Patent Description:
Disposable absorbent articles have an absorbent structure for absorbing bodily exudates, a soft liquid-permeable top sheet on the wearer side and a liquid- impermeable back sheet on the garment side. The absorbent structure in between is normally made from a mixture of cellulose fibers or other fibrous substance and an absorbent polymer material. These fibrous substances make these absorbent articles typically quite fluffy and bulky.

In recent years there has been increasing demand for flexible, thinner, lightweight absorbent structures to resolve various problems of manufacturing, marketing, design, fit, wearing comfort, distribution, garbage disposal, material and energy consumption, transportation and storage costs and the like.

The most common method currently used to meet these demands in disposable absorbent articles is to reduce the amount of cellulose fibre or other support material within and to surround the absorbent structure and/or use larger amounts of absorbent polymer materials. Consequently such absorbent articles have a smaller proportion of hydrophilic cellulose fibres and/or a higher proportion of absorbent polymers materials. Some of these absorbent articles may be better at storing liquid, however they are not necessarily good at absorbing and distributing liquid when the absorbent article is actually being used.

In order to obtain good absorbency, distribution and retention within such absorbent structures it has been found to be important to at least partially immobilize the absorbent material. Failing to provide sufficient structural integrity results in loss of functional performance characteristics such as coherence, absorption, distribution and/or retention and results in failures related but not limited to for instance leakages, high rewet values, etc..

<CIT> relates to a method and apparatus for forming a composite structure, preferably for use in an absorbent structure used within the personal hygiene industry, such as for instance feminine hygiene garments, baby diapers and pants and adult incontinence garments. Particulate materials are deposited and positioned in a desired pattern onto a moving carrier layer. The method allows accurate forming of a pattern of particulate material clusters at high production speed having improved attachment properties, with reduced raw material usage and relative low cost.

<CIT> relates to a method and apparatus for forming a composite structure, preferably for use in an absorbent structure used within the personal hygiene industry, such as for instance feminine hygiene garments, baby diapers and pants and adult incontinence garments. The method comprises depositing particulate material in a desired pattern onto a moving carrier layer and positioning it into a pocketing pattern. The method allows accurate forming of a pre-determined pattern of particulate material clusters at high production speed, with reduced raw material usage and relative low cost. As such method allows manufacturing of absorbent structures being substantially cellulose free and substantially glue free, considered technically, economically and environmentally friendly.

<CIT> relates to an item having liquid storage and/or discharge properties, in particular a bandage, which is capable of locally limiting the exchange of liquid between the distal and proximal structures by maintaining a gap between said structures. When coming into contact with a liquid, an expansion causes the proximal and distal structure to move together locally and causes the transfer of said liquid.

<CIT> relates to an absorbent composite (<NUM>) that includes a fibrous matrix having absorbent material dispersed in bands (<NUM>) along the length. On liquid contact, absorbent material swelling occurs and produces a wetted composite having flutes that include swollen absorbent material separated by distribution zones (<NUM>) which are substantially free of absorbent material.

<CIT> relates to an absorbent core structure with storage cells (<NUM>) and acquisition cells (<NUM>) in a honeycomb-like configuration. A quantity of a superabsorbent material (<NUM>) is deposited in the storage cells (<NUM>) and the acquisition cells (<NUM>) are devoid of superabsorbent material (<NUM>) and are preferably open. The acquisition cells (<NUM>) can function as channels that allow liquids to be freely distributed within the absorbent core structure by mass flow and/or capillary action.

There is a need in the art for an improved thin, flexible, lightweight absorbent structure which is discreet, sustainable and/or relatively inexpensive taking in mind manufacturing, marketing, design, fit, comfort, distribution, packaging, disposal, material, energy and transportation costs while preserving the required fluid absorption, distribution, transport, coherence and retention properties.

The object of embodiments of the invention is to provide an absorbent article of the type stated in the preamble, with reduced manufacturing cost, light weight, thin, and good liquid distribution and absorption capacities.

According to the invention, there is provided an absorbent article according to claim <NUM>. The absorbent article has a front edge intended to be positioned at a front side of a person and a rear edge intended to be positioned at a rear side of a person. The absorbent article comprises a liquid pervious topsheet, a liquid impervious backsheet, and an absorbent material between the topsheet and the backsheet. At least a first spacer element is included between the topsheet and the backsheet. The spacer element has a top side facing the topsheet, a backside facing the backsheet, and a number of lateral sides between the topside and the backside. The absorbent material extends along at least two opposite lateral sides of the first spacer element. The first spacer element is configured to guide liquid to the absorbent material upon wetting of the absorbent article. The lateral sides of the first spacer element are surrounded by the absorbent material, such that seen from a top view, a contour of the spacer element is adjacent to the absorbent material.

By providing at least a first spacer element, which is configured to guide liquid to the absorbent material upon wetting of the absorbent article, between the topsheet and the backsheet and with absorbent material extending along at least two opposite lateral sides of the first spacer element, upon wetting of the absorbent article a channel is created at the corresponding location of the first spacer element, such that liquid can be distributed and absorbed in an improved manner. A quantity of liquid can be temporarily held in the formed channel, and the chance of liquid overflow and leakage during a liquid insult is decreased. This is because the absorbent article absorbs no or less liquid at the corresponding location of the first spacer element, and as a result it expands less in volume at the corresponding location of the first spacer element compared to an absorbent material area extending along the at least two lateral sides, such that a valley is created at the location of the first spacer element. In this manner, the manufacturing process may be simplified, and the manufacturing cost may be reduced compared to an absorbent article with channels of the prior art, meanwhile an absorbent article with good liquid distribution and absorbent capacities can still be provided.

Preferably, the first spacer element is configured to absorb no or less liquid than a same volume of the absorbent material, upon wetting. Preferably, the first spacer element has at least an outer surface which is liquid-impervious. However, typically the first spacer element may be made entirely out of a non-liquid absorbing material. More generally, the first spacer element may be made of a material configured to absorb no or less liquid than the absorbent material. Preferably the material of the spacer element has a water absorption capacity which is at least <NUM>% lower that the water absorption capacity of the absorbent material.

In an exemplary embodiment, the first spacer element is an elongated element, such that an elongated channel is formed upon wetting.

In an exemplary embodiment, the absorbent article has a crotch region in between the front edge and the rear edge, and the first spacer element extends from the crotch region in the direction of the front and/or rear edge. In this manner, liquid absorbent and distribution capacities is improved throughout the entire absorbent article in both front and rear portions.

In an exemplary embodiment, the first spacer element is attached to the topsheet and/or to the backsheet, which allows the formation of channel with a sufficient depth upon wetting of the absorbent article. In addition, the structure of the absorbent core is more stable and integrated/interconnected.

In an exemplary embodiment, the absorbent material is part of an absorbent core comprising a top core wrap sheet and a back core wrap sheet with the absorbent material positioned in between the top core wrap sheet and the bottom core wrap sheet. In such an embodiment, the first spacer element may be attached to the top core wrap sheet and/or to the back core wrap sheet, which may further improve the formation of a channel with a sufficient depth upon wetting of the absorbent core. In addition, the structure of the absorbent core is more stable and integrated/interconnected.

