CZ20004265A3 - Disposable pant-type diaper having improved fitness to body - Google Patents

Abstract

Slip-on linen for one use has a longitudinal centerline line (100), front area (26), rear area (28) and area the crotch (30) between the anterior region (26) and the posterior region (28). Slip-on linen (120) includes a hull (41) for one use, secured in the front area (26), the rear area (28) and the areas crotch (30). The hull (41) has a front region (26) and a rear region edge area (28) and includes a topsheet (24) liquid permeable, the bottom coating (22) impermeable fluid associated with the topsheet (24) and the absorbent core (25), inserted between the upper fabric (24) and the lower coating (22). The stringing garment (120) further comprises one use at least one pair of expandable ear panels (45), extending laterally outwardly from the torso (41) at the front, or the back region (26, 28). Each of the ear panels (45) has an edge rim (242). In one embodiment, it does not have at least one of the edge edges (242) is a uniform lateral distance from the longitudinal centerline (100) of the garment in a non-shrinked state. The ear panels (45) are attached to the hull (41) along the edge flanges (222, 242) to form two leg openings (34) and a passport opening (36). In another embodiment, each of the ears is the panels (45) connected to the hull (41) along the edge edges (222, 242) to form joining edges (232), thereby forming two leg openings (34) for passport. At least one of them

Description

Technical field

The present invention relates to disposable laundry. Examples of such disposable undergarments include disposable undergarments, disposable diapers, and sanitary panties and disposable panties for menstruation. More specifically, the present invention relates to a disposable undergarment having improved, better fit to the body

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Young children and persons unable to hold urine / stool wear disposable linen, such as diapers to hold urine and other body exudates. Disposable underwear, which has firm sides, is also called "pants-type" underwear, has become popular in use for young children starting to walk and often also for children learning to walk in the toilet. This garment has side panels with edges that have flanges to connect to each other to form leg openings and waist openings. To wear body exudates as well as to accommodate a wide variety of body shapes and sizes, the garment must fit comfortably around the wearer's waist and legs without sagging, sloping or sliding down from its torso position. Examples of such a type of dressing gown are described, for example, in U.S. Patent No. 5,171,239 issued to Imajitel Igaue et al. 15.12.92; U.S. Patent No. 4,610,681 issued to Strohbeen et al., 09,09,86; in US Patent No. 4,940,464 issued to Van Gompel et al., 10.07.90; U.S. Patent No. 5,246,433 issued to -Hasse et al, 21,09,93; U.S. Patent No. 5,569,234 issued to Buell et al., 29,10,96; and in WO 96/31176 (Ashton), application published on 10,10,96.

In order to prevent the garment from sagging, drooping or slipping off the wearer's torso, it is believed that adequate pressure should be applied to the waist area and the side panel areas, corresponding to the wearer's torsional application requirements. For example

U.S. Patent No. 5,415,649 issued to Watanabe et al. on 16,05,95, EP 0761193A2 (Yamamoto et al.) and EP 0761194A2 (Yamamoto et al.) both applications 12,03,97 disclose the use of a series of elastic elements having different expansion stresses to provide controlled forces to accommodate to the body. Since this kind of dressing garment has to use and handle a number of elastic elements, their manufacturing process becomes complicated with respect to handling these elastic elements.

Another example is EP 0547497B1 (Van Gompel et al.), Published on 23.03,97. This publication describes disposable sanitary panties using elastic triangular side members having a side panel elongation gradient to provide better grip. Because this garment requires elastic triangular side members, the manufacturing process also tends to be difficult to handle.

Therefore, no disposable underwear of the existing types provides all the advantages and benefits of an embodiment of the present invention.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed to a disposable garment with a longitudinal midline that forms the anterior region, the posterior region and the crotch region between the anterior region and the posterior region. The disposable undergarment comprises a torso formed by the front, back and crotch regions. The hull has marginal lines in the anterior region and a posterior region and includes a liquid pervious topsheet, a liquid impervious backsheet is attached to the topsheet, and an absorbent core is interposed between the topsheet and the backsheet. The disposable undergarment further comprises at least one pair of elastic ear panels extending laterally outward from the torso in the front or rear region. Each of these ear panels has a farthest edge from the center.

According to one aspect of the present invention, at least one of the outermost hem has a non-uniform lateral distance from the longitudinal centerline of the garment in the non-shrink condition. The ear panels are attached to the torso along

corresponding edge flanges to form two leg openings and a waist opening.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention, each of the ear panels is attached to the torso along corresponding edge edges to form a connecting seam thereby providing two leg openings and one waist opening. At least one of the seams has a non-uniform lateral distance from the longitudinal centerline of the garment in a non-shrink condition.

While reading the present description, those skilled in the art will readily recognize the above and other characteristics, aspects and advantages of the present invention.

Clarification of drawings

While the specification is terminated by the claims which define and particularly claim the invention, it is believed that the invention will be better understood from the following description of the preferred embodiment in conjunction with the accompanying drawings with references that are used to design substantially identical elements and in which:

Giant. 1 is a perspective view of one preferred embodiment of a disposable garment according to the present invention in a typical configuration corresponding to a conventional use;

Giant. 2 is a perspective view of yet another preferred embodiment of a disposable undergarment according to the present invention in a typical configuration corresponding to conventional use;

Giant. 3 is a simplified plan view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 2, in its flat non-shrink condition, showing multiple panels or zones of laundry;

Giant. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a preferred embodiment taken along line 4-4 of FIG. 3;

Giant. 5 is a more detailed position drawing of the front and rear ear panels 46 and 48. which are shown in FIG. 2;

Giant. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the elastic member 70 of the preferred embodiment;

Giant. 7 is a fragmentary enlarged side view of the elastic member 70 of the preferred embodiment;

Giant. 8 is a graphical representation of two cycles of the elastomeric material hysteresis curve in a preferred embodiment

Giant. 9 is a fragmentary enlarged perspective view of an alternative embodiment of an elastomeric material; and

Giant. 10 is a plan view of one embodiment of the front ear panel 46.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

All references cited herein, in their entirety, are not to be construed as an admission that the available information in the prior art is detrimental to the novelty of the claimed invention.

As used herein, the term "garment" refers to articles to be worn having a defined waist opening and a pair of leg openings and which are stretched onto the wearer ' s body by inserting legs into the leg openings and extending the article upwardly around the waist circumference. The term "disposable" as used herein describes a type of laundry that is not intended to be washed or otherwise recovered or reused as laundry (that is, intended to be discarded after a single use, in particular for recycling, composting or other). an environmentally compatible disposal method). 'Overall' beading linen refers to beading linen which is formed from separate parts joined together to form a coordinated whole, with the ear panels not being separate elements attached to the separate torso; but the ear panels are preferably formed of at least one layer which also forms the body of the laundry (i.e. the laundry does not have independently manipulated panels such as a separate body and separate ear panels). The garment is also preferably "absorbent" to absorb and contain various body exudates. A preferred embodiment of the garment of the present invention is the uniform disposable absorbent garment, the garment 120 shown in FIG. 1. Here, the "pull-on diaper" refers to the pull-on garment normally worn by young children and other persons unable to retain urine / stool, to absorb and retain urine and faeces. However, it is believed that the present invention is also applicable as other kinds of slip-on underwear such as sanitary pants, short urine / stool holders, women's sanitary wear or panties and the like. As used herein, the term "panel" refers to an area or feature of the undergarment. (While the panel is typically a remote surface or element, the panel may coincide (functionally coincide) somewhat with the adjacent panel.) The term "bonded" or "bonding" includes configurations wherein one element is directly fixed to the other by directly attaching one element to the other, and configurations in which one element is fixed indirectly to the other element by attaching the element to the intermediate member (s), which on the other side is attached to the other element. As used herein, the term " non-shrinkage " is used to denote conditions where the undergarment is not provided with fasteners (i.e., the fasteners are not attached), in its flat unfolded state without the attachment of any elastic materials.

Giant. 1 depicts one preferred embodiment of a disposable undergarment according to the present invention (i.e., a uniform disposable diaper 120). For the description of FIG. 1, the disposable undergarment 120 of the present invention has a front region 26; the rear region 28 and the crotch region 30 between the front region 26 and the rear region 28. The hull 41 is formed from the front and back regions and from the crotch region 26,28 and 30. The hull 4Ί comprises a liquid pervious topsheet 24 and a liquid impervious backsheet 22 attached to a topsheet 24 and an absorbent core 25 (not shown in Fig. 1) that is sandwiched between the topsheet 24 and the backsheet 22. The hull 41 has side edges 220 that form side edge flanges 222 in the front region 26.

