CN1204864C - Disposable absorbent products - Google Patents

Abstract

A disposable garment having a side elastomeric material and a waist elastomeric material is disclosed. The disposable garment has a front region, a back region, a crotch region between the front region and the back region. The disposable garment comprises a chassis, a waist elastomeric material, a side elastomeric material, and seams. The chassis has a topsheet, a backsheet joined with the topsheet, and an absorbent core interposed between the topsheet and the backsheet. The chassis has a central panel having a waist edge and side edges, an ear panel having a waist edge, and a waistband panel in the front region and the back region. The ear panel extends laterally outwardly from each side edge of the central panel. The waistband panel extends longitudinally outwardly from the waist edge of the central panel and the waist edge of the ear panel. The waist elastomeric material is joined to and extending continuously along the waistband panels in the front region and the back region so as to form a continuous extensible waistband in the front region and the back region. The side elastomeric material is joined to the ear panel so as to form extensible ears. The side elastomeric material and the waist elastomeric material are separate elements and are disposed so as not to overlap to each other. The seams join each ear panel to a corresponding portion in the ear panel so as to form two leg openings and a waist opening such that the extensible waistbands form a continuous extensible waist feature.

Description

Disposable absorbent products

Field of Invention

The present invention relates to disposable articles of clothing, examples of which include disposable underpants, disposable diapers (including pull-on diapers and training pants), and disposable menstrual shorts.

Background of the Invention

Infants and other incontinent persons wear disposable garments similar to diapers to absorb and store urine and other body waste. Absorbent garments with side fastenings (such as training pants and pull-on diapers) have become common. In order to store body waste and accommodate many body shapes and sizes, these garments must fit well around the waist and legs of the wearer. It cannot fall off, sag or slide off from the worn part of the body, and it can fit the body of a larger wearer without causing skin irritation due to being too tight.

Many pull-on garments commonly use conventional elastic members that are held in an elastically contracted state at the waist and leg openings. For example, so-called "air-bag" shorts use elastic in specific areas of the product to create shrinkage while the rest of the material tends to sag. Examples of such pull-on garments are disclosed in US Patent 5,171,239, issued December 15, 1992, and US Patent 4,610,681, issued September 9, 1986. Because these garments rely on the expansion of the elastic opening to accommodate different sized wearers, it fits a range of waist and leg sizes. However, elastics that can fit different sizes have a limited degree of stretch, so this size range is also limited. Additionally, the narrow elastic bands at the waist and leg openings will concentrate traction on narrow areas of the wearer's body, thereby increasing the incidence of marks on the wearer's skin.

Another class of pull-on garments employs waist elastics and side elastics. Examples of such garments are disclosed in U.S. Patent 4,940,464, issued July 10, 1990; US Patent 5,591,155 published on January 7, 1993 and European Patent Application Publication EP 0 526 868 A1 published on February 10, 1993. This type of garment has side elastic members on its left and right sides, and waist elastic members elastically extending along a partial area of the waist opening. The side elastics extend between the waist opening and the leg openings, and the waist elastics only extend partially at the front and rear waist between the left and right side elastics. The side elastics and the waist elastics extend discontinuously. Therefore, the garment does not stretch continuously along the waist, and the extensibility around the waist opening is limited. Additionally, since the side elastics have a single elastic material extending from the waist opening to the leg openings, the side elastics have only uniform stretchability between the waist opening and the leg openings. This does not allow a lot of flexibility in designing a well-formed bodysuit, for example, it is not convenient to design it with different stretches along the leg openings and along the waist openings.

Other examples of pull-on garments having waist elastics and side elastics are disclosed in U.S. Patent 5,545,158, published August 13, 1996, and European Patent Application Publication EP 0 547 497 A2, published June 23, 1993. . The garment disclosed in US Pat. No. 5,545,158 has a pair of elastic side portions and an elastic waist panel joined to the waist edge of the garment. The sides of the elastic waist panels overlap the elastic sides, which does not substantially interfere with the elasticity of the elastic sides. However, the overlapping portions of the elastic side and elastic waist panels become bulky and redundant, and limit the effective stretching of the minimal stretch material. Furthermore, excess stretching force will be added to the overlapping area. In addition, the overlapping portions of the two elastic materials make it difficult to stretch the garment when it is put on the wearer. The garment disclosed in European Patent Application Publication 0547497A2 has substantially the same structure as the garment disclosed in US Patent 5,454,158 and, therefore, suffers from the same disadvantages. European patent application publication 0547497A2 also discloses a garment having a triangular side elastic on the left and right sides. The side elastics reduce the end edges adjacent to the waist elastics, but still overlap the waist elastics. Due to the geometry of the triangular side elastics, the stretchability of the garment's sides between the leg openings and the waist opening is significantly reduced, reducing ease of donning, increasing pressure on the sides and potentially Reduced fit range.

Therefore, there is currently no technology that has all the advantages of the present invention.

Invention Summary

The invention relates to a disposable garment. The garment has a front region, a rear region and a crotch region between the front region and the rear region. The disposable garment includes a main body, a waist elastic material, a side elastic material, and a seam. The main body has a topsheet, a backsheet joined to the topsheet and an absorbent core positioned between the topsheet and the backsheet. The main body includes a middle panel having a waist edge and side edges, ear panels having a waist edge, and belt panels located at the front and rear regions. Ears extend laterally outwardly from each side edge of the central panel. The waistband panel extends longitudinally outwardly from the waist edge of the center panel and the waist edge of the ear panels. A seam connects each ear to a corresponding portion of a corresponding ear, thereby forming two leg openings and a waist opening, whereby the extensible waistband forms a continuously extensible waist. The waist elastic material is attached to and stretches along the waistband panels in the front and rear regions, thereby forming a continuously extensible waistband in the front and rear regions. Side elastomeric material is attached to the ears, thereby forming stretchable ears. The extensible ears are formed from "zero strain" stretch laminates and the side and waist elastomeric materials are separate components and are arranged so as not to overlap each other.

The invention also relates to a disposable garment. The disposable garment has a front region, a rear region and a crotch region between the front region and the rear region. The disposable garment comprises: a main body, a waist elastic material, a side elastic material and a seam connecting a portion of the disposable garment in the front region to a portion in the rear region thereby forming a waist opening and Leg openings. The garment has a continuous band of at least waist elastic material and side elastic material. The continuous zone is stretchable over a range of stretches up to at least about 125% stretch. The continuous zone has a modulus of stretch over the stretch. The tensile modulus at 125% stretch is no greater than about 150 g/% stretch. The force to achieve 125% elongation is no greater than 5,000 g.

The present invention also relates to a disposable garment worn about the torso of the wearer. The garment has a front region, a rear region, a crotch region between the front region and the rear region, a waist opening and two leg openings. The disposable garment includes an extensible region comprising side elastic material and a waist elastic material. When the garment is worn on a standard mannequin, the side elastomeric material and waist elastic material press against the standard mannequin skin with a skin contact pressure of not greater than about 0.75 psi.

These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art from reading this disclosure.

Description of drawings

Although the claims following the description have specifically pointed out and clearly described the present invention, it is believed that the following description of preferred embodiments in conjunction with the accompanying drawings will help to better understand the present invention. Like reference numerals are used in the drawings to refer to substantially like parts. in:

Figure 1 is a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the disposable pull-on garment of the present invention in its usual state of use;

Figure 2 is a simplified plan view of the disposable pull-on garment of the present invention in its flat, unshrunk, unsewn state, showing various parts of the garment;

Figure 3 is a simplified plan view of the embodiment of Figure 1 in its flat, unshrunk, unsewn state;

Figure 4 is a simplified plan view of the embodiment of Figure 3 showing a main body comprising a topsheet, a backsheet and an absorbent core therebetween, with the pull-on garment omitted other parts of the

Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of the preferred embodiment taken along section line 4-4 in Figure 3;

Figure 6 is a simplified plan view of the embodiment of Figure 3 showing the disposable pull-on garment having an extensible ear panel and an extensible waistband panel;

Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of a preferred embodiment taken along line 6-6 in Figure 3;

Fig. 8 is a sectional perspective view of an elastic member of a preferred embodiment;

Fig. 9 is a partially enlarged side view of the elastic member in Fig. 5;

Figure 10 is a graph showing two successive cycles of the hysteresis curve of an elastic material in a preferred embodiment;

Figure 11 is a partial, enlarged perspective view of an alternative embodiment of an elastic material;

Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment taken along section line 6-6 in Figure 3;

Figure 13 is a front view of the embodiment shown in Figure 1;

Figure 14 is a simplified plan view of an alternate embodiment of a disposable pull-on garment with extensible ears and an extensible waistband;

Figure 15 is a simplified plan view of another alternative embodiment of a disposable pull-on garment with extensible ears and an extensible waistband;

Figure 16 is a front view of the disposable pull-on garment shown in Figure 15 in an assembled configuration;

Figure 17 is a front view of an alternative embodiment of the disposable pull-on garment assembly configuration shown in Figure 15;

Figure 18 shows the "force-stretch" curve for the continuous zone of the disposable pull-on garment of the present invention;

Figure 19 has shown the "stretch modulus-stretch rate" curve obtained according to the "force-stretch rate" curve shown in Figure 18;

Figure 20 is a perspective view of a standard mannequin used to measure skin contact pressure;

Figure 21 is a side view of the standard mannequin shown in Figure 20;

FIG. 22 is a top view of the standard mannequin shown in FIG. 20 .

Detailed description

When citing any reference material, it does not mean that we agree that the corresponding prior art can be directly applied to the present invention.

As used herein, "pull-on clothing" refers to an article for wearing that has a defined waist opening and a pair of leg openings through which the wearer can insert the legs and pull them up to the waist . "Disposable" as used herein generally means that the garment is not intended to be laundered after use, or to be stored or reused as that garment (i.e., intended to be discarded after one use, preferably recycled, composted, or otherwise used for the environment. harmless means). A "unitary" pull-on is one in which several individual parts come together to form a coherent whole. However, the ear piece is not a separate part connected to the independent main body, because the ear piece is formed by at least one layer that constitutes the central piece or main body of the garment (that is, the garment does not need to be like a separate ear piece and a separate main body. separate parts that are manually attached as such). The pull-on garment is preferably "absorbent" to absorb and store various body wastes. A preferred embodiment of the pull-on garment of the present invention is a one-piece disposable wear absorbent garment - a pull-on diaper, shown at 20 in FIG. 1 . As used herein, "pull-on diaper" refers to a pull-on garment commonly worn by infants or other incontinent persons to absorb and store urine and feces. It should be understood, however, that the present invention is also applicable to other pull-on garments, such as training pants, incontinence underwear, feminine hygiene garments or panties, and the like. The "connection" mentioned here summarizes: by directly attaching one part to another part, and by attaching one part to an intermediate part, which is attached to another part. A form in which one part is indirectly fixed to another part.

According to FIGS. 1 , 2 and 3 , the pull-on diaper 20 has a front region 26 , a rear region 28 and a crotch region 30 between the front region 26 and the rear region 28 . The pull-on diaper 20 also has two centerlines, a longitudinal centerline 100 and a transverse centerline 110 . "Longitudinal" as used herein refers to a line, an axis or a direction in the plane of the pull-on diaper 20, which is approximately aligned with a vertical plane (e.g., approximately parallel), and when the wearer puts on the pull-on diaper, In the diaper 20, the vertical plane bisects the body of the upright wearer into left and right halves. "Transverse" and "lateral" are used interchangeably herein to refer to a line, an axis, or a direction in the plane of a pull-on diaper that is approximately perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (which will be worn) body is divided into front and rear halves). When worn, the pull-on diaper 20 and its component materials also have a body-facing side facing the wearer's skin and a body-facing side opposite the body-facing side.

Figure 2 is a schematic plan view of the pull-on diaper of Figure 1 in its expanded, non-contracted state. The figure depicts the various sheets and their relative positions. The term "panel" is used herein to denote a region or component on a pull-on diaper or absorbent tape (although a panel is usually a distinct region or component, a panel may in some respects be similar to an adjacent panel). Consistent (functionally equivalent)). The pull-on diaper 20 comprises a crotch region 30 consisting of a main panel 2 and a pair of leg flaps 4; and a rear region 28 consisting of a central panel (middle panel) 9 , a belt panel 7 , ear panels 11 and seam panels 13 . The crotch region 30 is the portion of the pull-on diaper 20 from which the continuous belt region (other panels) extends outwardly. Although the absorbent core will usually extend into the middle panels 8 and 9 of the pull-on diaper, the absorbent core is usually placed in the main panel 2, since excrement is usually discharged in this area. Leg flaps 4 extend generally transversely outwardly along the sides 2B of the main panel 2, each leg flap 4 typically forming at least part of an elastic leg member. The continuous band regions (front region 26 and back region 28) generally extend generally longitudinally outward from each transverse edge 159 of the crotch region 30 (main panel 2 and leg panels 4). In the front region 26, the middle panel 8 (ie, the central panel) extends generally longitudinally outwardly along the transverse edge 159 of the crotch region 30. As shown in FIG. The central panel 8 has a waist edge 190 and side edges 191 . Generally, each ear piece 10 extends laterally outward along the side edge 191 of the middle piece 8 (ie, the central piece), and the ear piece 10 has a waist edge 161 and a side edge 171 . The waistband panel 6 generally extends longitudinally outwardly along the waist edge 190 of the middle panel 8 (ie, the central panel) and the waist edge 161 of the ear panels 10 . The waistband panel 6 has side edges 175 . The seam panels 12 generally extend laterally outwardly along the side edges 171 of the ear panels 10 and the side edges 175 of the waistband panel 6 . In the rear region 28, the central panel 9 (ie the central panel) generally extends longitudinally outwardly along the other transverse edge 159 of the crotch region 30, the central panel 9 having a waist edge 192 and side edges 193. Usually each ear piece 11 extends laterally outward along the side edge 193 of the middle piece 9 (ie the central piece). Ear 11 has a waist edge 163 and side edges 173 . The waistband panel 7 generally extends longitudinally outwardly along the waist edge 192 of the middle panel 9 (ie, the central panel) and the waist edge 163 of the ear panel 11, and the waistband panel 7 has side edges 177. Typically each seam panel 13 extends laterally outwardly along the side edge 173 of the ear panel 11 and the side edge 177 of the belt panel 7 . The front region 26, in addition to these panels, has a waist edge 151, leg edges 153, and side edges 154. The rear region 28, in addition to these panels, has a waist edge 155, leg edges 156 and side edges 157. The crotch region 30 has leg edges 158 .