In exemplary embodiments, the spacer element may be made of waste material, for example waste from other layers of the absorbent article. Optionally the waste material may be treated mechanically (e.g. milled or cut) and/or chemically (e.g. coated). For example, the spacer element may be made of any one or any combination of the following materials: a non-water-absorbing polymer material such as a PE or PP material, chemically and/or mechanically treated fibers such as cellulose fibers.

In an exemplary embodiment, the absorbent article has a length between the front edge and the rear edge, and the first spacer element has a length which is at least <NUM>%, preferably at least <NUM>%, more preferably at least <NUM>%, and even more preferably at least <NUM>% of the length of the absorbent article. In some cases, the length may even be larger than <NUM>% of the length of the absorbent core. This improves the liquid distribution over a large area of the absorbent article.

In an exemplary embodiment, the absorbent article has a transverse crotch line dividing the absorbent core in a front portion and a rear portion on either side of the transverse crotch line, and the first spacer element extends in the front portion and in the rear portion, which allows a better liquid distribution between the front and rear portion of the absorbent article.

In an exemplary embodiment, the absorbent article further comprises a second spacer element between the topsheet and the backsheet. In this manner the liquid distribution and absorbent capacities are further improved.

In an exemplary embodiment, the absorbent article has a longitudinal center line dividing the absorbent article in a first longitudinal portion and a second longitudinal portion on either side of the longitudinal center line. The first spacer element is arranged in the first longitudinal portion and the second spacer element is arranged in the second longitudinal portion. Preferably the first and the second spacer element extend symmetrically with respect to the longitudinal center line. In this manner the liquid distribution and absorbent capacities are improved on both longitudinal portions of the absorbent article.

In an exemplary embodiment, also the second spacer element extends in the front portion and in the rear portion, which further improves the liquid distribution between the front and rear portion of the absorbent article.

In an exemplary embodiment, the absorbent article has a transverse crotch line dividing the absorbent core in a front portion and a rear portion on either side of the transverse crotch line, and the absorbent article further comprises a third spacer element between the topsheet and the backsheet. The first and second spacer elements extend at least in the front portion and the third spacer element extends at least in the rear portion. In this manner, the absorbent article may be tailored for male user, as during a liquid insult of a male user the volume of liquid is larger in the front portion than in the rear portion.

In an exemplary embodiment, the absorbent article further comprises a fourth spacer element between the topsheet and the backsheet. The fourth spacer element extends at least in the rear portion, and preferably the third and the fourth spacer element are arranged symmetrically with respect to a longitudinal center line of the absorbent article, which further improves the liquid distribution and absorbent capacities in the rear portion of the absorbent article.

In an exemplary embodiment, a maximum distance between the first and the second spacer element is different from a maximum distance between the third and the fourth spacer element. By having a different distance between the spacer elements in the front portion and in the rear portion, it is possible to tailor the absorbent article to the wearer. For example, for a male person the maximum distance may be larger in the front portion than in the rear portion, whilst for a female person the maximum distance may be larger in the rear portion than in the front portion. Further it is possible to optimize the difference between the front and the rear portion for obtaining an unisex absorbent article.

In an exemplary embodiment, the first and the second spacer element diverge in a direction of the front edge and/or the rear edge, which allows better liquid communication between the left/right portions of absorbent article near the front edge and/or the rear edge to the crotch region of the absorbent article.

In an exemplary embodiment, the first and second spacer elements together form a substantially X-shaped zone. In that manner, immediately after wetting, liquid is guided in the first and/or second elongate channel from left to right and/or from right to left, respectively, whilst flowing towards the crotch region or away from the crotch region, improving the liquid distribution, whereupon the liquid can be absorbed by the absorbent material. Further, by making the first and second attachment zones cross the longitudinal center line, the zones may be longer compared to similar zones extending parallel to the longitudinal center line, resulting in a larger liquid distribution zone.

In an exemplary embodiment, a maximum distance between the first and the second spacer element is between <NUM> and <NUM>% of the width of the absorbent article, more preferably between <NUM> and <NUM>%.

In an exemplary embodiment, the length of the first and second spacer is larger than <NUM>% of the length of the absorbent article, more preferably larger than <NUM>%, even more preferably larger than <NUM>%, which allows formation of a channel sufficient long enough over a longitudinal dimension of the absorbent article and a better liquid distribution over the absorbent article.

In an exemplary embodiment, substantially no absorbent material is present between the first spacer element and the topsheet, and/or between the first spacer element and the backsheet, which allows the formation of channel with a sufficient depth upon wetting of the absorbent article.

In an exemplary embodiment, the first spacer element extends, seen in the transverse direction of the absorbent article, over a transverse distance which is at least <NUM>, preferably at least <NUM>, more preferably at least <NUM>, even more preferably at least <NUM>, most preferably at least <NUM>. In that manner the channels created upon wetting will be sufficiently wide to cause a good liquid distribution. Preferably, the first spacer element extends, seen in the transverse direction of the absorbent article, over a transverse distance which is smaller than <NUM>, more preferably smaller than <NUM>.

In an exemplary embodiment, the first spacer element extends, seen in the thickness direction of the absorbent article, over a distance which is at least <NUM>, preferably at least <NUM>, more preferably at least <NUM>, which allows the formation of channel with a sufficient depth upon wetting of the absorbent article.

In an exemplary embodiment, the absorbent material comprises cellulosic fluff pulp and/or superabsorbent particles.

The spacer element may be provided with an indication, e.g. a color and/or a pattern which is different from the color and/or pattern of topsheet and/or backsheet, and which is visible through the topsheet and/or backsheet, allowing a user to visually distinguish the channel. Alternatively this indication may be arranged on the topsheet <NUM>, on the backsheet <NUM>, or on any sheet in between the topsheet <NUM> and the backsheet <NUM>, as long as it is visible for a user. As the sheets may be partially transparent, the print may be arranged on the spacer element or on a sheet in between the topsheet and the backsheet, as long as it is visible through the topsheet and/or the backsheet. Preferably the print is visible when looking at the topsheet of the absorbent article.

Further disclosed herein is an absorbent core comprising a top core wrap sheet, a back core wrap sheet, and absorbent material positioned in between the top core wrap sheet and the bottom core wrap sheet. At least a first spacer element is included between the top core wrap sheet and the back core wrap sheet, the first spacer element being configured to guide liquid upon wetting of the absorbent core. The spacer element has a topside facing the topsheet, a backside facing the backsheet, and a number of lateral sides between the topside and the backside. The absorbent material extends along at least two opposite lateral sides of the first spacer element.

By providing at least a first spacer element which guides liquid upon wetting of the absorbent core, between the top core wrap sheet and the back core wrap sheet and with absorbent material extending along at least two opposite lateral sides of the first spacer element, upon wetting of the absorbent core a channel is created at the corresponding location of the first spacer element, such that liquid can be distributed and absorbed in an improved manner. A quantity of liquid can be temporarily held in the formed channel, and the chance of liquid overflow and leakage during a liquid insult is decreased. This is because the absorbent core absorbs no or less liquid at the corresponding location of the first spacer element, and as a result it expands less in volume at the corresponding location of the first spacer element. In this manner, the manufacturing process may be simplified and the manufacturing cost may be reduced compared to absorbent cores with channels of the prior art. Meanwhile an absorbent core with good liquid distribution and absorbent capacities can still be provided.

