WO2023117032A1

WO2023117032A1 - Disposable hygiene article with embossed absorbent core

Info

Publication number: WO2023117032A1
Application number: PCT/EP2021/086763
Authority: WO
Inventors: Josefin SOHL; Philip BLOMSTRÖM; Sofia EKSTEDT
Original assignee: Essity Hygiene And Health Aktiebolag
Priority date: 2021-12-20
Filing date: 2021-12-20
Publication date: 2023-06-29
Also published as: AR128029A1

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a disposable hygiene article comprising an absorbent core (6) that is bisected into mirror-imaged left and right sides (60L, 60R) and comprises a front portion (30), a rear portion (70), a crotch portion (50) arranged between the front and rear portions (30, 70), and an outer contour (61) surrounding the front, rear, and crotch portions (30, 70, 50), where the outer contour (61) is defined by mirror-imaged first and second core edge lines (612L, 612R), a core front edge (613) in the front portion (30) and a core rear edge (701) in the rear portion (70). The absorbent core further comprises a high density region (62) extending in the longitudinal direction (y) of the article (1) from a front transverse edge (301) over the crotch portion (50) to the rear portion (70). The high density region (62) comprises a head part (623) in the front portion (30) and first and second leg members (80L, 80R) that extend symmetrically about the central longitudinal axis (Y) in the crotch and rear portions (50, 70), where the first and second leg members (80L, 80R) spaced apart in the transverse direction (x) by a central area (601) of the absorbent core (6) that comprises a low density region (63). Further, a perimeter of the high density region (62) is defined by a non-continuous embossing line (610) formed of a plurality of discrete embossing points (611) provided there along and embossed from the topsheet downward into the absorbent core.

Description

Disposable Hygiene Article with Embossed Absorbent Core

Field of the invention

[0001] The present disclosure relates to disposable hygiene articles, such as sanitary towels, panty liners, incontinence pads or diapers, which are designed to accommodate a balance between user comfort and efficient fluid handling. In particular, these disposable hygiene articles are configured to provide an improved fit that does not diminish the level of security against leakage of the article.

Background

[0002] Disposable hygiene articles need to have good absorptive properties, comfort and provide a sense of leakage security and good fit for a user. Various designs and methods have been employed in hygiene articles to enable them to follow the contours of the user’s body well, and by extension, do not move out of place during use.

[0003] For example, applicant’s own previous application WO 2018/226132 A1 describes an absorbent article with an improved fit. The absorbent article comprises an absorbent core comprising a first region with a head part and two legs extending in the longitudinal direction of the article over at least a part of the crotch portion towards separate leg endings in the rear portion. The legs are symmetrically arranged about a longitudinal center line and a distance between facing sides of the respective legs in the transverse direction varies in the longitudinal direction. The facing sides of the respective legs converge backwards in the longitudinal direction such that the distance is reduced from a maximum distance in the crotch portion to a minimum distance in the rear portion. The absorbent core further comprises a second region is that at least partially surrounded by the first region and extends between the legs portions in the transverse and longitudinal directions in the crotch and rear portions. The crotch portion of the absorbent core also comprises at least one compression line in the form of an upside down V with a first leg, a second leg and a common front tip. Further, the average density of the second region is lower than the average density of the first region. The fit of the absorbent product is thus improved in the article by having a higher density and corresponding higher stiffness in the first region in combination with a front compression line that promotes transverse and diagonal bending of the article towards the wearer’s body during use. Also, the absorbent article can be kept in position during use in an improved manner.

[0004] Despite efforts to improve the fit of and how such articles conform to the body of a wearer during use, there still remains a need for further improvements to enable the article to take a certain shape, distribute absorbed liquid in a desirable and predetermined manner, and prevent leakage.

Summary

[0005] It has been found that despite prior art solutions for disposable hygiene articles, there is still a need to improve the fit of such articles and especially how they conform to the body of a wearer during use. There is also a need to better control how the article bends and its ability to take a certain shape during use, especially in the central region of the article, though it is still important that a good and close fit is obtained in the front, crotch, and rear portions of the article. It is of further importance that the absorbent articles are enabled to spread absorbed fluids in a desired and predetermined manner, and by extension, prevent leakage therefrom.

[0006] An objective of the present disclosure is thus to provide a disposable hygiene article with improved fit and improved conformance of the article to the body of a wearer. Further, it is particularly desirable that the disposable hygiene article conforms to a wearer’s body in an improved manner in at least the front and crotch portions of the article.

[0007] It is also an objective to provide a disposable and absorbent hygiene article with improved comfort in which leakage security is not reduced if not all together unaffected. The disposable hygiene article may be any one of a sanitary towel, a panty liner, an incontinence pad, or a diaper.

[0008] It is further desirable to provide a disposable and absorbent hygiene article with improved product integrity, i.e. in that the material(s) forming the hygiene article, especially the topsheet, is/are not damaged (e.g., tom) during manufacture by the embossing process(es) and/or subsequently weakened thereby.

[0009] The objectives set forth herein are achieved by the present disposable hygiene article as defined in the appended claims.

[0010] Accordingly, in a first aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a disposable hygiene article, such as a sanitary towel, a panty liner, an incontinence pad or a diaper, comprising a liquid-permeable topsheet, a liquid- impermeable backsheet and an absorbent core arranged there between. The hygiene article comprises a central transverse axis that bisects the article into a front half and a back half and a central longitudinal axis that bisects the absorbent core into mirror-imaged left and right sides. The absorbent core comprises a front portion, a rear portion, a crotch portion arranged between the front and rear portions, and an outer contour that surrounds the front, rear and crotch portions. The outer contour is defined by mirror-imaged first and second core edge lines, a core front edge in the front portion, and a core rear edge in the rear portion. The absorbent core further comprises a high density region extending in the longitudinal direction of the article from a front transverse edge over the crotch portion to the rear portion. The high density region comprises a head part in the front portion and first and second leg members in the crotch and rear portions that extend symmetrically about the central longitudinal axis. The first and second leg members are also spaced apart in the transverse direction by a central area of the absorbent core that comprises a low density region. Each leg member has a respective outer side edge, a rear edge, and an inner side edge. Further, a perimeter of the high density region of the absorbent core is defined by a non-continuous embossing lines formed of a plurality of discrete embossing points provided there along and embossed from the topsheet downward into the absorbent core. Hence, the non-continuous embossing line separates the high density region from the low density region.

[0011] The discrete embossing points may have a diameter of from 1 .0 to 2.5 mm. In a preferred embodiment, the discrete embossing points have a diameter with the range of 1 .2 to 1 .8 mm. [0012] Discrete embossing points that are adjacent to one another in the non- continuous embossing line may be spaced apart from each other by a distance that is equal to or less than a diameter of the embossing points. In a preferred embodiment, the distance between adjacent embossing points of the non- continuous embossing line is 1 .0 mm.

[0013] The core front edge and the front transverse edge are spaced apart by a distance of from 5 to 20 mm, preferably from 7 to 12 mm. In this regard, a soft edge (the outer contour) surrounds the entirety of the absorbent core before transition into the high density region at the stiffening edge (perimeter of the high density region) begins. The soft edge contributes to the wearer’s comfort of the absorbent article during use and acts as a barrier along the edge of the absorbent core to reduce the chance that liquid will be spread past the edge of the absorbent core and cause leakage.