The garment garment 120 of the invention further comprises at least one pair of elastic ear panels 45, each of which is extensible laterally outwardly from the garment.

Each of the ear panels 45 has an outermost edge 240 that forms the outermost edge skirt 242. At least one of the outermost edge skirts 242 does not have a uniform lateral distance from the longitudinal centerline 100 (not shown in Figure 1) in a non-shrink condition. linen 120.

In a preferred embodiment, the ear panels 45 extend continuously from respective side fuselage sides 41 in the rear region 28 to respective fuselage side edges 220 in the front region 26, as shown in FIG. Alternatively, the ear panels 45 may continuously extend from respective side sides of the hull 41 in the forward region 26 towards respective side edges of the hull 41 in the rear region 28 (not shown in Fig. 1).

The garment garment 120 of the invention has ear panels 45 attached to the torso 41 to form two leg openings 34 and a waist opening 36. Preferably, the undergarment 120 further comprises connecting flanges 232, each connecting the torso 4Ί and the ear panels 45 along respective edge flanges 222 and 242 to form two leg openings 34 and a waist opening 36.

In a preferred embodiment, at least one of the ear panels 45 has a main engagement portion SB starting from the waist opening 36 and an unsecured portion UB starting at the foot opening 34 along the connecting rim 232. Preferably, the ratio of the distance of the unsecured part to the main secured part is between about 4:96 and 20:80.

Giant. 2 shows yet another preferred embodiment of a disposable undergarment according to the present invention (total disposable diaper 20). For the description of FIG. 2, the disposable undergarment 20 includes a pair of elastic front ear panels 46, each extending laterally outwardly from a respective side of the torso 41 in the front region 26, and a pair of elastic rear ear panels 48, each extending laterally outwardly. each of the ear panels 46 and 48 has a furthest edge 240 that forms the outermost skirt 242. At least one of the outermost skirt 242 has an unequal lateral distance LP from the longitudinal centerline 100 (not shown in FIG. 2, but is shown in Fig. 3) in the non-shrinked state of the linen 20. The linen 20 further comprises connecting seams.

32. each joining the front and rear ear panels 46 and 48 along respective edge edges 242 to form two leg openings 34 and a waist opening 36.

In a preferred embodiment, at least one (more preferably both) of the pairs of ear panels 45, 46 and 48 are elastically extensible at least in the lateral direction.

In an alternative embodiment, the ear panels 45, 46 and 48 are elastically extensible in both the lateral and longitudinal directions. As used herein, the term "extensible" refers to materials which are capable of being expanded in at least one direction to a degree without breaking. As used herein, the term " elasticity " and " elastic extensibility " refer to extensible materials that have the ability to return to approximately original dimensions after the elongation forces are eliminated. The material or element described herein as extensible may also be elastically extensible without otherwise secured. The extensible ear panels 45, 46 and 48 provide more comfort and follow the body contours better by internally adhering the undergarment to the wearer and maintain this adherence throughout wear when the undergarment has been filled with exudates by the ear panels 45, 46 and / or or 48 allow the sides of the undergarment to expand or contract.

The ear panels 45, 46 and 48 may be formed by unitary undergarment elements 20 or 120 (i.e., are not self-handling elements attached to the undergarment 20 or 120, but are preferably formed from one or more different layers of the undergarment and are extension).

In a preferred embodiment, each of the ear panels 45,46 and 48 is a protruding hull element 4Ί (more clearly shown in Fig. 3). The ear panels 45,46 and 48 preferably comprise at least one unitary element or continuous layer of material (e.g., a nonwoven outer surface 74 in Fig. 4) that forms part of the hull 4Ί and continuously enters the ear panels 45,46 and 48. Alternatively, the ear panels 45 , 46 and 48 may be discontinuous members (not shown in the figures) that do not have any unitary element that forms part of the hull 41 and may be formed by attaching separate discontinuous members to the respective side sides of the hull 4Ί.

In a preferred embodiment, the garment 20 or 120 further comprises connecting panels 66, each extending laterally outwardly from each of the ear panels 45, 46 and 48; and tear tabs 31, each protruding

laterally outwardly from the connecting panel 66. In a preferred embodiment, each of the connecting panels 66 is an extension of respective ear panels 45, 46 and 48, or at least one of the component components used, or any other combination of elements. More preferably, each of the tear tabs 31 is also an extension of the respective splice panel 66 or at least one of the component elements used, or any other combination of its elements.

The tear tab 31 may be of any shape as long as it helps to deliberately open the seams 32 after soiling the undergarments 20 and 120. In a preferred embodiment, the lateral distance LP from the longitudinal centerline 100 increases towards the foot opening 34 as shown in FIG. . In this embodiment, the original material used for the front ear panels has a shape that is determined by the top material line 154 and the side material line 156 extending perpendicular to the top line 154. The outermost edge 240 and the tear tab 31 are formed by removing (or cutting out) ) edge portions 158 of original material. Since the tear tab 31 can be obtained within the original material, the right angle of which is defined by lines 154 and 156, an efficient use of the material can be achieved (i.e., the original ear panel material can be used efficiently).

In a preferred embodiment, the corresponding edge portions of the hull 41 and / or the ear panels 45, 46 and 48 are joined directly or indirectly (e.g., by the connecting panels 66), overlapping to form an overlapping joint structure. Alternatively, the front and ear panels 46 and 48 may be joined by a contact joint (not shown in the figures). The rigid attachment of the joints 32 may be accomplished by any suitable means known in the art, appropriate to the specific materials used in the hull 41 and / or the ear panels 45, 46 and 48. Therefore, suitable techniques may be: ultrasonic sealing, heat sealing, pressure bonding, gluing or bonding. coherent bonding, sewing, autogenous bonding and the like. Preferably, the connection panels 66 are connected in accordance with a predetermined pattern by heat / pressure or ultrasonic welding, which resists the forces and stresses applied to the laundry 20 or 120 during wear.

Through the ear panels 45,46 and 48 and fuselage portions 41 around the waist opening 36, a continuous belt 38 is formed as shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2. Advantageously, at the waist • · · · »· * ·» · • · • · φ · φ · φ · φ · φ · φ · φ · φ In both regions, the front 26 and rear 28 provide elastic band 50. The continuous belt 38 exerts the dynamic forces required to adhere the undergarment 20 and 120 to the body of the wearer even when filled with body exudates and thereby retain the absorbent core 25 (not shown in FIG. 2) in close proximity to the wearer, and distributes the forces dynamically generated during wear around the waist, thereby providing additional retention of the absorbent core 25 without the need to tie or fold the absorbent core 25.

Giant. 3 is a simplified plan view of the garment 20 of FIG. 2, in a non-contracted state (except the ear panels 46 and 48 which are left in their relaxed state) with the topsheet 24 in the drawing visible, before the ear panels 46 and 48 are joined together by the flange 32. The garment 20 has a front region 26, back a region 28 opposite the anterior region 26, a crotch region 30 located between the anterior region 26 and a posterior region 28, and a periphery that is defined by the outer perimeter (edge) or edge of the garment 20 in which the side edges are labeled 150 and 240; or the waist edges are labeled 152. The topsheet 24 has a garment facing surface 20 that is adjacent to the wearer's body during wear. The backsheet 22 forms a garment surface 20 that faces away from the wearer's body. The garment 20 includes a hull 41 including a liquid pervious topsheet 24, a liquid impervious backsheet 22 associated with the topsheet 24 and an absorbent core 25 positioned between the topsheet 24 and the backsheet 22. The garment 20 further includes front and rear ear panels 46 and 48 extending laterally outward from the torso 41, elastic cuffs 52 around leg openings and elastic strips 50 at the waist. The topsheet 24 and the backsheet 22 have dimensions (length and width) generally greater than those of the absorbent core 25. The topsheet 24 and the backsheet 22 overlap the edges of the absorbent core 25, thereby forming the side edges 150 and edges of the garment waist 152. The liquid impervious backsheet 22 preferably comprises a liquid impervious plastic film 68.

