot air, will be isolated from the effects of tension by means of a retaining slit hole 764 and a cooling zone 762 (Fig. 8). The hole formation zone 765 due to rarefaction is located directly next to the curtain of hot air 767, which minimizes the time during which the film will be hot and prevents excessive heat transfer to the support member 753.

As shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, a thin flexible film 751 is fed from the feed roll 750 above the guide roller 752. The roller 752 can be attached to a load cell or other mechanism to adjust the tension when applying the incoming film 751. After that, the film 751 is inserted into a tight contact with the support member 753. Then, the film and the support member are moved to the rarefaction zone 764. In the rarefaction zone 764, the pressure differential further ensures that the film enters into tight contact with the support element 753. In this case, the vacuum pressure provides the "isolation" of the film from tension during feeding. After that, the combination of film and support element passes under a curtain 767 of hot air. The curtain of hot air provides heating of the combination of the film and the supporting element, thereby causing softening of the film.

Then, the combination of the film softened by heat and the support element passes into the rarefaction zone 765, where the heated film is deformed by the differential pressure and acquires the topography of the support element. The sections of the heated film that are located above the through sections (hole zones) in the support element are further deformed into the hole zones of the support element. If the heating and deforming force are sufficient, the film over the zones of the holes of the support element is destroyed with the formation of holes.

The combination of the still hot film with holes and the support member then moves to the cooling zone 762. In the cooling zone, a sufficient amount of ambient air is drawn in through the film, in which there are already openings, for cooling both the film and the support element.

Thereafter, the cooled film is removed from the support member around the guide roller 754. The guide roller 754 may be attached to a load cell or other mechanism for adjusting tension during winding. The film with the holes then enters the roll 756 of the finished material, where it is wound.

Absorption system - the first absorption layer

U.S. Pat. 6515195 describes an absorption system that can be used in an absorption product according to the invention, the subject of which is hereby incorporated into this application by reference.

The first absorbent layer 846, which forms part of the absorbent system 848, is located adjacent to the cover layer 842 on its inner side and is attached to the cover layer 842. The first absorbent layer 846 is a means for receiving and retaining the fluid released by the body from the cover layer 842 until the second absorption layer below it can absorb the fluid and therefore functions as a transporting or receiving fluid layer.

The first absorbent layer 846 is preferably denser and has a larger proportion of smaller pores compared to the cover layer 842. These features allow the first absorbent layer 846 to retain the fluid released by the body and keep it from the outside of the cover layer 842, thereby preventing re-entry wetting the coating layer 842 and its surface with a fluid. However, the first absorption layer 846 is preferably not so dense as to prevent the passage of fluid through the layer 846 into the second absorption layer 848 below it.

The first absorbent layer 846 may consist of fibrous materials such as wood pulp, polyester, hydrated cellulose fiber, flexible foam or the like, or combinations thereof. The first absorbent layer 846 may also contain thermoplastic fibers in order to stabilize the layer and maintain its structural integrity. The first absorbent layer 846 can be treated with a surfactant on one or both sides to increase its wettability, although, as a rule, the first absorbent layer 846 is relatively hydrophilic and may not need to be processed. The first absorbent layer 846 is preferably attached or glued on both sides to adjacent layers, i.e., to the cover layer 842 and to the second absorbent layer 848 located below it.

Materials especially suitable for use in the first absorbent layer 846, which, as the inventors have established, help to reduce the possibility (potential) of re-wetting, have a density in the range from about 0.04 to 0.05 g / cm ³ , the main weight in the range from about 80 to 110 g / m ² , a thickness in the range of from about 2 to 3 mm, and in particular, a thickness of 2.6 mm. Examples of materials suitable for the first absorbent layer include cellulose bonded with air passing through, sold by Buckeye, Memphis, Tenn., Under the designation VIZORB 3008, which has a base weight of 110 g / m ² , VIZORB 3010, which has a base a weight of 90 g / m ² ; and a VIZORB 3003, which has a main weight of 100 g / m ² .

Absorption system - second absorption layer

The second absorbent layer 848 is located immediately adjacent to the first absorbent layer 846 and is attached to the first absorbent layer 846. In one embodiment, the second absorbent layer 848 is a mixture of cellulosic fibers and superabsorbent located in the fibers and between the fibers of the cellulose. In a specific example, the second absorbent layer 848 is a material containing from about 40 wt.% To about 95 wt.% Cellulosic fibers and from about 5 wt.% To about 60 wt.% Polymers with ultra high absorption capacity (SAP). The material has a water content of less than about 10 wt.%. In the sense used here, the expression "weight percent" (weight percent) means the ratio of the mass of the substance to the mass of the finished material. As an example, it is possible that 10 wt.% Of the polymer with ultra-high absorption capacity means 10 g / m ^{2 of} polymer with ultra-high absorption capacity in a material with a base weight of 100 g / m ² .

Cellulosic fibers that can be used in the second absorbent layer 848 are well known in the art and include wood pulp, cotton pulp, flax fiber and peat moss. Wood pulp is preferred. Cellulose can be obtained from wood pulp or chemical-mechanical pulp, sulphite pulp, kraft pulp, waste sorting cellulosic materials, cellulose with organic solvents, etc. Suitable wood is both coniferous and hardwood. Softwood pulp is preferred. There is no need to treat cellulosic fibers with chemical disintegrants, crosslinking agents or the like for use in the material of the present invention.