[0014] The non-continuous embossing line may be formed in the hygiene article by simultaneously compressing the topsheet and the absorbent core material together.

[0015] The high density region of the absorbent core may further comprise an embossing pattern that comprises a plurality of individual dots.

[0016] The plurality of individual dots comprise from 2 to 30% of a total surface area in each of the front, rear, and crotch portions of the high density region of the absorbent core. In a preferred embodiment, the plurality of individual dots comprise from 4 to 15% of the total surface area in each of the front, crotch, and rear portions of the high density region. In another preferred embodiment, the plurality of individual dots comprise 7 to 10% of the total surface area in each of the front, crotch , and rear portions of the high density region of the absorbent core.

[0017] The average number of individual dots in the high density region of the absorbent can be the same or may vary between the front, crotch, and rear portions. In one embodiment, the average number of individual dots per square centimeter ranges from 2 to 6 dots in the front portion and from 2 to 4.5 in each of the crotch and rear portions. Additionally, it should be understood, within the context of the present disclosure, that the average number of individual dots present in an indicated area, i.e. , the embossing patterns, does not include the embossing points of the non-continuous embossing line that may be provided along a perimeter of the high density region.

[0018] The individual dots of the embossing pattern are also spaced apart from one another and preferably will not overlap. In one embodiment, the individual dots are spaced from between 1 .9 and 4.4 mm apart from one another.

[0019] The individual dots of the embossing pattern are also spaced apart from and preferably will not overlap with the discrete embossing points of the non- continuous embossing line. In one embodiment, the individual dots are spaced at least 0.9 mm apart from the discrete embossing points of the non-continuous embossing line.

[0020] The embossing pattern may be formed in the hygiene article by simultaneously compressing the topsheet and the absorbent core material together.

[0021] The average density of the low density region may be from 30 to 60% less than the average density of the high density region. The lower density region can provide different mechanical properties and different absorption properties, particularly in an area of the core that comes into close contact with the body of the wearer.

[0022] The low density region of the absorbent core may a density from 45 to 75 kg/m³. In a preferred embodiment, the low density region has a density from 55 to 65 kg/m³. The high density region of the absorbent core may have a density from 90 to 120 kg/m³. In a preferred embodiment, the high density region has a density from 100 to 110 kg/m³. The lower density region provides for quick inlet of liquid into the core while the higher density region provide for better liquid distribution and also enable the taking up of liquid in a repeated manner. This arrangement enables the core to be better utilized.

[0023] The high density region is suitably compressed more than the low density region, and the higher density region is stiffer than the low density region. The high density region therefore obtains a higher average density of an absorbent material in at least a portion thereof than in the low density region. Accordingly, the bending properties of the hygiene article can be controlled in a pre-determined way. The higher average density of the absorbent material can be obtained by means of compression and/or providing an embossing pattern to the high density region which covers at least a portion thereof. It is to be understood that it is not essential for the embossing pattern to provide a constant density across the entirety of the high density region. Rather, the embossing pattern can increase the average density over the region by way of compression of a plurality of dots, lines or other shapes therein. By contrast, the low density region may not be compressed and/or provided with an embossing pattern. This arrangement allows for the stiffness properties of the hygiene article to be easily controlled in a desirable manner. [0024] The high density region may cover from 30 to 70% of the total area of the absorbent core In a preferred embodiment, the high density region covers from 49 to 60% of the total area of the absorbent core. In this regard, bending of the article can be controlled by the provision of the high density region, while the low density region which accounts for the remainder of the total area of the absorbent core provides a soft area to facilitate a wearer’s comfort during use of the hygiene article.

[0025] The average thickness of the absorbent core may be the same or may vary between the high and low density regions. The central area, which comprises the low density region, may extend in a thickness direction of the hygiene article such that it protrudes outwards from a plane of the high density region. For example, the average thickness of the high density region is from 1 to 4 mm and the average thickness of the low density region is from 2 to 7 mm. In this regard, the low density region may be provided as a raised portion, which can allow for easy contact with the genitals of a wearer during use of the hygiene article.

[0026] The absorbent core may have a unitary structure. This may ease and/or simplify manufacturing of the hygiene article.

[0027] In another aspect of the present disclosure, the high density region of the absorbent core comprises a first pair of continuous embossing lines in the front half and a second pair of continuous embossing lines in the back half of the article. The first and second pairs of continuous embossing lines are embossed from the topsheet downward into the absorbent core material(s). The embossing lines promote preferential bending of the article during use and thus the fit of the article can be improved in both the front and back halves of the article.

[0028] The first pair of continuous embossing lines comprise a first front continuous embossing line that forms a V shape with respect to the central longitudinal axis such that the point of the V intersects with the central longitudinal axis and the left and right free ends of the V shape originate from respective left and right corners of the front portion front edge of the high density region. The first front continuous embossing line may by formed by discrete left and right leg segments that meet, but are not connected, to form the point of the V, preferably at the central longitudinal axis, or alternatively the left and right segments are not discrete but instead are continuously connected at the point of the V to form a single line. The first pair of continuous embossing lines also comprise a second front continuous embossing line that form an inverted V shape with respect to the central longitudinal axis such that the point of the inverted V intersects with the central longitudinal axis and the left and right free ends of the inverted V shape originate from the non-continuous embossing line at the respective longitudinal outer side edges of the first and second leg members in the crotch portion. Like the first front continuous embossing line, the second front continuous embossing line may also be formed by discrete, unconnected left and right leg segments that are arranged to substantially converge to form the point of the inverted V, preferably at the central longitudinal axis, or in the alternative by non-discrete left and right segments that are continuously connected at the point of the inverted V to form a single line.

[0029] The first and second pairs of continuous embossing lines may be essentially straight lines produced by means of a groove or line compression tool having a shape of a straight line. However, due to the nature of compressible materials used in the absorbent articles minor variations in the hygiene article may occur. [0030] The first front continuous embossing line and the second front continuous embossing line may be spaced apart from each other along the central longitudinal axis by from 0 to 15 mm. In a preferred embodiment, the first and second front continuous embossing lines are spaced apart from one another along the central longitudinal axis by from 5 to 10 mm. By providing a space between the continuous embossing lines, fluid distribution within the absorbent core can be promoted, particularly in a direction away from the edges core, thereby minimizing the risk of leakage. Having the continuous embossing lines spaced apart from one another may also avoid the formation of a weak spot in the hygiene article, and by extension, reduce the risk that the material(s) will tear.

[0031] An interior angle is formed about the central longitudinal axis where the first front continuous embossing line mutually diverges from the point of the V on either side of the central longitudinal axis. The interior angle may be in the range of from 30 to 120 degrees. In a preferred embodiment, the interior angle formed by the first front continuous embossing line about the central longitudinal axis is from 45 to 100 degrees. An interior angle is also formed about the central longitudinal axis where the second front continuous embossing line mutually diverges from the point of the inverted V on either side of the central longitudinal axis. In a preferred embodiment, the interior angle formed by the second front continuous embossing line about the central longitudinal axis is from 45 to 100 degrees.