The pull-on diaper 20 basically includes a main body 41 , waist elastic material (not shown in FIGS. 1 , 2 and 3 ), side elastic material (not shown in FIGS. 1 , 2 and 3 ) and a seam 32 . The pull-on diaper 20 may also have tear-away tabs 31 positioned in relation to the seam 32 and elastic leg cuffs 52 including inner barrier cuffs 54 . The side elastomeric material renders at least a portion of the ears 10 and 11 extensible, thereby forming the extensible ears 46 and 48 . The waist elastic material renders at least a portion of the waistband panels 6 and 7 extensible, thereby forming continuous extensible waistband panels 57 and 59 . The side elastic material and the waist elastic material are mutually independent components and are arranged independently so that they do not overlap each other in the longitudinal direction of the pull-on diaper 20 . This allows for more independent effects of the waist and side elastomeric materials, allowing for adjustments in size extension, compression, etc. The extensible ears 46 and 48 and the continuously extensible waistbands 57 and 59 are stretchable at least in the transverse direction. The seam 32 connects the seam panel 12 on the front region 26 to the seam panel 13 on the rear region 28 so that the ear piece 10 is joined to the ear piece 11 to form a waist opening 36 and Two leg openings 34 . The continuously extensible waistband panels 57 and 59 form a continuously extensible waist member 60 about the waist opening 36 in the ear 10 joined ear 11 configuration. In addition, a continuous band region 38 extends in the front region 26 and the rear region 28 .

According to FIGS. 3 and 4 , the main body 41 comprises an absorbent core 25 and several layers co-located with the absorbent core 25 , such as a topsheet 24 and a backsheet 22 connected to the topsheet 24 . The absorbent core 25 is positioned between the topsheet 24 and the backsheet 22. The main body 41 may also include an additional layer or layers disposed with the absorbent core 25 . The topsheet 24 has a body facing surface which, in use, fits against the body of the wearer. The backsheet 22 has an outwardly facing surface which is directed away from the wearer's body. The backsheet 22 preferably comprises an inner barrier film 68 and an outer nonwoven cover 23. Because the main body 41 is divided into the front region 26, the rear region 28 and the crotch region 30, the main body 41 also has the corresponding regions and sheets as previously described (for simplicity, these regions and sheets in the figure have adopted the same pattern as that of Fig. 2 ). Relevant regions and panels in pull-on diapers have the same reference numerals).

The length and width dimensions of the inner barrier film 68 of the topsheet 24 and backsheet 22 are generally greater than the corresponding dimensions of the absorbent core 25. The topsheet 24 and inner barrier film 68 extend beyond the side and end edges of the absorbent core 25 and form the perimeter of the main body 41 . The topsheet 24 extends longitudinally between the waist edges 151 and 155 of the pull-on diaper 20 . The topsheet 24 has a waist end portion 24A and side portions 24B, the waist end portion 24A of the topsheet 24 (ie end extension 24A) extending into a portion of the waistband panels 6 and 7 of the pull-on diaper 20 . The inner barrier film 68 has a waist end portion 68A and side portions 68B. Inner barrier film 68 is vertically slightly shorter than topsheet 24, and transversely is slightly wider than topsheet 24. The inner barrier film 68 is non-uniform in transverse width, thereby defining a first portion 94 on at least a portion of the crotch region 30 and a second portion 96 on at least a portion of the front region 26 and the rear region 28 . The lateral width of the inner barrier film 68 gradually decreases toward the waist end portion 68A, and therefore, the lateral width of the second portion 96 is smaller than that of the first portion 94 . The inner barrier film 68 preferably does not extend into the ears 10 and 11 to increase the effective transverse stretch length of the ears 10 and 11 and to reduce the loft of the ears 10 and 11. Likewise, the inner barrier film 68 does not extend into the waistband panels 6 and 7 to reduce the bulkiness of the waistband panels 6 and 7 . Additionally, because the inner barrier film 68 does not extend into the ears 10 and 11 and the waistband panels 6 and 7, the inner barrier film 68 does not impede breathability in those areas. Although the topsheet 24, the inner barrier film 68 and the absorbent core 25 can be combined in many known structures, examples of the main body structure are generally found in Kenneth B. Constricted Sides" and US Patent 5,151,092 issued September 29, 1992 to Kenneth B. Buell et al. entitled "Absorbent Articles with Powered Elastic Waist Members with Preset Resilient Flexure Hinges".

The nonwoven outer cover 23 preferably covers substantially the entire area of the outermost portion of the pull-on diaper 20 . The nonwoven outer cover 23 can generally have the same shape as the pull-on diaper 20 . The nonwoven outer cover 23 has waist end portions 23A and side portions 23B. The nonwoven outer cover 23 also has side extensions 23C in the front region 26 and side extensions 23D in the back region 28 . Waist ends 23A (ie, end extensions 23A) of nonwoven outer cover 23 extend into waistband panels 6 and 7 . Side extensions 23C and 23D extend into tabs 10 and 11 . Alternatively, the outer nonwoven cover 23 of the backsheet 22 can be generally shaped the same as the inner barrier film 68 such that the outer nonwoven cover 23 covers only the area of the inner barrier film 68 . Still alternatively, the nonwoven outer cover 23 could be eliminated and the inner barrier film 68 could have substantially the same shape as the pull-on diaper 20 and extend into the ears 10 and 11 and the waistband panels 6 and 7 .

The absorbent core 25 can be any absorbent element that is generally compressible, comfortable, non-irritating to the wearer's skin, and capable of absorbing and retaining fluids such as urine and other body exudates. The absorbent core 25 can be made in many different sizes and shapes (such as rectangular, hourglass, "T" shaped, asymmetrical, etc.), and can use a variety of fluid-absorbent materials commonly used in disposable diapers and other absorbent articles. Made of, for example, comminuted wood pulp commonly known as air felt. Other suitable absorbent materials include: creped cellulosic wadding, including coform meltblown polymers, chemically hardened, modified or crosslinked cellulosic fibers, including tissue bales and tissue laminated tissues, moisture absorbent Foam, absorbent sponge, superabsorbent polymer, absorbent gelling material, or any equivalent material or combination of materials.

The composition and structure of the absorbent core 25 can also be various (for example: the absorbent core 25 can have varying thickness zones, hydrophilic gradients, superabsorbent gradients, or lower average density and lower average basis weight. region, or include one or more layers, one or more structures). Additionally, the size and absorbent capacity of the absorbent core 25 can be varied to suit a range of wearers from infants to adults. Regardless of the form and structure adopted, the overall absorbent capacity of the absorbent core 25 should be consistent with the design load and use of the diaper 20.

In a preferred embodiment, the absorbent core 25 is an asymmetrical modified hourglass shape with ears in the front 26 and back 28 waist regions. Other constructions for absorbent core 25 that have gained wide acceptance and commercial success are described in the following patent: "High Density Absorbent Structures" issued September 9, 1986 to Weisman et al. U.S. Patent 4,610,678; U.S. Patent 4,673,402 to Weisman et al., entitled "Absorbent Article with Double Layer Core" on June 16, 1987; and US Patent 4,834,735, issued May 30, 1989 to Alemany et al., entitled "Absorbent Elements Having Lower Density and Lower Weight Acquisition Zones."

As shown in Figure 5, the main body 41 may also have an acquisition/distribution core 84 of chemically hardened fibers placed over the absorbent core 25, thereby forming a dual core system. Preferred dual core systems are disclosed in U.S. Patents 5,234,423, Alemany et al., issued August 10, 1993, entitled "Absorbent Articles with Elastic Waist Member and Enhanced Absorbent Core," and U.S. Patents 5,234,423, issued September 15, 1992. US Patent 5,147,345 to Young, LaVon and Taylor entitled "Highly Effective Absorbent Article for Incontinence Management". In a preferred embodiment, the acquisition/distribution core 84 comprises a chemically treated hardened cellulose fiber material available from Weyerhaeuser Co. (USA) under the trade designation CMC.

More preferably, the main body 41 also includes an acquisition/distribution layer 82 positioned between the topsheet 24 and the acquisition/distribution core 84, as shown in FIG. The acquisition/distribution layer 82 serves to help reduce the tendency of the topsheet 24 to surface wet. The acquisition/distribution layer is preferably composed of a carded, resin bonded high loft nonwoven material, such as, for example, material available under the designation FT-6860 from Polymer Grous, Inc., North America (Landisiville, NJ, USA). , the material is made of 6 dtex polyethylene terephthalate fiber, and its basis weight is about 43g/m ² .

The topsheet 24 is preferably compliant, soft to the touch and non-irritating to the wearer's skin. In addition, the topsheet 24 is also liquid permeable, allowing liquids, such as urine, to readily pass through its entire thickness. Suitable topsheet 24 can be made of many materials, for example nonwoven material, polymeric material such as apertured formed thermoplastic film, apertured plastic film and hydroformed thermoplastic film; apertured foam; reticulated foam; reticulated thermoplastic film and thermoplastic scrims. Suitable woven or nonwoven materials can be composed of natural fibers such as wood or cotton fibers, synthetic fibers such as polymeric fibers such as polyester, polypropylene and polyethylene fibers, or a combination of natural and synthetic fibers. The topsheet 24 is preferably made of a substantially hydrophobic material so as to isolate the wearer's skin from liquids which pass through the topsheet 24 and are stored in the absorbent core 25 (ie, prevent rewet). If the topsheet 24 is made of a hydrophobic material, then preferably at least the upper surface of the topsheet 24 is treated to be hydrophilic so that liquids will pass through the topsheet more quickly. This reduces the possibility of bodily waste draining from the topsheet 24, and more allows liquid to be pulled through the topsheet and absorbed by the absorbent core 25. The topsheet can be treated with a surfactant to render it hydrophilic. Suitable methods of surface treating the topsheet 24 include spraying the material with a surfactant and soaking the material in the surfactant. Such treatments and hydrophilicity are described in U.S. Patent 4,988,344, issued January 29, 1991 to Reising et al., entitled "Absorbent Articles Having Multilayer Absorbent Layers," and in the January 29, 1991, issue to Reising et al. See US Patent No. 4,988,345 for "Absorbent Articles Having Rapid Acceptance Absorbent Core" discussed in more detail. The topsheet 24 preferably adds a breathable design/treatment to the waistband panels 6 and 7 and other portions of the pull-on diaper.

In a preferred embodiment, the topsheet 24 is a nonwoven web, which reduces the tendency of the surface to become wet and, after wetting, helps keep urine absorbed by the absorbent core 25 away from the user's skin. . A suitable preferred topsheet material is a thermally bonded carded web, such as that produced by Fiberweb North America, Inc. (Simpsonville, South Carolina, USA) under the designation P-8. Another suitable topsheet material is commercially available from Havix Co., Japan under the designation S-2355, which is a two-layer composite material treated with two synthetic surfactants by Carded and air-through (air-through) technology to produce bi-component fibers. Still another preferred topsheet material is a thermally bonded carded web available under the designation ProfleeceStyle 040018007 from Amoxo Fabrics, Inc. (Gronan, Germany).

Another preferred topsheet 24 comprises an apertured formed film. Apertured formed films are preferred for the topsheet 24 because they are permeable to body exudates but do not absorb it themselves, and reduce the tendency of liquid to flow back and rewet the wearer's skin, therefore, the formed film in contact with the body The surface of the film remains dry, which reduces the degree of body soiling and makes the wearer more comfortable. Suitable formed films are described in U.S. Patent 3,929,135, issued December 30, 1975 to Thompson, entitled "Absorbent Structures with Tapered Capillaries"; U.S. Patent 4,324,246 for "Disposable Absorbent Article with Soil-Resistant Topsheet"; U.S. Patent 4,342,314 issued August 3, 1982 to Radel et al. entitled "Resilient Plastic Web Exhibiting Fiber-Like Properties"; July 1984 U.S. Patent 4,463,045, issued to Ahr et al. on April 31, entitled "Macroscopically expanded three-dimensional plastic mesh exhibiting matte visible surface and fabric-like hand"; and entitled "Multilayer Polymeric Films" US Patent 5,006,394.

The backsheet 22 preferably includes an inner barrier film 68 and a nonwoven outer cover 23 . The inner barrier film 68 is preferably impermeable to liquids, such as urine, and is preferably made of a thin plastic film. The inner barrier film has a body facing surface 79 and an outer facing surface 77 . The plastic film is preferably breathable so that air can escape from the pull-on diaper 20. In the preferred embodiment, a microporous polyethylene film is used as the inner barrier film 68 . A suitable microporous polyethylene film is manufactured by Mitsui Toatsu Chemicals, Inc., Nagoya, Japan under the designation Espoir No. . The backsheet 22 preferably has additional breathability and side seam designs/treatments. A disposable strip may further be attached to the outer surface of the backsheet.

A suitable plastic film material for inner barrier film 68 is a thermoplastic film having a thickness of about 0.012 mm (0.5 mil) to 0.051 mm (2.0 mils), preferably comprising polyethylene or polypropylene. The basis weight of the plastic film is preferably about 5 g/m ² to 35 g/m ² . However, it should be understood that other flexible liquid impermeable materials may also be used. The term "compliant" as used herein means that the material is pliable and pliable and easily conforms to the general shape and contours of the human body. The water vapor transmission rate of the plastic film can be between 3,000-4,000g/m ² /24hr. The measuring method thereof will be described later.

The nonwoven outer cover 23 is joined to the outwardly facing side of the inner barrier film 68 to form a laminate (ie, the backsheet 22). The nonwoven outer cover 23 is located on the outermost portion of the pull-on diaper 20 and covers at least a portion of the outermost portion of the pull-on diaper 20 . Outer cover 23 is joined to inner barrier film 68 by any joining method known in the art. For example, nonwoven outer cover 23 may be secured to inner barrier film 68 by a continuous uniform layer of adhesive, a patterned layer of adhesive, or an array of discrete lines, spirals, or spots of adhesive. Suitable adhesives are hot melt adhesives available from Nitta Findley Co., Osaka, Japan, code-named H-2128 and hot-melt adhesives, code-named JM-6064, available from H.B. Fuller Japan Co., Ltd., Osaka, Japan. Melt adhesive.

In a preferred embodiment, the nonwoven outer cover 23 is a carded nonwoven web, such as the product code E-2341 available from Havix Co., Ltd., Gifu, Japan. The nonwoven outer cover 23 is composed of bicomponent fibers of polyethylene (PE) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET). The ratio of PE/PET is about 40/60. The dimensions of the bicomponent fibers are 2decitex x 51 mm. Another preferred carded nonwoven is available from Chisso Corp., Osaka, Japan. The nonwoven outer cover 23 may also be made from bicomponent fibers of polyethylene (PE) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET), with a PE/PET ratio of approximately 30/70.

In another preferred embodiment, the nonwoven fabric is a spunbond nonwoven web available from Mitsui Petrochemical Industries, Ltd., Tokyo, Japan. The nonwoven web is made of bicomponent fibers consisting of a polyethylene (PE) sheath and a polypropylene (PP) core. The ratio of PE/PP is about 80/20. The thickness of the PE/PP bicomponent fiber is approximately 2.3 decitex.