The second absorption layer 848 may contain any polymer with an ultra-high absorption capacity (SAP), while these polymers with an ultra-high absorption capacity are well known in the art. For the purposes of the present invention, the term “ultra-high absorbency polymer” (or “SAP”) refers to materials that are capable of absorbing and retaining body fluids in an amount of at least about 10 times their mass, at a pressure of 0, 5 pounds per 1 sq. Km. inch. The ultra-absorbent polymer particles of the invention may be inorganic or organic crosslinked hydrophilic polymers such as polyvinyl alcohols, polyethylene oxides, crosslinked starches, guar gum, xanthan gum and the like. Particles may be in the form of powder, grains, granules or fibers. Ultra-absorbent polymer particles preferred for use in the present invention are crosslinked polyacrylates, such as the product sold by Sumitomo Seika Chemicals Co., Ltd., Osaka, Japan under the designation SA60N Type II *, and the product offered by the company Chemical International, Inc., Palatine, Illinois, under the designation 2100A *.

In a specific example, the second absorbent layer 848 is a material containing from about 40 to about 95 wt.% Cellulosic fibers and more specifically from about 60 to about 80 wt.% Of cellulosic fibers. Such a material may contain from about 5 to about 60 wt.% Ultra-absorbent polymer, preferably from about 20 to about 55 wt.% Ultra-absorbent polymer, even more preferably from about 30 to about 45 wt.% Polymer with ultra-high absorption capacity and most preferably about 40 wt.% polymer with ultra-high absorption capacity.

In a preferred embodiment, the second absorbent layer 848 is made by using pneumatic laying means. The second absorption layer 848 of the present invention has a high density and in a specific example has a density in excess of about 0.25 g / cm ³ . In particular, the second absorption layer 848 may have a density in the range from about 0.30 g / cm ³ to about 0.50 g / cm ³ . More specifically, the density is from about 0.30 g / cm ³ to about 0.45 g / cm ³ and even more precisely from about 0.30 g / cm ³ to about 0.40 g / cm ³ .

Absorbing materials obtained by pneumatic stacking are typically made with low density. In order to achieve higher density levels, such as in the examples of the second absorbent layer 848 above, the pneumo-laid material is compacted using calendars. Compaction is performed using means well known in the art. Typically, this compaction is performed at a temperature of approximately 100 ° C. and under a load of approximately 130 Newtons per mm. The upper sealing shaft is typically made of steel, while the lower sealing shaft is a flexible shaft having a hardness of approximately 85 Shore D units. Preferably, both the upper and lower sealing shafts are smooth, although the upper shaft may be engraved.

A second absorbent layer 848 can be prepared with a wide range of surface density values. The second absorption layer 848 may have a base weight in the range of from about 100 g / m ² to about 700 g / m ² . In a specific example, the main weight is in the range from about 150 g / m ² to about 400 g / m ² .

Preferably, the base weight is in the range of from about 200 g / m ² to about 350 g / m ² and, more preferably, to about 300 g / m ² . The second absorption layer 848 operates synergistically with the first absorption layer to reduce the rewet potential. The first absorbent layer, having a relatively open-porous structure, easily absorbs and distributes the liquid in the lateral direction within its volume and provides quick movement of the liquid to the receiving surface of the second absorbing layer. In turn, the second absorbent layer having good capillarity provides an effective retraction of liquid into its volume from the first absorbent layer. After the absorption of liquid by a polymer with ultra-high absorption capacity occurs, the liquid cannot subsequently be released due to the application of pressure. Therefore, the liquid absorbed in the material with ultra-high absorption capacity, becomes constantly "trapped". At the same time, the force with which the second absorbent layer draws fluid from the first absorbent layer helps to reduce the proportion of fluid held in the first absorbent layer, thereby reducing the amount of fluid that returns to the coating layer when the pad is subjected to mechanical stress. In addition, the first absorption layer has a relatively high capillarity, so that any concentration of liquid in the first absorption layer resulting from mechanical loading can be redistributed in the material to obtain lower concentrations, which also allows to reduce the amount of liquid that can return to the coating layer .

In a specific embodiment, the second absorption layer contains from about 30 to 40 wt.% Material with an ultra-high absorption capacity, has a base weight in the range of from about 200 to 400 g / m ² and a density in the range of from about 0.2 to 0.45 g / cm ³ .

As shown in FIGS. 13a and 13b, the second absorbent layer 848 may be formed as three or four layers or thin layers. These layers include a lower layer, one or two middle layers and an upper layer. The following are specific examples of three- and four-layer material. A super absorbent polymer may be included in any of these layers or in all layers. The concentration (in weight percent) of the polymer with ultra-high absorption capacity in each layer can vary, as well as the type of specific polymer with ultra-high absorption capacity.