The features described above for the absorbent article may, where possible, also be included in the absorbent core. For example, the absorbent core may be provided with a plurality of spacer elements as described above.

The same or similar features and components are indicated with the same reference numerals throughout the figures.

<FIG> illustrate an exemplary embodiment of an absorbent article, here a diaper. <FIG> shows a cross-section of the absorbent article along line 1A-1A of <FIG> shows the absorbent article in its flat out, un-contracted state with the wearer side facing the viewer. The skilled person understands that the absorbent article may also be a pant or an adult incontinence garment or the like. The absorbent article has a front edge <NUM> intended to be positioned at a front side of a person and a rear edge <NUM> intended to be positioned at a rear side of a person. The absorbent article also has a first longitudinal edge <NUM> and a second longitudinal edge <NUM>. The absorbent article comprises a liquid pervious topsheet <NUM>, a liquid impervious backsheet <NUM>, and an absorbent material <NUM> between the topsheet <NUM> and the backsheet <NUM>. The absorbent material <NUM> comprises cellulosic fluff pulp and/or superabsorbent particles.

A spacer element <NUM> of an elongated shape is included between the topsheet <NUM> and the backsheet <NUM>. The spacer element <NUM> is made of a material configured to absorb no or less liquid than the absorbent material <NUM> upon wetting of the absorbent article. In practice the liquid is typically urine. However, for determining whether a material is suitable for the spacer element <NUM>, the absorption properties for water may be considered. Preferably the material does not absorb water or absorbs at least <NUM> percent less water compared to a same volume of absorbent material used in the absorbent article. In exemplary embodiments, the spacer element may be made of waste material, for example waste from other layers of the absorbent article. Optionally the waste material may be treated mechanically (e.g. milled or cut) and/or chemically (e.g. coated). For example, the spacer element <NUM> may be made of any one or any combination of the following materials: a non-water-absorbing polymer material such as a PE or PP material, chemically and/or mechanically treated fibers such as cellulose fibers. For example, the spacer element may be a possibly breathable polyethylene (PE) or polypropylene (PP) layer, e.g. a coated polyethylene or polypropylene film.

The spacer element <NUM> has a topside <NUM> facing the topsheet <NUM>, a backside <NUM> facing the backsheet <NUM>, and a plurality of lateral sides between the topside <NUM> and the backside <NUM>. Here the lateral sides consist of a front side <NUM>, a rear side <NUM>, and two longitudinal sides <NUM>, <NUM>. The absorbent material <NUM> extends along at least two opposite lateral sides of the spacer element <NUM>. In the embodiment of <FIG> the absorbent material <NUM> extends along all four lateral sides <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and there even some absorbent material above the topside <NUM> and below the bottom side <NUM>. In other words, from a <NUM>-D perspective, the spacer element <NUM> surrounded by the absorbent material <NUM>. Seen from a top view, a contour of the spacer element is adjacent to the absorbent material <NUM>. However, in preferred embodiments substantially no absorbent material <NUM> is present between the topside <NUM> and the topsheet <NUM> and between the backside <NUM> and the backsheet <NUM>. Upon wetting of the absorbent article, the absorbent material <NUM> absorbing liquid expands in volume. As the spacer element <NUM> absorbs no or less liquid, the absorbent article expands less in volume at the corresponding location of the spacer element <NUM>. As a result, a channel is created at the corresponding location of the spacer element <NUM> of the absorbent article. The created channel facilitates liquid distribution towards the absorbent material <NUM> and an improved absorption by the absorbent material <NUM>. Therefore, the chance of liquid overflow and leakage during a liquid insult is decreased. Since the absorbent article has a simple structure, the manufacturing process may be simplified and the manufacturing cost may be reduced, compared to other absorbent article with channels of the prior art, while an absorbent article with good liquid distribution and absorbent capacities can still be provided. In that regard it is noted that in the embodiment of <FIG> no core wrap is used to encapsulate the absorbent material <NUM>, and that the absorbent material is directly included between the topsheet <NUM> and the backsheet <NUM>.

The absorbent article has a crotch region in between the front edge <NUM> and the rear edge <NUM>, and a transverse crotch line L dividing the absorbent article into a front portion and a rear portion on either side of the transverse crotch line L. The absorbent article has a length between the front edge <NUM> and the rear edge <NUM>. The spacer element <NUM> extends from the crotch region in the direction of the front edge <NUM> and the rear edge <NUM> in both the front portion and the rear portion, and has a length which is at least <NUM>%, more preferably at least <NUM>% of the length of the absorbent article. This embodiment allows a better liquid communication between the front portion and the rear portion of the absorbent article, and overall improved liquid absorption and distribution capacities of the absorbent article.

In other possible embodiments, the spacer element <NUM> may extend in the direction from the first longitudinal edge <NUM> to the second longitudinal edge <NUM> of the absorbent article, which allows a better liquid distribution between left and right portions of absorbent article. It is also possible for the spacer element to extend under a small angle with respect to the longitudinal direction of absorbent article, e.g. an angle between <NUM> and <NUM>°.

Seen in the transverse direction of the absorbent article, the spacer element <NUM> extends over a transverse distance w which is at least <NUM>, preferably at least <NUM>, more preferably at least <NUM>, even more preferably at least <NUM>, most preferably at least <NUM>. In this manner the channel created upon wetting will be sufficiently wide to cause a good liquid distribution. Preferably, the width is smaller than <NUM>, more preferably smaller than <NUM>. The width w of the spacer element <NUM> may be constant through substantially the whole length of the spacer element <NUM> or may vary along its length. Preferably the spacer element <NUM> is arranged symmetrically with respect to the longitudinal center line CL of absorbent article. Here the spacer element <NUM> is arranged on the longitudinal center line CL.

The spacer element <NUM> extends, seen in the thickness direction of the absorbent article, over a distance which is at least <NUM>, preferably at least <NUM>, more preferably at least <NUM>. The thickness t of the spacer element <NUM> may be constant through substantially the whole length of the spacer element <NUM> or may vary along its length.

In the embodiment of <FIG>, seen in a cross-section view, the spacer element <NUM> is not attached to the topsheet <NUM> and/or to the backsheet <NUM>, and there is absorbent material <NUM> between the spacer element <NUM> and the topsheet <NUM> and between the spacer element <NUM> and the backsheet <NUM>. However, the spacer element <NUM> may be attached to the absorbent material above and below, e.g. by glue, which improves the overall structural stability of the absorbent article. In another possible embodiment (see <FIG> discussed below), the spacer element <NUM> is attached to the topsheet <NUM> and/or to the backsheet <NUM>. That's to say, there may be no absorbent material <NUM> between the spacer element <NUM> and the topsheet <NUM>, and/or between the spacer element <NUM> and the backsheet <NUM>. The attachment may be realized by adding binder layers, such as glue, to strengthen the bond between the spacer element <NUM> and the topsheet <NUM> and/or backsheet <NUM>. Also other bonding techniques may be used, such as ultrasonic bonding, heat bonding, pressure bonding, and combinations thereof. In this manner, upon wetting of the absorbent article, the difference in thickness of the absorbent article is even larger, between an area corresponding to the spacer element S0 and an area without the spacer element S1. As a result, the formed channel has a sufficient depth, is able to hold more liquid and allows better liquid distribution and absorbance. In addition, the structure of the absorbent article is more stable and more integrated/interconnected, which improves the stability of the absorbent article and wearing comfort.