The backsheet 22 is preferably adjacent to the exterior of the absorbent core 25 and is attached thereto by any attachment means known in the art. For example, the backsheet 22 may be secured to the absorbent core 25 by a continuous uniform layer of adhesive, a patterned layer of adhesive, or an array of discrete lines, spirals, or spots of adhesive. A satisfactory adhesive is manufactured by H.B. Fuller Company of St. Paul, Minnesota, under the designation HL-1258. A suitable method of attachment is the use of an open network of adhesive fibrils. This method is disclosed in US Patent 4,573,986, issued March 4, 1986 to Minetola et al., entitled "Disposable Waste Containing Garment". Another suitable joining method is to rotate some linear adhesive filaments into a helical pattern. The device and method used in this method can be found in US Patent 3,911,173 issued to Sprague, Jr on October 7, 1975; US Patent 4,785,966 issued to Ziecker et al. on November 22, 1978 and US Patent issued to Werenicz on June 27, 1989 4,842,666. In addition, the connection method may also include thermal bonding, pressure bonding, ultrasonic bonding, dynamic mechanical bonding or any other suitable connection method known in the art or a combination of these methods.

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

The purpose of the elastic leg cuffs 52 is to improve the seal against liquids and other body exudates. The elastic leg cuffs 52 can have several different embodiments to reduce the leakage of bodily waste in the leg area (leg cuffs can be, and are sometimes called, leg cuffs, side flaps, barrier cuffs or elastic cuffs). US Patent No. 3,860,003 describes a disposable diaper having a compressible leg opening with side flaps and one or more elastic members forming an elastic leg cuff (closure cuff). U.S. Patent 4,909,803, issued March 20, 1990 to Aziz et al., entitled "Disposable Absorbent Article With Elastic Flaps," describes a disposable diaper having "standing" elastic flaps ( barrier cuff) to increase the degree of seal in the leg area. U.S. Patent 4,695,278, issued to Lawson on September 22, 1987, entitled "Absorbent Article with Double Leg Cuffs" and to Dragoo on January 3, 1989, entitled "Absorbent Article with Double Leg Cuffs to Contain Leakage" Patent 4,795,454 describes a disposable diaper with dual cuffs of closure cuffs and barrier cuffs. U.S. Patent 4,704,115 issued to Buell on November 3, 1987 entitled "Disposable Waist Containment Garment" discloses a disposable diaper or incontinence pant having edge leak-proof grooves to retain the free liquid.

While each elastic leg cuff 52 can be constructed in a similar configuration to any of the leg cuffs, side flaps, barrier cuffs or elastic cuffs described above, each elastic leg cuff is preferably constructed as above. US Patent No. 4,909,803, incorporated by reference, includes inner barrier cuffs 54, and each inner barrier cuff 54 includes a barrier wing 56 and a spacer 58 (as shown in FIG. 5). The inner barrier cuff 54 can have an insert member which can be highly impervious to water and very breathable. In a preferred embodiment, the elastic leg cuffs 52 additionally comprise elastic closure cuffs made of one or more strands of elastic strand 64 located outside the barrier cuffs 54, as described in the aforementioned U.S. Patent Nos. 4,695,278 and 4,795,454. 62. The elastic thread 64 is usually placed on the leg flap 4, and is connected with the leg flap 4 by any method (such as using hot-melt glue) under the pre-deformed condition. Before connecting, the elastic wire 64 can be pre-deformed to between 30% and 200%, preferably between 50% and 150%. A preferred elastic strand 64 is manufactured by Fulflex International Company under the designation 9312.

The pull-on diaper 20 has an extensible front ear 46 and an extensible rear ear 48 . According to FIG. 5, the extensible ears 46 and 48 preferably include side elastic members 70 having side elastomeric material 124 (as shown in FIG. 8), side extensions 23C of the nonwoven outer cover 23, and inner barrier cuffs. 54 (although FIG. 5 only shows the structure of the front section 26, the structure of the rear section 28 is the same or similar to the structure of the corresponding components on the front section 26). Preferably, at least one of the front and rear extensible ears 46 and 48 is elastically extensible at least in the transverse direction. More preferably, both front and rear extensible ears 46 and 48 are elastically extensible at least in the transverse direction. In an alternative embodiment, the front and rear ears 46, 48 are elastically stretchable both longitudinally and transversely. As used herein, "extensible" means that the material is capable of being stretched to some extent in at least one direction without undue rupture. As used herein, "elastic" and "elastically extensible" mean that an extensible material returns to approximately its original dimensions after the force that stretched the material is removed. Unless otherwise stated, any material or component referred to herein as "stretchable" means elastically stretchable. The extensible ears 46 and/or 48 can make the diaper more comfortable and fit the wearer's body more closely by initially fitting the diaper to the wearer, and because the extensible ears 46 and/or 48 can make the cover The sides of the pull-on diaper expand and contract to maintain this form-fitting fit throughout wear while the pull-on diaper contains waste.

The extensible ears 46 and 48 are preferably breathable. The water vapor transmission rate of the ears and the total water vapor transmission rate together with other components of the pull-on diaper are very important in reducing the occurrence of heat rash and other skin problems associated with hot and humid conditions. To reduce moisture and heat in pull-on diapers, the weighted average total water vapor transmission rate of the extensible ears 46 and 48 is preferably at least 2,000 g/ ^m2 /24hr, more preferably at least 4,000 g/ ^m2 /24hr. The weighted average total water vapor transmission rate for the entire pull-on diaper is preferably at least 2,000 g/ ^m2 /24hr to about 8,000 g/ ^m2 /24hr.

The water vapor transmission rate will be determined by the method described below: A known quantity of calcium chloride (CaCl2) is placed in a flanged cup, a sample is placed on top of the cup and secured with a retaining ring or hoop. The assembly is weighed and recorded as the initial weight. Put this combined device in a room with constant temperature (40°C) and humidity (75%RH) for 5 hours, then take it out of the room with constant temperature and humidity, and use it at the stifling temperature of the room where the balance is placed. It is equilibrated for at least 30 minutes, at which time the assembly is reweighed and recorded as the final weight. The total water vapor transmission rate (MVTR) is calculated using the following formula and expressed as g/m ² /24hr:

According to FIGS. 6 and 3 , the extensible ears 46 include side elastic members 70 . The side elastic member 70 has an upper end edge 46A, a lower end edge 46B, an inner edge 46C, and an outer edge 46D. The extensible ear 48 comprising the rear portion of the side elastic members 70 has an upper end edge 48A, a lower end edge 48B, an inner edge 48C and an outer edge 48D. Although, each element, portion, part, etc. on the front region 26 can be configured differently from that on the rear region 28 (such as the configuration of the front extensible ears 46 versus the rear extensible ears 48, or the configuration of the lower end edge 46B). and the structure of the lower end edge 48B), but for ease of description, these similar elements, parts, parts, etc. on the front region 26 and the rear region 28 are described here at the same time. In a preferred embodiment, the ears 10 and 11 are made with side elastics 70 and the entire area of the ears 10 and 11 are rendered stretchable, thereby forming the stretchable ears 46 and 48. . In the embodiment shown in FIG. 3 , the side elastic members 70 extend into a portion of the seam panels 12 and 13 . Accordingly, the extensible front ear 46 and the extensible rear ear 48 are secured to each other at the seam 32, and the side elastics 70 at the front region 26 and the side elastics 70 at the rear region 28 are mutually secured at the seam 32. (Although the seam panels 12 and 13 are not shown in FIG. 5, the side elastic members 70 extending into the seam panels 12 and 13 are shown in FIG. 5). In addition, it is also possible to make only a part of the area of the tabs 10 and 11 stretchable. The extensible ears 46 and 48 are parts of the ears 10 and 11 which are made extensible by attaching them to the side elastic members 70 and subjecting them to mechanical tension. In a preferred embodiment, medial edges 46C and 48C extend generally along longitudinal centerline 100 . Outer edges 46D and 48D are not parallel to inner edges 46C and 48C, nor are they parallel to longitudinal centerline 100 . Outer edges 46D and 48D taper laterally outward as they approach lower end edges 46B and 48B, such that outer edges 46D and 48D move away from inner edges 46C and 48C as they approach lower end edges 46B and 48B. The extensible ears 46 and 48 have a transverse width L1 between the inner edges 46C, 48C and the outer edges 46D, 48D near the lower end edges 46B and 48B; There is also a lateral width L2 between them. The transverse width between the inner and outer edges is the width between the inner and outer edges 46C and 48C and the outer edges 46D and 48D in a transverse direction perpendicular to the longitudinal centerline 100 . Accordingly, the transverse width between the inner and outer edges has a value within the range R, ie, the region in which the inner edges 46C and 48C are longitudinally coextensive with the outer edges 46D and 48D. The transverse width L1 is greater than the transverse width L2, so that the stretchable ears 46 and 48 have more effective elastic material in the transverse direction near the lower end edges 46B and 48B than in the transverse direction near the upper end edges 46A and 48A. material quantity. Because the outer edges 46D and 48D gradually extend laterally outward near the lower edges 46B and 48B, the amount of elastic material near the upper edges 46A and 48A is increased without reducing the amount of effective elastic material near the upper edges 46A and 48A. Effective amount of elastic material at 46B and 48B. In addition, since the transverse width of the extensible ears 46 and 48 gradually changes in the direction from the upper end edges 46A and 48A to the lower end edges 46B and 48B, the amount of effective elastic material also changes in this direction. This results in a change in the force or gradient of force across the extendable ear to fit the product on the user. The inner edges 46C and 48C may also be non-parallel to the longitudinal centerline 100 and taper laterally inwardly as they approach the lower end edges 46B and 48B such that the transverse width L1 is greater than the transverse width L2. Alternatively, the inner edges 46C and 48C may project slightly outward laterally near the lower end edges 46B and 48B, but still have a lateral width L1 greater than a lateral width L2.

The extensible ears 46 and 48 may be formed as integral parts of the pull-on diaper (i.e. they are not separate operative parts secured to the pull-on diaper 20, but are formed from one or more of the different layers of the pull-on diaper). the extensions constitute or are the extensions themselves). In a preferred embodiment, the extensible ears 46 and 48 are an extended portion of the main body 41 . Preferably, the extensible ears 46 and 48 comprise at least one unitary member or continuous sheet of material forming part of the main body and extending continuously to the extensible ears 46 and 48 . Alternatively, the extensible ears 46 and 48 may be separate members. The separate member does not comprise any integral part forming part of the main body 41 . The extendable ears 46 and 48 may be formed by connecting the separate members with side portions of the main body 41 .

Side elastics 70 are interposed between extensions 72 of inner barrier cuff 54 and lateral extensions 23C and 23D of nonwoven outer cover 23 in the region of extensible ears 46 and 48 . The side elastics 70 are operatively connected to at least one of the extensions 72 of the inner barrier cuff 54 and the lateral extensions 23C and 23D of the nonwoven outer cover 23 . Preferably, side elastics 70 are operatively connected to both extensions 72 of inner barrier cuff 54 and extensions 23C and 23D of nonwoven outer cover 23 in a substantially relaxed (zero strain) state.

The side elastics 70 may be operatively attached to the inner barrier cuff 54 and the nonwoven outer cover 23 by employing intermittent bonds or a substantially continuous bond. The "intermittent" bonded laminated mesh mentioned here refers to the initial bonding between the layers in the laminated mesh only at some separated and spaced points; or the layers of the laminated mesh are substantially non-bonded to each other in discrete, spaced-apart discrete regions. In contrast, a "substantially continuous" bonded laminated web means a laminated web in which there is a substantially continuous initial bond over the entire bonding surface between the layers. Since it is preferred that all or a substantial portion of the laminated web is bonded together, there is no stretching or pulling of the elastic web (i.e., the nonwoven web of the inner barrier cuff 54 and the nonwoven outer cover 23). without rupture. The layers of the stretch laminated web are preferably bonded in such a way that after the incremental mechanical stretching operation, all the layers of the stretch laminated web remain relatively closely attached together , and the side elastic members are substantially continuously bonded to the other layers of the stretch laminated web using an adhesive. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the adhesive selected is applied in a spiral pattern (such as that shown in US 3,911,173 (Sprague, Jr) and US 4,842,666 (Werenicz)) at a basis weight of about 0.116 g/m ² . The spiral pattern is approximately 1.9 cm (0.75 in) wide, next to each other or slightly overlapping (less than 2 mm). A preferred adhesive is an adhesive such as that available from Findley Adhesives under the designation H-2120. Alternatively, the side elastics and any other components of the stretch laminate web may be thermally bonded, pressure bonded, ultrasonically bonded, dynamic mechanically bonded, or any other method known in the art, intermittently or continuously bond to each other.

After the side elastics 70 are effectively connected to the extensions 72 of the inner barrier cuff 54 and the lateral extensions 23C and 23D of the nonwoven outer cover 23, at least a portion of the resulting composite stretch laminate is subjected to sufficient Mechanical stretching to permanently elongate the inelastic components therein, such as extension 72 of inner barrier cuff 54 and lateral extensions 23C and 23D of nonwoven outer cover 23 . The composite stretch laminate is then returned to its substantially untensioned state. Thus, the extensible ears 46 and 48 create a "zero strain" stretch laminate (alternatively, the side elastics 70 can be operatively connected in a tensioned state and subsequently subjected to mechanical tension stretch). A "zero strain" stretch laminate as used herein means a laminate comprising at least two layers of material secured to each other in a substantially untensioned ("zero strain") condition along at least a portion of their coextensive surfaces ; one layer of the laminate comprises a stretchable and elastomeric material (i.e. capable of returning substantially to its untensioned dimensions when the applied tension is released); and the second layer is a stretchable elongated (but not necessarily made of elastomer), so that when the second layer is stretched so that it is permanently elongated (at least to some extent), after the applied stretching force is removed, it Will not fully return to its original untransformed form. Thus, the resulting stretch laminate is rendered elastically stretchable in the direction of initial mechanical stretching (at least up to the point of initial stretching). A particularly preferred method and apparatus for making stretch laminates is to mechanically stretch the part using intermeshing corrugated rolls or intermeshing corrugated sheets. Particularly preferred devices and methods are disclosed in U.S. Patent 5,167,897 issued December 1, 1992 to Weber et al; U.S. Patent 5,156,793 issued October 20, 1990 to Buell et al; Patent 5,143,679 and European Patent Publication No. 0 955 027A1 entitled "Method and Apparatus for Activating a Moving Mesh" filed May 7, 1998 by Christoph J. Schmitz et al.

As shown in FIG. 5 , side elastics 70 are preferably secured (more preferably directly) to sides 68B of inner barrier film 68 with adhesive 76 . In a preferred embodiment, the side elastics 70 are attached to the outwardly facing surface 77 of the side 68B of the inner barrier film 68 . In alternative embodiments, the side elastics 70 may be attached to the body-facing surface 79 of the side 68B of the inner barrier membrane 68 . The preferred adhesive is applied in a bead, but can also be applied in a spiral. In preferred embodiments, the adhesive is a flexible adhesive comprising amorphous and crystalline components. One such preferred adhesive is supplied by Findley Adhesive Company as product code #H9224. Alternatively, any bonding method known in the art, including thermal bonding, pressure bonding, ultrasonic bonding, dynamic mechanical bonding, or a combination of these bonding methods, may be used to bond the side elastic members 70 Connected to the side 68B of the inner barrier film 68 .