An interesting property of the second absorption layer 848 is its ability to retain a polymer with ultra-high absorption capacity when subjected to mechanical stress. The second absorption layer 848 retains over 85% by weight of the polymer with ultra-high absorption capacity contained therein when exposed to strong shaking for 10 minutes. In particular, the material according to this invention holds over 90%, more precisely over 95% and even more precisely over 99% of the polymer contained in it with ultra-high absorption capacity under given mechanical loads. The fraction of ultra-high absorption polymer retained was determined by shaking the material in a Ro-Tap Sieve Shaker manufactured by W.S. Tyler Co., Cleveland, Ohio. More precisely, the sample is placed on a sieve number 28 (Tyler series). Additional sieves with numbers 35 and 150 were attached to the first sieve with the formation of a column of sieves with increasingly smaller cells. The column of sieves was covered with lids at both ends to prevent the loss of fiber and / or polymer with ultra-high absorption capacity. A column of sieves was installed in a shaker and shaken for 10 minutes. The number of polymer granules with ultra-high absorption capacity that precipitated upon shaking from the sample, that is, the amount of “free polymer with ultra-high absorption capacity” was determined by combining the “precipitate” contained in each of the sieves and separating the cellulose fiber from the polymer with ultra-high absorption capacity.

Even in the case where the second absorbent layer is formed of several layers, the final thickness of the formed second absorbent layer 848 will be small. The thickness may vary from about 0.5 mm to about 2.5 mm. In a specific example, the thickness is from about 1.0 mm to about 2.0 mm, and even more precisely from about 1.25 mm to about 1.75 mm.

One embodiment of a second absorbent layer 848, particularly well suited for use in a sanitary towel 800, is shown in FIG. 13. Such a second absorbent layer 848 has a base weight of from about 200 g / m ² to about 350 g / m ² and a density of from about 0.3 g / cm ³ to 0.5 g / cm ³ . In a specific example, the density is from about 0.3 g / cm ³ to about 0.45 g / cm ³ and more specifically about 0.4 g / cm ³ .

The second absorbent layer 848, shown in FIG. 13, is formed by pneumatic packing in the form of three layers: the bottom layer of cellulose (without superabsorbent) with a base weight of approximately 25 g / m ² ; a middle layer that has a base weight of about 150 g / m ² and which contains from about 10 to about 30 g / m ² superabsorbent and from about 120 g / m ² to about 140 g / m ² cellulose; and a cellulose top layer (without superabsorbent) with a base weight of approximately 25 g / m ² . In relation to the total surface density of the second absorbent layer 848, the level of superabsorbent content ranges from about 5 to about 15 wt.% (G / m ² superabsorbent per 1 g / m ^{2 of} material). In a specific example, the level of superabsorbent content is from about 7.5 wt.% To about 12.5 wt.% By weight of the material. More specifically, the material contains approximately 10 wt.% Superabsorbent. Thus, the middle layer of material may contain from about 15 g / m ² to about 25 g / m ² superabsorbent and from about 125 g / m ² to about 135 g / m ² cellulose and more specifically about 20 g / m ² superabsorbent and approximately 130 g / m ² cellulose. The middle layer containing cellulose and superabsorbent can be stacked as a homogeneous mixture or as a heterogeneous mixture in which the level of superabsorbent content changes as it approaches the lower layer.

In another embodiment, the second absorbent layer 848 is formed by pneumatic stacking in the form of four layers. In this embodiment, the middle layer mentioned above is replaced by two middle layers, namely the first middle layer located next to the upper layer and the second middle layer located next to the lower layer. Each of the first and second middle layers independently contains from about 10 to about 30 g / m ² superabsorbent and from about 40 g / m ² to about 65 g / m ² cellulose. When it is desired to keep the absorbed fluid away from the cover layer 842, the amount of superabsorbent in the first and second middle layers is controlled so that there is a higher level of superabsorbent in the second middle layer. The superabsorbent in the first and second middle layers may be the same superabsorbent or different superabsorbents.

In one embodiment, the cellulosic fiber for use in the second absorbent layer 848 is wood pulp. There are certain properties of wood pulp that make it particularly suitable for use. Cellulose in most wood pulps has a crystalline form known as Cellulose I, which can be converted to a form known as Cellulose II. In the second absorbent layer 848, wood pulp can be used with a substantial portion of the pulp in the form of Cellulose II. Similarly, cellulose having an increased fiber crimp ratio is preferred. Finally, cellulose having lower hemicellulose levels is preferred. Means for treating cellulose in order to optimize these properties are well known in the art. An example is the treatment of wood pulp with liquid ammonia, which is known as converting cellulose into a structure of the type Cellulose II and increasing the crimp index of the fiber. Thermal drying is known to increase the crimp index of cellulose fiber. Cold alkaline treatment of cellulose leads to a decrease in the content of hemicellulose, an increase in the crimp of the fiber, and the conversion of cellulose to the form of Cellulose II. Thus, it may be preferable that the cellulosic fibers used to produce the material of this invention contain at least a portion of the cold alkaline treated cellulose.

A description of the cold alkaline extraction process can be found in the pending US patent application serial number 08/370 571, filed January 18, 1995, while this application is an application partially extending the patent application US serial number 08/184 377 , the consideration of which is currently terminated and which was filed January 21, 1994. The descriptions of both of these applications are fully incorporated into this description by reference.