The undergarment 20 has two centerlines, a longitudinal centerline 100, and a transverse centerline 110. As used herein, the term "longitudinal" refers to a line (axis or direction) in the plane of the undergarment 20 that is usually coaxial (or approximately parallel) to the vertical a plane that intersects the standing wearer to the left and right halves, under conditions where the linen 20 is worn. As used herein, the terms "lateral" and "lateral" are used interchangeably and refer to a clinic (axis or direction) that lies within the dressing plane and is generally vertical to the longitudinal direction (which divides the wearer into two body halves, front and back). Therefore, the undergarment 20 and the component materials also have a body facing surface that contacts the skin of the wearer's body during use and an outer surface opposite the body facing surface.

Each of the ear panels 45,46 and 48 of the present invention has the outermost skirt 242. The term "edge skirt" as used herein refers to skirts that define the contours of the ear panels 45,46 and 48 or the hull 41. Here, the term "outermost" refers to At least one of the edge edges 242 does not have a uniform lateral distance LP from the longitudinal centerline 100 of the garment 20 in a non-shrink condition.

In a preferred embodiment, the outermost rim 242 has a first point 251 in the portion that is closest to the waist opening 36 and a second point 252 in the portion closest to the leg opening 34, and the outermost rim 242 is directly the rim defined by joining the first and second points 251 and 252. The outermost skirt 242 shows the direction of the outermost skirt 240 of the ear panel. In a preferred embodiment, the skirt 242 tilt toward the longitudinal centerline 100 of the undergarment 20 in a non-contracted condition, the lateral distance LP from the longitudinal centerline 100 increases toward the leg opening 34 as shown in FIG. Alternatively, the outermost rim 242 may have a lateral distance LP from the longitudinal centerline 100 decreasing toward the leg opening 34 (not shown in the figures) in the unstretched state of the undergarment 20.

While the topsheet 24, the backsheet 22, and the absorbent core 25 may be assembled in a variety of well known configurations, for example, the torso configurations are generally described in US Patent No. 3,860,003 entitled "Shrinkable Side Disposable Diaper" issued to the owner: Kenneth B. Buell on 14,01,1975; and in U.S. Patent No. 5,151,092 entitled "Absorbent Articles with Dynamic Elastic Waist Features with a Predisposed Tough Flexible Suspension" issued to Kenneth B. Buell et al. Pne 29,09,1992.

Giant. 4 is a cross-section of a preferred embodiment taken along a section line

4-4 in FIG. 3. The undergarment 20 includes a hull 41 including a permeable topsheet.

The liquid impervious backsheet 22, which is joined to the topsheet 24 and the absorbent core 25 sandwiched between the topsheet 24 and the backsheet 22. The garment further includes front ear panels 46, each extending laterally outward from the hull 41 and an inner barrier. cuffs 54. Although FIG. 4 shows only the structure of the front ear panel 46 and the hull 41 in the front region 26, the same structure is preferably also provided for the rear region 28. In a preferred embodiment, each of the front ear panels 46 is formed by laminating the protruding portion 72 of the barrier lobe 56 70 and a nonwoven outer overlap 74. The elastic member 70 includes a planar elastomeric material 124 (not shown in Fig. 4 but shown in Fig. 6). As used herein, the term "planar elastomeric material" refers to elastomeric materials that are continuously extensible in two dimensional directions. A preferred plane of the elastomeric material comprises a scrim, a perforated (or apertured) film, an elastomeric woven or nonwoven fabric, and the like. In a preferred embodiment, the planar elastomeric material 124 comprises at least a portion that is not uniform in width in the lateral direction.

Giant. 5 is a more detailed position drawing of the front and rear ear panels 46 and 48 of FIG. 2. In FIG. 5, the nonwoven outer cover 74 is removed, and the ear panels 46 and 48 clearly illustrate the elastic members 70 and the flange 32. In a preferred embodiment, each of the ear panels 46 and 48 comprises an elastic member 70 that includes a planar elastomeric material 124 ( which is shown in Fig. 6). The elastic member 70 may further comprise an extensible fabric or film (e.g., a nonwoven material) that is attached to the plane of the elastomeric material 124.

In a preferred embodiment, the planar elastomeric material 124 has the same shapes and dimensions as the elastic member 70. The elastic member 70 and the planar elastomeric material 124 may have a wide variety of dimensions and shapes (e.g., triangle, rectangle, other quadrilateral and other polygon). In a preferred embodiment, the planar elastomeric material 124 has at least a portion that does not have a uniform lateral width LW. Preferably, the lateral width LW of the planar elastomeric material 124 increases towards the foot opening 34 as shown in FIG. Alternatively, the lateral width LW of the planar elastomeric material 124 may decrease towards the foot opening 34 (not shown in the figures).

• 4

In a preferred embodiment, the connection 32 is formed on the connection flange 230, which is predetermined along the edge edges 242. The connection flange 230 can be defined from any straight flange that can be pulled out in the overlapping region 233 between edge flanges 242. Preferably, the flange 230 is formed along, or preferably parallel to, the respective edge flanges 242. In an embodiment that is even better the straight flange that equally divides the overlapping surface 238 is selected as the flange 230, as shown in FIG. 5.

In a preferred embodiment, the flange 230 tilt toward the longitudinal centerline 100 of the garment 20 in a non-shrink condition. Preferably, the lateral distance of the flange 230 from the longitudinal centerline 100 increases towards the leg opening 34. Alternatively, the lateral distance of the flange 230 from the longitudinal centerline 100 increases towards the leg opening 34 (not shown in the figures).

The preferred connection 32 is formed by a plurality of separate, spaced-apart connecting means 236, which are formed on the connecting rim 230, as shown in FIG. 5. The separate fasteners 236 form on the fastening flange 230 a separate fastening portion SB that begins at the waist opening 36 and the unconnected portion UB starts from the leg opening 34. As used herein, the term "proper connecting portion" refers to portions that are immediately and / or continuously attached to other materials to contribute to the formation of leg and waist openings 34 and 36. As used herein, the term "unconnected part" refers to parts that are not attached to other materials.

In an alternative embodiment, the joint 32 may be formed by a continuous joint that continuously connects the front and rear ear panels 46 and 48 in the flange 230 (not shown in the figures). The continuous joint also forms on its connecting rim 230 its own connecting portion SB that starts from the waist opening 36 and the discontinuous portion UB starting from the foot opening 34.

To avoid the problem of red imprints on the wearer's skin, the recommended ratio of unconnected UB to self-bonded SB portion is from about 4:96 to about 20:80, preferably from 8:92 to 15:85, even more preferably from about 10 : 90 to around 13:87. Recommended disposable underwear for young children has an unconnected UB section from • 9

9999 999 a leg opening 34 in a length of about 4 mm to about 20 mm, preferably about 8 mm to about 15 mm, more preferably about 10 mm to about 13 mm.

In a preferred embodiment, at least one of the ear panels 45,46 and 48 is partially shaped to form a tear-off opening tabs 231 coupled to the unbonded portion UB for easy opening by tearing off after soiling. The tear tabs 231 may be of any shape so as to assist deliberate breakage when the seams 32 are opened. In this embodiment, the ear panels 45, 46 and 48 may be detached from the leg openings 34 upon soiling when opened. Therefore, the original tear tab 31 may be discarded in this embodiment.

The absorbent core 25 may be any absorbent member that is typically compressible, comfortable, non-irritating to the wearer's skin and capable of absorbing and retaining liquids such as urine and other body exudates. The U25U absorbent core can be manufactured in a wide variety of dimensions and shapes (such as a triangle, hourglass, T-shape, asymmetric shape, etc.) and a wide variety of liquid absorbent materials commonly used in disposable and other absorbent garments. objects such as pulverized wood pulp, commonly referred to as felt material. Examples of other suitable absorbent materials are crepe cellulose pads; meltblown polymers including coform; chemically stiffened, modified or crossed cellulose fibers; mesh including tissue paper and mesh laminates; absorbent foams; absorbent sponges; highly absorbent polymers; absorbent gelling materials; or any equivalent materials or combinations thereof.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the absorbent core 25 of the undergarment 20 in the non-shrink condition has a core area to laundry area ratio of greater than about 25%, more preferably greater than about 40%. The core area is defined as the total surface area of the absorbent core 25 adjacent to the garment 20 in the non-shrink state. The peripheral surface area of the absorbent core 25 adjacent to the body is determined by the contour of the array of primary absorbent materials used in the absorbent core 25. As used herein, the term "primary absorbent material" refers to absorbent materials that occupy more than 80% of the absorbent core dry volume. 25. In a preferred embodiment, the wood pulp (for example felt) is fl. Fl. Fl. Fl. Fl. Fl. Considered to be the primary absorbent material of the absorbent core 25 and defines a peripheral surface of the absorbent core 25 adjacent the body, thus defining the core region of the absorbent core 25. Other primary absorbent materials may be crepe cellulosic fillers; melt polymers including coform; chemically stiffened, modified or crossed cellulose fibers; fabrics including tissue and pulp; absorbent foams; absorbent sponges; superabsorbent polymers; absorbent gelling materials; or any equivalent material or combination of materials.