According to FIG. 8 , the side elastics 70 serving as the extensible ears 46 and 48 include side elastomeric material 124 . The side elastics 70 may also include one of a first coverstock layer 122 and a second coverstock layer 126, preferably both. Alternatively, the side elastics 70 may not include any additional layers.

The side elastomer material 124 has a first surface 150 and a second surface 152 opposite to the first surface 150 , and a first covering material layer 122 connected with the first surface 150 of the side elastomer material 124 . In a preferred embodiment, the first cover material layer 122 is attached to the first surface of the side elastomeric material 124 (eg, as shown in FIG. 9 ) by an adhesive 160 . More preferably, the side elastic member 70 further includes a second covering material layer 126 ; the second covering material layer is connected to the second surface 152 of the side elastic body material 124 by an adhesive 164 . The side elastomeric material 124 provides a good fit to the body by creating an optimal hold (or retention) force in the wearer's side regions. Preferably, the side elastomeric material is extensible in at least one direction, preferably a direction containing a component in the transverse direction, to create a retention (or retention) force that is essential to prevent the pull-on diaper 20 from Shedding, drooping or slipping from the worn position on the body and not causing red marks on the wearer's skin is optimal.

The side elastomeric material 124 can come in many sizes, forms and shapes. In a preferred embodiment, the side elastomeric material 124 is in the form of a continuous planar layer. Preferred forms of continuous planar layers include: scrims, perforated (or formed apertures) films, elastic woven or nonwoven materials, and other similar forms. In an alternative embodiment, the side elastomeric material 124 is a continuous planar layer of strands (or threads) that are not adjacent to each other. The continuous planar layer can be made into any shape that can fit the tab, including quadrilaterals (including rectangles and squares, trapezoids) and other polygons.

Elastomeric materials that have been found to be particularly suitable for the side portion elastomeric material 124 are styrenic block copolymer based scrim materials, perforated (or formed holes) elastic films, strands, preferably about 0.05 mm to 1.0 mm in thickness. mm (0.002inch～0.039inch). Other suitable elastomeric materials for the side elastomeric material 124 include "live" synthetic or natural rubber, other synthetic or natural rubber foams, elastic films (including heat shrinkable elastomeric films), elastomeric woven or nonwoven webs sheets, elastic composites or other similar materials.

Stretchable properties of the side elastomeric material 124, such as: First Cycle of Stretch Force at 100% Stretch (FCEF100%), First Cycle of Stretch Force at 200% Stretch (FCEF200%), 50% Stretch The second cycle recovery force (SCRF50%) and the maintenance load at 50% after 10-12 hours are important considerations in the performance of disposable garments. The stretchable properties of the side elastomeric material 124 are preferably within the ranges defined herein. FCEF100% and FCEF200% are a measure of all perceivable "stretch" of the disposable garment during use/dumping. These two characteristics also affect the user's ability to achieve the proper degree of applied stretch. If the side characteristic material 124 has relatively high FCEF100% and FCEF200%, then the disposable clothing is just more laborious when worn on the wearer; Conversely, if the side characteristic material has relatively low FCEF100% and FCEF200%, It may not achieve a suitable fit/fit to the body. SCRF50% is also closely related to the degree of fit/fit of the disposable garment to the wearer's body. If the side performance material 124 has a relatively high SCRF50%, it may cause skin redness and discomfort during use; if the side performance material 124 has a relatively low SCRF50%, it may not be able to provide enough stretch to make the diaper Remains on the wearer or does not fit well with the body. The sustaining load at 50% is an evaluation of the attenuation performance of the force over time, and this value should be limited, otherwise obvious droop will occur.

The values of FCEF100%, FCEF200% and SCRF50% can be measured with a tensile tester. The tensile tester has an upper grip and a lower grip positioned below the upper grip. The upper clamp is movable and connected to an extension force measuring device. The lower end clip is fixed on the table or on the ground. Prepare a test sample with a width of about 2.54cm (1.0inch) and a length of about 12.75cm (5inch) (that is, the elastic material to be tested) and clamp it between the upper end clamp and the lower end clamp, and the effective sample length (L) ( That is, the standard length) is about 2.54cm (1.0inch). An extension force is applied to the test sample through the upper end clamp. If no stretching force is applied to the test sample, the length of the test sample is its unstretched length. A suitable tensile tester for use herein is available from Instron Corporation, 100 Royall Street, Canton, MA 02021, U.S.A., under the code designation Instron 5564.

FIG. 10 shows a preferred example of the stretch and recovery force hysteresis curves for two cycles of the side elastomeric material 124 . Curve E1 represents the stretching force for the first cycle, while curve R1 represents the restoring force for the first cycle; curve E2 (shown in dashed lines) represents the stretching force for the second cycle, and curve R2 represents the restoring force for the second cycle. Stretch and recovery properties were measured as follows.

In the first cycle, the test sample is subjected to an initial extension force applied while moving at a crosshead rate of 25.4 cm/min (10 in/min) at about 23°C, and held for 30 seconds at an elongation of 200%; then The test sample returns to its relaxed state at the same rate. The test specimen is held in a relaxed state for one minute and then subjected to a second extension force (for the second cycle) under the same conditions and rate.

In a preferred embodiment, the side elastomeric material 124 has a FCEF100% of at least 100 grams/inch. More preferably, FCEF100% is between about 120 grams/inch and 220 grams/inch, most preferably between about 150 grams/inch and 190 grams/inch. FCEF200% is preferably between about 160 grams/inch-450 grams/inch, more preferably between about 180 grams/inch-300 grams/inch, more preferably between about 200 grams/inch-240 grams/inch. The SCRF50% of the side elastomer material 124 is preferably between about 40 grams/inch～130 grams/inch, more preferably between about 65 grams/inch～105 grams/inch, more preferably between about 75 grams/inch～ Between 95grams/inch. 50% lower maintenance load is preferably between about 40grams/inch～130grams/inch, more preferably between about 65grams/inch～105grams/inch, more preferably between about 75grams/inch～95grams/inch between.

In the preferred embodiment shown in FIG. 8 , the elastomeric scrim 124 has a plurality of first strands 125 and a plurality of second strands 127 . The first strand 125 and the second strand 127 intersect each other at a node 130 at a predetermined angle α to form a mesh-like opening structure with a plurality of holes 132 . Each hole 132 is formed by at least two adjacent first strands and two adjacent second strands, so the holes 132 are substantially rectangular in shape. The holes 132 may also be in other forms, such as parallelograms, squares or arc segments. Preferably, the first strands 125 and the second strands 127 are substantially straight and substantially parallel to each other. The angle a at which the first strand 125 and the second strand 127 intersect at node 130 is preferably 90°. The first strand 125 and the second strand 127 are preferably joined or bonded at a node 130 . A preferred elastomeric scrim 124 is manufactured by Conwed Plastics Company under the code designation XO 2514, a material that has 12 elastic strands per inch in the construction direction B (i.e., the first strand 125), and in the construction direction D (ie second strand 127) is 7 elastic strands per inch.

In another preferred embodiment shown in FIG. 11 , the elastomeric material 124 may comprise a porous, macroscopically expanded, three-dimensional elastomeric mesh 172 . The web 172 has a continuous first surface 174 and a discontinuous second surface 174 remote from the first surface. The elastomeric web 172 preferably comprises a formed film having at least two polymeric layers, at least one of which is an elastomeric layer 178 and at least one of the other layers is a less elastic skin layer 182 . The elastomeric mesh 172 has a plurality of first apertures 184 on its first surface 174 . These first apertures are defined in the plane of the first surface 174 by a continuous network of interconnecting elements 186 . The cross-section of each interconnection member 186 along its length is concave upward. The interconnecting members 186 terminate substantially simultaneously with each other to define second apertures 188 in the second surface of the web. Details of this structure and its method of manufacture are disclosed in US Patent Application Serial No. 08/816,106, filed March 14,1997. A preferred cellular elastomeric material 124 is manufactured by Tredegar Film Products under the designation X-25007. The first hole 184 may have any shape. Preferably, the first hole 184 has a shape, such as an ellipse, with a major axis and a minor axis perpendicular to the major axis, and the major axis is generally normal to the applied stress that induces deformation.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 8 , the side elastics 70 comprise first and second layers of cover material 122 , 126 , and the side elastomeric material 124 is disposed between the first and second layers of cover material 122 , 126 . The first cover material layer 122 has an inner surface 142 and an outer surface 144 . The inner surface 142 of the first cover material layer 122 faces toward the side elastomeric material 124 . The second layer of cover material 126 also has an inner surface 146 and an outer surface 148 . The inner surface 146 of the second cover material layer 126 is also the surface facing the side elastomeric material 124 . The side elastomeric material 124 also has two planar surfaces, a first surface 150 and a second surface 152 . Each of the two surfaces 150 , 152 is substantially parallel to the plane of the first and second layers of cover material 122 , 126 . The first surface 150 is the planar surface of the side elastomeric material 124 closest to the inner surface 142 of the first cover material layer 122; the second surface 152 is the inner surface of the side elastomeric material 124 closest to the second cover material layer 126 That planar surface of surface 146.

Since the side elastics 70 are mechanically stretched before and during use, the first and second cover material layers 122, 126 preferably have a relatively high elongation at break, more preferably stretchable. Long or extensible, more preferably plastically stretchable (but not necessarily elastic), without excessive tearing or rupture, preferably without any tearing or rupture. Also, the first and second cover material layers 122, 126 are preferably compliant, soft-feeling and non-irritating to the wearer's skin, with a garment-like feel and comfort. The suitable material that can make first and second covering material layer 122,126 has various, such as plastic film, perforated plastic film, natural fiber (such as wood fiber and cotton fiber) or synthetic fiber (such as polyolefin, Polyamide, polyester, polyethylene or polypropylene fibers) woven or nonwoven webs or composites of natural and/or synthetic fibers, or coated woven or nonwovens.

Preferably, the first layer of cover material 122 and the second layer of cover material 126 are substantially the same nonwoven material. An exemplary preferred nonwoven material is manufactured by Fiber Web Company under the code designation DAPP-S tex and has a basis weight in the range of 18 to 35 g/ ^m2 . Nonwoven materials can be reinforced or unreinforced. Preferred nonwoven materials for the covering layer of the elastomeric scrim are reinforced, such materials having a basis weight of 18-35 g/ ^m2 before strengthening and 40-70 g/ ^m2 after strengthening. The "quantity" mentioned here is the weight per square meter of the planar mesh material. Additionally high strain nonwoven materials may be used. Alternatively, the first and second cover material layers 122, 126 need not be the exact same material, so long as desired performance requirements, such as elastic properties, softness, compliance, breathability, and durability, are met. The term "reinforced nonwoven material" as used herein refers to a nonwoven material that has wrinkled or shrunk under mechanical tension in the structural direction D, so that the material can withstand less tension in the structural direction D elongation.

FIG. 9 is a partially enlarged view of the laminate 120 (ie, the side elastic member 70 ) viewed in the structural direction B. As shown in FIG. It has been found that when the laminate 120 is adhesively or otherwise secured, a side securement area A is created. Such a laminate 120 would be highly elastic without delamination or creep, without sacrificing any desired properties while at the same time providing good performance characteristics across the performance spectrum. Side securing is preferably accomplished by side bonding with beads of glue to secure the side elastomeric material 124 between the cover material layers 122 and 124 as part of the lamination manufacturing process. Alternatively, side securing may also be accomplished by sewing, heat sealing, ultrasonic bonding, needling, alternative bonding processes, or any other method known in the art. As another alternative, the side fixing of the laminated structure can be performed after the elastomeric material and cover material have been laminated.

Laminate 120 desirably provides a very soft feel to the wearer and to the consumer in particular, which is very important because consumers value softness. In conventional laminates, an attempt to eliminate creep often results in an unsatisfactory reduction in its flexibility, accompanied by an unsatisfactory reduction in its activation capacity. This is because previous attempts in this area (which have proven to be insufficient to eliminate creep) have focused on applying additional meltblown adhesive (often as a full coat) in an attempt to strengthen the bond , which often results in an overall stiffening of the stack, which is exactly what is not desired. The laminate of the preferred embodiment of the present invention, however, eliminates creep without sacrificing the consumer desired soft feel nor sacrificing its activation capability.

According to FIG. 9 , the first adhesive 170 is applied on the inner surface 146 of the second covering material layer 126 corresponding to the outer portion 180 of the laminated structure 120 . The first adhesive 170 may also alternatively or additionally be applied to the inner surface 142 of the first cover material layer 122 . For ease of description, the text descriptions and illustrations only focus on the glue used on the second covering material layer 126 .

In this manner, lateral anchorage regions A are created which substantially eliminate the delamination and creep associated with previously known laminates, allowing laminate 120 to achieve high strains without delamination and creep. It has been found that limiting the use of the first adhesive 170 to the edge regions of the laminate 120 avoids interfering with the extensibility of the laminate 120 and also avoids tearing of the cover material layers 122,126. The first adhesive 170 is preferably applied as a series of glue drops 168 as shown in FIG. 9, and the first adhesive 170 is preferably a flexible adhesive containing amorphous and crystalline components. One such preferred adhesive is manufactured by Findley Adhesive company under the designation H 9224.

More preferably, the laminate 120 contains a second adhesive 164 . The second adhesive 164 is preferably applied to the second surface 152 of the side elastomeric material 124 , but may alternatively be applied to the first surface 150 of the elastomeric material 124 . The second adhesive 164 is preferably applied in a spiral spray pattern 166, thereby forming more dispersed bonding points 167b than a linear spray. Without being bound by theory, it is believed that the vast majority of the second adhesive sprayed is aligned with the structural direction D, and it has thus been found that helical spraying produces very good activation properties. "Activation" as used herein refers to the ability to stretch.

It has been found that spraying the second adhesive layer 164 directly onto the second surface 152 of the side elastomeric material 124 is preferable to applying the second adhesive layer 164 to the opposing cover material layer 126 . This is because the second adhesive 164 will penetrate any treatment or oil that may remain on the side elastomeric material 124 surface. Such residual material, if left on the side elastomeric material 124 , can weaken the adhesive bond over time, thereby destroying the laminated structure 120 . For example, if such residual material is left intact, the bond for laminate 120 is weakened in the period before the consumer purchases the product.

When the spiral adhesive 166 is applied directly on the side elastomeric material 124, the peel value of the laminate 120 in the area of the spiral adhesive is generally better than when the glue is applied to the covering material layer 126 opposite it. high. As used herein, "peel value" refers to the force required to separate the layers of cover material 122, 126 from each other. A high release value generally equates to a lower likelihood of delamination in service.

A third adhesive 160 is also preferably applied to the inner surface 142 of the first layer of cover material 122 . Preferably, the third adhesive 160 is an elastomeric adhesive. The third adhesive 160 is also preferably applied in a manner similar to that of the previously mentioned second spiral adhesive 166, i.e. applied in a spiral spray pattern 162, thus forming a more uniform pattern than a linear application. Dispersed bonding points 167a. Without being bound by theory, it is believed that the vast majority of the third adhesive 160 is applied along the structural direction D.