In a few words, alkaline treatment is typically performed at a temperature of less than about 60 ° C, but preferably at a temperature of less than 50 ° C and more preferably at a temperature of from about 10 ° C to 40 ° C. A preferred alkali metal salt solution is a freshly prepared sodium hydroxide solution or a solution which is a by-product of a pulp mill or paper mill, for example semi-alkaline white liquor, oxidized white liquor and the like. Other alkali metal salts such as ammonium hydroxide and potassium hydroxide and the like can be used. However, in terms of cost, the preferred salt is sodium hydroxide. The concentration of alkali metal salts, as a rule, is in the range from about 2 to about 25 wt.% (By weight) of the solution and preferably from about 6 to about 18 wt.%. Cellulose intended for high speed, fast absorption applications is preferably treated with alkali metal salts in concentrations from about 10 to about 18% by weight.

For further details regarding the structure and method of creating the second absorbent layer 848, the reader is invited to refer to US Pat. 5866242, issued February 2, 1999 to Tan et al. The contents of this document are hereby incorporated by reference.

Barrier layer

Under the absorbent system 848, a barrier layer 850 is disposed containing a liquid-impermeable material so as to prevent the liquid that is trapped in the absorbent system 848 from escaping from the sanitary napkin and stain the wearer's underwear. The barrier layer is preferably made of a polymer film, although it may be made of a liquid-impermeable breathable material, such as treated with a water-repellent, non-woven materials or microporous films or foam materials.

A cover layer 842 and a barrier layer 850 are connected along their edge portions so as to form a “barrier” or flange seal that holds the absorption system 848 attached. The connection may be formed by adhesives, thermal bonding, ultrasonic welding, high frequency current welding, mechanical crimping and the like, and combinations of these means.

Method for measuring the thickness of a hygiene product

As previously indicated, the sanitary napkin 800 has a thickness of about 5 mm or less. The device needed to measure the thickness of the sanitary napkin is a dial gauge (thickness gauge) with a foot and stand supplied by Ames, with a 2-inch foot under gauge pressure of 0.07 pounds per square meter. inch, and with a reading of the accuracy of 0.001 inches. Preferably, a digital type device. If the sanitary napkin sample is separately folded and wrapped, the sample is deployed and carefully leveled by hand. The removable paper is separated from the sample, and it is carefully re-positioned in a predetermined position from the edge to the edge of the lines of positioning adhesive so as not to squeeze the sample, ensuring that the removable paper lies flat on the sample. Wings (if any) are not taken into account when taking readings when measuring thickness in the center of the sample.

The thickness gauge tab is raised, and the sample is placed on a support so that the thickness gauge tab is approximately in the center of the specimen (or at a location of interest on the specimen of interest). When lowering the presser foot, care must be taken to prevent the presser foot from dropping sharply onto the sample or applying excessive force. A load corresponding to an overpressure of 0.07 psi per 1 sq. inch, applied to the sample and provide the ability to stabilize the readings for about 5 seconds. After that, the reading relating to the thickness is taken. The thickness of the release paper covering the positioning adhesive is subtracted from the total thickness.

Test Kits Design

Test kits # 1 and # 5 of the invention were designed to illustrate the improved properties of the hole films in accordance with the present invention. Comparison kits # 2, # 3, and # 4 were also created. Each of the test kits # 1- # 5 included a cover layer, a transport layer, an absorbent core, and a barrier layer. The transporting layer, the absorbent core and the barrier layer used in test kits # 1- # 5 were as follows:

(a) transporting layer — Visorb 3003 pneumatic-laid material with a base weight of 100 g / cm ² industrially manufactured and marketed by Buckeye Technologies Inc., Memphis, Tennessee;

(b) Absorbent core — A Novathin product with a gross weight of 208 g / m ² manufactured and marketed by Rayonier Inc., Jessup, Georgia, with product code 080525; and

(c) a barrier layer of a conventional polyethylene whole film.

The various layers of the test kits were glued to each other in the usual manner using conventional and industrially manufactured structural adhesives.

Each of the coating materials in test kits # 1- # 3 and # 5 described below was formed from a commercially available and commercially available film backing with product code DPD81715 supplied by Tredegar Corporation, São Paulo, Brazil.

Test kit # 1 was formed by first creating an apertured film in accordance with the invention similar to that shown in FIGS. 1a-1d and described above (hereinafter referred to as film # 1). Film # 1 was created such that the upper surfaces of the transverse elements 14a and 14b were recessed relative to the upper surface of the film by 15 mils and the width “a” of each of the transverse elements 14a and 14b was 10 mils. The length of each transverse element 14a was 100 mils and the length of each transverse element 14b was 60 mils. When measuring film # 1, it was found that it has an average throughput [share] of the cross-sectional area of 26%. To complete the formation of test kit # 1, film # 1 was applied over the transport layer described above, thereby forming a test kit including, from top to bottom, a cover member, a transport layer, a core and a barrier layer.

Test kit # 2 was formed by first creating a hole film (hereinafter referred to as film # 2), which was identical to film # 1 in all respects except that the transverse elements 14a and 14b were arranged so that they were coplanar to the upper surface of the film, that is, the transverse elements were not recessed relative to the upper surface of the film. It was determined that film # 2 had an average cross-sectional area (fraction) of 26%. To complete the formation of test kit # 2, film # 2 was applied over the transport layer described above to thereby form a test kit including, from top to bottom, a cover member, a transport layer, a core and a barrier layer.