[0032] The first front continuous embossing line and the second front continuous embossing line of the first pair of continuous embossing lines each have a respective total length, which may be from 40 to 100 mm. The total length in this regard should be understood to be from one free end of the V/inverted V shape to the other free end. Alternatively, where the first and/or second front continuous embossing lines are provided in the form of discrete, unconnected left and right segments arranged to substantially converge to form the point of the V/inverted V, the left and right segments preferably each have a length of from 20 to 50 mm. [0033] The first front continuous embossing line and the second front continuous embossing line of the first pair of continuous embossing lines each have a respective width, which may be from 1 to 3 mm. In a preferred embodiment, the width of each of the first and second front continuous embossing lines is 2 mm.

[0034] By providing continuous embossing lines as described above, folding of the article is promoted in a manner that more closely approximates the anatomy of the wearer, especially in the front and crotch portions of the hygiene article. In particular, the first and second front continuous embossing lines promote deformation which conforms to the anatomy of the wearer in an improved because the compression lines enhance the bending of the front portion of the article towards the pubic area of the wearer.

[0035] The second pair of continuous embossing lines comprise a left rear continuous embossing line and a right rear continuous embossing line. The left rear continuous embossing line originates from a left outer longitudinal edge of the embossing line in a rear portion of the article and terminates at a left inner longitudinal edge of the embossing line in the rear portion. The left rear continuous embossing line is provided at an angle with respect to the central longitudinal axis such that the left rear continuous embossing line is closer to a rear edge of the absorbent core at the left inner longitudinal edge than at the left outer longitudinal edge. The right rear continuous embossing line originates from a right outer longitudinal edge of the embossing line in a rear portion of the article and terminates at a right inner longitudinal edge of the embossing line in the rear portion. The right rear continuous embossing line is provided at an angle with respect to the central longitudinal axis such that the right rear continuous embossing line is closer to a rear edge of the absorbent core at the right inner longitudinal edge than at the right outer longitudinal edge. The left and right rear continuous embossing lines promote a transverse bending of the rear portion of the article during use, which by extension, assists to further improve the fit in the crotch and rear portions of the article.

[0036] The left rear continuous embossing line and the right rear continuous embossing line are spaced apart from each other along the transverse axis. The left and right rear continuous embossing lines may be spaced apart by at least 1 mm, preferably by at least 2 mm, but not by more than 20 mm, preferably not by more than 15 mm, and even more preferably not by more than 10 mm.

[0037] An interior angle is formed between the left rear continuous embossing line and the central longitudinal axis. The interior angle may be in the range of 15 to 60 degrees. An interior angle is also formed between the right rear continuous embossing line and the central longitudinal axis and may be in the range of 15 to 60 degrees.

[0038] The left rear continuous embossing line and the right rear continuous embossing line each have a respective length, which may be from 30 to 40 mm.

[0039] The left rear continuous embossing line and the right rear continuous embossing line of the second pair of continuous embossing lines each have a respective width, which may be from 1 to 3 mm. In a preferred embodiment, the width of each of the left and right rear continuous embossing lines is 2 mm. [0040] Further objectives, features and advantages of the present disposable hygiene article are described in the detailed description below with reference to the appended drawings.

Brief description of the drawings

[0041] The present invention will be discussed in more detail below, with reference to the attached drawings, in which:

[0042] Figure 1 shows an exemplary disposable hygiene article according to the present disclosure;

[0043] Figure 2 shows a density profile of an embodiment of the absorbent core of an exemplary disposable hygiene article;

[0044] Figure 3A shows a cross-section of an embodiment of the absorbent core taken along the line I of Figure 3; and

[0045] Figure 4 shows an embodiment of a disposable hygiene article according to the present disclosure. Detailed description

[0046] The present disposable hygiene article is an absorbent article aimed for personal hygiene and may be, for example, a sanitary towel, a panty liner, an incontinence pad or diaper. Such articles are commonly used for acquisition and storage of bodily exudates such as urine, faeces, and menstrual fluid. The absorbent article is disposable, which means that it is intended for a single use and disposed thereafter, instead of being cleaned and reused.

[0047] An embodiment of the disposable hygiene article 1 in accordance with the present disclosure is shown in plan view in Figure 1 , in the exemplary form of a sanitary towel. It should be understood that even though the disposable hygiene article 1 is described hereafter and depicted as a sanitary towel, this form is merely exemplary, and it is contemplated that the disposable hygiene article may be provided in other forms, such as panty liner and as otherwise described or referenced herein.

[0048] The hygiene article 1 has a central transverse axis (X) and a central longitudinal axis (Y). The central transverse axis bisects the hygiene article in the transverse direction (x) into a front half 1f and a back half 1 b, and the central longitudinal axis bisects the hygiene article in the longitudinal direction (y) into left and right sides. More particularly, the central longitudinal axis (y) bisects the absorbent core 6 in the longitudinal direction (y) into mirror-imaged left and right sides 60L, 60R, which are symmetrical in shape. The expression “symmetrical about the central longitudinal axis”, when used herein, means that each point on the absorbent core on the left side of the central longitudinal axis has a corresponding point on the absorbent core on the right side of the central longitudinal axis, the two points being related to each other by reflection in a plane located on the central longitudinal axis.

[0049] In general, the hygiene article 1 comprises a liquid-permeable topsheet 2, a liquid-impermeable backsheet 4, and an absorbent core 6 arranged between the topsheet and the backsheet. An outer contour 61 surrounds the absorbent core. [0050] The topsheet lies in direct contact with the wearer’s body and should therefore be soft and comfortable. The topsheet can comprise a nonwoven material, e.g. spunbond, meltblown, carded, hydroentangled, wetlaid etc. Suitable nonwoven materials can be composed of natural fibers, such as wood pulp or cotton fibers, man-made fibers, such as polyester, polyethylene, polypropylene, viscose, or from a mixture of natural and man-made fibers. Apertured plastic films may also be used as topsheet materials. In any case, suitable topsheet materials should be soft and non-irritating to the skin and be readily penetrable by bodily fluids, e.g. urine or menstrual fluid.

[0051] The topsheet may also be relatively thin. For example, the topsheet may have a thickness of from 0.05 to 2 mm. In a preferred embodiment, the thickness of the topsheet is from 0.1 to 1.0 mm. Additionally or alternatively, the topsheet may have a surface weight of from 10 to 40 grams per square meter (gsm), preferably from 12 to 25 gsm, and even more preferably from 14 to 20 gsm.

[0052] The backsheet lies in contact with the wearer’s garments. The backsheet refers to the liquid impervious material forming the outer cover of the hygiene article. The backsheet can comprise a thin plastic film, e.g. a polyethylene or polypropylene film, a nonwoven material coated with a liquid impervious material, a hydrophobic nonwoven material, which resists liquid penetration, or a laminate of a plastic film and a nonwoven material. Other laminate materials which are suitable for use as the backsheet are laminates of a nonwoven material and high loft material. The backsheet material may be breathable so as to allow vapor to escape from the absorbent core, while still preventing liquids from passing there through. Examples of breathable backsheet materials are porous polymeric films, nonwoven laminates of spunbond and meltblown layers and laminates of porous polymeric films and nonwoven materials. Preferably, the backsheet comprises nonwoven material in at least garment-facing surface thereof.