Preferably, the second and third adhesives 164, 160 are the same elastomeric adhesive. A preferred adhesive for use in the second and third adhesive helical spray zones 162, 166 is manufactured by the Findley Adhesive Company under the designation H 2120. On the second and third helical spray zones 162 and 166, the respective coating rates are preferably in the range of about 0.062 to 0.186 g/m ² , more preferably about 0.124 g/m ² .

According to FIG. 1 , the pull-on diaper 20 also includes a continuously extensible waist member 60 . The continuously extensible waist member 60 improves fit and facilitates donning and sealing. The continuously extensible waist member 60 is a portion or region of the pull-on diaper 20 that elastically expands and contracts so that the pull-on diaper 20 dynamically fits the wearer's waist. The continuously extensible waist member 60 extends along the waistband panels 6 and 7 . Although the continuously extensible waist member of some other pull-on diapers may be formed from a single continuous extensible waistband, the continuously extensible waist member 60 preferably comprises two separate parts: a continuously extensible waistband located on the front region 26 Waistband 57, the other is a continuous stretchable waistband 59 positioned on the rear region 28. Also, according to FIG. 7, the continuously extensible waistband panels 57 and 59 preferably comprise a waist elastic member 80 comprising a waist elastic material 200 (shown in FIG. 8) and a plurality of layers disposed together with the absorbent core 25. (such as the extension of at least one layer in topsheet 24 and backsheet 22) (although Fig. 7 has only drawn the structure on front zone 26, the structure on back zone 28 is identical or similar with this). The continuously stretchable waistbands 57 and 59 are preferably elastically stretchable in at least the transverse direction, and more preferably elastically stretchable in both the transverse and longitudinal directions. In a preferred embodiment, the waistband panels 6 and 7 are extensible over at least their entire transverse length and form a continuously extensible waistband 57 and 59 formed by waist elastics 80 . In the embodiment shown in Figure 3, the waist elastics 80 can extend into the seam panels 12 and 13, so that the continuously extensible waist belts 57 and 59 are secured to each other at the seam 32 and the waist at the front region 26. Elastics 80 and waist elastics 80 on the rear region 28 are also secured on the seam 32 (Fig. 7 also shows the waist elastics 80 extending into the seams 12 and 13, although the seams 12 and 13 are in the not shown in the figure). The continuously extensible waistbands 57 and 59 form a continuously extensible waist member 60 in the assembled form of the pull-on diaper 20 shown in FIG.

The continuously extensible waistbands 57 and 59 may also be formed as integral parts of the pull-on diaper 20 (i.e., they are not separate operating parts secured to the pull-on diaper, but are formed from one of the layers of the pull-on diaper 20). or multiple layers of extensions, or the extension itself). In a preferred embodiment, each of the continuously extensible waist belts 57 and 59 includes an extension of the main body 41 . Preferably, the continuously extensible waistbands 57 and 59 comprise a unitary member or continuous sheet forming at least a portion of the main body 41 and extending continuously into the continuously extensible waistbands 57 and 59 . Alternatively, the continuously extensible waist belts 57 and 59 may be separate components that may not include any integral components forming part of the main body 41 . Continuously extensible waist belts 57 and 59 may be constructed by connecting separate members to the waist of main body 41 .

The continuously extensible waistbands 57 and 59 include waist elastic members 80 and an extension of at least one of the layers provided with the absorbent core 25, such as the topsheet 24 and the backsheet 22. If an additional layer such as an inner barrier cuff 54 or an additional liquid absorbent tissue layer is added among the layers with the absorbent core 25, this additional layer may also form part of the continuously extensible waistbands 57 and 59. In the preferred embodiment shown in FIG. 7 , the side portion 57B of the continuously extensible waistband 57 comprises the extension 72 of the inner barrier cuff 54 , the end extension 23A of the nonwoven outer cover 23 and the waist elastic 80 . The sides are constructed of a laminated mesh. The central section 57A of the extensible waistband 57 comprises a laminated web consisting of the end extensions 24A of the topsheet 24, the end extensions 23A of the nonwoven outer cover 23 and the central portion of the waist elastics 80 (although Fig. 7 has only drawn the configuration at the front region 26, but the configuration at the rear region 28 is preferably the same or similar). However, in an embodiment, the inner barrier film 68 does not extend into the continuously extensible waist member 57 . Alternatively, the inner barrier cuff 54 , topsheet 24 and/or nonwoven outer cover 23 may not extend into the continuously extensible waistband 57 . If neither the topsheet 24 nor the nonwoven outer cover 23 extends into the continuously extensible waistband 57, the continuously extensible waistband 57 may include an extension of the inner barrier film 68 and waist elastics 80.

The waist elastics 80 are placed inside the innermost surface (the body-facing surface) of the pull-on diaper 20 . The waist elastic 80 is operatively connected to the extension 72 of the inner barrier cuff 54 , the end extension 23A of the nonwoven outer cover 23 and the end extension 24A of the topsheet 24 . The waist elastic members 80 can be operatively connected to them either by interval bonding or substantially continuous bonding. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the selected glue is applied in a helical shape (such as shown in U.S. Patent 3,911,173 (Sprague, Jr.) and U.S. Patent 4,842,666 (Werenicz)) with a basis weight of about 0.116 g/ m ² , the width of the helix is about 1.9cm (0.75inch), and they can be close to each other or slightly overlapped (less than 2mm). A preferred adhesive is a product such as that available from Findley Adhesive Company under the designation H 2120. Alternatively, between the waist elastic and any other components of the stretchable stack, heat bonding, pressure bonding, ultrasonic bonding, dynamic mechanical bonding, or other methods known in the art can be used to achieve mutual bonding. Intermittent or continuous bonding.

Before the waist elastic 80 is effectively connected to the extensions 72 of the left and right inner barrier cuffs 54, the end extensions 24A of the topsheet 24 and the end extensions 23A of the nonwoven outer cover 23, it is preferably The overall undeformed length is prestrained in the transverse direction. The entire undeformed length of the waist elastic can be deformed to the original length of the waistband panels 6 and 7 of the main body 41 by its transverse pretension. The entire undeformed length of the waist elastic member 80 may also be further pre-stretched deformed to extend into a portion of the seam panels 12 and 13 . In an embodiment, the waistband panels 6 and 7 of the main body 41 include left and right inner barrier cuff extensions 54 , end extensions 24A of the topsheet 24 and end extensions 23A of the nonwoven outer cover 23 . As used herein, "initial length" means the length of a single or composite material before elastic stretching is applied and before permanent mechanical stretching is applied. The "overall length of pre-stretch deformation" mentioned here refers to the total length after a part or the whole length of an elastic material is subjected to transverse pre-stretch deformation. In an embodiment, the initial length of the waistband panels 6 and 7 is generally the same as that in the assembled form of the extensions 72 of the left and right inner barrier cuffs 54 and the end extensions 24A of the topsheet 24 prior to connection with the waist elastics 80. The overall length is the same. The initial length of the waistband panels 6 and 7 is also generally the same as the length of the end extensions 23A of the nonwoven outer cover 23 before attachment of the waist elastics 80 . The preferred pre-stretch deformation range of the waist elastic member 80 is 20% to 100% of its unstretched (i.e. relaxed state) length, and more preferably the pre-stretch deformation range of the waist elastic member 80 is 40% to 80%. . After the waist elastic 80 of pre-stretch deformation is connected, the waist elastic 80 just takes other parts connected thereto, such as the extension 72 of the inner barrier cuff 54, the end extension 24A of the topsheet 24 and the End extension 23A of outer cover 23 returns to its substantially untensioned condition. Thus, the continuously extensible waist belts 57 and 59 are formed. The extensible waist belts 57 and 59 are capable of stretching from the relaxed length of the waist elastics to at least the original length of the waist belt panels 6 and 7 of the main body 41 .

Alternatively, only a portion of the member is pre-stretched before the waist elastic 80 is attached to the extension of at least one of the layers, so that a portion of the waist elastic 80 is pre-stretched. The pre-stretch-deformed total length of the waist elastic member 80 under the stretch-deformed condition reaches approximately the same length as the initial length of the waistband panels 6 and 7 of the main body 41 . Preferably, on the waist elastic member 80, only such a part of material has been pre-stretched and deformed, and this part of material is along the transverse width X of the absorbent core 25 adjacent to the waist elastic member 80 (as shown in FIG. 3 ). shown) extended.

Examples of stretchable elastic materials are disclosed in US Patent 2,075,189 issued to Galligan on March 30, 1937; US Patent 3,025,199 issued to Harwood on March 13, 1962; US Patents 4,107,364 and 4,209,563 to Sisson; US Patent 4,834,741 issued May 30, 1989 to Sabee and US Patent 5,151,092 issued September 29, 1992 to Buell et al.

The continuously extensible waist belts 57 and 59 are configured to be extensible from the relaxed length of the waist elastics 80 to at least the original length of the waist belt panels 6 and 7 of the main body 41 . However, the waist elastic member 80 is usually connected to the extension of at least one of the layers (such as the topsheet 24 and the backsheet 22, which are substantially inelastic) associated with the absorbent core 25, so the waist elastic member 80 only It can be stretched between the relaxed length of the waist elastic 80 and the original length of the waistband panels 6 and 7 , and cannot exceed the original length of the waistband panels 6 and 7 of the main body 41 . This limitation determines the upper limit of the extensible range of the continuously extensible waist belts 57 and 59 (i.e., the continuously extensible waist member 60), even though the waist elastic members 80 can be stretched beyond the original length of the waist belt panels 6 and 7 of the main body 41 or the waist elastic The total length of the pre-stretch deformation of the member 80. total length. This limitation on the upper limit of the extensible range prevents the continuous extensible waist belts 57 and 59 from having sufficient extensibility. Therefore, when the pull-on diaper 20 is pre-fitted on the wearer, the pull-on diaper 20 may not provide a sufficient waist opening size, or the user must apply a high enough force to the pull-on diaper 20 in order to remove it from the waist. The other extensible materials of the pull-on diaper 20 find extensibility to obtain an adequate waist opening size. Difficulty can be caused when putting a pull-on diaper on the wearer.

Therefore, elastic extensibility is imparted to the continuously extensible waist belts 57 and 59 to obtain extensibility in a wider range than the original length of the waist belt panels 6 and 7 of the main body 41 or the total length of the pre-stretched deformed waist elastic member 80 (i.e. stretchable range). That is, the waist elastics 80 are effectively connected to the inner barrier cuff 54, the topsheet 24, and the nonwoven outer cover 23 in a pre-stretched deformed (tensioned) state, and before they return to a fully relaxed state, Sufficient mechanical stretch is applied to the resulting, composite extensible laminate as a whole (i.e., the continuously extensible waistbands 57 and 59) such that those components that are inelastic, including the extensions 72, left and right inner barrier cuffs 54, The end extensions 24A of the topsheet 24, the end extensions 23A of the nonwoven outer cover 23 and the cover material layer (if present) forming part of the waist elastic 80 are permanently elongated. The composite stretchable laminate is then allowed to return to its substantially relaxed state. The waist elastic member 80 thus treated can be stretched from its relaxed length beyond the original length of the waistband panels 6 and 7 of the main body 41, at least to the length of the permanently elongated non-elastic members. This gives the continuously extensible waist belts 57 and 59 a wider range of extensibility, and therefore more conducive to easy donning. Alternatively, the waist elastic 80 may be joined together with the inner barrier cuff 54, the topsheet 24 and the nonwoven outer cover 23 in a substantially relaxed (zero-strain) state, thereby forming a "zero-strain" extensible laminated. Preferred devices and methods are disclosed in U.S. Patent 5,167,897, issued December 1, 1992 to Weber et al; U.S. Patent 5,156,793, issued October 20, 1990 to Buell et al; 5,143,679 and in European Patent Publication No. 0 955 027 A1 of May 7, 1998 by Christoph J. Schmitz et al. entitled "Method and apparatus for activating a moving mesh".

The waist elastic material 200 included in the waist elastic 80 may be the same material/construction as the side elastic material 124 . Alternatively, the waist elastic material 200 may be of a different material/construction than the side elastic material 124 . The waist elastic 80 may further include one or both of the first cover material layer 202 and the second cover material layer 204 . The structure of the waist elastics 80 may be the same as or similar to that of the side elastics 70 . Cover material layers 202 and 204 may be the same or similar in structure, material, and/or characteristics to cover material layers 122, 126, or may be different therefrom. Also, the method of attaching the waist elastic material 200 to the cover material layers 202 and 204 may be the same or similar to, or may be different from, the method employed in the ear member 70 described above. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the waist elastic 80 includes one of a waist elastic material 200 and a layer of cover material 202 or 204 . In such a case, the waist elastic material 200 is arranged towards the inner barrier cuff 54 and the topsheet 24, while the cover material layer 202 or 204 is arranged towards and contacts the wearer's body, therefore, the waist elastic material 200 is not directly compressed. wearer's skin, thereby reducing the incidence of skin red marks.

Figure 12 shows another preferred embodiment of the continuously extensible waist belts 57 and 59. In this embodiment, the waist elastic 80 is placed on the inside of the nonwoven outer cover 23 . Preferably, at the sides 57B of the continuously extensible waistband 57, waist elastics 80 are interposed between the extensions 72 of the inner barrier cuff 54 and the end extensions 23A of the nonwoven outer cover 23. In the central section 57A, the waist elastic members 80 are interposed between the end extensions 24A of the topsheet 24 and the end extensions 23A of the nonwoven outer cover 23 . The waist elastic 80 is operably connected to the extension 72 of the inner barrier cuff 54 , the end extension 23A of the nonwoven outer cover 23 and the end extension 24A of the topsheet 24 . In one embodiment, the waist elastic 80 may include one of a waist elastic material 200 and a layer of cover material 202 or 204 . In one example, the waist elastic material 200 is disposed toward the inner barrier cuff 54 and topsheet 24 , while the cover material layer 202 or 204 is disposed toward the nonwoven outer cover 23 . This arrangement of the cover material, due to the addition of a layer (cover material layer) between the waist elastic material 200 and the nonwoven outer cover 23, makes the waist elastic material 200 invisible from the outside. In another example, the waist elastic material 200 is disposed towards the outer cover 23 while the cover material layer 202 or 204 is disposed towards the inner barrier cuff 54 and topsheet 24 . This placement of the cover material reduces the incidence of red marks on the skin due to the inclusion of a layer (the cover material layer) between the waist elastic material 200 and the wearer's skin. In both instances, the continuously extensible waistband 57 has reduced loft due to the reduction of one layer of cover material (as compared to two layers of cover material). In addition, since there is less material there, the breathability of the continuously extensible waist belt 57 is increased, and the degree of extensibility of the continuously extensible waist belt 57 is also greater. In a preferred embodiment, the continuously extensible waist belt 57 is formed from a waist elastic member 80 comprising a waist elastic material 200 that is pre-stretched and deformed and then returned to its original relaxed state. When the waist elastic material 200 returns to its original relaxed state, other components connected together with the waist elastic material 200 will inhibit the waist elastic material 200 from returning to its original relaxed length, so that the entire waist elastic material 200 Stretch cannot be fully utilized. However, in the previously described embodiments, since the bulkiness of the continuously extensible waistband 57 is reduced, the waist elastic material 200 can return to its original relaxed length as close as possible, so the waist elastic material 200 has a more Large effective extensibility.