The garment area is defined as the total surface area of the garment 20 adjacent to the body in the non-shrink state. Therefore, the area ratio is calculated as follows:

AR = CA / GAx100

Where,

AR: area ratio (%)

CA: core area (cm ² )

GA: total area (cm ² )

In a preferred embodiment for infants, the absorbent core 25 has a core area of less than about 450 cm ² , preferably less than about 425 cm ^2. Preferably, the absorbent core 25 has a maximum core width of less than about 12 cm, more preferably less than about 11 cm. cm. The "core width" as used herein refers to the lateral distance from one side edge to the other side edge of the absorbent core 25.

The configuration and assembly of the absorbent core 25 may be different (for example, the absorbent core 25 may have different caliperation zones, a hydrophilic gradient, a superabsorbent gradient, or a lower total density and lower total basis weight of the acquired zones; or may include one or more layers or structures). Further, the size and absorbent capacity of the absorbent core 25 can also be varied to fit wearers of varying sizes, from infants to adults. However, the total absorbent capacity of the absorbent core 25 should be compatible with the proposed load and intended use of the linen 20.

ΦΦ · · · · · φ φ φ · φ φ φ φ φ φ φ φ φ φ

A preferred embodiment of the garment 20 has an asymmetrically shaped hourglass absorbent core 25 that is provided with handles in the front and back regions of the waistband 26 and 28. Other examples of absorbent structures for use as absorbent core 25 that have been widely received and commercial success are described in U.S. Patent No. 4,610,678 entitled "High Density Absorbent Structures" issued to Weisman et al. 09,09,1986; in U.S. Patent No. 4,673,402 entitled "Absorbent Articles with Double Layered Cores" issued to Weisman et al. 16,06,1987; U.S. Patent No. 4,888,231 entitled " Absorbent Core With Cleansing Layer " issued to Angstadt, 19,12,1989; and in U.S. Patent No. 4,834,735 entitled "High Density, Low Density, and Lower Basis Acquisition Zones" issued to Alemana et al. 30,05,1989.

The hull 41 may further comprise an acquisition / distribution core 84 of chemically stiffened fibers covering the absorbent core 25 to form a dual core system. In a preferred embodiment, the fibers are hydrophilic chemically reinforced cellulose fibers. Here, "chemically reinforced fibers" are any fibers that have been reinforced by chemical means to increase the stiffness of the fibers in both dry and wet conditions. Such compositions include additives to the chemical reinforcing agents which, for example, coat and / or impregnate the fibers. Such means also include reinforcing the fibers by modifying the chemical structure of the fibers themselves, for example by crosslinking the warp of the polymeric fabric.

The fibers used in the acquisition / distribution core 84 can also be stiffened by a chemical reaction. For example, cross-linking agents can be used in fibers which, after application, are forced to chemically form cross-link bonds from internal fibers. These transverse bond joints can increase the stiffness of the fibers. It is understood that, where it is preferred to use the cross-linking of the internal fibers to chemically stiffen the fibers, other types of chemical stiffening reactions are not excluded.

An even better solution for fiber reinforcement is chemical processing including cross-linking of internal fibers, the use of fibers that are in a relatively dehydrated state, are fiberized (i.e., individualized), twisted into a spiral, curled. Suitable chemical reinforcing agents include monomeric agents including, but not limited to, C2- _C8 dialdehydes and C2-C8 monoaldehydes with an acid functional dependency to form a cross-linking solution. These compounds are capable of reacting with at least two hydroxyl groups in a single cellulose chain or on closest to the cellulose chain in a single fiber. Such cross-linking agents intended for use in the preparation of stiffened cellulose fibers include, but are not limited to, glutaraldehyde, glyoxal, formaldehyde, and glyoxilic acid. Other suitable reinforcing agents are polycarboxylates such as citric acid. US Patent No. 5,190,563 entitled "Process for the preparation of individual polycarboxylic acid cross-linked fibers" issued to Horron, 02,03,1993, relates to polycarboxylic stiffening agents and a process for producing stiffened fibers therefrom. The result of the crossover under these conditions is the formation of fibers which are stiffened and which tend to retain their curled, curled configuration during use in absorbent articles. Such fibers and methods for their manufacture are cited in the aforementioned incorporated patents.

Preferred dual core systems are described in U.S. Patent No. 5,234,423 entitled "Absorbent Articles with Elastic Waist and Enhanced Absorbency" issued to Aleman et al., 10,08,1993; and U.S. Patent No. 5,147,345 entitled "High Efficiency Incontinence Absorbent Articles" issued to Young, LaVon and Taylor, 15,09,1992. In a preferred embodiment, the acquisition / distribution core 84 comprises a chemically treated stiffened cellulose fiber material available from Weyerhaeuse Co. (USA) under the trademark "CMC". The acquisition / distribution core 84 preferably has a basis weight of from about 40 g / m ² to about 400 g / m ² , more preferably from about 75 g / m ² to about 300 g / m ² .

In a more preferred embodiment, the hull 22 further comprises an incremental acquisition / distribution layer 82 between the topsheet 24 of the acquisition / distribution core 84, as shown in FIG. 4. The acquisition / distribution layer 82 is intended to help reduce the tendency to surface moisture of the topsheet 24. The acquisition / distribution layer 82 preferably comprises carded, resin-bonded, highly reinforced nonwoven materials such as the material available under the code number FT-6860 from Polymer Group, Inc, USA (Landisiville, Neww Jersey), made of 6dtex fibers of polyethylene telephthalate and has a basis weight of about 43 g / m ² . An example of a convenient ► · · ·· ·· <

The material for the acquisition / distribution layer 82 and for the acquisition / distribution core 84 is described in EP 0797968A1 (Kurt et al.) published 01,10,1997.

The topsheet 24 is preferably conformable, providing a soft feeling and non-irritating to the wearer's skin. Further, the topsheet 24 is permeable, allowing fluid (e.g., urine) to readily penetrate through its thickness. A suitable topsheet 24 may be made of a wide variety of materials, woven or nonwoven; polymeric materials such as molded, thermoplastic sheets having apertures; apertured plastic films and hydraulically shaped thermoplastic films; thermoplastic mules. Suitable woven and nonwoven materials may be natural fibers (e.g., wood or cotton fibers), synthetic fibers (e.g., polymer fibers such as polyester, polypropylene, or polyethylene fibers) or a combination of natural and synthetic fibers. The topsheet 24 is preferably made of a hydrophobic material to isolate the wearer's skin from fluids that have permeated the topsheet 24 and are contained in the absorbent core 25 (i.e., to prevent rewetting). If the topsheet 24 is made of a hydrophobic material, at least the top surface of the topsheet 24 is treated to be hydrophilic so that fluids will pass through the topsheet more quickly. This will reduce the likelihood that body exudates will flow over the surface of the topsheet 24 rather than penetrate through the topsheet 24 and be absorbed by the absorbent core 25. The topsheet 24 can be rendered hydrophilic (liquid pervious) by treating it with surfactants. A suitable method of treating the topsheet 24 with a surfactant is to spray the topsheet 24 with a surfactant and immerse the material in the surfactant. A more detailed discussion of such treatment and fluid permeability is contained in U.S. Patent No. 4,988,344 entitled "Absorbent Articles Multiple Layer of Absorbent Materials" (Reising, et al.) Issued on May 29, 1991 and U.S. Patent No. 4,988,345 entitled "Absorbent Items" with fast-absorbing absorbent cores ”(Reising) issued on 29,01,1991.

In a preferred embodiment, the topsheet 24 is a nonwoven web that can provide a reduction in the surface tendency to moisture; and consequently, after soaking, help keep urine absorbed by the core 25 separate from the user's skin. One suitable surface material is a thermally bonded carded web which is available under the code number P-8 from Fiberweb North America, Inc. Simpsonville, Simpsonville

South Carolina, USA). Another suitable surface material is available under code number

S-2355 at Havix Cop., Japan.This material is a two-layer composite material and is made of two kinds of synthetic, surface-treated two-component fibers using carding and fluting technology. Yet another suitable surface material is a thermally bonded carded web which is available under the code number 040018007 - Profleece Style from Amoco Fabrics, Inc. (Gronau, Germany).