[0053] The absorbent core is the absorbent structure of the hygiene article which acquires and stores bodily fluids. The absorbent core may be of any conventional kind. Examples of commonly occurring absorbent materials are cellulosic fluff pulp, tissue, highly absorbent polymers (so called superabsorbents), absorbent foam materials, absorbent nonwoven materials or the like. It is common to combine cellulosic fluff pulp with superabsorbent polymers in an absorbent core. Superabsorbent polymers are water-swellable, water-insoluble organic or inorganic materials capable of absorbing at least about 20 times their own weight of an aqueous solution containing 0.9 weight percent of sodium chloride. Organic materials suitable for use as a superabsorbent material can include natural materials such as polysaccharides, polypeptides and the like, as well as synthetic materials such as synthetic hydrogel polymers. Such hydrogel polymers include, for example, alkali metal salts of polyacrylic acids, polyacrylamides, polyvinyl alcohol, polyacrylates, polyacrylamides, polyvinyl pyridines, and the like. Other suitable polymers include hydrolyzed acrylonitrile grafted starch, acrylic acid grafted starch, and isobutylene maleic anhydride copolymers and mixtures thereof. The hydrogel polymers are preferably lightly cross-linked to render the material substantially water insoluble. Preferred superabsorbent materials are further surface cross-linked so that the outer surface or shell of the superabsorbent particle, fiber, flake, sphere, etc. possesses a higher crosslink density than the inner portion of the superabsorbent. The superabsorbent materials may be in any form suitable for use in absorbent composites including particles, fibers, flakes, spheres, and the like. A high absorption capacity is provided by the use of high amounts of superabsorbent material. Thin absorbent cores, which are common in for example baby diapers and incontinence guards, often comprise a compressed, mixed or layered structure of cellulosic fluff pulp and superabsorbent polymers. The size and absorbent capacity of the absorbent core may thus be varied to suit different product types, such as sanitary napkins for adult incontinent persons or panty liners.

[0054] The absorbent core can be of unitary construction, whereby for example the manufacturing process can be simplified. The phrase "unitary construction" in the present context is intended to mean that the absorbent core is constructed from essentially one type of material, this being essentially the same material, or essentially the same combination of two or more materials throughout the absorbent core. Variations in density and concentration of the material may occur, but these are limited to those which may be obtained without incorporation of regions which have been formed separately and then physically joined to each other. For example, when the absorbent core comprises a matrix of hydrophilic fibers and superabsorbent material as described above, the relative concentrations of superabsorbent material and fibers may be different in different parts of the core. However, the absorbent core of unitary construction does not comprise layers or laminates of different composition. Likewise, variations in the density or concentration of various components across the longitudinal direction, the transverse direction or the thickness direction of the absorbent core are acceptable, yet the core should not comprise areas or layers of different composition which are formed separately and later joined together.

[0055] Parameters of the absorbent core including thickness, basis weight, and/or density can be obtained as follows. The absorbent core is carefully separated from the other article components. The core is then placed flat for 24 hours in a laboratory environment conditioned to 23°C and 50% relative humidity. Samples from the area of interest are then cut or punched from the core (including the cover sheets). Thickness is measured under a pressure of 0.5 kPa. The thickness gauge foot should rest over the sample for about 5 seconds before reading the thickness value. The sample is then weighed to the nearest milligram. The area of the sample can be determined with a ruler. In case the sample contours are irregular, the sample can be photocopied or scanned, and the area can be determined with a planimeter or suitable image analysis software.

[0056] The basis weight (g/m²) is then obtained by dividing the sample weight by the sample area. The density (kg/m³) can be further obtained according to the formula sample weight /(sample thickness x sample area).

[0057] The absorbent core 6 has a length in the longitudinal direction (y) that is divided into three discrete portions: a front portion 30, a rear portion 70, and crotch portion 50 arranged between the front and rear portions. The front, rear and crotch portions do not overlap with one another and together may account for the entire longitudinal length of the absorbent core.

[0058] The front portion is the forward most part of the absorbent core in the longitudinal direction (y), and in use, is intended to be oriented so as to cover the pubic region of a female wearer.

[0059] Directly adjacent to the front portion in the longitudinal direction (y) is the crotch portion. The crotch portion is the central most part of the absorbent core and is intended to be oriented such that, in use, it is positioned between the legs and covers the genital region of a female wearer. On the opposite side of crotch portion in the longitudinal direction (y) is the rear portion, which makes up the rear most part of the absorbent core in the longitudinal direction (y). In use, the rear portion is intended to be oriented so that it extends from towards the wearer’s rear.

[0060] The outer contour of the absorbent core surrounds the front, crotch, and rear portions. The outer contour is defined by mirror-imaged first and second core edge lines 612L, 612R, a core front edge 613 in the front portion, and a core rear edge 701 in the rear portion.

[0061] Typically, the hygiene articles described herein will have an absorbent core with two or more regions of different densities. An exemplary density profile is illustrated in Figure 2, in which the absorbent core comprises a high density region 62 and a low density region 63. The high density region extends in the longitudinal direction (y) of the hygiene article from a front transverse edge 301 over the crotch portion to the rear portion and is surrounded by the outer contour. The high density region is designed and arranged such that it is symmetric about the central longitudinal axis of the hygiene article. This is important so that the hygiene article lies symmetrically on the wearer’s body during use.

[0062] The high density region comprises a head part 623 in the front portion and first and second leg members 80L, 80R that extend symmetrically about the central longitudinal axis in the crotch and rear portions. The head part in some embodiments can be defined by two mirror-imaged substantially convex lines with respect to the central longitudinal axis. The convex lines converge toward the core rear edge 701 so as to define a “neck” for the high density region, by transitioning from the front transverse edge 301 , which defines a maximum front width (fwmax) in the transverse direction (x), to a minimum front width (fwmin). The minimum front width may be situated at a point of transition between the front portion and the crotch portion.

[0063] The first and second leg members of the high density region are spaced a distance apart from each other in the transverse direction (x) by a central area 601 of the absorbent core. Each leg member has an outer side edge 801 L, 801 R that extends in the longitudinal direction (y) along the length of both the crotch and rear portions up to a respective rear edge 802L, 802R. The rear edges 802L, 802R each extend a respective length of the rear portion in the transverse direction (x) and are likewise spaced a distance apart from each other in the transverse direction (x) by the central area of the absorbent core. The leg members also have respective inner side edges 803L, 803R that extend in the longitudinal direction (y) along both the crotch and rear portions and are spaced a distance apart from each other in the transverse direction (x) by the central area. The transverse width of the central area may be constant or may vary, in full or in part, along the length of the central area in the longitudinal direction (y). As such, the transverse distance between the inner side edges may also vary in the crotch and/or rear portions. As seen in Fig. 1 , for example, the transverse distance between the inner side edges is larger in the crotch portion than in the rear portion. Additionally, since the inner side edges are intended to extend a length in the longitudinal direction (y) of the crotch and rear portions, the inner side edges may have a comparable length, i.e. a length that is essentially the same, to the corresponding outer side edge. However, this is not essential, and it is contemplated that the length of the inner side edges may be longer or shorter than the length of the corresponding outer side edges. In any case, the shape and construction of the absorbent core can be adapted as desired to optimize fit, absorbency and/or fluid distribution in the hygiene article.