Test kit # 3 was formed by first creating a hole film (hereinafter referred to as film # 3), which was identical to film # 1 in all respects except that the transverse elements 14a and 14b were completely excluded, i.e. the film included many hexagonal holes. In the measurement, it was determined that film # 3 had an average cross-sectional area (fraction) of approximately 39%. To complete the formation of test kit # 3, film # 3 was applied over the transport layer described above to thereby form a test kit including, from top to bottom, a cover member, a transport layer, a core and a barrier layer.

Test kit # 4 was formed by removing a coating layer from apertured film (hereinafter referred to as film # 4) from Semper Livre Ultra Thin Wings manufactured by Johnson & Johnson Ind. E. Com. Ltda., Brazil. To complete the formation of test kit # 4, film # 4 was applied over the transport layer described above to thereby form a test kit including, from top to bottom, a cover member, a transport layer, a core and a barrier layer.

Test kit # 5 was formed by first creating a hole film in accordance with the invention, similar to that shown in FIGS. 1e-1j and described above (hereinafter referred to as film # 5). The upper surfaces of the transverse elements 14a and 14b were recessed relative to the upper surface of the film by 4.5 mil and the width of each transverse element 14a and 14b was 5 mil and 9 mil, respectively. The lengths of each of the transverse members 14a and 14b were 100 mils and 60 mils, respectively. The film included a plurality of patterns in the form of larger butterflies of the type shown in FIG. 1e, and a plurality of patterns in the form of smaller butterflies of the type shown in FIG. 1e. The size of the larger butterfly was 1.0 inch when measured from the most distal point of one wing to the most distal point of the other wing and 0.6 inch when measured in the narrowest narrowed part of the butterfly. The size of the smaller butterfly was 0.6 inches when measured from the most distal point of one wing to the most distal point of the other wing and 0.4 inches when measured in the narrowest narrowed part of the butterfly. Larger and smaller butterflies were evenly distributed so that a hole-sized film sample measuring 9 inches (length) × 6 inches (width) had 9 large and 9 small butterflies uniformly distributed over the film sample. Each of the large and small butterflies had a boundary element 108 and many holes 106 located within the zone bounded by the boundary element. The border element 108 of each of the larger butterflies had a width of 78 mils and the border element 108 for each of the smaller butterflies had a width of 31 mils. The surface of the film within the portion 109 of the film bounded by boundary elements 108 for butterflies of both larger and smaller sizes was recessed relative to the upper surface of the film by an amount of approximately 4.5 mil. The areas bounded by the boundary element of the butterflies, both smaller and larger, had many holes 106, each of the holes 106 having an elliptical shape with a large axis 43 m long and a small axis 16 m long. The distance “n” between the holes 106 adjacent in the horizontal direction was 40 mils, and the distance “o” between the holes neighboring in the horizontal direction was 34 mils.

Five samples of each of the test kits # 1-5 described above were created and tested to determine the fluid penetration time (FPT), re-wetting (in grams) and masking rate. Thus, a total of twenty-five samples were created (five for each test kit). Test methods for determining fluid penetration time (FPT), rewetting, and masking rates are discussed in more detail below. The same five samples were used in each of the tests. That is, a clean sample should not be used for each test, and instead, the same sample was tested for penetration of the fluid, and then for re-wetting and then tested to determine the masking rate.

The fluid used in the test, which is used to test the penetration of the fluid, re-wetting tests and tests to determine the masking rate in accordance with the test methods below, may be any synthetic menstrual fluid with the following properties: (1) a viscosity of approximately 30 centipoise; and (2) the following indicators of color intensity (color tone saturation) according to Hunter: L = approximately 17, a = approximately 7, b = approximately 1.5. Hunter L values for the test fluid were measured by placing a certain amount of test fluid in a glass cup to a depth of 0.25 inches.

Fluid penetration time

The penetration time of the fluid is measured by placing the sample to be tested under a plate with a hole for testing the penetration of the fluid. The test plate is rectangular and made of Lexan material and has a length of 25.4 cm (10.0 inches) with a width of 7.6 cm (3.0 inches) and a thickness of 1.27 cm (0.5 inches). A through concentric, elliptical hole is formed in the plate, having a large axis that has a length of 3.8 cm and is parallel to the length of the plate, and a small axis that has a length of 1.9 cm and is parallel to the width of the plate.

The plate with the hole is positioned centrally on the sample to be tested. A graduated 10 cm ³ syringe containing 7 ml of fluid used for testing was held above the orifice plate so that the outlet end of the syringe was approximately 3 inches apart from the orifice. The syringe was held horizontally parallel to the surface of the plate used in the test, then the fluid was squeezed out of the syringe at a speed that allowed the fluid to flow in the form of a jet, vertical with respect to the plate used in the test, into the hole, and the stopwatch was started at that moment. when the fluid first hit the sample to be tested. The stopwatch was stopped when the surface of the sample first became visible in the hole. The duration measured by the stopwatch is the fluid penetration time. The average fluid penetration time (FPT) is calculated from the test results of five samples. Thus, the average fluid penetration time was determined for each of the test kits # 1- # 5 by testing five samples for each test kit.

