초록 ▼

The present invention relates to a method of and an apparatus for providing fluid distribution materials with improved wicking properties in a preferential fluid distribution direction. Such fluid distribution materials are particularly useful in absorbent core structures such as used in disposable

The present invention relates to a method of and an apparatus for providing fluid distribution materials with improved wicking properties in a preferential fluid distribution direction. Such fluid distribution materials are particularly useful in absorbent core structures such as used in disposable absorbent articles like baby diapers, incontinence products or catamenial products. The invention is concerned with applying a special mechanical treatment to distribution materials, by which the softness and the fluid handling properties of the materials are improved.

대표청구항 ▼

1. A method for providing a fluid distribution material comprising the steps of(a) providing a web having a machine direction, a cross direction, and a caliper, and having pores for fluid distribution, (b) providing a pair of opposed, oppositely rotating pressure applicators comprising an upper corr

1. A method for providing a fluid distribution material comprising the steps of(a) providing a web having a machine direction, a cross direction, and a caliper, and having pores for fluid distribution, (b) providing a pair of opposed, oppositely rotating pressure applicators comprising an upper corrugated roll comprising a uniform and circumferential arrangement of ridges and grooves, and a lower corrugated roll comprising a uniform and circumferential arrangement of ridges and grooves that mesh with the corresponding grooves and ridges of the upper roll, the corresponding grooves and ridges having an overlap of between +80% and -15% of the caliper of the web; and (c) passing the web between the upper and the lower corrugated rolls in its machine direction, thereby causing the web to elongate incrementally and be deformed permanently across its cross direction, thereby forming the fluid distribution material having at least a portion of the pores in the elongated portions of the web modified to improve fluid handling performance of the fluid distribution material preferentially in its machine direction.