Seen from a top view, the spacer element <NUM> has a center line, which is a straight line. In other possible embodiments, the center line of the spacer element <NUM> may have other shapes, e.g. a curve, or a polyline. The center line is a line which is at the same distance of opposite sides <NUM>, <NUM> of the spacer element <NUM> and which preferably extends in a length direction of the spacer element <NUM>.

The channel created by the spacer element <NUM> may be indicated with a color and/or with a pattern which is different from the color and/or pattern of topsheet <NUM>. More in particular the area of the channel may comprise a print allowing a user to visually distinguish the channel. This print may be arranged on the spacer element <NUM>, on the topsheet <NUM>, on the backsheet <NUM>, or on any sheet in between the topsheet <NUM> and the backsheet <NUM>, as long as it is visible for a user. As the sheets may be partially transparent, the print may be arranged on the spacer element <NUM> or on a sheet in between the topsheet <NUM> and the backsheet <NUM>, as long as it is visible through the topsheet <NUM> and/or the backsheet <NUM>. Preferably the print is visible when looking at the topsheet <NUM> of the diaper.

<FIG> illustrate another exemplary embodiment of an absorbent article, here a diaper. <FIG> shows the cross-section of the absorbent article along line 2A-2A of <FIG> shows a top view of the absorbent article in its flat out, un-contracted state with the wearer side facing the viewer. In this embodiment, the absorbent material <NUM> is part of an absorbent core <NUM> comprising a top core wrap sheet <NUM> and a back core wrap sheet <NUM> with the absorbent material <NUM> positioned in between the top core wrap sheet <NUM> and the bottom core wrap sheet <NUM>.

The absorbent article comprises a liquid pervious topsheet <NUM>, a liquid impervious backsheet <NUM>, and the absorbent core <NUM> between the topsheet <NUM> and the backsheet <NUM>. The absorbent core <NUM> has a rectangular shape, having a front edge <NUM>, a rear edge, <NUM>, a first longitudinal edge <NUM>, and a second longitudinal edge <NUM>. A spacer element <NUM> is included between the top core wrap sheet <NUM> and the back core wrap sheet <NUM>. The spacer element <NUM> is made of a material configured to absorb no or less liquid than the absorbent material <NUM> upon wetting of the absorbent core <NUM>. The spacer element <NUM> has a topside <NUM> facing the top core wrap sheet <NUM> and the topsheet <NUM>, a backside <NUM> facing the back core wrap sheet <NUM> and the backsheet <NUM>, and a plurality of lateral sides between the topside <NUM> and the backside <NUM>. Here the lateral sides consist of a front side <NUM>, a rear side <NUM>, and two longitudinal sides <NUM>, <NUM>. The absorbent material <NUM> extends along at least two lateral opposite sides <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> of the spacer element <NUM>. Seen from a top view, a contour of the spacer element <NUM> is adjacent to the absorbent material <NUM>.

The spacer element <NUM> is attached to the top core wrap sheet <NUM> and to the back core wrap sheet <NUM>. There may be substantially no absorbent material <NUM> between the spacer element <NUM> and the top core wrap sheet <NUM>, and/or between the spacer element <NUM> and the back core wrap sheet <NUM>. The attachment may be realized by adding binder layers, such as glue, to strengthen the bond between the spacer element <NUM> and the top core wrap sheet <NUM> and/or back core wrap sheet <NUM>. Also other bonding techniques may be used, such as ultrasonic bonding, heat bonding, pressure bonding, and combinations thereof. In this manner, upon wetting of the absorbent core <NUM>, the difference in thickness of the absorbent core is even larger, between the area corresponding to the spacer element S0 and the area without the spacer element S1. As a result, the formed channel has a sufficient depth, is able to hold more liquid and allows better liquid distribution and absorbance. In addition, the absorbent article is even more structured and interconnected, resulting in a more stable channel forming and even less leakage risks. In another possible embodiment, the spacer element <NUM> is not attached to the top core wrap sheet <NUM> and/or to the back wrap sheet <NUM>, and there may be absorbent material <NUM> between the spacer element <NUM> and the top core wrap sheet <NUM> and between the spacer element <NUM> and the back core wrap sheet <NUM>. However, the spacer element <NUM> may be attached to the absorbent material <NUM> above and/or below, e.g. by glue or any other suitable bonding technique, which improves the overall structural stability of the absorbent core.

The absorbent core <NUM> has a crotch region in between the front edge <NUM> and the rear edge <NUM>, and a transverse crotch line L dividing the absorbent core <NUM> into a front portion and a rear portion on either side of the transverse crotch line L. The absorbent core <NUM> has a length between the front edge <NUM> and the rear edge <NUM>. The spacer element <NUM> extends from the crotch region in the direction of the front edge <NUM> and the rear edge <NUM> of the absorbent core in both the front portion and the rear portion, and has a length which is at least <NUM>% more preferably at least <NUM>% of the length of the absorbent core <NUM>.

Upon wetting of the absorbent article, the absorbent material absorbing liquid expands in volume. As the spacer element <NUM> absorbs no or less liquid, the absorbent core <NUM> expands less in volume at the corresponding location of the spacer element S0. As a result, a channel is created at the corresponding location S0 of the spacer element <NUM> of the absorbent core. The created channel facilitates liquid distribution over the absorbent core <NUM>, and a larger quantity of liquid can be temporarily held in the created channel. Since the absorbent core has a simple structure, the manufacturing process may be simplified and the manufacturing cost may be reduced, compared to other absorbent core with channels of the prior art, while an absorbent core with good liquid distribution and absorption capacities can still be provided. In addition, the absorbent core <NUM> can be directly used in the manufacturing of absorbent articles of various types.

The absorbent article may further comprise an acquisition and distribution layer ADL (not shown) positioned between the absorbent core <NUM> and the liquid pervious topsheet <NUM>. This serves to slow down the flow so that the liquid has adequate time to be absorbed by and evenly distributed over the absorbent core <NUM>. The absorbent article may further comprise adhesive between the absorbent core <NUM> and the ADL, and/or the absorbent article comprises adhesive between the ADL and the liquid pervious topsheet <NUM>. If no ADL is present the absorbent article may comprise adhesive between the absorbent core <NUM> and the topsheet <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrate another exemplary embodiment of an absorbent article. <FIG> show a cross-section of the absorbent article along line 3A-3A of <FIG>, in a dry and wetted state, respectively, and <FIG> shows a top view of the absorbent article in its flat out, un-contracted state with the wearer side facing the viewer. The absorbent article comprises a liquid pervious topsheet <NUM>, a liquid impervious backsheet <NUM>, and the absorbent material <NUM> between the topsheet <NUM> and the backsheet <NUM>. Two spacer elements 400a, 400b are arranged at a distance of each other between the topsheet <NUM> and the backsheet <NUM>. The first and second spacer element 400a, 400b are configured to guide liquid to the absorbent material <NUM> upon wetting of the absorbent article. This may be realized by configuring the first and second spacer element 400a, 400b to absorb no or less liquid than a same volume of the absorbent material <NUM>. The first and second spacer element may have at least an outer surface which is liquid-impervious. More preferably the entire first and second spacer elements are liquid impervious. The first spacer element may be made of a material configured to absorb no or less liquid than the absorbent material.

