Shorts-type absorbent article

Abstract

The present invention provides a short pants-type absorbent article capable of absorbing moisture from a wearer's skin and efficiently transpiring the absorbed moisture to the atmosphere. A short pants-type absorbent article (1) has an absorbent main body (10) and a waist member (20, 30, 40) provided at a position on the non-skin side of the absorbent main body (10), wherein the short pants-type absorbent article (1) has, in at least a partial region of the waist member (20, 30, 40), a hydrophobic nonwoven fabric (31, 41) disposed at a position closest to the skin side, a hydrophilic nonwoven fabric (32, 42) laminated on the non-skin side of the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric adjacent to the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric, the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric having a higher hydrophilicity than the hydrophilicity of the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric (31, 41), and an elastic member (35, 45) provided between the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric (31, 41) and the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric (32, 42) and stretchable in the left-right direction.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to a pant-type absorbent article. BACKGROUND

[0002] In the past, in pant-type disposable diapers and the like absorbent articles, a technique of using a hydrophilic sheet in a part of a waist member to improve water absorption has been known. For example, in Patent Literature 1, a disposable diaper is disclosed that uses a sheet member such as a nonwoven fabric containing a hydrophilic fiber in a skin-side sheet 5 on the skin side of a wearer and an outer sheet 4 on the non-skin side.

[0003] Prior Art Documents

[0004] Patent Documents

[0005] Patent Literature 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2017-113186 SUMMARY

[0006] Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0007] In a diaper that uses such a hydrophilic sheet member, moisture such as sweat can be easily absorbed from the skin of a wearer at the time of wearing. However, there is a problem that even if moisture is absorbed from the skin of a wearer by the hydrophilic sheet, the moisture remaining in the hydrophilic sheet is difficult to transpire. In this case, since the hydrophilic sheet containing moisture is in contact with the skin of a wearer, it is possible to cause a feeling of discomfort to the wearer.

[0008] The present application has been achieved in view of the above-described conventional problems, and an object thereof is to provide a pant-type absorbent article that can absorb moisture from the skin of a wearer and efficiently transpire the absorbed moisture into the atmosphere.

[0009] Means for Solving the Problems

[0010] A main technical solution for achieving the above object is a pant-type absorbent article having an upper-lower direction, a left-right direction, and a front-rear direction that intersect with each other, the pant-type absorbent article having an absorbent main body that is liquid-absorbing and a waist member provided at a position on the non-skin side of the absorbent main body, characterized in that the pant-type absorbent article has, in at least a partial region of the waist member, a hydrophobic nonwoven fabric disposed at a position closest to the skin side, a hydrophilic nonwoven fabric laminated on the non-skin side of the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric adjacent to the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric, the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric being higher in hydrophilicity than the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric, and an elastic member provided between the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric and the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric and stretchable in the left-right direction.

[0011] Other features of the present application will be apparent from the description and drawings which follow.

[0012] Effects of the Invention

[0013] According to the present application, it is possible to provide a pair of shorts-type absorbent article capable of absorbing moisture from the wearer's skin and efficiently transpiring the absorbed moisture into the atmosphere. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0014] FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of a diaper 1.

[0015] FIG. 2 is a plan view of the diaper 1 in an unfolded and elongated state.

[0016] FIG. 3 is a schematic sectional view at the A-A line of FIG. 2

[0017] FIG. 4A is a plan view of an absorbent main body 10, FIG. 4B is a schematic sectional view of the absorbent main body 10.

[0018] FIG. 5A and FIG. 5B is a view for explaining the cross-sectional shape of the front waist portion 30 when the diaper 1 is worn.

[0019] FIG. 6 is a sectional view showing the region X of FIG. 5A in an enlarged manner.

[0020] FIG. 7 is a sectional view showing the region Y of FIG. 5B in an enlarged manner.

[0021] FIG. 8 is a sectional view showing the region Y of FIG. 5B in an enlarged manner, and is a view showing the state after a predetermined time has passed from the state of FIG. 7 .

[0022] FIG. 9 is a view for explaining the moisture transpiration in the case where the opening portion 32h is provided in the non-skin side sheet 32.

[0023] FIG. 10A and FIG. 10B is a view for explaining the method of mounting the waist elastic member 35 to the front waist portion 30 using the fusion portion 60.