Rewetting potential

The rewetting potential is the level of ability of a gasket or other product to hold fluid within its (her) structure when the gasket contains a relatively large amount of fluid and is exposed to external mechanical pressure. The rewetting potential is determined and established using the following procedure.

The device required for the test includes a stopwatch with an accuracy of 1 second and a duration of at least 5 minutes, a graduated glass cylinder with a capacity of 10 ml and an internal diameter of approximately 12 mm, a certain amount of fluid used in test, and the hole plate used in the fluid penetration test.

The device further includes a weighing device or scales capable of weighing with an accuracy of ± 0.001 g, a number of general purpose NuGauze sponges (10 cm × 10 cm) (4 inches × 4 inches), four layers from Johnson & Johnson Medical Inc., product code 3634 (supplied by Johnson & Johnson Hospital Services, referring to: order number 7634), a standard load of 2.22 kg (4.8 lbs) measuring 5.1 cm (2 inches) by 10.2 cm (4 0 in.) By approximately 5.4 cm (2.13 in.) Which provides a pressure of 4.14 kPa (0.6 psi) on a surface measuring 5.1 n 10.2 cm (2 inches by 4 inches).

Two jaws are bent so that the bent edges are opposite each other to create a multilayer structure of 16 layers with dimensions of approximately 5 cm by 10 cm. A 16-layer sponge for each sample gasket to be tested, then weighed to the nearest division of 0.001 grams . A pre-treated sanitary napkin or other product is placed on a flat surface without removing removable paper and so that the coating layer is facing up.

After the fluid used in the test was passed through the hole in the plate during the test to determine the time of penetration of the fluid described above, and as soon as the covering layer of the gasket is first visible through the upper surface of the fluid, the stopwatch is started and the time interval is measured, amounting to 5 minutes. After 5 minutes, the plate with the hole is removed and the gasket is placed on a hard, level surface so that the coating layer is facing up. One pre-weighed multilayer sponge having 16 layers is placed on the wetted area and centered relative to the wetted zone, and a standard load of 2.22 kg is placed on top of the multilayer sponge having 16 layers. Immediately after placing the sponge and the load on the gasket, the stopwatch is started and after a period of 3 minutes has elapsed, the standard load and the multilayer sponge having 16 layers are quickly removed. The mass of a multilayer sponge having 16 layers in a wet state is measured and recorded to the nearest division of 0.001 grams. The rewet value is then calculated as the difference in grams between the mass of the wetted multilayer sponge having 16 layers and the mass of the dry multilayer sponge having 16 layers.

The above measurement is repeated for five samples and, if necessary, the load is wiped clean before each test. The average rewet potential is obtained by obtaining the average value from the values obtained for five samples. Thus, the average rewet potential was determined for each of the test kits # 1- # 5 by testing five samples for each test kit.

When conducting tests according to the above method, it is important that the tests are carried out at a temperature of 21 ± 1 ° C and at a relative humidity of 65 ± 2%.

Masking rate

The technique described below was used to determine the ability of the (external) material facing the body to create the appearance of a less soiled product after use, that is, a masking indicator. After subjecting each of the kits # 1-5 to a fluid penetration test and a rewet test, immediately obtain their images, after checking the fluid, at 50x magnification using a Scalar USB microscope model UM02-SUZ-01, which uses the built-in Light source. The Scalar microscope was tuned with saturation and color intensity with automatic exposure, which is possible. Five images of the blurred zone from each sample were obtained and saved as image files in natural colors of 640 × 480 pixels with the bmp format (a standard raster image file format developed by Microsoft for Windows and OS / 2) with 24-bit color point (24 bit true-color). Thus, a total of 25 images were obtained (5 images per sample for each of 5 samples).

Then, the original bmp images were opened in Image Pro Plus version 4.0 software, which is a product of Media Cybernetics, LP. After that, using the Image Pro Plus software product, images were converted from their original 24 bit true-color format to an image corresponding to an 8-bit scale of gray levels. The function of obtaining histograms of the Image Pro Plus software product was then applied to images and after that histograms of gray intensity indicators for images were constructed. This provides the ability to count the number of pixels at a certain gray level, which is in the range from "0" - black to "255" - white. The data from the histogram was then transferred to the Microsoft Excel 2000 worksheet by using Dynamic Data Exchange (DDE) (the standard software protocol in Windows).

Dynamic data transfer to Excel 2000 then creates a worksheet that contains 25 columns, each of which contains 256 rows. Each of the columns in the worksheet contains histogram values for a single image. Each column consists of 256 values, which are the calculated number of pixels in the image, which have a corresponding value from 0 to 255. For each of the rows, an average value was then obtained to create an average histogram for this particular material.