The absorbent article has a longitudinal center line CL dividing the absorbent article in a first longitudinal portion and a second longitudinal portion on either side of the longitudinal center line, and the first spacer element is arranged in the first longitudinal portion and the second spacer element is arranged in the second longitudinal portion, preferably symmetrically with respect to the longitudinal center line CL. Preferably, the first and second spacer element 400a, 400b extend in the front portion and in the rear portion. In the illustrated embodiment the first and second spacer element are substantially parallel. However, in other possible embodiments the first and the second spacer element diverge in a direction of the front edge and/or the rear edge. Preferably, a maximum distance Ds between the first and the second spacer element is between <NUM> and <NUM>% of the width Wa of the absorbent article, more preferably between <NUM> and <NUM>%. Preferably, the length ls of the first and second spacer is larger than <NUM>% of the length La of the absorbent article, more preferably larger than <NUM>%, even more preferably larger than <NUM>%.

<FIG> illustrates another exemplary embodiment of an absorbent article comprising a first and second spacer element 400a, 400b between the topsheet <NUM> and the backsheet <NUM>. The absorbent article comprises a liquid pervious topsheet <NUM>, a liquid impervious backsheet <NUM>, and an absorbent core <NUM> between the topsheet <NUM> and the backsheet <NUM>. The absorbent core <NUM> may be similar to the absorbent core <NUM> of <FIG> with this difference that a second spacer element 400b is provided. The absorbent core <NUM> has rectangular shape, having a front edge <NUM>, a rear edge, <NUM>, a first longitudinal edge <NUM>, and a second longitudinal edge <NUM>. The first spacer element 400a and the second spacer element 400b are included between the top core wrap sheet <NUM> and the back core wrap sheet <NUM>. The absorbent material <NUM> extends along the lateral sides of the first spacer element 400a and the second spacer element 400b, in a similar manner as described above for <FIG>. Seen from a top view, contours of the first spacer element 400a and the second spacer element 400b are adjacent to the absorbent material <NUM>.

The absorbent article has a longitudinal center line CL dividing the absorbent article in a first longitudinal portion and a second longitudinal portion on either side of the longitudinal center line CL. The first spacer element 400a is arranged in the first longitudinal portion and the second spacer element 400b is arranged in the second longitudinal portion. The first and the second spacer element 400a, 400b extend symmetrically with respect to the longitudinal center line CL. In this manner the liquid distribution and absorbent capacities of the absorbent core are improved on both longitudinal portions of the absorbent core. The first and the second spacer element 400a, 400b extend in parallel in the longitudinal direction of the absorbent core <NUM>, from the crotch region of the absorbent core to the front and the rear transverse edge <NUM>, <NUM> of the absorbent core, in both the front portion and the rear portion of the absorbent core. The first spacer element 400a and the second spacer element 400b have substantially the same length, which is at least <NUM>%, preferably at least <NUM>%, more preferably at least <NUM>% of the length of the absorbent core <NUM>. Upon wetting of the absorbent core, two channels are created on both longitudinal portions of the absorbent core respectively.

Preferably, the first and second spacer element 400a, 400b extend in the front portion and in the rear portion. Preferably, a maximum distance Ds between the first and the second spacer element is between <NUM> and <NUM>% of the width Wa of the absorbent article, more preferably between <NUM> and <NUM>%. In the illustrated embodiment the first and second spacer element are substantially parallel. In another possible embodiment, the first and the second spacer element may diverge in a direction of the front edge <NUM> and/or the rear edge <NUM>, which allows better liquid communication between the left/right portions of absorbent core near the front edge and/or the rear edge to the crotch region of the absorbent core.

<FIG> illustrates another exemplary embodiment of an absorbent article further comprising a third spacer element 400c and a fourth spacer element 400d between the topsheet <NUM> and the backsheet <NUM>. Like the first spacer element 400a and the second spacer element 400b, the third spacer element 400a and the fourth spacer element 400d may be included between the top core wrap sheet <NUM> and the back core wrap sheet <NUM> of the absorbent core <NUM> (cf. <FIG>), or directly between the topsheet <NUM> and the backsheet <NUM> (cf. The spacer elements 400a, 400b, 400c, 400b may have similar properties as described above for embodiments with one or two spacer elements. All spacer elements 400a, 400b, 400c, 400d may be attached to the top core wrap sheet <NUM> or to the topsheet <NUM> (if no core wrap is present) and/or to the back core wrap sheet <NUM> or to the backsheet <NUM> (in no core wrap is present), and there may be substantially no absorbent material above and/or below each spacer element 400a, 400b, 400c, 400d. Upon wetting of the absorbent material, four channels are created.

The first and second spacer 400a, 400b elements extend next to each other from the crotch region CR in the direction of the front edge <NUM> in the front portion of the absorbent article. The third and fourth spacer elements 400c, 400d extend next to each other from the crotch region CR in the direction of the rear edge <NUM> in the rear portion of the absorbent article.

The first and the second spacer elements 400a, 400b are located a distance d12 of each other. Preferably the distance d12 is between <NUM> and <NUM>% of the width of the absorbent article, more preferably between <NUM> and <NUM>%. The first and second spacer elements 400a, 400b have substantially the same length <NUM>, which is at least <NUM>%, preferably at least <NUM>% of the absorbent article. The first and second spacer elements 400a, 400b have substantially the same width w12, which is at least <NUM>, preferably at least <NUM>, more preferably at least <NUM>, even more preferably at least <NUM>, most preferably at least <NUM>. The first and the second spacer elements 400a, 400b are substantially parallel and run in the longitudinal direction of absorbent article. However, it is also possible for the first and the second spacer elements 400a, 400b to extend under a small angle with respect to the longitudinal direction of absorbent article, e.g. an angle between <NUM> and <NUM>°. For example, the first and the second spacer elements 400a, 400b may be diverging slightly outwardly in the direction of front edge <NUM>. The first and the second spacer elements 400a, 400b are arranged symmetrically with respect to a longitudinal center line CL of absorbent article.

The third and the fourth spacer elements 400c, 400d are located a distance d34 of each other, preferably the distance d34 is between <NUM> and <NUM>% of the width of the absorbent article, more preferably between <NUM> and <NUM>%. The third and the fourth spacer elements 400c, 400d have substantially the same length <NUM>, which is at least <NUM>%, preferably at least <NUM>% of the absorbent article. The third and the fourth spacer elements 400c, 400d have substantially the same width w34, which is at least <NUM>, preferably at least <NUM>, more preferably at least <NUM>, even more preferably at least <NUM>, most preferably at least <NUM>. The third and the fourth spacer elements 400c, 400d are substantially parallel and run in the longitudinal direction of absorbent article. However, it is also possible for the third and the fourth spacer elements 400c, 400d to extend under a small angle with respect to the longitudinal direction of absorbent article, e.g. an angle between <NUM> and <NUM>°. For example, the third and the fourth spacer elements 400c, 400d may be diverging slightly outwardly in the direction of rear edge <NUM>. The third and the fourth spacer elements 400c, 400d are arranged symmetrically with respect to a longitudinal center line CL of the absorbent article.