In a preferred embodiment, the topsheet 24 is compatible with other materials (e.g., component materials in the backsheet 22) that are used in the undergarment 20 or 120 at design / manufacture time to create vent holes along the waist edge 152 and / or or in other parts of the undergarment 20 or 120.

Another suitable topsheet 24 is an apertured film. The perforated films are suitable for the topsheet 24 because they leak body exudates and, moreover, are not absorbent and have a reduced fluid back-flow capability and, consequently, soak the wearer's skin. Thus, the surface of the coating that comes into contact with the body remains dry, thereby reducing body contamination and creating a more comfortable feel for the wearer. Suitable coatings are described in U.S. Patent No. 3,929,135 entitled &quot; Absorbent Structures with Tapered Capillaries &quot; issued to Thompson on December 30, 1975; in US Patent No. 4,324,246 entitled &quot; Disposable Absorbent Articles with Pollution Resistant Fabric &quot; issued to Mullane, et al. on 13,04,1982; in U.S. Patent No. 4,342,314 entitled "Elastic Plastic Drap exhibiting Fiber Fabric Properties" issued to Radel et al. on 03,08,1982; U.S. Pat. No. 4,463,045 entitled &quot; Macroscopically extensible three-dimensional plastic veil, non-shiny with a tactile feel exhibited by fabric fabrics &quot; issued to Ahr et al. on 31,07,1984; and in US 5,006,394 "Multilayer Polymer Coating" issued to Baird on 09,04,1991.

In a preferred embodiment, the backsheet 22 comprises an impermeable film 68 as shown, for example, in FIG. Preferably, the liquid impervious film 68 extends longitudinally in the front and rear regions 26, 28 and the crotch region 30. More preferably, the impermeable film 68 does not extend in the lateral direction into at least one

From the ear panels 46 or 48. The impermeable film 68 has a surface 79 facing the outside surface 77. The impermeable film 68 is impervious to liquids (e.g., urine) and is impermeable to the body. preferably the same plastic film. However, it is more preferred that the plastic film permits vapor permeability from the laundry 20. In a preferred embodiment, a microporous polyethylene film is used as the liquid impervious film 68. A suitable microporous polyethylene film is manufactured by Mitsui Toatsu Chemicals, Inc., Nagoya, Ja under the trade designation PG-P. In a preferred embodiment, a tape (not shown in the figures) is additionally attached to the outer surface of the backsheet 22 to provide satisfactory removal after contamination.

A suitable material for the impermeable coating 68 is a thermoplastic film having a thickness of from about 0.012 mm (0.5 mil) to about 0.051 mm (2.0 mil), preferably containing polyethylene or polypropylene. Preferably, the liquid impervious fplie has a basis weight of from about 5 g / m ² to about 35 g / m ² . However, it should be noted that other flexible liquid impervious materials may also be used. As used herein, the term &quot; flexible &quot; refers to materials that are permissible and that quickly adapt to the general shape and contours of the wearer's body.

Preferably, the backsheet 22 further comprises a nonwoven outer coating 74 that is bonded to the outer surface of the liquid impervious film 68 to form a laminate (i.e., the backsheet 22). The nonwoven outer coating 74 is disposed in the furthest portion of the garment 20 and overlaps at least a portion of the furthest portion of the garment 20. In a preferred embodiment, the nonwoven outer coating 74 overlaps almost all surfaces of the furthest portion of the garment 20. The nonwoven outer coating 74 may be bonded to the liquid impervious film 68. by any suitable attachment means known in the art. For example, the nonwoven outer coating 74 may be affixed to the liquid impermeable sheet 68 by a uniform continuous binder layer or a binder layer laid in a pattern, in separate lines, spirals, points. Suitable binders are thermoplastic binders available from Nitta Findley Co., Ltd, Osaka, Ja as H-2128 and thermoplastic binders from H.B.Fuller Japan Co., Ltd, Osaka, Ja as JM-6064.

In a preferred embodiment, the nonwoven outer coating 74 is a carded nonwoven web, for example from Havix Co., LTD., Gifu, Ja as E-2341. Non-woven outer • Φ · 4 · · · 1 · Φ I

The coating 74 is made of bicomponent fibers of polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP). The PE / PP ratio is around 50/50. The dimensions of the bicomponent fiber PE / PP are 2d x 51 mm. Another preferred carded nonwoven web is available from Chisso Corp., Moriyama, Ja. The nonwoven outer coating 74 is also made of bicomponent fibers of polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP). The PE / PP ratio is around 50/50.

In another preferred embodiment, the nonwoven web is a nonwoven fabric, for example from Mitsui Petrochemical Industries, Ltd, Tokyo, Ja. The nonwoven web is made of two-component fibers of polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP). The PE / PP ratio is around 80/20. The bicomponent fiber PE / PP has a thickness of approximately 2.3d.

In a preferred embodiment, the backsheet 22 is compatible with other materials (e.g., component materials in the topsheet 24) used in the undergarment 20 or 120, at the time of the design / manufacturing process to create ventilation openings along the waist 152 and / or to form seams 32 in the undergarment 20 or 120.

The backsheet 22 preferably adheres to the outer surface of the absorbent core 25 and is preferably attached thereto by any suitable, known attachment means. For example, the backsheet 22 may be affixed to the absorbent core 25 by a continuous uniform binder layer, a binder layer patterned or in separate lines, spirals, or points. Binders which have been found to be compliant are manufactured by the H.B.Ruller Company of St. Petersburg. Paul, Minnesota, USA and are designated HL-1358J. An example of a suitable attachment means that includes an open pattern network of binder fibers is described in U.S. Patent No. 4,573,986 entitled "Disposable Body Waste Laundry" (Minetola et al, 04,03,1986). Another suitable attachment, including several lines of binder fibers twisted into a spiral pattern, is illustrated by the apparatus and methods of US Patent No. 3,911,173 (Sprague, Jr. - 07,10,1975); US Patent No. 4,785,996 (Ziecker, et al. 22,11,1978); and US Patent No. 4,842,666 (Werenicz - 27,06,1989). Alternatively, the attachment means may be thermoplastic joints, pressure joints, ultrasonic joints, dynamo-mechanical joints, or any other suitable attachment means, or combinations thereof, as known in the art.

In an alternative embodiment, the absorbent core 25 is not attached to the backsheet 22 and / or to the topsheet 24 to provide greater extensibility in the front region 26 and the back region 28.

Preferably, the undergarment 20 further comprises elastic cuffs 52 around leg openings to provide better containment of fluids and other body exudates. The elastic leg cuffs 52 may have various designs to prevent body exudates from leaking into the leg region. (Leg cuffs may and are sometimes also referred to as leg bandages, side flaps, barrier cuffs, elastic cuffs or sealing cuffs.) US Patent 3,860,003 entitled "Shrinkable Side Disposable Diaper Side Parts" (Buell - 14,01, 1975) discloses a disposable diaper that is provided with a collapsible leg opening with a side flap and one or more elastic members to secure the elastic leg cuff. US Patent 4,909,803 entitled "Disposable Absorbent Flap Item" (Aziz et al, 20,03,1990) discloses a disposable diaper with "protruding" elastic flaps (barrier cuffs) to improve control of leg areas. U.S. Patent 4,695,278 entitled "Absorbent Articles with Double Cuffs" (Lawson - 22,09,1987); and US Patent 4,795,454 entitled "Absorbent articles with leak-resistant twin cuffs" (Dragoo - 03,01,1989), disclose disposable diapers with twin cuffs comprising a sealing cuff and a barrier cuff. US Patent 4,704,115 entitled "Disposable Underwear with Waist Control": (Buell - 03,11,1987) discloses a disposable diaper or incontinent garment with side edge drain channels that are arranged to retain free fluid within laundry.

While each elastic leg cuff 52 may be configured to resemble any leg bandage, side flap, barrier cuff, or elastic cuff described above, it is preferred that the elastic leg cuff 52 includes an elastic sealing cuff 62 with one or more elastic strips 64 as shown in FIG. 3, which is described in the above-mentioned US patents Nos. 4,695,278 and 4,795,454. It is also preferred that each elastic leg cuff 52 further comprises inner barrier cuffs 54, each comprising a barrier flap 56 and separating means 58 as described in the aforementioned US Patent No. 4,909,803.