A typical average histogram shows a bimodal distribution of the gray area, showing the blurred area of the test kit, and the white area, showing the unstained area of the test kit. Examination of the average histograms showed the presence of a plateau between the gray zone and the white zone and the fact that the entire blurred zone was determined by a gray level of 90 or less. Thus, the blurred area of the material can be characterized by the sum of the gray levels from 0 to 90, while lower levels are characteristic of areas with a lower gray intensity and thereby providing better masking. The sum of the gray levels of 90 or less is a “masking indicator". The average masking score for each test kit was obtained by averaging the masking score obtained for each of the five test samples for this test kit. Figure 10 is a typical average histogram showing the dirtying intensity for an absorbent article having a film with holes in accordance with the present invention as the covering layer of this article.

Table 1 below shows the average fluid penetration times, average rewet rates (in grams), and masking rate for test kits # 1- # 5.

Table 1 Test kit The average fluid penetration time (in seconds) Average rewet (grams) Average masking rate #one 38.50 0,032 50841.26 # 2 45.52 0,040 78,587.00 # 3 21.55 0,052 114930,20 #four 46.50 0.024 111959.93 #5 30,43 0,037 55794.13

As can be seen in the above Table, test kits # 1 and # 5, created by using hole films in accordance with the present invention, provide a unique combination of fluid processing capabilities and masking properties.

Although specific embodiments of the invention have been described above, it is intended that the present application cover modifications and variations of the invention provided that they fall within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims (45)