Preferably d12 is different from d34, more preferably d12 is larger than d34, even more preferably d12 is at least <NUM> % larger than d34. Optionally w12 may be different from w34, preferably w12 is larger than w34, even more preferably w12 is at least <NUM> or at least <NUM>% larger than w34. Preferably <NUM> is different from <NUM>, more preferably <NUM> is smaller than <NUM>, even more preferably <NUM> is at least <NUM> % smaller than <NUM>. In this manner, the absorbent article is tailored for male user, as during a liquid insult of a male user the volume of liquid is larger in the front portion than in the rear portion. Further it is possible to optimize the differences between the front and the rear portion for obtaining a unisex absorbent article.

Preferably, the first spacer element 400a is separated from the third spacer element 400c by a distance B, and the second spacer element 400b is also separated from the fourth spacer element 400d by substantial the same distance. The distance is measure between the ends of spacer elements by a projection on the longitudinal center line. Preferably, the distance B is smaller than <NUM>, more preferably smaller than <NUM>, even more preferably smaller than <NUM>. In another embodiment, endpoints of the spacer elements 400a, 400b, 400c, 400d in the crotch region may be located on substantially the same transverse line L functioning as a fold line along which the diaper can be folded in two.

<FIG> illustrates an exemplary embodiment, in which the first and second spacer elements 400a, 400b together form a substantially X-shaped spacer element <NUM>. The absorbent article comprises a liquid pervious topsheet <NUM>, a liquid impervious backsheet <NUM>, and an absorbent material <NUM> between the topsheet <NUM> and the backsheet <NUM>. A first spacer element 400a and a second spacer element 400b of an elongated shape are included between the topsheet <NUM> and the backsheet <NUM>. The first and second spacer elements 400a, 400b may also be provided as a single integral element <NUM>. The spacer elements 400a, 400b may have similar properties as described above for other embodiments with one or two spacer elements. As in <FIG>, the first spacer element 400a and a second spacer element 400b may be attached to the topsheet <NUM> and/or backsheet <NUM>, and there may be no absorbent material between the spacer elements and the topsheet, and/or between the spacer elements and the backsheet. Alternatively a core wrap may be provided as in the embodiment of <FIG>. The first spacer element 400a extends from the front portion of the first longitudinal portion of the absorbent article to the rear portion of the second longitudinal portion of the absorbent article. The second spacer element 400b extends from the front portion of the second longitudinal portion of the absorbent article to the rear portion of the first longitudinal portion of the absorbent article. Seen from a top view, the first spacer element 400a and the second spacer element 400b form a crossing point CP. Preferably, the crossing point CP is located on the longitudinal center line CL of the absorbent article, and/or the crossing point CP is located in the crotch region CR of the absorbent article. Together, the first and second spacer elements 400a, 400b form a substantially X-shaped zone. The overlapping region of the first and second spacer elements 400a, 400b are shared by the first and second spacer elements 400a, 400b. That's to say, physically the first and second spacer elements 400a, 400b share the same portion at the crossing point CP. The contour of the X-shaped spacer element <NUM> is adjacent to the absorbent material <NUM>. Upon wetting of the absorbent article, an X-shaped channel is formed.

<FIG> illustrates an absorbent article comprising a first spacer element 400a and a second spacer element 400b of an elongated shape included between the topsheet <NUM> and the backsheet <NUM>, as in <FIG>. Alternatively a core wrap may be provided as in the embodiment of <FIG>. The spacer elements 400a, 400b may have similar properties as described above for other embodiments with one or two spacer elements. The first and the second spacer element 400a, 400b diverge in a direction of the front edge <NUM> and the rear edge <NUM>, which allows better liquid communication between the left/right portions of absorbent article near the front edge and the rear edge to the crotch region of the absorbent article. The first spacer element and the second spacer element 400a, 400b have a curved-shape, and preferably are arranged symmetrically with respect to the longitudinal center line CL of the absorbent article. For example in <FIG>, the first spacer element and the second spacer element 400a, 400b are concave towards the longitudinal center line CL of the absorbent article such that they bend towards the longitudinal center line CL. In other possible embodiments, the first spacer element and the second spacer element 400a, 400b may also be convex, such they bend away from the longitudinal center line CL, or they have any other suitable arrangement. In this embodiment, the maximum distance between the first spacer element and the second spacer element in the front portion d1 is substantially the same as the maximum distance between the first spacer element and the second spacer element in the rear portion d2. However it is also possible that maximum distance at the front portion d1 is different from the maximum distance at the rear portion d2, e.g. the maximum distance at the front portion d1 is <NUM>% larger than the maximum distance at the rear portion d2. The minimum distance between the first spacer element and the second spacer element 400a, 400b d3 is preferably at least <NUM>. However in possible embodiments, the minimum distance between d3 may be substantially zero, or even zero, for example, when the first spacer element and the second spacer element 400a, 400b form a joint point in the crotch region and connect to each other.

<FIG> illustrates another exemplary embodiment of an absorbent article comprising a spacer element <NUM> which form an enclosed region. The absorbent article comprises a liquid pervious topsheet <NUM>, a liquid impervious backsheet <NUM>, and an absorbent material between the topsheet <NUM> and the backsheet <NUM>. A first spacer element 400a, a second spacer element 400b, a third spacer element 400c, and a fourth spacer element 400d of an elongated shape are included between the topsheet <NUM> and the backsheet <NUM>, as in <FIG>. Alternatively a core wrap may be provided as in the embodiment of <FIG>. The spacer elements 400a, 400b may have similar properties as described above for other embodiments with one or two spacer elements. The first spacer element 400a and the second spacer element 400b may have substantially the same length and width, and may be substantially parallel and run in the longitudinal direction of absorbent article. The third spacer element 400c and the fourth spacer element 400d may also have substantially the same length and width, and may be substantially parallel and run in the transverse direction of absorbent article. The front end of the first spacer element 400a connects to the left end of the third spacer element 400c, and the rear end of the first spacer element 400a connects to the left end of the fourth spacer element 400d. The front end of the second spacer element 400b connects to the right end of the third spacer element 400c, and the rear end of the second spacer element 400b connects to the right end of the fourth spacer element 400d. Together, they form an enclosed region which has a substantially rectangular shaped. In other embodiments, the enclosed region may also have a substantially "O" shaped region, or a substantially polygon shaped region, a substantially triangular shaped region, a diamond shaped region, a substantially hexagonal shaped region, or any other shape. In that manner liquid can be distributed around the boundary of the enclosed region, such that it can be absorbed from the entire boundary by the absorbent material in the enclosed region and by the absorbent material in a region surrounding the enclosed region.