0000

00 »

00 0> 0 0 • 0 0

0 0 0 0 0 0000 * 0 0 0 0 • «0 • * 0

0 0 0

Preferably, the undergarment 20 further comprises an elastic waistband 50 for better fit and control. The elastic waistband 50 is that portion or zone of the undergarment 20 that is intended to elastically stretch and contract to dynamically adhere the wearer's waist. Preferably, the elastic waistband 50 extends longitudinally outwardly from the waist edge of the undergarment 20 to the waist edge of the absorbent core 25. Preferably, the undergarment 20 has two elastic waistband 50, one located in the rear region 28 and one located in the front region. 26, Other embodiments of the diaper may also be assembled with one elastic waistband. The elastic waistband 50 may be constructed in a variety of different configurations, including those described in US Patent 4,515,595 entitled "Disposable Diapers with Elastically Shrinkable Waist Strip" (Kievit et al. - 07,05,1985) and above. U.S. Patent 5,151,092 to Buell.

At least one of the ear panels 45, 46 and 48 has an elastic member 70 as shown in FIG. The elastic member 70 of the front ear panels 46 comprises an elastomeric material 124 (not shown in Figure 4), which is preferably extensible outwardly from the torso 41 to provide good fit by creating optimal waist (or support) forces in the waist and in the lateral regions of the wearer. Preferably, the elastomeric material 124 is extensible in at least one direction, preferably in a lateral direction, to provide a restraining (or support) force that is optimal to prevent the garment from sagging, sagging or slipping from its position on the torso without causing imprints. on the wearer's skin. In a preferred embodiment, each of the ear panels 45, 46 and 48 has an inserted elastomeric material 124.

The elastic member 70 is operatively connected to the at least one nonwoven web 72 and 74 in the ear panels 45, 46 and 48, and allows the elastic member 70 to be elastically extensible at least in the lateral direction. In a preferred embodiment, the elastic member 70 is operatively attached to the nonwoven webs 72 and 74 by attaching it to at least one, preferably the two nonwoven webs 72 and 74, in a substantially non-tensioned state (at zero tension).

The elastic member 70 may be operably bonded to the nonwoven webs 72 and 74 by an intermediate bonding arrangement or a substantially continuous bonding assembly. As used herein, the term &quot; intermediate &quot; secured layered veil means layered lobe. A web in which the sub-layers are internally connected to each other at discrete spaced points or a layered web in which the sub-layers are not substantially connected to each other in the spaced regions. Conversely, a "substantially continuous" bonded laminate refers to a laminate in which the sub-layers are interconnected in a substantially continuous fashion over the entire surface of the inner contact. Suitably, the stretch laminate is attached over all or a significant portion of the stretch laminate such that the non-elastic webs (i.e., nonwoven webs 72 and 74) are stretched or pulled without tearing, and the stretch laminate layers are preferably joined in an assembly that maintains all layers of the stretch laminate in relatively close adhesion to each other following an incremental mechanical tensioning operation. Consequently, the elastic panel members and the other partial layers of the stretch laminates are preferably substantially continuously connected to each other by means of a binder. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the selected binder is used by means of a controlled spray according to the template at a basis weight of about 7.0 grams / m ^{2. The} width of the binder injection template is about 6.0 cm. The binder is preferably one that is available from Nitta Findley Co., Ltd, Osaka Ja, designated H2085F. Alternatively, the elastic panel member and any other components of the stretch laminate may be immediately or continuously connected to each other by thermoplastic bonding, pressure bonding, ultrasonic bonding, dynamo-mechanical bonding, or any other method known in the art.

After operatively attaching the elastic member 70 to at least one of the nonwoven webs 72 and 74, at least a portion of the resulting composite laminates are then subjected to mechanical tensioning sufficient to permanently elongate inelastic components such as the nonwoven webs 72 and 74. the composite stretch laminates may return to their substantially unstressed state. At least one pair of ear panels 45,46 and 48 (preferably both) is thus shaped into a stretch laminate at "zero tension". (Alternatively, the elastic member 70 could be operatively attached in a stretched state and then subjected to mechanical tensioning; although this is not as beneficial as the tension laminate at "zero stress".) Here, the "zero tension" of the stretch laminate refers to the laminate formed from at least two partial layers of material which are joined together along at least a portion of their mutually extensible surfaces in a substantially "non-stressed" stress state; it acts in the sub-layers to contain a material that is shrinkable and elastomeric (that is, it returns substantially to its unstretched dimensions when the applied tensile force is released) and a second sub-layer that is capable of elongations (but not necessarily elastomeric) so that upon contraction of the second sublayer to at least a degree of permanent elongation, upon release of the applied tensile forces, this will not fully return to its original undeformed configuration. The resulting stretch laminate is therefore formed as an elastically extensible material, at least to the point of internal elongation in the direction of internal elongation. Particularly preferred methods and apparatuses used to manufacture stretch laminates utilize mesh corrugated rollers to produce mechanically shrinkable components. Particularly suitable methods and devices are described in US Patent No. 5,167,897 (Weber et al., Issued Dec. 01,12,1992); U.S. Patent No. 5,156,793 to Buell et al., issued on October 20, 1990, and U.S. Patent No. 5,143,679 to Weber et al., issued on 01,09,1992.

Preferably, the elastic member 70 is bonded, more preferably directly bonded to respective edges 78 of the liquid impermeable sheet (i.e., the liquid impermeable sheet 68) by means of a binder 76 as shown in FIG. 4. In a preferred embodiment, while the liquid impervious film 68 extends longitudinally in the front, rear and crotch regions 26, 28 and 30, it does not extend transversely into at least one, preferably each of the extensible ear panels 45, 46 and 48. of the more preferred embodiment, the elastic member 70 is attached to respective edges 78 of the liquid impermeable film 68 on the upstream surface 77, as shown in FIG. In an alternative embodiment, the elastic member 70 may be attached to respective edges 78 of the liquid impermeable film 68 on the body facing surface 79 (not shown in the figures). The binder 76 is preferably used in spiral patterns of adhesive. In a preferred embodiment, the binder 76 is a flexible binder with an amorphous and crystallizing component. Such a preferred binder is manufactured by Nitta Findley Co., Ltd, Osaka, Ja, designated H2085F. Alternatively, the elastic member 70 may be attached to the respective edges 78 of the liquid impervious film 68 by any other fastening means known in the art, including thermoplastic bonding, compression bonding, ultrasonic bonding, dynamo-mechanical bonding, or a combination of these bonding techniques.

Φ 9

FIG. 6, the elastic member 70 comprises an elastomeric material 124 with a first surface 150 and a second surface 152 that is opposed to the first surface 150 and the first fully covered layer 122. which is attached to the first surface 150 of the elastomeric material 124. In a preferred embodiment, the first fully covered the layer 122 is bonded to the first surface 150 of the elastomeric material 124 bonding 160, as shown, for example, in FIG. More preferably, the elastic member 70 further comprises a second fully coated layer 126 that is attached to the second surface 152 of the elastomeric material 124 by a binder 164.

Preferably, the elastic member 70 is attached to respective edges 78 of the liquid impermeable film 68 on the outer facing surface 77 as shown in FIG. 4. In an alternative embodiment, the elastic member 70 may be attached to respective edges 78 of the liquid impermeable sheet 68 on the surface facing the body 79 (not shown in the figures).

The elastomeric material 124 can be shaped in a wide variety of sizes, forms and shapes. In a preferred embodiment, the elastomeric material 124 is in the form of a continuous planar layer. Preferred forms of the continuous planar layer include scrim, perforated film (or apertured), elastomer woven or nonwoven fabric, and the like. The continuous planar layer may have any shape that can be suitably used in the ear panels. Suitable shapes for the continuous planar layer include a rectangle including a rectangle and a square, a trapezoid, and another polygon. In an alternative embodiment, the elastomeric material 124 is in the form of discrete fibers (or strings) that are not interconnected.

The elastomeric materials which have been found to be particularly suitable for elastomeric material 124 are styrene block copolymer scrim materials, perforated (or apertured) elastic film, preferably having a thickness of from about 0.05 mm to about 1.0 mm. (0.002 inches - 0.039 inches). Other suitable elastomeric materials for elastomeric material 124 are "living" synthetic or natural rubber, other synthetic or natural sponge rubber, elastomeric films (including heat-shrinkable elastomeric films), elastomeric woven or nonwoven webs, elastomeric compositions and the like.