Alternatively, the waist elastic 80 may comprise only one layer of waist elastic material without any layer of covering material. On the sides 57B of the extensible waistband 57, the waist elastic material 200 is interposed between and directly attached to the extension 72 of the inner barrier cuff 54 and the end extension 23A of the nonwoven outer cover 23. In the central section 57A, the waist elastic material 200 is interposed between the end extensions 24A of the topsheet 24 and the nonwoven outer cover 23 and is directly attached thereto. Such a structure is also beneficial for reducing the bulkiness of the extensible waistband 57, increasing its air permeability and having more effective extensibility.

The side elastic members 70 and the waist elastic members 80 are composed of separate components, and it is preferable that the arrangement of the two members 70 and 80 does not overlap in the longitudinal direction. Preferably, however, members 70 and 80 are arranged with substantially no interstices relative to each other, whereby members 70 and 80 form a composite elastomeric network over extensible ears 46 and 48 . The term "composite elastomer network" here refers to a region in which two or more independent elastic materials are substantially continuous, with no gaps or only a predetermined gap between these elastic materials, thereby reflecting the The stretchable effect is like a single elastic material. Preferably, the members 70 and 80 are arranged without gaps, so it will be appreciated that in the assembled form of the pull-on diaper 20, the extensible ears 46 and 48 and the sides 57B and 59B of the continuously extensible waistbands 57 and 59, A single elastic material is formed between the waist opening 36 and the leg openings. The side elastics 70 and waist elastics 80 are formed from separate components, so the side elastomeric material 124 and waist elastic material 200 are also formed from separate components. This discrete structure allows different materials to be used in the design of the side elastomeric material 124 and the waist elastic material 200, which allows different components of the pull-on diaper 20 to have their own different extensibility characteristics, such as force- elongation curve, etc. This configuration also allows the use of side feature material 124 and waist feature material 200 in different states, such as in a pre-tensioned deformed (tensioned) state or a relaxed state. This allows different components of the pull-on diaper 20 to be stretched to the same length using different forces, or different components to be stretched to different lengths using the same force, thereby adjusting the pressure applied to the wearer's skin. For example, the waist elastic material 200 contained in the pull-on diaper 20 can have a high stretch rate under low tension, and the user can elongate the continuously extensible waist member 60 with a small force, which is a new feature of the pull-on diaper. At the same time, the side elastic material 124 of the pull-on type diaper is used to generate the force required for continuous fit on the extensible ears 46 and 48, but this force will not produce red marks on the skin. In one embodiment, the extensible ears 46 and 48 comprising side elastomeric material 124 are designed to have a force of 40 grams when the extensible ears 46 and 48 are stretched to 50% (and more specifically, at 50% SCRF). /inch～130grams/inch; at the same time, the continuously extensible waist member 60 including the waist elastic body material 200 is designed such that the extensible waist member 60 has at least 100% stretch rate.

Both the side elastics 70 and the waist elastics 80 are arranged so as to not overlap in the longitudinal direction, so the side elastic material 124 and the waist elastic material 200 also do not overlap. Since the side elastic members 70 and waist elastic members 80 are structurally non-overlapping, and members 70 and 80 each comprise a single rate of stretch material, it has substantially uniform extensibility. This allows the user to apply even force in stretching the pull-on diaper 20 without feeling a change in force during stretching of the pull-on diaper.

Each seam joins the seam panels 12 and 13 and thereby joins corresponding portions of the extensible ears 46 and 48 and thereby defines two leg openings 34 and a waist opening 36 . Preferably, front and rear extensible ears 46 and 48 overlap in an overlapping manner along outer edges 46D and 48D to form an overlapping seam structure. Alternatively, the front and rear extensible ears 46 and 48 can be seamed in a butt joint (not shown). The bonding of the seam 32 may be performed by any method known in the art that is suitable for the particular material employed on the front and rear extensible ears 46 and 48 . Thus, ultrasonic sealing, heat sealing, pressure bonding, gluing or co-bonding, sewing, autogenous bonding, and other similar methods may be suitable techniques. Preferably, the seam panels 12 and 13 are joined by heat/pressure or ultrasonic welding in a predetermined pattern which is capable of withstanding the forces and stresses exerted on the pull-on diaper 20 during wear. The seam 32 also connects the continuously extensible waist belts 57 and 59 to form a continuous extensible waist member 60 surrounding the waist opening 36 . When the side elastic members 70 and the waist elastic members 80 extend into the seam panels 12 and 13, the seam 32 secures the side elastic members 70 in the front region 26 to the side elastic members 70 in the rear region 28; And the waist elastic member 80 at the front region 26 is secured to the waist elastic member 80 at the rear region 28 . Examples of seams are disclosed in U.S. Patent 5,569,234 issued October 29, 1996 to Buell et al; U.S. Patent 5,607,537 issued March 4, 1997 to Johnson et al; and US Patent 5,685,874, issued November 11, 1997 to Buell et al. A preferred seam is disclosed in European Patent Publication No. 0 844 062 A1 filed on November 21, 1996 by Chriseoph J. Schmiez entitled "Thermal joining of mesh sheets".

In a preferred embodiment, outboard edges 46D and 48D are not parallel to inboard edges 46C and 48C, and are also not parallel to longitudinal centerline 100 . Outer edges 46D and 48D project laterally outwardly as they approach lower end edges 46B and 48B. Between the inner edges 46C and 48C and the outer edges 46D and 48D of the extensible ears 46 and 48, there is a transverse width L1 near the lower end edges 46B and 48B, and a transverse width L2 near the upper end edges 46A and 48A. L1 is greater than the lateral width L2 of the child. Thus, in the transverse direction, the extensible ears 46 and 48 have a greater amount of elastic material available near the lower end edges 46B and 48B than near the upper end edges 46A and 48A. The extensibility near the lower end edges 46B and 48B is thus increased. In addition, since both extensible ears 46 and 48 have a greater lateral width (i.e., a greater amount of available elastic material) near lower end edges 46B and 48B, extensible ears 46 and 48 Combined, the total transverse width is further increased near the lower end edges 46B and 48B (ie, the amount of available elastic material is further increased). Because of this larger lateral width near the lower end edges 46B and 48B, the pull-on diaper has a greater amount of elastic around the leg openings while maintaining the amount of elastic around the waist opening, thus The pull-on diaper does not exert so much pressure on the skin along the leg openings as to adversely affect the skin, while at the same time maintaining a durable fit along the waist opening. As shown in FIG. 13, in the form in which the extensible ear 46 and the extensible ear 48 are joined together, the seam 32 is not parallel to the longitudinal centerline 100, ie, the seam protrudes more outwardly closer to its lower section 32A. In addition, as described above, while the side elastic members 70 are connected to the extensible ears 46 and 48 in a relaxed state, the waist elastic members 80 are connected to the sides of the main body 41 in a tensioned (pre-stretched) state. On the waistband sheets 6 and 7, then get back to the basic slack state. Thus, in the relaxed state, the circumference of the pull-on diaper 20 along the continuously extensible waist member 60 is less than the circumference of the pull-on diaper 20 through a portion of the extensible ears 46 and 48 . This form further enhances the durable fit along the waist opening, while reducing unwanted material impact on the skin along the leg openings. The "circumferential direction" as used herein means the direction along the waist opening in the assembled form of the pull-on diaper. The term "circumference" as used herein refers to the length of the pull-on diaper in the circumferential direction.

As shown in FIG. 1 , the continuous band region 38 is formed by front and rear extensible ears 46 and 48 , a portion of the main body 41 and a continuous extensible waist member 60 . The continuous zone is the stretchable portion or loop region of the pull-on diaper such that the perimeter of the continuous zone is stretchable to facilitate application of the pull-on diaper 20 . When the pull-on diaper 20 is put on the wearer, the pull-on diaper 20 must be stretched to create a waist opening and leg openings wide enough to facilitate the application of the pull-on diaper. The continuous zone 38 is that portion of the pull-on diaper 20 that has the ability to stretch. In the assembled form shown in Figure 1, the continuous belt region 38 is formed by the waist edges 151 and 155 of the pull-on diaper 20, the leg edges 153 and 156 in the front region 26 and the back region 28, the crotch region 30 The horizontal edge 159 surrounds it. The minimum height of the continuous band is usually at the tab. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 , the minimum height of the continuous zone is measured along the seam 32 . The continuous band 38 also has a continuous lowermost line 35 which is not interrupted by the leg openings 34 but which is closest to the leg openings 34 . The continuous belt area 38 comprises two parts: one is the continuous waist belt area 37, wherein there is a continuous extensible waist member 60; extend into it. In a preferred embodiment, the continuous waist zone conforms to the continuous extensible waist member 60 .

In a preferred embodiment, the pull-on diaper shown in FIG. 3 is in the assembled form shown in FIG. 1 . In the relaxed state, the continuous belt region 38 may have an initial circumference along the waist edges 151 and 155 of 200 mm to 500 mm, preferably 250 mm to 400 mm. The continuous belt region 38 can extend to a circumference (stretch circumference) of at least 650 mm, preferably at least 700 mm, more preferably at least 750 mm, along the waist edges 151 and 155 . The circumference of the continuous zone 38 along the line 35 may be from 300mm to 550mm, preferably from 350mm to 500mm. The minimum height of the continuous band region 38 measured along the seam 32 may be from 50mm to 150mm, preferably from 80mm to 120mm. The height of the waist continuous zone 37 (ie, the continuously extensible waist member 60) may be 5 mm to 40 mm, preferably 15 mm to 30 mm. On one side of the pull-on diaper 20, the combined transverse extent of the extensible ears 46 and 48 along line 35 is from 50 mm to 120 mm, preferably from 60 mm to 100 mm.

When a pull-on diaper of the form shown in FIG. 3 is in its assembled form, pressure on the wearer's localized skin, especially along the leg openings 34, is reduced because the ears 46 and 48 can be stretched. There is greater transverse width (ie, effective stretch in the transverse direction) near lower end edges 46B and 48B. If desired, the side elastomeric material 124 could be a material with a lower SCRF 50% force to further reduce the pressure along the leg opening 34 . However, reducing the SCRF 50% force along the leg openings 34 may result in a loss of sustained fit performance of the entire pull-on diaper. Therefore, increased pressure along the waist opening 36 may be required to achieve a consistent fit throughout the pull-on diaper. This can be achieved by applying only a pre-stretch deformation to the waist elastic material 200 before the waist elastic material 200 is attached to the waistband panels 6 and 7 . In addition, the waist elastomeric material 200 can also use a material with a higher SCRF50% force to further increase the compression along the waist opening 36 . The combination of these forces distributions allows the pull-on diaper to achieve a continuous fit along the waist opening while providing less red marks on the skin along the leg openings. Alternatively, when a pull-on diaper of the form shown in Figure 3 is in assembled form, it can provide a continuous fit along the leg openings and reduce the chance of red marks on the skin along the waist openings . This goal can be achieved by, for example, using a material with a lower SCRF 50% force for the waist elastomeric material 200 to reduce the pressure along the waist opening 36 . The side elastomeric material 124 can be a material with a lower SCRF50% force. Furthermore, the side elastomeric material 124 can also be pre-stretched before being attached to the tabs 6 and 7 .

Another embodiment of a pull-on diaper 20 is shown in FIG. 14 . As shown, outer edges 46D and 48D of extensible ears 46 and 48 may extend parallel to a longitudinal centerline (not shown in FIG. 14 ), and parallel to inner edges 46C and 48C. Also, the width L3 of the elastic material of the stretchable ears 46 and 48 in the transverse direction near the lower end edges 46B and 48B is substantially the same as the width near the upper end edges 46A and 48A, so that the stretchable ears 46 and 48 are stretchable in the transverse direction. direction provides approximately the same amount of available elastic material.

In another preferred embodiment, the pull-on diaper shown in Figure 14 is formed into an assembled form, and the continuous belt region 38 may have an initial circumference of 210 mm to 510 mm in a relaxed state along the waist edges 151 and 155, preferably 260mm ~ 410mm. The continuous belt region 38 may extend to a circumference (stretch circumference) of at least 650 mm, preferably at least 700 mm, more preferably at least 750 mm, along the circumference of the waist edges 151 and 155 . The circumference of the continuous zone 38 along the line 35 may be from 300 mm to 540 mm, preferably from 390 mm to 490 mm. The minimum height of the continuous band region 38 measured along the seam 32 may be from 50mm to 150mm, preferably from 80mm to 120mm. The height of the waist continuous zone 37 (ie, the continuously extensible waist member 60) may be 5 mm to 40 mm, preferably 15 mm to 30 mm. On the pull-on diaper 20 side, the combined transverse length of the extensible ears 46 and 48 along line 35 is from 50 mm to 120 mm, preferably from 60 mm to 100 mm.

When the pull-on diaper shown in Figure 14 is in assembled form, it provides a continuous fit along the waist opening with less incidence of red marks on the skin along the leg openings. To achieve this goal, the side elastomeric material 124 can use a material with a lower SCRF50% force, and the waist elastic material 200 can increase the elasticity of the waist elastic material 200 by using a material with a higher SCRF50% force. . For this purpose, the waist elastic material 200 can also be pre-stretched before being attached to the waistband panels 6 and 7 . Conversely, a pull-on diaper having the form shown in Figure 14, when brought into assembled form, can provide a continuous fit along the leg openings with less incidence of red marks on the skin along the waist opening. To achieve this goal, the waist elastic material 200 can be a material with a lower SCRF50% force. Accordingly, the elasticity of the side elastomeric material 124 can be increased by using a material with a higher SCRF50% force. For this purpose, the side elastomeric material 124 can also be pre-stretched before being attached to the tabs 10 and 11 .

An alternate embodiment of a pull-on diaper 20 is shown in FIG. 15 . As shown, the outer edges 46D and 48D are not parallel to the inner edges 46C and 48C, nor are they parallel to the longitudinal centerline (not shown in FIG. 15 ), and the outer edges 46D and 48D project laterally outward near the lower end edges 46B and 48B. out. Accordingly, the extensible ears 46 and 48 have a transverse width L5 between the inner edges 46C and 48C and the outer edges 46D and 48D near the lower end edges 46B and 48B, and between the inner edges 46C and 48D near the upper end edges 46A and 48A. There is a transverse width L4 between 48C and outer edges 46D and 48D. Width L4 is greater than width L5 such that the transverse width (i.e., the amount of elastic material available in the transverse direction) of extensible ears 46 and 48 is greater near upper end edges 46A and 48A than near lower end edges 46B and 48B. The extensibility is increased near the upper end edges 46A and 48A. Also, since both the extensible ear 46 and the extensible ear 48 have a greater transverse width (i.e., the amount of available elastic material) near the upper edges 46A and 48A, the extensible ear 46 and 48 are combined. , the transverse width (ie, the amount of available elastic material) near the upper end edges 46A and 48A is further increased. In a combination of extensible ear 46 and extensible ear 48, the seam 32 is not parallel to the longitudinal centerline 100, i.e., as shown in FIG. out. In FIG. 16, the waist elastic material 200 is slightly reduced along the circumference of the continuously extensible waist member 60 due to the pre-stretch deformation of the waist elastic material 200 before being attached to the waistband panels 6 and 7. In FIG. If the waist elastic material 200 is further pre-stretched deformed, then as shown in FIG. Smaller, thus the shape of the pull-on diaper in the assembled form becomes similar to that shown in FIGS. 1 and 13 . However, since the original configuration of the extensible ears 46 and 48 has a larger lateral width near the upper edges 46A and 48A, the pull-on diaper 20 shown in FIG. Higher amount of elastic material.