<FIG> illustrates another exemplary embodiment of an absorbent article comprising a plurality of transverse spacer elements 400a, 400b, 400c, 400d. The absorbent article comprises a liquid pervious topsheet <NUM>, a liquid impervious backsheet <NUM>, and an absorbent material between the topsheet <NUM> and the backsheet <NUM>. A first spacer element 400a, a second spacer element 400b, a third spacer element 400c, and a fourth spacer element 400d of an elongated shape is included between the topsheet <NUM> and the backsheet <NUM>, as in <FIG>. Alternatively a core wrap may be provided as in the embodiment of <FIG>. The spacer elements 400a, 400b may have similar properties as described above for other embodiments with one or two spacer elements. The first spacer element 400a, the second spacer element 400b, the third spacer element 400c, and the fourth spacer element 400d extend from the first longitudinal portion of the absorbent article to the second longitudinal portion of the absorbent article and are substantially parallel and run in the transverse direction of absorbent article. The spacer elements 400a, 400b, 400c, 400d may have substantially the same length in the transverse direction and the same width in the longitudinal direction of the absorbent article. However, it is also possible that they may have a different length and/or width. For example, the spacer elements in the front portion of the absorbent article may be longer and/or wider, compared to the spacer elements in the rear portion of the absorbent article. The distance between each part of the neighboring spacer elements in the longitudinal direction of the absorbent article Dab, Dbc, Dcd may substantially be the same, preferably the distance is at least <NUM>, more preferably at least <NUM>. However, the distance between each part of the neighboring spacer elements in the longitudinal direction of the absorbent article may also be different, for example, the spacer elements in the front portion of the absorbent article may be closer to each other compared to the spacer elements in the rear portion of the absorbent article. This embodiment has the advantage that the liquid distribution and communication in a transverse direction, between the left and right portion of the absorbent article is further improved.

<FIG> illustrates another exemplary embodiment of an absorbent article comprising a longitudinal spacer element 400a and a plurality of transverse spacer elements 400b. The absorbent article comprises a liquid pervious topsheet <NUM>, a liquid impervious backsheet <NUM>, and an absorbent material between the topsheet <NUM> and the backsheet <NUM>. A first spacer element 400a, a second spacer element 400b, a third spacer element 400c, a fourth spacer element 400d, a fifth spacer element 400e, a sixth spacer element 400f, and a seventh spacer element <NUM> are included between the topsheet <NUM> and the backsheet <NUM>, e.g. as in <FIG>. Alternatively a core wrap may be provided as in the embodiment of <FIG>. The spacer elements 400a, 400b may have similar properties as described above for other embodiments with one or two spacer elements. The first spacer element 400a extends in the longitudinal direction of absorbent article, from the crotch region to the front and rear edge of the absorbent article, preferably located on the longitudinal center line CL of the absorbent article. The second to the seventh spacer elements 400b, 400c, 400d, 400e, 400f, <NUM> may have substantially the same length, which is shorter than the length of the first spacer element, and they may run in the transverse direction of the absorbent article. For example, the second to the fourth spacer elements 400b, 400c, 400d are located on the left portion of the absorbent article and are substantially parallel, and the fifth to the seventh spacer elements 400e, 400f, <NUM> are located on the right portion of the absorbent article and are also substantially parallel. The first spacer element 400a may be permanently attached to the topsheet <NUM> and/or the backsheet <NUM>, and there may be substantially no absorbent material between the first spacer element and the topsheet and between the first spacer element and the backsheet. Alternatively, if a core wrap is present, the first spacer element 400a may be permanently attached to the top core wrap sheet and/or the back core wrap sheet, and there may be substantially no absorbent material between the first spacer element and the top core wrap sheet and between the first spacer element and the back core backsheet. Meanwhile the second to the seventh spacer elements 400b, 400c, 400d, 400e, 400f, <NUM> may be semi-permanently attached to the topsheet <NUM> and/or the backsheet <NUM> (or if a core wrap is present, to the core wrap), such that the attachment loosens upon wetting. In that way temporary transverse channels are created which disappear as the absorbent material starts swelling. There may be substantially no absorbent material between the second to the seventh spacer elements and the topsheet (or top core wrap sheet) and between the second to the seventh spacer elements and the backsheet (or back core wrap sheet), but it is also possible to have some absorbent material above and/or below the second to seventh spacer elements. Seen in a cross-section view, the spacer elements 400a, 400b, 400c, 400d, 400e, 400f, <NUM> may have a different thickness. For example, the first spacer element 400a may be thicker than the second to the seventh spacer elements 400b, 400c, 400d, 400e, 400f, <NUM>.

A skilled person understands that other embodiments may be envisaged combining a spacer element which attaches to the topsheet and/or the backsheet (or to the core wrap), and a spacer element which does not attach to the topsheet and/or the backsheet (or to the core wrap), and/or combining a spacer element running in the transverse direction and a spacer element running in the longitudinal direction of the absorbent article.

It is clear to the skilled person, that the different arrangements of spacer elements may be applied to both absorbent articles comprising an absorbent core (e.g. the embodiment of <FIG>), and absorbent articles which do not comprise an independent absorbent core (e.g. embodiment of <FIG> or of <FIG>).

The skilled person also understands that the principles of the absorbent article comprising spacer elements can also be used in an absorbent core.

<FIG> illustrates in more detail an embodiment of a diaper. The chassis of the diaper in <FIG> comprises a liquid pervious topsheet <NUM> and liquid impervious backsheet <NUM>. Preferably the chassis further includes side panels or ears <NUM>, elasticized leg cuffs <NUM> and elastic waist elements (not shown). A front end portion of diaper is configured as a front waist region 100a. The opposite rear end portion is configured as a back waist region 100b of the diaper. An intermediate portion of the diaper is configured as crotch region CR, which extends longitudinally between first and second waist regions 100a and 100b. Waist regions 100a and 100b may include elastic waist elements such that they gather about the waist of the wearer to provide improved fit and containment. Crotch region CR is that portion of the diaper which, when the diaper is worn, is generally positioned between the wearer's legs. The periphery of diaper is defined by the outer edges of the diaper in which longitudinal edges <NUM>, <NUM> run generally parallel to a longitudinal axis of diaper and transverse end edges <NUM>, <NUM> run between the longitudinal edges <NUM>, <NUM> generally parallel to a transverse axis of diaper. The chassis also comprises a fastening system, which may include at least one fastening or securing member <NUM> and at least one landing zone <NUM>. The various components within diaper may be bound, joined or secured by any method known in the art, for example by adhesives in uniform continuous layers, patterned layers or arrays of separate lines, spirals or spots. As explained in connection with the embodiments of the previous figures, optionally a core wrap may be provided. Optional top core wrap sheet, topsheet, optional back core wrap sheet, backsheet, absorbent material and other components may be assembled in a variety of well-known configurations and are well known in the art.

Backsheet <NUM> covers absorbent material and preferably extends toward longitudinal edges <NUM>, <NUM> and front and rear edges <NUM>, <NUM> of the diaper and may be joined with top sheet <NUM>. Backsheet <NUM> prevents bodily exudates absorbed by the absorbent material and contained within diaper from soiling other external articles that may contact the wearer, such as bed sheets and undergarments. In preferred embodiments, backsheet <NUM> is substantially impervious to bodily exudates and comprises a laminate of a nonwoven and a thin plastic film such as a thermoplastic film. Backsheet may comprise breathable materials that permit vapor to escape from diaper while still preventing bodily exudates from passing through backsheet. It may be semi-rigid, non-elastic and can be made fully or partially elasticized and include backing.