[0064] Figure 2 shows that the central area, together with the high density region, can form the entirety of the absorbent core, which is surrounded by the outer contour. The central area comprises low density region 63. The central area extends symmetrically about the central longitudinal axis with a longer extension in the longitudinal direction (y) than in the transverse direction (x). The central area has a width in the transverse direction (x) that is variable in the longitudinal direction (y) of the crotch and/or rear portion. The central area may be generally provided in the form of an oval shape, though other shapes are also envisioned. In this particular example, the central area has a maximum transverse width (cwmax) in the crotch portion and a minimum transverse width (cwmin) in the rear portion, though this is not essential and other configurations (e.g., a central area having a constant transverse width along the longitudinal lengths of the crotch and/or rear portions) are also envisioned. The central area is delimited by the inner side edges 803 L, 803R and the outer contour along a portion of the core rear edge 701 in the transverse direction (x). In this regard, the low density region is effectively surrounded by the high density region, except at part of the core rear edge where the first and second leg members are spaced a distance apart from each other in the transverse direction (x).

[0065] The central area, which comprises the low density region, preferably has relative thickness that is greater than the relative thickness of the high density region. In this regard, the central area can extend in a thickness direction of the hygiene such that it protrudes outwards from a plane of the high density region. However, it is foreseeable in certain embodiments with a large absorbent core, i.e. a core which extends longitudinally and transversally outside the high density perimeter, that the thickness of the absorbent core can be substantially uniform.

[0066] The low density region preferably has an average density that is preferably in the range of 30 to 60% lower than the high density region. It is also envisioned that the density in a particular region, i.e. the low density region, may vary or be constant within that particular region. For example, if the absorbent material of the core is fluff pulp, the density of the fluff pulp in the high density region is preferably 90 to 120 kg/m³, or more preferably from 100 to 110 kg/m³, and the average density of the fluff pulp in the low density region is 45 to 75 kg/m³, or more preferably from 55 to 65 kg/m³. The same or similar respective average density for the low and high density regions of the absorbent core can likewise be provided when the absorbent core is formed from a combination of fluff pulp and an amount of super absorbent polymers. These exemplary density ranges for the high and low density regions further imply that the high and low density regions have different stiffnesses. If another absorbent material other than pulp is utilized to form the absorbent core, the respective densities of the high and low density regions may be adjusted in order to provide the same or similar stiffness differential between the high and low density regions.

[0067] Moreover, the grammage weight of the absorbent core may vary between or within different regions of the absorbent core. For example, the outer contour of the absorbent core that surrounds the stiffer high density region may have a grammage weight of from 180 to 250 grams per square meter (gsm) while the remainder of the absorbent core (the embossed high density region and non-embossed central area) may have a grammage weight of from 320 to 425 gsm.

[0068] The high density region can be obtained by means of compression and/or through the provision of an embossing pattern. This allows for the hygiene article to be easily manufactured, while controlling the stiffness properties in a desirable way. In certain embodiments, the high density region will be compressed more than the low density region, which may be compressed to a lesser extent or not at all. The high density region will therefore be stiffer than the low density region. Generally stiffness is meant to refer to the extent that a material resists deformation in response to an applied force. The hygiene articles described herein are mainly subjected to bending forces applied by the wearer’s body and clothing. The areas of different stiffness respond differently to bending forces during use of the hygiene article and thus can be said to act differently. Stiffer portions of the absorbent core are able to better withstand bending forces than the area(s) of the core with relatively lower stiffness. By using different stiffnesses in different areas of the article, it is possible to better control the behavior of the article during the use. By providing a higher average density region that is relatively stiffer than essentially surrounds the centrally located low density area in the central rea of the absorbent core, the high density region enables the hygiene article to conform to the shape of the wearer’s body while at the same time the low density region better retains the original shape, thereby promoting a robustness in shape retention of the hygiene article during use. Also, the high density region better withstands bending forces in comparison to relatively less stiff low density region, which by extension can be considered advantageous in terms of reducing the risk of deformation of the hygiene article and/or minimizing movement thereof during use. Further, the stiffer areas can be made thinner, whereby a pliable article is provided. This has the advantage that the fit of the article, and by extension, the wearer’s comfort can be improved.

[0069] The absorbent core can be pattern-compressed to produce regions with different densities. Compressing can take place using any known means. The average density of the fibrous material in low-compressed or non-com pressed area(s) of the absorbent core correspond to the average density of the regions of lower average density, e.g., low density region. The absorbent core outside these regions, e.g., high density region, is then compressed while within the regions of lower density, the core remains uncompressed.

[0070] Additionally or alternatively, the high density region can be embossed solely to provide higher compression or to further increase the compression grade obtained by the compression process(es). Such compression and embossing can be performed simultaneously or in separate steps, e.g., an embossing pattern is provided to an area subsequent to compressing the high density region. Also, compression and embossing can be performed through either the topsheet or backsheet side of the absorbent core.

[0071] In addition, the higher average density of the high density region implies that it has great liquid-spreading capacity for rapid spreading of bodily fluid received from the wearer over the absorbent core. Further, stability of the article can be promoted by having a higher average density in the head part of the front portion of the absorbent core because the head part is enabled to remain out-stretched while wrinkle formation in the hygiene article is inhibited. [0072] As shown in Figure 3, the absorbent core is further provided with a non- continuous embossing line 610 along the outer contour 61. This non- continuous embossing line defines a perimeter of the high density region and may serve to separate the high density region from the low density region. The non-continuous embossing line can also be said to contribute to imparting stiffness to the absorbent core. The embossing line is non-continuous in that it is formed by a plurality of discrete embossing points 611 , each of which is spaced a non-zero distance apart from the other embossing points directly adjacent thereto in the non-continuous embossing line. This means that there are also discrete gaps of space between each of the individual embossing points in the embossing line where the absorbent core and topsheet material have not been compressed. Because of these discrete gaps, it remains possible to permit some fluid to still flow between the points and further into the adjacent high density region for distribution therein while simultaneously inhibiting further spreading of liquid beyond the limits of the absorbent core.

[0073] Figure 3A (inset) further depicts an exemplary cross-section of the absorbent core and the non-continuous embossing line disposed therein taken from the crotch portion of the hygiene article shown in Fig. 3. Discrete embossing points 611 A and 611 B are provided along, and thus define, the perimeter of the high density region 62; here in particular, embossing point 611 A is disposed on the outer side edge 801 L of the first leg member directly adjacent to the outer contour and embossing point 611 B is located on the inner side edge 803L of the first leg member directly adjacent to the low density region. The cross-section of Fig. 3A also includes an individual dot 622 which is provided as part of an embossing pattern imparted to the high density, and is discussed in more detail hereafter. Further, the absorbent core and topsheet material are embossed together when forming the non-continuous embossing line and/or the individual dots of the embossing pattern in the hygiene article. [0074] Additionally, a non-continuous embossing line is advantageous in terms of both comfort and fluid handling. The stiffness imparted to the absorbent core by the non-continuous embossing line assists to promote controlled bending of the article during use, which by extension, can improve the comfort level of the wearer, while the discrete gaps of space between the individual embossing points can facilitate rapid fluid acquisition and effective fluid distribution within the absorbent core.