In another preferred embodiment, wherein the pull-on diaper as shown in Figure 15 is formed in assembled form, wherein the continuous belt region 38 may have an initial circumference along the waist edges 151 and 155 of 220 mm to 520 mm in a relaxed state, Preferably, it is 270 mm to 420 mm. The continuous belt region 38 can extend to a circumference (stretch circumference) of at least 650 mm, preferably at least 700 mm, more preferably at least 750 mm, along the circumference of the waist edges 151 and 155 . The circumference of the continuous zone 38 along the line 35 may be from 300mm to 530mm, preferably from 380mm to 480mm. The minimum height of the continuous band region 38 measured along the seam 32 may be from 50mm to 150mm, preferably from 80mm to 120mm. The height of the waist continuous zone 37 (ie, the continuously extensible waist member 60) may be 5 mm to 40 mm, preferably 15 mm to 30 mm. On one side of the pull-on diaper 20, the combined transverse width of the extensible ears 46 and 48 along line 35 is from 50mm to 120mm, preferably from 60mm to 100mm.

A pull-on diaper of the form shown in Figure 15, when it is formed into an assembled form, reduces pressure on the skin of the wearer's parts, especially along the waist opening 36, because the extensible ears 46 and 48 There is a greater transverse width (ie, the amount of elastic material available in the transverse direction) near the upper end edges 46A and 48A. If desired, the waist elastomeric material 200 may be of a material with a lower SCRF 50% force to further reduce the pressure along the waist opening 36 . However, reducing the 50% force of the SCRF along the waist opening 36 may result in a loss in the continued fit performance of the overall pull-on diaper. Therefore, it may be necessary to increase the pressure along the leg openings 34 to achieve a consistent fit throughout the pull-on diaper. This can be achieved by only pre-stretching the side elastic material 124 before it is attached to the tabs 10 and 11 . Also, the side elastomeric material 124 could be a material with a higher SCRF50% force to further increase the compression around the leg opening 34 . This combination of force distributions allows the pull-on diaper to achieve a continuous fit around the leg openings and can reduce the chance of red marks on the skin along the leg openings. Alternatively, a pull-on diaper of the form shown in Figure 15, when it becomes assembled, can provide a continuous fit along the waist opening while reducing the chance of red marks along the skin along the leg openings . This goal can be achieved in this way: for example, the side elastomeric material 124 can be a material with a lower SCRF50% force to reduce the pressure along the leg openings 34, while the waist elastomeric material 200 can be used with a higher SCRF50% force. elastic material. In addition, the waist elastic body material 200 can also be pre-stretched and deformed before being connected to the waistband panels 6 and 7 .

When the pull-on diaper 20 is on the wearer, the continuous band region 38 provides a dynamic fit to keep the pull-on diaper on the wearer. Although the continuous fit of the pull-on diaper would be better if the continuous band 38 produced a higher fit, the higher fit of the continuous band 38 would cause difficulties for the wearer to use the pull-on diaper because The wearer of the pull-on diaper must apply greater force to the pull-on diaper to stretch the continuous belt region 38 to secure the wider waist opening and leg opening. Since the continuous band region 38 includes the side elastic material 124 and the waist elastic material 200, both elastic materials must stretch during the pull-on diaper, so the side and waist elastics are included. The extensible properties of the continuous strip of material 38 are more important than the extensible properties of the individual continuously extensible waist member 60 and/or the extensible properties of the individual extensible ears 46 and 48, although the individual continuously extensible waist member 60 The extensibility characteristics of and/or the extensibility characteristics of the individual extensible ears 46 and 48 are also still important. The prior art, such as U.S. Patent 5,601,547 issued February 11, 1997 to Kato et al., discloses a waist elastic system for use in training pants for children, which has an improved modulus of elasticity and provides a more comfortable fit. , and increased ease of use. However, this published patent is only aimed at the improvement of the waist elastic system.

In the extensible range, the continuous band region 38 stretches from an initial stretch (ie, 0%). Elongation can be calculated from the following formula:

Stretch ratio = ((stretch circumference - initial circumference) / initial circumference) × 100),

And expressed as % (percentage). The initial perimeter of the continuous strip 38 is the perimeter of the continuous strip 38 in a relaxed state, and the stretched perimeter is the perimeter of the continuous strip 38 in tension. Wide stretch range, allowing pull-on diapers to have a wider waist opening and leg openings during use; greater stretch circumference, allowing pull-on diapers to be stretched when applying pull-on diapers More space is obtained between the diaper and the wearer's body. The circumference of the continuous zone 38 is measured along the waist edges of the continuous zone 38 (ie, the waist edges 151 and 155 of the continuously extensible waist member 60).

To facilitate convenient application of the pull-on diaper (i.e. wide waist opening and wide leg opening), the initial circumference of the continuous belt region 38 of the pull-on diaper may be between about 220 mm and about 500 mm; The continuous belt region 38 of the diaper has a stretched circumference of at least about 650 mm. More specifically, for a pull-on diaper designed for a toddler weighing about 7 kg to 10 kg, the continuous belt region 38 has an initial circumference of about 220 mm to 460 mm, preferably about 250 mm to 360 mm; Pull-on diapers designed for toddlers weighing 9kg to 14kg having an initial circumference of the continuous belt region 38 of about 240mm to 480mm, preferably about 270mm to 380mm; designed for toddlers weighing about 13kg or more For pull-on diapers, the continuous belt region 38 has an initial circumference of about 260mm to 500mm, preferably about 290mm to 400mm. A pull-on diaper designed for toddlers weighing about 7kg-10kg having a continuous belt region 38 having a stretched circumference of at least about 650mm, preferably about 700mm; for toddlers weighing about 9kg-14kg Pull-on diapers designed to have a continuous belt region 38 having a stretched circumference of at least about 700 mm, preferably about 750 mm; pull-on diapers designed for toddlers weighing about 13 kg or more, having a continuous belt region 38 has a stretched circumference of at least about 750 mm, preferably about 800 mm. Pull-on diapers can have an extensibility in the range of at least about 125%, preferably about 135%, and more preferably about 150%.

The continuous zone 38 has a force-extension curve and a modulus of extension over the extensible range. The force-elongation curve has shown the correlation between the force required to stretch the continuous zone 38 and the elongation of the continuous zone 38; the stretch modulus has shown the ratio of the change in force to the change in elongation, expressed in g /% elongation (ie grams/stretch percentage). The method of measuring the modulus of extension will be described later. A higher modulus of extension means a higher rate of change of force stretching the continuous strip region 38 . When the modulus of extension is sufficiently high, the user may consider this portion as the stretch limit. Conversely, a lower modulus of extension means that the rate of change of force stretching the continuous band region 38 is lower, which allows the user to stretch the continuous band region 38 without adding a large force, and the user may not recognize it. stretch limit. Accordingly, it is preferred that the continuous belt region 38 has a lower modulus of stretch near the stretched perimeter for pull-on diaper application. Also, it is preferred that the pull-on diaper be stretched to a stretched circumference for the pull-on diaper application pull-on with relatively little force.

To facilitate ease of application or pull-on of the pull-on diaper (i.e. less force to achieve stretch for the pull-on diaper and less stretch at the stretch for the pull-on diaper application sleeve) elongation modulus), the elongation modulus at 125% elongation should be no greater than about 150 g/% elongation, preferably no greater than about 120 g/% elongation, more preferably no greater than about 100 g/% elongation % elongation. The tensile modulus in the stretch range below 125% elongation is preferably no greater than about 150 grams/% elongation, more preferably no greater than about 120 g/% elongation. The tensile modulus at 135% elongation should be no greater than about 200 g/% elongation, preferably no greater than about 175 g/% elongation, and more preferably no greater than about 150 g/% elongation. The tensile modulus in the stretch range below 135% elongation is preferably no greater than about 200 g/% elongation, more preferably no greater than about 175 g/% elongation. The tensile modulus at 150% elongation is preferably not greater than about 300 grams/% elongation, more preferably not greater than about 250 g/% elongation. The force to achieve 125% elongation is preferably no greater than about 5,000 g, more preferably no greater than about 4,500 g. The force to achieve 135% elongation is preferably no greater than about 6,000 g, more preferably no greater than about 5,500 g. The force to achieve 150% elongation is preferably no greater than about 9,000 g, more preferably no greater than about 8,000 g.

A preferred example of a force-stretch curve for the continuous zone 38 of the pull-on diaper 20 is shown in FIG. 18 . Figure 19 shows the stretch modulus versus stretch rate curve for the example shown in Figure 18. The method of obtaining the force-extension curve and extension modulus-extension curve of the continuous band 38 will be described below.

The method of obtaining the force-extension curve and extension modulus-extension curve of the continuous zone 38 is described below. This method is a modified ultimate tensile test method included in the "Sintech TestWorks" software package to measure the force-extension curve. This measurement method is mainly used to simulate the pull-on diaper being put on the wearer by the applicator This is accomplished with an Instron dynamometer and a horizontal pull bar in the clamp position, which applies a force from 0 grams to 10,000 grams to a continuous strip or until the pull-on diaper ruptures, 10,000 grams of which The force or force at which the pull-on diaper breaks represents the ultimate tension applied to the continuous belt. This method gives a "force-stretch" curve from the relaxed state of the pull-on diaper to the ultimate tension range. Then, according to the above-obtained "force-stretch rate" data, the data of "stretch modulus-stretch rate" can be converted.

The samples required for this measurement method are as follows:

1) The pull-on diaper sample to be tested is taken out of the packaging bag;

2) During the measurement process, use a measuring tape to measure the inner circumference of the pull-on diaper waist (perimeter of the pull-on diaper in a relaxed state) when the pull-on diaper is not stretched.

This measurement method will use the following instruments:

1) Tension/cycle tester Instron Model 5564

2) Operating software Sintech TestWork Version 3.0

3) Load cell Instron Static Loadcell 100N

4) Clamps with a diameter of 20mm and a length of 150mm are coated with Teflon

The tie rods of the first layer are installed horizontally on the upper and lower clamps.

The settings of the instrument used for this measurement method are as follows:

1) Test method: tensile;

2) Moving speed: 20inch/min;

3) Standard length: the distance between the center of the upper and lower rods can be calculated by the following formula

(standard length) = (circumference of the pull-on diaper in a relaxed state)/2-30mm;

4) Number of cycles: one cycle;

5) Burst sensitivity: 75%;

6) Load limit: 10,000g;

7) Calculation input: the circumference of the pull-on diaper in the relaxed state, at the load points of 500g, 1000g, 2000g, 3000g, 4000g, 5000g and 6000g;

8) Calculation results: the circumference of the pull-on diaper when the load is 0g (that is, the relaxed state), the elongation at the load point at 500g, 1000g, 2000g, 3000g, 4000g, 5000g, 6000g, and the peak load, peak load value, circumference at peak load.

The pull-on diaper circumference at a load point is calculated from the following formula:

(Circumference of pull-on diaper) = (Circumference of pull-on diaper in relaxed state) + (stretch rate) × 2

The elongation at a certain load point is calculated from the following formula:

(Stretch ratio) = (stretched pull-on diaper circumference - loose pull-on diaper circumference) / (loose pull-on diaper circumference).

The test method is implemented in the following steps:

1) Prepare pull-on diaper samples and measurement data;

2) After setting the aforementioned Instron instrument, set the Instron load cell and the clamping device (jog), and calibrate the load cell;

3) Log in to the TestWork system;

4) Select the tensile test method from the method list toolbar, and then let the "Control Panel", "Load Table", "Extension Table" and "Manual Setting" be displayed on the screen;

5) In the calculation input, enter the circumference data of the loose pull-on diaper into the standard length;

6) According to the aforementioned standard length setting, use a ruler to set the standard length (for example: loose pull-on diaper circumference = 380mm standard length = 380/2-30 = 160mm);

7) Clear the load in the load table and the elongation rate in the stretch table;

8) Put the product under test on the pull-up rod, measure the weight of the product, and then reset the load item to zero again;

9) Put the sample on the clamping device, and check that the retaining hoop/leg elastic line does not hang on the pull rod;

10) After the pull-on diaper is placed on the clamping device, the load meter is not cleared;

11) Click "Run" to start the measurement;

12) After the measurement is completed, the clamping device returns to the initial position;

13) Click "File" to store the data and remove the pull-on diaper;

14) Repeat steps 6) to 13) for other samples.

Organize the data as follows:

1) After measuring all the samples, output the data to a suitable expansion diagram program (MicroSoft Excel);

2) Obtain a "force-stretch curve" by plotting force in grams against stretch expressed as a percentage;

3) Divide the force difference between two adjacent data points by the stretch rate difference between these two points to get the "stretch modulus";

4) The "modulus of extension - rate of extension curve" is derived by plotting the modulus of extension obtained in step 3) against the rate of extension expressed as a percentage.

As previously described, the continuous band region 38 provides a fit on the pull-on diaper 20 to retain the pull-on diaper 20 on the wearer when the pull-on diaper is on the wearer. The continuous belt region 38 further includes an extensible region comprising elastomeric material such as the side elastomeric material 124 and the waist elastic material 200 . The stretchable region may further include a leg elastomeric material comprising an elastomeric material such as the elastic strands 64 shown in FIG. 3 . The leg elastomeric material may include materials used as the side elastomeric material 124 or the waist elastomeric material 200 . As used herein, "extensible region" means a continuous area or continuous area on a pull-on diaper through which the elastic properties are provided in the form of a continuous planar layer, with or without holes, or in the form of elastic strands that are not connected to each other. The body material is endowed with stretchability. The extensible region is that portion of the continuous zone 38 where the primary skin contact pressure occurs. The skin contact pressure created on the stretchable area keeps the pull-on diaper on the wearer (continuous fit of the pull-on diaper). The skin contact pressure in the stretchable region may not be consistent everywhere, for example, there may be a difference between the skin contact pressure of the stretchable region along the waist opening and the skin contact pressure along the leg openings. Additionally, the skin contact pressure may vary along the radial circumference of the pull-on diaper or the leg circumference of the pull-on diaper.