The topsheet <NUM> which is located above the absorbent material, is preferably soft, exhibits good strikethroughs and has a reduced tendency to rewet from the liquid absorbent material. Top sheet may be semi-rigid and non-elastic, or may be fully or partially elasticized. Topsheet <NUM> is intended to be placed in close proximity to the skin of the wearer when the diaper is worn. Topsheet <NUM> permits bodily exudates to rapidly penetrate it so as to flow more quickly toward the absorbent material via a top surface thereof and via one or more channels created as a consequence of the presence of one or more spacer elements <NUM>, preferably not allowing such bodily exudates to flow back through topsheet <NUM>.

In the embodiment of <FIG> one spacer element <NUM> is shown, but there may be provided more than one spacer element as described above in connection with the other figures. The spacer element <NUM> has a first width (w1) at a first position (P1) and a second width (w2) at a second position (P2). The first width w1 may be the same of different from the second width w2. The first width may be larger than the second width w2, and the width of the spacer element may increase from the second position P2 to the first position P1. The width of the spacer element <NUM> is measured perpendicularly to a center line CLs of the spacer element <NUM>. The center line CLs is a line which is at the same distance of opposite edges of the first spacer element <NUM>. Preferably the opposite edges extend in a length direction of the spacer element <NUM>. In this embodiment the center line CLs is a straight line. In other embodiments, the center line CLs may be a curve, or a polyline, etc..

Topsheet <NUM> may be constructed from any one of a wide range of liquid and vapor permeable, preferably hydrophilic, materials. The upper and lower surface of topsheet <NUM> may be treated differently. Topsheet <NUM> may include e.g. a surfactant on the upper surface so as to facilitate liquid transfer there through, especially at a central zone or area of topsheet located over the absorbent material, and/or a hydrophobic agent on the lower surface to minimize the liquid contained within absorbent material from contact wetting topsheet <NUM> thereby reducing rewet values. Topsheet <NUM> may be coated with a substance having rash preventing or rash reducing properties. Preferably, topsheet <NUM> covers substantially the entire wearer facing area of diaper, including substantially all of front waist region 100a, back waist region 100b, and crotch region CR. Optionally, side panels <NUM>, <NUM>' and/or waist feature layers of the inner region may be formed from the same single topsheet material. Alternatively, topsheet may be formed from multiple different materials which vary across of topsheet. Such a multiple piece design allows for creation of preferred properties and different zones of the topsheet <NUM>.

The absorbent material may comprise any absorbent material that is generally compressible, conformable, non-irritating to the wearer's skin, and capable of absorbing and retaining bodily exudates. Preferably, the absorbent material comprises fluff material, typically cellulosic fluff pulp. However, in other embodiments, the absorbent material may be substantially fluffless and comprise superabsorbent polymers. Also, the absorbent material may comprise a combination of cellulosic fluff pulp and superabsorbent polymers. The absorbent material extend over substantially the full length and/or width of diaper. However, as in the embodiment of <FIG> and <FIG>, preferably the absorbent material is not coextensive with the entire diaper and is limited to certain regions of diaper including the crotch region CR. In various embodiments, the absorbent material extends more or less to the edges of diaper but the absorbent material is concentrated in the crotch region CR or another target zone of the diaper and does not extend over the full length. In <FIG>, the absorbent core <NUM> is shown as having a substantially rectangular configuration, however, absorbent core <NUM> may be shaped differently, such as, elliptical, dogbane shaped, T-shaped or I-shaped. In <FIG>, the area covered by absorbent material is substantially rectangular, but also this area may be shaped differently, such as, elliptical, dogbane shaped, T-shaped or I-shaped. More in particular the width of a front portion of the absorbent core or area where absorbent materials is present may be smaller than the width of a rear portion of the absorbent core or area where absorbent materials is present.

Examples of commonly occurring absorbent materials are cellulosic fluff pulp, tissue layers, 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. Superabsorbent polymers are water-swellable, water-insoluble organic or inorganic materials capable of absorbing at least about <NUM> times its weight and in an aqueous solution containing <NUM> weight percent of sodium chloride.

Diaper may also utilize a pair of containment walls or cuffs <NUM>. Each cuff <NUM> is a longitudinally extending wall structure preferably positioned on each side of absorbent material and spaced laterally from the center line CL. Preferably, cuffs <NUM> are attached, for example, by adhesive or sonic bonding to the lower structure. Preferably, cuffs <NUM> are equipped with elastic members. When released or otherwise allowed relaxing, the elastic members retract inwardly. When diaper is worn, the elastic members function to contract cuffs <NUM> about the buttocks and the thighs of the wearer in a manner, which forms a seal between diaper, the buttocks and the thighs.

The waist regions 100a and 100b each comprise a central region and a pair of side panels or ears <NUM>, <NUM>' which typically comprise the outer lateral portions of the waist regions. These side panels <NUM>, <NUM>' may be unitary with the chassis or may be attached or joined thereto by any means know in the art. Preferably, the side panels <NUM> positioned in the back waist region 100b are flexible, extensible and/or elastic in at least the lateral direction. In another embodiment the side panels <NUM> are non-elastic, semi-rigid, rigid and/or stiff. In order to keep diaper in place about the wearer, preferably at least a portion of the back waist region 100b is attached by fastening or securing members <NUM> to at least a portion of the front waist region 100a. The fastening or securing members <NUM> may be e.g. adhesive, mechanical fasteners, hook and loop features, conceivable strings and/or combinations thereof. The fastening or securing members <NUM> may also be co-adhesive such that they adhere to each other but not other materials. Preferably the materials making up the fastening or securing members <NUM> are flexible, extensible and/or elastic, allowing them to better conform to the shape and movements of the body and thus, to reduce the likelihood that the fastening system will irritate or injure the wearer's skin. Alternatively, the absorbent article may be pants and the like. In this configuration, the absorbent article may or may not have fastening members.

Diaper may also employ additional layers, such as an acquisition layer and/or dispersion layer situated between topsheet and absorbent material, and/or coverstock layers, and/or other layers situated between absorbent material and backsheet. An acquisition layer and/or dispersion layer serves to slow down the flow so that the liquid has adequate time to be absorbed by absorbent material.

Claim 1:
An absorbent article having a front edge (<NUM>) intended to be positioned at a front side of a person and a rear edge (<NUM>) intended to be positioned at a rear side of a person, said absorbent article comprising a liquid pervious topsheet (<NUM>), a liquid impervious backsheet (<NUM>), and an absorbent material (<NUM>) between said topsheet and said backsheet, wherein at least a first spacer element (<NUM>) is included between said topsheet and said backsheet, wherein the first spacer element has a top side facing the topsheet, a bottom side facing the backsheet, and a number of lateral sides between the top and the bottom side, and wherein the absorbent material extends along at least two opposite lateral sides of the first spacer element; said first spacer element being configured to guide liquid to the absorbent material upon wetting of the absorbent article; wherein the lateral sides of the first spacer element are surrounded by the absorbent material, such that seen from a top view, a contour of the spacer element is adjacent to the absorbent material.