[0075] It is preferable that the discrete embossing points forming the non- continuous embossing line are particularly sized and spaced. For example, in certain embodiments, the individual points are each suitably sized to have a diameter with the range of 1 .0 and 2.5 mm, and even more preferably between 1.2 and 1.8 mm. This can have the effect of assisting to avoid tears and/or rupture of the materials during embossing. Further, when a non-continuous embossing line of discrete embossing points is provided as a border separating different density regions, such as along the outer contour of the absorbent core, the individual embossing points should be arranged in sufficient proximity to form a clear distinctive impression. It is therefore preferable that adjacent embossing points in the non-continuous embossing line are spaced apart by a distance that is not greater than the diameters of the individual points, so by 2.5 mm or less in certain embodiments. Even further still, the preferred distance between adjacent embossing points may be 1.0 mm, which, in certain embodiments, may also coincide with a preferred minimum diameter of the individual embossing points.

[0076] The non-continuous embossing line is formed in the absorbent article by compressing the absorbent core and topsheet material(s) at indicated locations, i.e. embossing points, to a certain extent. In this regard, each individual embossing point can be considered to have a respective height. These respective heights may roughly correspond to the length of protrusions on the embossing tool, which may be from 0.3 to 2 mm, that is used to effectuate the compression of the material. Embossing of the absorbent core can be effectuated by any known technique. Exemplary techniques, such as those described in WO 2011/160669, are suitable for forming any of the individual embossing points, the embossing pattern(s) of individual dots, and/or continuous embossing lines, as discussed in further detail hereafter, in accordance with the present disclosure. In any case and regardless of the technique employed, the depth of the embossing from the topsheet downward into the absorbent core material(s) should be sufficient such that a predetermined density for the area to be embossed can be attained.

[0077] As mentioned above, the absorbent core includes regions with different densities, such as a high density region, which can be obtained by means of compression and/or through the provision of an embossing pattern 621. In certain embodiments, the embossing pattern is formed of a plurality of individual dots 622 that are spaced apart from each other over a designated surface area, e.g., the total surface area of the high density region and/or a subsection thereof, such as in the front, crotch and/or rear portions of the absorbent core. In Fig. 1 , for example, the individual dots are shown to be spaced out over and forming a percentage of the total surface area of the high density region. In this particular example, the embossing pattern is provided in each of the front, crotch and rear portions. The individual dots may comprise anywhere from 2 to 30% of the total surface area of the high density region, and in certain embodiments, may preferably comprise 4 to 15%, and even more preferably 7 to 10%, of the total surface area of the high density region. It is further contemplated that the front, crotch, and/or rear portions may comprise the same surface area percentage of individual dots, though this is not essential, and the surface area percentage of individual dots can differ between portions.

[0078] Additionally or alternatively, the high density region can be characterized by the number of individual dots that are present in an indicated area. The amount of dots for a given area, e.g., typically per square centimeter, has been observed to contribute to the stiffness of that area. An area with a larger average number of dots per square centimeter may be expected to exhibit a higher level of stiffness and/or rigidity that an equivalently sized area with fewer dots per square centimeter. Additionally, it should be understood, within the context of the present disclosure, that the average number of individual dots present in an indicated area, i.e. , the embossing pattern, does not include the embossing points of the non-continuous embossing line. [0079] In certain preferred embodiments, the average number of individual dots per square centimeter will vary between different portions of the absorbent core, i.e. front portion, crotch portion, and/or rear portion; however, it is foreseeable that the average number of individual dots could be constant over the entire absorbent core. It has been observed that the average number of dots for a given area, e.g., per square centimeter, contribute to the stiffness of that area. To this effect, an area with a larger average number of dots per square centimeter may be expected to exhibit a higher level of stiffness and/or rigidity than an equivalently sized area with fewer dots per square centimeter. In an exemplary embodiment, the average number of individual dots per square centimeter ranges from 2.0 to 6.0 dots in the front portion and from 2.0 to 4.5 dots in each of the crotch and rear portions. As such, the front portion can be expected to exhibit a higher level of stiffness relative to each of the crotch and rear portions.

[0080] The dots are also contained within the high density region and do not overlap or intersect with the outer contour and/or the non-continuous embossing line provided along the perimeter of the high density region. It is also preferable that the plurality of individual dots are particularly spaced, with respect to both adjacent dots of the embossing pattern as well as the discrete embossing points of the non-continuous embossing line. It has been found that when the individual dots are spaced from between 1.9 and 4.4 mm apart, absorbed liquid can be desirably spread in between the dots, thereby improving the utilization of the absorbent core, particularly the high density region. Similar liquid handling characteristics in the absorbent core have also been observed when the individual dots of the embossing are provided at a distance of at least 0.9 mm apart from the non-continuous embossing line formed along the perimeter of the high density region.

[0081] The embossing pattern(s) can formed in the absorbent article in the same manner as the non-continuous embossing line, e.g. by compressing the hygiene article from the topsheet material downward into the absorbent core material(s) at indicated locations, i.e. individual dots, to a certain extent. In this regard, each individual dot can be considered to have a respective height. These respective heights may roughly correspond to the length of protrusions on the embossing tool that is used to effectuate the compression of the material.

[0082] In addition to the non-continuous embossing line, the absorbent core of the hygiene articles described herein may be further provided with continuous embossing lines. For example and as shown in Figure 4, a first pair of continuous embossing lines 91 , which includes first and second front continuous embossing lines 911 , 912, is provided in the high density region in the front half of the hygiene article. The first front continuous embossing line is arranged in the front portion of the absorbent core and forms a V shape with respect to the central longitudinal axis where the point of the V intersects with the central longitudinal axis. The first front continuous embossing line mutually diverges from the point of the V on either side of the central longitudinal axis into the left and right free ends 911 L, 911 R. The left and right free ends of the first front continuous embossing line extend up to the front transverse edge of the high density region at the respective leftmost and rightmost transverse points thereof. Stated differently, the left and right free ends originate from the respective left and right corners of the front transverse edge of the high density region. The second front continuous embossing line is arranged in the front portion, preferably at a location where the front portion transitions to the crotch portion, and forms an inverted V shape with respect to the central longitudinal axis where the point of the inverted V intersects with the central longitudinal axis. The second front continuous embossing line mutually diverges from the point of the inverted V on either side of the central longitudinal axis into left and right free ends 912L, 912R. The left and right free ends 912L, 912R of the second front continuous embossing line respectively extend up to the first and second core edge lines 612L, 612R, preferably at the outer side edges 801 L, 801 R of the first and second leg members. Additionally, the first and second front continuous lines do not intersect or overlap with each other, and are thus spaced apart from each other along the central longitudinal axis. This has the advantage of avoiding the formation of a weak spot at which the materials of the core, topsheet, and/or backsheet are more likely to tear, especially during or after manufacture. The first and second front continuous lines may be spaced apart by from 0 to 15 mm or more preferably by from 5 to 10 mm.