• · ··· ·

In a preferred embodiment, the elastomeric material 124 is a porous, macroscopically-extensible, three-dimensional elastomeric hub 172, as shown in FIG. The web 172 has a continuous first surface 174 and an intermittent second surface 176 spaced apart from the first surface 174. The elastomeric web 172 preferably comprises a shaped film provided with at least two polymer layers, at least one of which is an elastomer layer 178 and at least one of the other layers. The elastomeric web exhibits a plurality of primary apertures 184 on the first surface 174 of the web 172, the primary apertures 184 being defined in the plane of the first surface 174 by a continuous network of interconnecting members 186. Each interconnecting member 186 has a cross-section, concave, contoured upwards. The connecting members 186 terminate substantially simultaneously with one another and form second openings 188 in the plane of the second surface of the web. The primary apertures 184 may have any shape. Details of such a structure and methods for its manufacture are described in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 08 / 816,106 filed 14,03,1997. A suitable porous elastomeric material 124 is manufactured by Tredegar Film Products under the designation X-25007.

For the behavior of disposable garments, it is important to consider the properties related to the extensibility of the side elastomeric material 124, which are: First Cycle Strength Stretch at 100% Stretch (SPCR 100%); First Cycle Stretch Strength at 200% Stretch (SPCR 200%); Second Cycle Strength Recovery at 50% Stretch (SDCO 50%) and Continuous Load at 50% after 10-12 hours. The extensibility properties of the lateral elastomeric material 124 are preferably defined as follows. SPCR 100% and SPCR 200% are measures of the overall perceived "elastic elongation" during disposable / disposable linen removal. These two characteristics also affect the user's ability to achieve a suitable degree of elongation upon application. The side elastomeric material 124 with relatively high SPCR 100% and SPCR 200% characteristics can cause problems in disposable garment disposable wear on the wearer's body. On the other hand, the side elastomeric material 124 with relatively low SPCR 100% and SPCR 200% characteristics may not achieve a sufficient level of comfort and fit. The SDCO 50% characteristic is closely related to the comfort and adaptability of the disposable garment to the wearer. The lateral elastomeric material 124 with a relatively high SDCO 50% property tends to cause red imprints on the wearer's skin and

When used, it can be inconvenient. The lateral elastomeric material 124 having a relatively low SDCO 50% characteristic may not provide sufficient elastic force to hold the diaper in place on the wearer's body, or may not provide good fit of the diaper to the wearer's body. Permanent load at 50% after 10-12 hours evaluates the breakdown of forces over time. This breakdown of forces should be limited, otherwise the result would be sagging.

SPCR 100%, SPCR 200% and SDCO 50% can be measured using a tensile tester. The tensile tester comprises an upper clamping jaw and a lower clamping jaw positioned below the upper jaw. The upper clamping jaw is movable and is connected to the means for measuring the elongation force. The lower clamping jaw is firmly attached to the plate (or floor). A test specimen (i.e., the elastomeric material to be tested) having a width of about 2.54 cm (1.0 inches) and a length of about 12.75 cm (5 inches) is prepared and secured between the upper clamping jaw and the lower the clamping jaw so that the effective length of the sample (L) (i.e., the measured length) is about 5.08 cm (2.0 inches). The force required for elongation is applied to the specimen by the upper clamping jaw. If the elongation force is not applied to the test specimen, the test specimen is at its original length (i.e., 0% elongation). A tensile tester suitable for the test method described herein is available from Instron Corporation (100 Royall Street, Canton, MA02021, USA) under the code Instron 5564.

Giant. 8 depicts one preferred example of the course of the force required to elongate and restore for two cycles of hysteresis of elastomeric material 124. Curve E1 shows the force required to elongate in the first cycle, while curve R1 illustrates the force required to recover (return) in the first cycle. Curve E2 (dashed lines) shows the force required to stretch in the second cycle, while curve R2 shows the force required to recover in the second cycle. The elongation and restoration properties are measured as follows.

In the first cycle, the test sample is subjected to an initial elongation force at a crosshead frequency of 50.8 cm / min (20 inches / min) at about 23 ° C and maintained at 200% elongation for 30 seconds. The test sample is then allowed to rest at the same frequency at the same frequency (i.e., at 0% elongation). The sample to be tested is then left for one minute in a relaxed state, before being subjected to a second extension force (in the second cycle) at the same frequency and under the same conditions.

In preferred embodiments, the SPCR of 100% of the side elastomeric material 124 is at least about 100 grams / inch. Preferably, the 100% SPCR is about between 120 to 220 grams / inch, preferably about 150 grams / pale and 190 grams / inch. Preferably, the SPCR 200% is between 160 grams / inch and 450 grams / inch, more preferably between 180 grams / inch and 300 grams / inch and more preferably between 200 grams / inch and 240 grams / inch. The SCRF 50% side elastomeric material 124 is preferably between about 40 grams / inch and about 130 grams / inch, more preferably between about 65 grams / inch and about 105 grams / inch and more preferably between about 75 grams / inch and about 95 grams / inch. inch. The sustained load at 50% after 10-12 hours is preferably about 40 grams / inch and about 130 grams / inch, preferably between about 65 grams / inch and about 105 grams / inch and more preferably between about 75 grams / inch and about 95 grams / inch.

In the preferred embodiment shown in FIG. 6, the elastomeric mull 124 has a plurality of first strips 125 and a plurality of second strips 127. The plurality of first strips 125 intersect the plurality of second strips 127 at the nodes 130 at a predetermined angle c1 to form a mesh open structure with a plurality of apertures 132. at least two adjacent second strips define each aperture 132 such that the apertures 132 are substantially rectangular in shape. Other configurations of apertures 132 are possible, such as parallelograms, squares, circular or arc segments. Preferably, the first and second strips 125 and 127 are substantially straight and substantially parallel to each other. Preferably, the first strips 125 intersect the second strips 1217 at the nodes 130 such that the angle g is about 90 degrees. The first and second strips 125 and 127 are preferably attached or joined at the nodes 90.

A preferred elastomeric mul 124 is manufactured by Conwed Plastics Company (Minneapolis, Min., USA) under the designation X02514. The material comprises about 12 elastic strips per inch in the direction of structure B (i.e., in the direction of the first stripe 125) and about 7 elastic strips per inch in the direction of the structure D (i.e., in the direction of the second strips 127).

• · · · · · · · · · · · ·

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 6, the elastic member 70 comprises first and second cover layers 122 and 126, an elastomeric material 124 sandwiched between the first and second cover layers 122 and 126. The first cover layer 122 has an inner surface 142 and an outer surface 144. The inner surface 142 of the first cover layer 122 is the second cover layer 126 also has an inner surface 146 and an outer surface 148. The inner surface 146 of the second cover layer 126 is a surface that is positioned facing the elastomeric material 124. The elastomeric material 124 it also has two planar surfaces, a first surface 150 and a second surface 152, each substantially parallel to the planes of the first and second cover layers 122 and 126. The first surface 150 is a planar surface of the elastomeric material 124 that is closely adjacent the inner surface 142 of the first the second surface 152 is the planar surface of the elastomeric material 124 that is tightly adhered HA to the inner surface 146 of the second cover layer 126 respectively.

Since the elastic member 70 will be subjected to mechanical stretching before and during use, the first and second cover layers 122 and 126 preferably have a relatively high elongation than the breakage, these layers are therefore preferably more extensible or capable of elongation, even more preferably capable of being pulled out (necessarily elastomeric) without necessarily (preferably at all) tearing or tearing. Further, the first and second cover layers 122 and 126 are preferably flexible, soft-touch and non-irritating, comfortable to the wearer's skin and give the article the feel and comfort of a conventional garment. Suitable materials for the first and second cover layers 122 and 126 may be made from a variety of materials of a wide variety, such as plastic films, apertured plastic films, woven or nonwoven webs of natural fibers (e.g. wood or cotton fibers), synthetic fibers (e.g. of polyolefin, polyamide, polyester, polyethylene or polypropylene fibers), or a combination of natural and / or synthetic fibers, or by coating woven or nonwoven webs.