1. A sanitary napkin containing
a cover layer and an absorbent system adjacent to the cover layer for receiving liquid from it, said cover layer comprising
a first substantially flat surface located in the first plane; a second substantially flat surface located in the second plane; a plurality of frame parts connected to each other, wherein each of the frame parts has at least a first and a second inner wall located opposite each other and at a distance from each other; a plurality of transverse elements, wherein each of the transverse elements extends from one of the inner walls of one of the frame parts to the opposite second inner wall of one of the frame parts, each of the transverse elements having an upper surface located in a plane located below said first plane; a plurality of holes extending from at least the first flat surface to the second flat surface, wherein each of these holes is bounded by at least one of the frame parts and at least one of the transverse elements; wherein said gasket has an average masking rate of less than about 115,000, an average fluid penetration time of less than about 45 seconds, and an average rewet index of less than about 0.05 g. 2. The sanitary napkin of claim 1, wherein the masking rate is less than about 100,000. 3. The sanitary napkin of claim 1, wherein the masking rate is less than about 90,000. 4. The sanitary napkin of claim 1, wherein the masking rate is less than about 85,000. 5. The sanitary napkin of claim 1, wherein the masking rate is less than 60,000. 6. The sanitary napkin of claim 1, wherein the average fluid penetration time is less than 40 s. 7. The sanitary napkin of claim 5, wherein the average fluid penetration time is less than 35 s. 8. The sanitary napkin of claim 1, wherein the absorbent system includes a super absorbent material. 9. The sanitary napkin of claim 1, wherein the absorbent system includes a mixture of cellulosic fibers and an ultra-high absorbency material. 10. The sanitary napkin of claim 9, wherein the absorbent system comprises a first absorbent layer and a second absorbent layer, wherein the second absorbent layer has a base weight of from about 100 g / m ² to about 700 g / m ² and is obtained by laying in the form of a bottom a cellulose layer, a middle layer of cellulose mixed with an ultra-absorbent polymer, and an upper layer containing at least some cellulose. 11. The sanitary napkin of claim 10, wherein the second absorbent layer has a density of greater than about 0.25 g / cm ³ . 12. The sanitary napkin of claim 11, wherein the second absorbent layer has a density in the range of from about 0.3 g / cm ³ to about 0.5 g / cm ³ . 13. The sanitary napkin of claim 12, wherein the second absorbent layer has a density in the range of from about 0.3 g / cm ³ to about 0.45 g / cm ³ . 14. The sanitary napkin of claim 10, wherein the middle layer comprises a first middle layer adjacent to the lower layer and a second middle layer adjacent to the upper layer. 15. The sanitary napkin of claim 10, wherein the second absorbent layer includes from about 20 weight percent to about 55 weight percent of an ultra-high absorbency polymer. 16. The sanitary napkin of claim 15, wherein the second absorbent layer includes from about 30 weight percent to about 45 weight percent of a super absorbent polymer. 17. The sanitary napkin of claim 16, wherein the second absorbent layer includes about 40 weight percent polymer with ultra-high absorbency. 18. The sanitary napkin of claim 10, wherein the second absorbent layer has a base weight in the range of from about 150 g / m ² to about 350 g / m ² . 19. The sanitary napkin of claim 18, wherein the second absorbent layer has a base weight in the range of from about 200 g / m ² to about 300 g / m ² . 20. The sanitary napkin of claim 19, wherein the second absorbent layer has a base weight of approximately 250 g / m ² . 21. The sanitary napkin of claim 10, wherein the first absorbent layer is formed by air-laying on top of the second absorbent layer. 22. The sanitary napkin of claim 21, wherein the first absorbent layer comprises thermoplastic fibers. 23. The sanitary napkin of claim 21, wherein the first absorbent layer comprises a material having a density in the range of from about 0.04 to 0.05 g / cm ³ . 24. The sanitary napkin of claim 21, wherein the first absorbent layer comprises a material having a bulk weight in the range of from about 80 g / m ² to about 110 g / m ² . 25. The sanitary napkin of claim 10, wherein the first absorbent layer has a thickness in the range of from about 2 mm to about 3 mm. 26. The sanitary napkin of claim 10, wherein the second absorbent layer includes from about 5 weight percent to about 60 weight percent of a super absorbent polymer. 27. The sanitary napkin of claim 1, wherein the thickness of the sanitary napkin is less than about 3 mm. 28. The sanitary napkin of claim 27, wherein the thickness of the sanitary napkin is approximately 2.8 mm. 29. A sanitary napkin containing
a cover layer and an absorbent system adjacent to the cover layer for receiving liquid from it, said cover layer comprising
a first substantially flat surface located in the first plane; a second substantially flat surface located in the second plane; a plurality of frame parts connected to each other, wherein each of the frame parts has at least a first and a second inner wall located opposite each other and at a distance from each other; a plurality of transverse elements, wherein each of the transverse elements extends from one of the inner walls of one of the frame parts to the opposite second inner wall of one of the frame parts, each of the transverse elements having an upper surface located in a plane located below the first plane; a plurality of holes extending from at least the first flat surface to the second flat surface, wherein each of these holes is bounded by at least one of the frame parts and at least one of the transverse elements; wherein said gasket has an average masking rate of less than about 60,000, and an average fluid penetration time of less than about 45 seconds. 30. The sanitary napkin of claim 29, wherein the napkin has an average rewet index of less than about 0.05 g. 31. The sanitary napkin of claim 30, wherein the napkin has an average rewet index of less than about 0.04 g. 32. The sanitary napkin of claim 29, wherein the coating layer comprises
the first flat surface in the first plane; a second flat surface in a second plane below the first plane; the first set of holes; at least one element overlapping each of said first plurality of holes to thereby form a plurality of smaller holes, each of the plurality of smaller holes communicating with a corresponding hole of a first plurality of holes, the element overlapping each of the holes having an upper surface, located in the third plane, while the third plane is located below the first plane. 33. The sanitary napkin of claim 29, wherein said coating layer comprises
the first flat surface in the first plane; a second flat surface in a second plane; a plurality of holes extending from at least a first flat surface to a second flat surface; at least one element overlapping each of said plurality of openings, wherein the element overlapping each of said openings has an upper surface located in a third plane, the third plane being lower than the first plane. 34. The sanitary napkin of claim 29, wherein said coating layer comprises
the first flat surface in the first plane; a second flat surface in a second plane below the first plane; the first set of holes; at least one element overlapping each of the first plurality of openings to thereby form a plurality of smaller openings, each of the plurality of smaller openings communicating with a corresponding opening of the first plurality of openings, the element overlapping each of said openings having an upper surface, located in the third plane, while the third plane is located below the first plane; second set of holes. 35. The sanitary napkin of claim 29, wherein the coating layer comprises
a first substantially flat surface located in the first plane; a second substantially flat surface located in the second plane, wherein the second plane is located below the first plane; a plurality of frame parts connected to each other, wherein each of the frame parts has at least a first and a second inner wall located opposite each other and at a distance from each other; a plurality of transverse elements, wherein each of the transverse elements extends from one of the inner walls of one of the frame parts to the opposite second inner wall of one of the frame parts, each of the transverse elements having an upper surface located in a plane located below the first plane; a first plurality of openings extending from at least the first flat surface to the second flat surface, wherein each of said openings is bounded by at least one of the frame parts and at least one of said elements; second set of holes. 36. Sanitary pad according to clause 29, in which the covering layer contains a film with holes containing
the first flat surface in the first plane; a second flat surface in a second plane; a plurality of holes extending from at least a first flat surface to a second flat surface; at least one element overlapping each of said plurality of holes, wherein the element overlapping each of the holes has an upper surface located in a third plane, the third plane being lower than the first plane; second set of holes. 37. The sanitary napkin of claim 36, wherein the second plurality of holes is visually distinguishable from the first plurality of holes. 38. The sanitary napkin of claim 36, wherein the film comprises at least a first part including a first plurality of holes and at least a second part including a second plurality of holes, and wherein the surface of the film the second part is located below the first plane. 39. The sanitary napkin of claim 36, wherein the second plurality of holes are combined to form either a pattern or signs. 40. The sanitary napkin of claim 36, wherein the second plurality of holes is surrounded by a boundary element, wherein the boundary element separates the first plurality of holes from the second plurality of holes. 41. The sanitary napkin of claim 36, wherein each of said at least one element overlapping each of the first plurality of holes has a length of from about 30.0 mils to about 150.0 mils. 42. The sanitary napkin of claim 36, wherein each of said at least one element overlapping each of the first plurality of openings has a width in the range of from about 4.0 to about 24.0 mils. 43. The sanitary napkin of claim 36, wherein the film has a flow area from about 20% to about 30%. 44. The sanitary napkin of claim 36, wherein the third plane is located below the first plane by about 3.0 mils to about 17.0 mils. 45. Sanitary pad according to clause 29, containing
a coating layer and an absorption system adjacent to said coating layer for receiving liquid from it, wherein the coating layer is made of a film with holes, said gasket having an average masking index of less than about 55,000 and an average fluid penetration time of less than about 45 sec

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