[0083] The continuous embossing lines can provide predetermined or preferential lines along which the hygiene article will fold during use. By providing continuous embossing lines along which the article can fold or deform when compressed during use in a predictable manner, the position of the folds and crease can be controlled in such a manner that the risk of leakage can be minimized. However, the position of the continuous embossing lines should be carefully arranged in order to avoid other properties of the hygiene article from being unduly compromised. For example, the continuous embossing lines should not weaken the structure of the hygiene article to a degree that it becomes prone to tearing. Moreover, the continuous embossing lines should not impede the distribution of fluid throughout the hygiene article in such a way that increases the likelihood of leaks.

[0084] While it is shown in Figure 4 that the first and second front continuous embossing lined are continuous lines devoid of any interruptions or breaks between their respective left and right free ends, it is contemplated that the V shape and/or inverted V shape could also be provided in the form of two discrete left and right segments that substantially converge at a common point which preferably intersects with the central longitudinal axis.

[0085] “V shape” or “inverted V shape” is meant to refer to a shape that is symmetrical with respect to the central longitudinal axis or is slightly inclined with respect to the central longitudinal axis, e.g. due to manufacturing tolerances. The line(s) forming the V shape or inverted shape are substantially straight. Additionally, the transition between the left and right sides that form the “V shape” or “inverted V shape” may be sharp, i.e. a single point at the tip of the “V shape” or the “inverted V shape”, or may be a smoother, rounded transition formed by a number of points.

[0086] An interior angle a is formed about the central longitudinal axis where the first front continuous line mutually diverges from the point of the V on either side of the central longitudinal axis into the left and right free ends. The interior angle a is in the range of 30 to 120 degrees, and preferably in the range of 45 to 100 degrees. Similarly, an interior angle [3 is formed about the central longitudinal axis where the second front continuous line mutually diverges from the point of the inverted V on either side of the central longitudinal axis into left and right free ends. Also, the interior angle [3 is in the range of 30 to 120 degrees, and preferably in the range of 45 to 100 degrees. In a preferred embodiment, the interior angles a and [3 are equal, but this is not essential, and minor differences between the angles, for example from 0 to 10 degrees, are thus possible.

[0087] Further, the positioning of the continuous embossing lines with respect to the absorbent core can be chosen based on the anatomy of the average wearer and adapted based on different user groups or different product applications. The dimensions can also be adapted based on the size, shape, and/or type of hygiene article into which the continuous embossing lines are incorporated.

[0088] Additional continuous embossing lines can also be provided in other portions of the hygiene article. The provision of additional continuous embossing lines, for example in the rear portion of the hygiene article, can promote improved folding of the article during use to better conform to the body of the wearer.

[0089] Turning back to Figure 4, a second pair of continuous embossing lines 92, which includes left and right rear continuous embossing lines 921 , 922, is provided in the high density region in the back half of the hygiene article. The left rear continuous embossing line is arranged in the rear portion of the absorbent core and forms a substantially straight line that extends between the outer side edge 801 L and the inner side edge 803L of the first leg member. The left rear continuous embossing line is also provided at an angle yi_ with respect to the central longitudinal axis, preferably within the range of 15 to 60 degrees, such that the left rear continuous embossing line is closer to the core rear edge 701 at the inner side edge than at the outer side edge. The right rear continuous embossing line is likewise arranged in the rear portion of the absorbent core and forms a substantially straight line that extends between the outer side edge 801 R and the inner side edge 803R of the second leg member. The right rear continuous embossing line is provided at an angle YR with respect to the central longitudinal axis, preferably within the range of 15 to 60 degrees, such that the right rear continuous embossing line is closer to the core rear edge at the inner side edge than at the outer side edge.

[0090] The continuous embossing lines are straight lines or essentially straight lines produced by means of a groove or line compression tool having a shape of a straight line. However, in the product due to the nature of compressible materials used in absorbent articles minor variations may be possible.

[0091] Although all of the exemplary embodiments illustrated in Figs. 1 -4 depict an absorbent hygiene article having wings, it is to be understood that variant(s) of an absorbent article in accordance with the present disclosure can be provided without wings. Moreover, while the above discussion has been exemplified through a sanitary napkin, a hygiene article in accordance with the present disclosure may nevertheless be provided in the form of other absorbent articles such as diapers, incontinence pads, absorbent period underwear, and panty liners. For example,

[0092] While the invention has been described herein by reference to certain embodiments, it is to be understood that modifications in addition to those described herein may be made to the structures and techniques described herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, although specific embodiments have been described, they are examples only and are not limiting upon the scope of the invention.

Claims

-28- Claims

1 . A disposable hygiene article (1 ) comprising a liquid-permeable topsheet (2), a liquid-impermeable backsheet (4), and an absorbent core (6) arranged between the topsheet (2) and the backsheet (4), wherein the hygiene article (1 ) comprises a central transverse axis (X) that bisects the article (1 ) into a front half (1f) and a back half (1 b) and a central longitudinal axis (Y) that bisects the absorbent core (6) into mirror-imaged left and right sides (60L, 60R), wherein the absorbent core (6) comprises, a front portion (30), a rear portion (70), a crotch portion (50) arranged between the front and rear portions (30, 70), and an outer contour (61 ) surrounding the front, rear, and crotch portions (30, 70, 50) of the absorbent core (6), wherein the outer contour (61 ) is defined by mirror-imaged first and second core edge lines (612L, 612R), a core front edge (613) in the front portion (30) and a core rear edge (701 ) in the rear portion (70), wherein the absorbent core comprises a high density region (62) extending in the longitudinal direction (y) of the article (1 ) from a front transverse edge (301 ) over the crotch portion (50) to the rear portion (70), the high density region (62) comprising a head part (623) in the front portion (30) and first and second leg members (80L, 80R) that extend symmetrically about the central longitudinal axis (Y) in the crotch and rear portions (50, 70), the first and second leg members (80L, 80R) spaced apart in the transverse direction (x) by a central area (601 ) of the absorbent core (6) comprising a low density region (63), each leg member (80L, 80R) having a respective outer side edge (801 L, 801 R), a rear edge (802L, 802R), and an inner side edge (803L, 803R), and wherein a perimeter of the high density region (62) is defined by a non- continuous embossing line (610) formed of a plurality of discrete embossing points (611 ) provided there along and embossed from the topsheet downward into the absorbent core, the non-continuous embossing line separating the high density region (62) from the low density region (63).

2. The disposable hygiene article (1 ) of claim 1 , wherein the embossing points (611 ) have a diameter of from 1 .0 to 3.0 mm, preferably from 1 .2 to 1 .8 mm.

3. The disposable hygiene article (1 ) of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein adjacent embossing points (611 ) of the non-continuous embossing line (610) are spaced apart from each other by a distance that is equal to or less than a diameter of the embossing points, the distance preferably being 1 mm.

4. The disposable hygiene article (1 ) of any preceding claim, wherein the core front edge (613) and the front transverse edge (301 ) are spaced apart by a distance of from 5 to 20 mm, preferably from 7 to 12 mm.