Preferably, each of the first and second cover layers 122 and 126 is an identical reinforced nonwoven material. An example of a preferred nonwoven is Fiberweb North America, Inc. (Simpsonville, South Carolina, USA) designated Sofspan 200. This material has a basis weight of 25 g / m ² before hardening and a basis weight of about 63 g / m ² after hardening. As used herein, the term &quot; basis weight &quot; is the weight of one square meter of planar vault material. Alternatively, high voltage nonwoven materials can be used. Alternatively, the first and second cover layers 122 and 126 need not be identical materials as long as they meet the required performance requirements such as elasticity, softness, flexibility, breathability, and durability. As used herein, the term "reinforced nonwoven material" refers to a nonwoven material that has been assembled or cut under mechanical stress in the direction of structure D. so that the material can be elongated in the direction of structure D using low tensile force.

Giant. 7 shows a fragmentary enlarged side view of the structure of the laminate 120 in the B direction (i.e., the elastic member 70). It has been found that when the laminate 120 is bonded or otherwise bonded to form side attachment zones A, such laminate 12 is both highly elastic and substantially free of stratification and slipping. While ensuring very good operating characteristics in all required operating categories without exception. The lateral attachment is preferably accomplished by gluing on the side with a binder disposed in droplets to attach the elastomeric material 124 between the cover layers 122 and 126 as part of the layering process. Alternatively, lateral attachment may be accomplished by stitching, thermoplastic bonding by ultrasonic bonding, needle punching, alternative adhesive processes, or by any known means in the art. Another alternative is to laterally attach the layers of the laminate structure after completing the laminating process of the elastomeric and cover members.

In particular, the laminate 120 may provide a particularly good feeling of softness to the wearer. This is important because consumers appreciate softness. At conventional laminate materials, attempts to prevent material shifting have simultaneously led to an unacceptable decrease in its softness, often accompanied by an unacceptable decrease in its ability to activate. This was because earlier attempts (which were limited to avoiding material slippage) resulted in additional binder deposition, often by an overall sheet coating to strengthen the bond. This generally led to an undesirable overall solidification of the laminate. However, the laminates of the preferred embodiment ensure that the material does not slip without losing the soft touch of the material desired by the consumer and without compromising the ability to activate the material.

• ·

In FIG. 7, the first binder 170 is applied to the inner surface 146 of the second cover layer 126 at locations that correspond to each of the outer edges 180 of the laminate structure 120. The first binder 170 may alternatively or additionally be applied to the inner surface 142 of the first cover layer 122. , the description and the figures relate only to the application on the second cover layer 126.

This pattern creates lateral attachment zones A that substantially eliminate the stratification and slipping of the material that has been associated with previously known laminates and which allows the laminate 120 to withstand higher loads without shifting or stratifying the material. It has also been found that locating the first binder 170 to the edge regions 180 of the laminate 120 prevents excessive expansion of the laminate 120 and also prevents rupture in the cover layers 122 and 126. Preferably, the first binder 170 is applied as a plurality of drops 168 as shown in FIG. . Preferably, the first binder 170 is a flexible binder with an amorphous and crystallizing component. Such a preferred binder is manufactured by Nitta Findley Co., Ltd., Osaka, Ja, designated H9224.

More preferably, the laminate 120 comprises a second binder 164. The second binder 164 is preferably applied to the second surface 152 of the elastomeric material 124. However, it may alternatively be applied to the first surface 150 of the elastomeric material 124. The second binder 164 is preferably sprayed in a spiral pattern 166 creates a connection at points 167b that are better separated than would be by spraying in lines. Without being bound by theory, it is believed that most of the second binder 164 is sprayed in the direction of structure D (FIG. 6). Thus, it has been found that the spiral injection results in very good activation properties. As used herein, the term "activation" refers to flexible extensibility.

It has been found that applying the second binder layer 164 by spraying directly onto the second surface 152 of the elastomeric material 124 is preferable to applying the second binder 164 to the opposite (i.e., the second) cover layer 126. This is because the second binder 164 tends to penetrate any residual binder. processing agents or oils remaining on the surface of the elastomeric material 124. Such residual materials, if left on the surface of the elastomeric material 124, may weaken the adhesive.

For example, if these residual materials are intact, the joints used to form the laminate 120 may weaken after a certain period of time before the product reaches the consumer.

The appreciated peeling properties of the laminate 120 in the binder deposition are generally better when the spirals 166 are applied directly to the elastomeric material 124 than when applied to the opposite (i.e., the second) cover layer 126. As used herein "Valuated peeling properties" refers to the amount of force required to separate two layers of liner, 122 and 126. The higher peeling values usually limit the possibility of stratification of the material during use.

The third binder 160 may also preferably be applied to the inner surface 142 of the first cover layer 122. Preferably, the third binder 160 is an elastomeric binder. In nearly the same manner as described for the application of the second binder 166 in a spiral, the first binder 160 is preferably sprayed in the spiral pattern 162, thereby forming bonding points 167a that are better separated than when the first binder 160 was sprayed in lines. Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that most of the first binder 160 so sprayed is laid in the direction of structure D.

Preferably, the second and third binders 160 and 164 are the same elastomer binders. A preferred binder for use in the second and third spiral injections 162 and 166 is manufactured by Nitta Findley Co., Ltd, Osaka, Ja, designated H2120. The added level for each feed, from the second and third spiral feeds 162 and 166, is preferably about 4 to about 12 milligrams per square inch, more preferably about 8 milligrams per square inch.

It is to be understood that the examples and embodiments described herein are for illustrative purposes only and that various modifications and changes thereto will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the present invention.

Claims (10)

1. A disposable undergarment having a longitudinal centerline, a front region, a rear region and a crotch region between a front region and a rear region, constitutes; a torso secured by the anterior, posterior, and crotch region, provided with edge flanges in the anterior and posterior regions, the hull comprising a liquid pervious topsheet, a liquid impermeable backsheet joined by the topsheet and an absorbent core interposed between the topsheet and the backsheet; at least one pair of extensible ear panels extending laterally outward from the torso in the anterior or posterior region; ear panels, each having the outermost rim, at least one of the outermost rims not having the same distance in the lateral direction from the longitudinal centerline in the non-shrinked state of the laundry; and wherein the ear panels are attached to the torso along respective edge edges to form leg openings and waist openings. The disposable undergarment of claim 1, wherein the at least one pair of ear panels comprises a pair of extensible front ear panels extending laterally outward from the front torso and a pair of extensible rear ear panels extending laterally outward from the torso in a rear region, wherein each of the ear panels is provided with the outermost rim, at least one of the outermost rims does not have the same lateral distance from the longitudinal centerline of the garment in the non-shrink condition; and the disposable undergarment further comprises connecting flanges, each attaching the front and rear ear panels along respective edge flanges to form two leg openings and a waist opening. • · · β · · φ · φ · φ · φ · The disposable undergarment garment of claim 1, further comprising connecting flanges, each of which attaches the torso and ear panels along respective edge flanges to form two leg openings and a waist opening. 4. The disposable undergarment of claim 1, wherein the outermost hem has a first point closest to the waist opening and a second point closest to the leg opening, the outermost hem being defined by joining the first and second points and the outermost point. the skirt leans toward the longitudinal centerline of the laundry in a non-shrink condition. Disposable undergarment according to claim 4, characterized in that the outermost rim, in the non-shrinked condition of the laundry, has an increasing lateral distance from the longitudinal centerline increasing towards the leg opening. 6. The disposable undergarment of claim 1 wherein at least each panel of one pair of ear panels comprises an elastomeric material having at least a portion of unequal lateral width extending towards the leg opening. Disposable undergarment according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that the connecting seams connect the hull and ear panels in an overlapping manner. The disposable undergarment of claim 6 wherein the planar elastomeric material is an elastomeric scrim. 9. The disposable undergarment of claim 1 wherein at least one of the ear panels is formed of a &quot; zero strain &quot; 10. Disposable undergarments with a longitudinal centerline, anterior region, a posterior region and a crotch region between the anterior region and the posterior region shall consist of: a torso secured by the anterior region, the posterior region and the crotch region and provided with edge edges in the anterior region and the posterior region, the hull comprising a liquid permeable topsheet, a liquid impermeable backsheet associated with the topsheet and an absorbent core interposed between the topsheet and the backsheet; and at least one pair of extensible ear panels extending laterally outwardly from the torso in the anterior or posterior region, each ear panel being provided with an outermost skirt; each of the ear panels being attached to the trunk along the corresponding edge flanges to form connecting flanges, thereby creating two leg openings and a waist opening; characterized in that at least one of the seams does not have a uniform lateral distance from the longitudinal centerline of the garment in the non-contracted state.