In the extensible region, the elastic component of the elastomeric material (such as the plurality of first strands and the plurality of second strands 127 of the elastomeric scrim 124 shown in FIG. Other portions of the area, such as the plurality of holes 132 of the elastomeric scrim shown in FIG. 8 , generate higher skin contact pressures. Therefore, reducing the skin contact pressure at which the elastomeric material is pressed against the skin will reduce local skin morbidity.

The skin contact pressure of the elastomeric material (side elastomeric material and/or waist elastomeric material) against the skin should be no less than about 0.1 psi (pounds per square inch) to keep the pull-on diaper on the wearer, It is preferably not less than about 0.2 psi, more preferably not less than 0.3 psi. The skin contact pressure of the elastomeric material (side elastomeric material and/or waist elastomeric material) against the skin should be no greater than about 0.75 psi so as not to cause skin lesions in the stretchable region, preferably no greater than about 0.75 psi. 0.65 psi, more preferably no greater than about 0.55 psi. Any combination selected from the above ranges of skin contact pressure of the elastomeric material against the skin is effective to provide a pull-on diaper that reduces shedding, sagging or sliding from the wearing position The risk of skin disease in the stretchable area and the risk of skin disease due to the elastomer material are reduced. The skin contact pressure of the elastomeric material (leg elastomeric material) against the skin should be no less than about 0.1 psi to keep the pull-on diaper on the wearer, preferably no less than about 0.2 psi, more preferably Not less than about 0.3 psi. The skin contact pressure of the elastomeric material (leg elastomeric material) against the skin should be no greater than about 0.75 psi so as not to cause skin lesions in the stretchable area, preferably no greater than about 0.65 psi, more preferably Not greater than about 0.55 psi. A method of obtaining skin contact pressure data of the elastomeric material against the skin will be described later.

The elastomeric material at the extensible region along the waist opening may press against the skin at a higher skin contact pressure than the elastomeric material at the rest of the extensible region to provide pull-on along the waist opening. Continual fit of diapers. The skin contact pressure of the elastomeric material on the skin along the leg openings of the stretchable region may be greater than the skin contact pressure of the elastomeric material on the rest of the stretchable region so that the skin along the leg openings Provides a continuous fit for pull-on diapers. The elastomeric material may press against the skin at the stretchable region along the waist opening and the leg openings at a higher skin contact pressure than the elastomeric material presses against the skin at other portions of the stretchable region. The difference between the highest skin contact pressure and the lowest skin contact pressure at which the elastomeric material presses against the skin in the extensible region should be less than about 0.65 psi, preferably less than about 0.45 psi, more preferably less than about 0.25 psi. If the difference approaches zero, the skin contact pressure of the elastomeric material against the skin in the extensible region tends to be uniform everywhere, which will further reduce the incidence of skin morbidity due to differential pressure.

The pull-on diaper still further includes barrier means 58 with additional elastomeric material, such as inner barrier cuff 54 . The additional elastomeric material in the pull-on diaper is pressed against the skin of the skin of the additional elastomeric material brought about by the wearer's skin, preferably not greater than about 0.75 psi, preferably not greater than about 0.65 psi , and more preferably no greater than about 0.55 psi.

A method of measuring skin contact pressure data of the elastomeric material in the extensible region against the skin will be described below. The name of this method is "AMI air bag contact surface pressure test system", which is a commercially available product provided by AMI Co., Ltd. Its purpose is to measure the surface contact pressure generated between soft materials. This method has been modified to measure the contact pressure between the pull-on diaper and the wearer's body. The displayed air pressure represents the pressure on the contact surface, where the force absorbed by the plasticity of the material has been deducted. The sensor consists of an air pocket made of a very soft film and a tube that is inserted into the main unit. The measured value is converted into a direct current (DC) output (10mV=1gf/cm2).

This measurement method requires sample preparation as follows:

1) Take out the tested pull-on diaper sample from the packaging bag;

2) Measure the width of the actual elastomeric component (ie, elastic strand) of the elastomeric material in a 50% stretched state, and calculate the area percentage of the elastic component.

The name "AMI air bag contact surface pressure test system" includes the following equipment:

1) Air bag AMI Co., Ltd. Model φ15mm;

2) Host AMI Co., Ltd. AMI 3037-2;

3) Selection unit AMI Co., Ltd. AMI 3037-2B

4) Cylinder AMI Co., Ltd.;

5) Calibration device AMI Co., Ltd.;

6) Data collector ANRITSU METER Co., Ltd. AM-7052;

7) Data conversion software ANRITSU METER Co., Ltd.

DATA COLLECTOR System

               AM7006WIN VER.2.0 for Windows

The above measuring equipment shall be set up as follows:

1) Connect one end of the output cable to the output connector of the host, and the other end to the data collector;

2) Turn on the power switch;

3) Use the gear to push the cylinder head to the end of the shortest length;

4) Connect the air bag to the cylinder;

5) Insert the pin (pin) into the blue head on the transmission mechanism; turn the transmission mechanism until the pin reaches the end; wait for 3 seconds;

6) Press the release handle to make the cylinder pressure consistent with the external pressure, and wait for 3 seconds;

7) Insert the pin into the hole of the same color as the air bag on the transmission; turn the transmission until the pin reaches the end;

8) Remove the air bag from the cylinder; turn the transmission until the pin reaches the end;

9) Check whether the output signal from the host is close to zero, and the allowable error does not exceed 5mV (0.5gf/cm2);

10) Connect the air bag to the host (the connection operation must be completed once, if it is connected again, the internal volume of the air bag must have changed);

11) Press the air bag with your palm or fingers to discharge all the air; check the output signal transmitted by the host, note that this is the maximum measured value, and the system cannot measure any value exceeding the maximum measured value; if the contact surface is curved Too much, and if the output signal from the host exceeds +20mV (2gf/cm2), connect the cylinder and press the release handle;

12) Prepare at least two air bags for the standard test.

This method requires a standard phantom of the form as follows.

The standard human body model 350 shown in Fig. 20 and Fig. 21 is a model made of the body shape of the wearer when sitting. The shape and size of the standard mannequin should be based on actual diaper wearer body size data. The standard manikin has an upper portion 352 and a lower portion 354 . Upper portion 352 and lower portion 354 are separated by lower torso line 380 . Lower torso line 380 is a circumferential line through the upper portion of the pubic bone. Upper portion 352 includes a torso portion 353 . The torso portion includes an upper surface 355 (shown in FIG. 22 ) surrounded by a waistline 357 , which is a circumferential line along the upper end of the waist of the torso portion 353 . The torso portion 353 has a height determined by the distance between the waist line 357 and the lower torso line 380 . The circumference of the torso portion 353 gradually increases from the waist line 357 toward the lower torso line 380 . The lower portion 354 includes a hip 356 at the rear thereof and leg portions 358 extending from the hip at the front thereof. The buttocks 356 and legs 358 are separated by a crotch fold line 359 along the fold of fat at the front of the body. The two legs 358 have a bifurcated corner 362 facing between the inner thighs 264 . The leg portion 358 has a thigh line 366 which is a circumferential line around the thigh of the leg portion 358 . The shape of the upper surface 355 is surrounded by a waistline 357, wherein the waistline 357 includes straight lines and curves. Figure 22 shows a preferred example of the shape of the upper surface 355, which is determined based on the actual wearer's size. Standard mannequins are made of vinyl chloride.

For pull-on diapers suitable for wearers weighing from about 7.0 kg to about 10.0 kg, the actual dimensions of a standard mannequin are as follows:

  Waistline Circumference                                                  

Circumference of lower torso line 470mm

  Circumference of hip fold line                                            

  Circumference of thigh line                                                

  Trunk Height                                                

Bifurcation Angle About 60°

For pull-on diapers suitable for wearers weighing from about 9.0 kg to about 14.0 kg, the actual dimensions of a standard mannequin are as follows:

                                                       

Circumference of lower torso line 505mm

  Circumference of hip fold line                                              

  Circumference of thigh line                                              

Trunk Height 80mm

Bifurcation Angle About 60°

For pull-on diapers suitable for wearers weighing approximately 13.0 kg or more, the actual dimensions of a standard mannequin are as follows:

                                                   

Circumference of lower torso line 530mm

Circumference of crotch fold line 350mm

  Circumference of thigh line                                              

Trunk Height 85mm

Bifurcation Angle About 60°

The measurement points for waist elastic material and side elastic material are determined by:

Point P1 is the point with the smallest radius of curvature on the waist curve on the right side of the trunk part, point P2 is the point with the smallest curvature radius on the waist curve on the left side of the trunk part, point P3 is at the center of the back of the trunk part, and point P4 is at the center of the trunk part The center of the front part of the section. These points for measurement P1, P2, P3 and P4 should be located approximately 10 mm below the waistline and should be completely covered by the waist material of the sample diaper. Point P5 is on the front of the right leg and point P6 is on the front of the left leg. The air pockets for measurement points P5 and P6 should be installed just below the elastomeric material that is in contact with the mannequin's legs.

The measurement points for the leg elastomeric material are those points where the elastomeric material presses against the skin of the standard mannequin.

This method is executed as follows:

1) Set the pressure measurement system according to the above settings;

2) Prepare sample diapers and install them on standard mannequins;

3) Put two air bags at points P1 and P2 and measure the pressure;

4) Record the pressure measurement data, and check whether the pressure signal returns to zero again. The allowable error of the signal return to zero is 5mV (0.5gf/cm ² );

5) Put two air bags at points P3 and P4 and measure the pressure;

6) Record the pressure measurement data and check whether the pressure signal returns to zero again. The allowable error of the signal return to zero is 5mV (0.5gf/cm ² );

7) Put two air bags at points P5 and P6 and measure the pressure;

8) Record the pressure measurement data, and check whether the pressure signal returns to zero again. The allowable error of the signal return to zero is 5mV (0.5gf/cm ² );

9) Repeat steps 2) to 8) for one sample diaper.

Data is processed as follows:

1) Convert the measured voltage value into psi (10mV=1gf/cm ² ) to obtain the "local average skin contact pressure in the stretchable region".

2) Divide the "local average skin contact pressure in the stretchable area" obtained above by the area percentage of the elastic component to obtain the "skin contact pressure of the elastomer material pressed against the skin", in psi.

It should be understood that the examples and embodiments described here are only for the purpose of illustration, and those skilled in the art will be able to make various modifications or changes according to its hints, without departing from the scope of the present invention.

Claims (18)

1. A disposable garment (20), which has a front region (26), a rear region (28) and a crotch region (30) between the front region (26), the rear region (28), the disposable Sexual Clothing (20) includes: Main body (41), this main body has topsheet (24), the backsheet (22) that is connected together with topsheet (24) and is positioned at the moisture absorption core (25) between topsheet (24) and backsheet (22), and this The body (41) comprises a middle panel (8,9) having a waist (190,192) and side edges (191,193), ears (10,11) having a waist (161,163) and a (26) and the waistband panels (6,7) of the rear region (28), wherein the ears (10,11) extend laterally outwardly from each side edge (191,193) of the central panel (8,9), And the belt piece (6,7) stretches longitudinally outwards from the waist edge (190,192) of the middle piece (8,9) and the waist edge (161,163) of the ear piece (10,11), and each ear The panels (10, 11) are connected to seams (32) of corresponding parts in opposite regions, thereby forming two leg openings (34) and a waist opening (36), and allowing the extensible waistband (57, 59) A continuously extensible waist member (60) is formed; A waist elastic material (200) connected to the waistband panels (6, 7) of the front region (26) and the rear region (28) and extending continuously along the waistband panels (6, 7) so that The rear region (28) forms a continuously extensible waistband (57, 59); The side elastomeric material (124) is connected to the ears (10, 11) and thereby constitutes an extensible ear (46, 48), characterized in that the extensible ear (46, 48) is formed by A "zero strain" stretch laminate is formed and wherein the side elastomeric material (124) and waist elastic material (200) are separate components and are arranged so as not to overlap each other. 2. The disposable garment according to claim 1, characterized in that, the extensible waist belt (57, 59) comprises a waist elastic member (80), and the waist elastic member (80) is combined in a pre-stretched deformed state onto the belt pieces (6, 7) of the main body (41). 3. The disposable garment according to claim 1, wherein the elastic waist material (200) comprises two separate parts, one of which is connected to the waistband panel (6) in the front region (26), the other One is connected to the belt piece (7) in the rear region (28), wherein the two parts are connected to each other at a seam (32). 4. The disposable garment according to claim 1, characterized in that said continuously extensible waistband (57, 59) comprises side portions (57B, 59B), said side portions (57B, 59B) comprising A continuous unit of elastic material in assembled configuration between (36) and leg opening (34). 5. The disposable garment according to claim 1, wherein the backsheet (22) comprises an inner barrier film (68) and a nonwoven outer cover (23), and wherein the nonwoven outer cover (23) is stacked Placed on the outside of the inner barrier film (68). 6. The disposable garment of claim 5, wherein the extensible waistband (57, 59) comprises an extension of the outer cover (23) and a waist elastic material (200). 7. The disposable garment of claim 5, wherein the extensible ears (46, 48) comprise extensions of the outer cover (23) and side elastomeric material (124). 8. The disposable garment according to claim 1, characterized in that the elastic waist material (200) is stacked on the inner side of the innermost surface of the garment. 9. The disposable garment of claim 1, wherein the garment has a continuous band (38) of at least waist elastic material (200) and side elastic material (124); the continuous zone (38) is stretchable up to a range of stretch of at least about 125% stretch, over which the continuous zone (38) has a modulus of stretch; have a tensile modulus at 125% elongation of not greater than about 150 g/% elongation, and The force to achieve 125% elongation is no greater than 5,000 g. 10. The disposable garment of claim 9, wherein the stretch modulus is not greater than about 150 g/% stretch over a stretch range up to 125% stretch. 11. The disposable garment of claim 9, wherein the continuous zone (38) has an initial circumference of between about 220 mm and about 500 mm. 12. The disposable garment according to claim 9, characterized in that the circumference of the continuous zone (38) can be extended to at least 650mm. 13. The disposable garment according to claim 9, characterized in that, the extensible waist belt (57, 59) comprises a waist elastic member (80), and the waist elastic member (80) is combined in a pre-stretched deformed state onto the belt pieces (6,7) of the main body (41). 14. The disposable garment of claim 1, wherein said disposable garment is of the type worn around the torso of the wearer, wherein when the garment is worn on a standard mannequin, the side elastomeric material and waist The elastomeric material has a skin contact pressure of no greater than about 0.75 psi against standard mannequin skin. 15. The disposable garment of claim 14, wherein the side elastomeric material and the waist elastomeric material have a skin contact pressure against standard mannequin skin of not less than about 0.1 psi. 16. The disposable garment according to claim 14, wherein the difference between the highest skin contact pressure and the lowest skin contact pressure of the side elastic material and the waist elastic material on the standard mannequin skin is not more than About 0.65psi. 17. The disposable garment of claim 14, wherein the side elastomeric material is in the form of a continuous planar layer. 18. The disposable garment of claim 15, wherein the elastic waist material is in the form of a continuous planar layer.

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