5. The disposable hygiene article (1 ) of any preceding claim, wherein the high density region (62) comprises an embossing pattern (621 ) comprising a plurality of individual dots (622).

6. The disposable hygiene article (1 ) of claim 5, wherein the plurality of individual dots (622) comprise from 2 to 30%, preferably from 4 to 15%, and even more preferably 7 to 10%, of a total surface area in each of the front, rear, and crotch portions (30, 70, 50).

7. The disposable hygiene article (1 ) of claim 5 or claim 6, wherein the number of individual dots (622) per cm² ranges from 2.0 to 6.0 dots in the front portion and from 2.0 to 4.5 in each of the crotch and rear portions (70, 50).

8. The disposable hygiene article (1 ) of claims 5-7, wherein the individual dots (622) are spaced from between 1.9 mm and 4.4 mm apart.

9. The disposable hygiene article (1 ) of claims 5-8, wherein the individual dots (622) are spaced at least 0,9 mm apart from the non-continuous embossing line (610).

10. The disposable hygiene article (1 ) of any preceding claim, wherein an average density of the low density region (63) is from 30 to 60% less than an average density of the high density region (62).

11 . The disposable hygiene article (1 ) of any preceding claim, wherein the low density region (63) has a density from 45 to 75 kg/m³, preferably from 55 to 65 kg/m³, and/or the high density region (62) has a density of 90 to 120 kg/m³, preferably from 100 to 110 kg/m³.

12. The disposable hygiene article (1 ) of any preceding claim, wherein the high density region (62) covers from 30 to 70%, preferably from 49 to 60%, of a total area of the absorbent core (6).

13. The disposable hygiene article (1 ) of any preceding claim, wherein the absorbent core (6) has an average thickness of from 1 to 4 mm in the high density region (62) and an average thickness of from 2 to 7 mm in the low density region (63).

14. The disposable hygiene article (1 ) of any preceding claim, wherein the absorbent core (6) has a unitary structure.

15. The disposable hygiene article (1 ) of any preceding claim, wherein the absorbent core (6) comprises one or more of cellulosic fluff pulp, tissue, superabsorbent polymers, absorbent foam materials, absorbent nonwoven materials, and the like.

16. The disposable hygiene article (1 ) of any preceding claim, wherein the high density region (62) further comprises a first pair of continuous embossing lines (91 ) in the front half (1f) and a second pair of continuous embossing lines (92) in the back half (1 b), the first and second pairs of continuous embossing lines embossed from the topsheet downward into the absorbent core.

17. The disposable hygiene article (1 ) of claim 16, wherein the first pair of continuous embossing lines (91 ) comprises a first front continuous embossing line (911 ) that forms V shape with respect to the central longitudinal axis (Y) such that the point of the V intersects with the central longitudinal axis (Y) and the left and right free ends of the V shape (911 L, 911 R) originate from respective left and right comers of the front transverse edge (301 ) of the high density region (62), and a second front continuous embossing line (912) that forms an inverted V shape with respect to the central longitudinal axis (Y) such that the point of the inverted V intersects with the central longitudinal axis (Y) and the left and right free ends of the inverted V shape (912L, 912R) originate from the non-continuous embossing line (610) at the respective longitudinal outer side edges (801 L, 801 R) of the first and second leg members (80L, 80R).

18. The disposable hygiene article (1 ) of claim 17, wherein the first front continuous embossing line (911 ) and the second front continuous embossing line (912) are spaced apart from each other along the central longitudinal axis (Y) by from 0 to 15 mm, preferably from 5 to 10 mm.

19. The disposable hygiene article (1 ) of claim 17 or claim 18, wherein the first front continuous embossing line (911 ) and/or the second front continuous embossing line (912) comprise(s) discrete, unconnected left and right segments arranged to substantially converge to form the point of the V and/or the point of the inverted V, and preferably wherein the discrete left and right segments each have a length of from 20 to 50 mm.

20. The disposable hygiene article (1 ) of claims 17-19, wherein an interior angle (a) formed about the central longitudinal axis (Y) where the first front continuous embossing line (911 ) mutually diverges from the point of the V on either side of the central longitudinal axis is from 30 to 120 degrees, preferably from 45 to 100 degrees, and/or an interior angle ([3) formed about the central longitudinal axis (Y) where the second front continuous embossing line (912) -32- mutually diverges from the point of the inverted V on either side of the central longitudinal axis (Y) is from 30 to 120 degrees, preferably from 45 to 100 degrees.

21. The disposable hygiene article (1 ) of claims 17-20, wherein the first front continuous embossing line (911 ) and the second front continuous embossing line (912) each has a total length of from 40 to 100 mm.

22. The disposable hygiene article (1 ) of claims 16-21 , wherein the first pair of continuous embossing lines (91 ) each have a width of from 1 to 3 mm, preferably 2 mm.

23. The disposable hygiene article (1 ) of claims 16-22, wherein the second pair of continuous embossing lines (92) comprises a left rear continuous embossing line (921 ) and a right rear continuous embossing line (922), wherein the left rear continuous embossing line (921 ) originates from a left outer longitudinal edge (801 L) of the embossing line (610) in a rear portion (70) of the article (1 ) and terminates at a left inner longitudinal edge (803L) of the embossing line (610) in the rear portion (70) of the article (1 ), wherein the left rear continuous embossing line (921 ) is provided at an angle with respect to the central longitudinal axis (Y) such that the left rear continuous embossing line (921 ) is closer to a rear edge (802L) of the absorbent core (6) at the left inner longitudinal edge (803L) than at the left outer longitudinal edge (801 L); and wherein the right rear continuous embossing line (922) originates from a right outer longitudinal edge (801 R) of the embossing line (610) in a rear portion (70) of the article (1 ) and terminates at a right inner longitudinal edge (803R) of the embossing line (610) in the rear portion (70) of the article (1 ), wherein the right rear continuous embossing line (922) is provided at an angle with respect to the central longitudinal axis (Y) such that the right rear continuous embossing line (922) is closer to a rear edge (802R) of the -33- absorbent core (6) at the right inner longitudinal edge (803R) than at the right outer longitudinal edge (801 R).

24. The disposable hygiene article (1 ) of claim 23, the left rear continuous embossing line (921 ) and the right rear continuous embossing line (922) are spaced apart from each other along the central transverse axis (Y) by at least 1 mm, preferably by at least 2 mm, but not more than 20 mm, preferably not more than 15 mm, and more preferably not more than 10 mm.

25. The disposable hygiene article (1 ) of claim 23 or 24, wherein an interior angle (yi_) formed between the left rear continuous embossing line (921 ) and the central longitudinal axis (Y) is 15 to 60 degrees and/or an interior angle (YR) formed between the right rear continuous embossing line (922) and the central longitudinal axis (Y) is 15 to 60 degrees.

26. The disposable hygiene (1 ) of claims 22-25, wherein the left rear continuous embossing line (921 ) and the right rear continuous embossing line (922) each have a length of from 30 to 40 mm.

27. The disposable hygiene article (1 ) of claims 22-26, wherein the second pair of continuous embossing lines (92) each have a width of from 1 to 3 mm, preferably 2 mm.