[0024] FIG. 11A is a plan view of a diaper 2 in an unfolded and elongated state. FIG. 11B is a schematic sectional view at the B-B line of FIG. 11A . ​

[0025] FIG. 12A is a plan view of the diaper 3 in an unfolded and elongated state. FIG. 12B is FIG. 12A is a schematic cross-sectional view at the C-C line of

[0026] Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0027] 1, diaper (pant-type absorbent article) (1st embodiment); 2, diaper (pant-type absorbent article) (2nd embodiment); 3, diaper (pant-type absorbent article) (3rd embodiment); 10, absorbent main body; 11, absorbent core; 11b, core wrap; 11c, narrowed portion; 12, topsheet; 13, backsheet; 13a, liquid-impermeable sheet; 13b, outer cover sheet; 15, containment wall portion; 16, containment wall elastic member; 17, leg girth elastic member; 20, waist member; 21, skin-side sheet (hydrophobic nonwoven fabric); 22, non-skin-side sheet (hydrophilic nonwoven fabric); 30, front waist portion; 30sw, side portion; 31, skin-side sheet (hydrophobic nonwoven fabric); 32, non-skin-side sheet (hydrophilic nonwoven fabric); 32f, folded-back portion; 32h, apertured portion; 32hs, side wall portion; 32hp, protruding portion; 32s, non-skin-side surface; 35, waist elastic member; 36, skin-side sheet; 40, back waist portion; 40b, crotch region; 40sw, side portion; 41, skin-side sheet (hydrophobic nonwoven fabric); 42, non-skin-side sheet (hydrophilic nonwoven fabric); 42f, folded-back portion; 42h, apertured portion; 45, waist elastic member; 46, skin-side sheet; 47, curved elastic member; 50, side joint; 60, fusion portion; 60s, pair of fusion portions; BH, waist opening; LH, leg girth opening; CL, center position (longitudinal direction, length direction). DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0028] According to the description and drawings of the present specification, at least the following matters become clear.

[0029] A pant-type absorbent article having an up-down direction, a left-right direction, and a front-rear direction crossing each other, the pant-type absorbent article having an absorbent main body having liquid absorbency and a waist member provided at a position on a non-skin side of the absorbent main body, characterized in that the pant-type absorbent article has, in at least a partial region of the waist member, a hydrophobic nonwoven fabric disposed at a position on a skin side, a hydrophilic nonwoven fabric laminated on a non-skin side of the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric adjacent to the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric, the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric having higher hydrophilicity than the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric, and an elastic member provided between the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric and the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric and stretchable in the left-right direction.

[0030] According to such a short pants-type absorbent article, when the elastic member contracts, the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric also contracts, the fiber-to-fiber distance of the fibers constituting the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric becomes short, and thus a capillary phenomenon occurs, so moisture is easily absorbed from the wearer's body. In addition, when the elastic member elongates, the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric and the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric also elongate, so they easily come into contact with each other, the moisture absorbed by the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric is transferred to the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric side (non-skin side) and diffuses in the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric, and is transpired to the outside (non-skin side) from the non-skin side of the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric. Thus, a short pants-type absorbent article capable of absorbing moisture from the wearer's skin and efficiently transpiring the absorbed moisture to the atmosphere is realized.

[0031] For this short pants-type absorbent article, it is preferable that at least a portion of the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric and the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric be joined around the elastic member.

[0032] According to such a short pants-type absorbent article, the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric and the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric easily stretch and contract in response to the stretching and contracting of the elastic member, and the movement of moisture is promoted. In addition, since the sheets are in close contact with each other at the joint, moisture is easily transferred from the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric to the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric. Thus, in the absorbent article, moisture is easily transpired, and the wearer is less likely to feel discomfort.

[0033] For this short pants-type absorbent article, it is preferable that the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric and the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric be joined by the elastic member with an adhesive.

[0034] According to such a short pants-type absorbent article, the stretching and contracting force of the elastic member is easily transmitted to the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric and the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric. In addition, by the action of the oil contained in the adhesive, the hydrophilicity at the joint is increased, and the transfer of moisture is more easily performed.

[0035] For this short pants-type absorbent article, it is preferable that the waist member have a front waist member and a rear waist member, have a pair of side joints joining the front waist member and the rear waist member at both end portions in the left-right direction, and that the at least partial region of the waist member be provided at a certain portion between the pair of side joints in the left-right direction.

[0036] According to such a short pants-type absorbent article, the region between the pair of side joints corresponds to a waist region in which the wearer is likely to sweat and feel stuffy when wearing the absorbent article. Thus, by easily absorbing moisture in the waist region of the wearer and transpiring it to the atmosphere, the wearer is less likely to feel discomfort.

[0037] For this short pants-type absorbent article, it is preferable that the at least partial region of the waist member be provided at the rear waist member.

[0038] According to such a pant-type absorbent article, moisture is easily absorbed and transpired to the atmosphere in the back waist region where the wearer sweats more easily and where it is easy to feel stuffiness when wearing the absorbent article, and thus the wearer can feel less discomfort.

[0039] For the pant-type absorbent article, it is preferable that at least a portion of the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric be disposed at a position closest to the non-skin side of the waist member.

[0040] According to such a pant-type absorbent article, the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric is disposed at the outermost layer of the waist member, and thus the area of the interface between the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric and the atmosphere is increased, and moisture held in the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric is easily transpired to the atmosphere. Thus, moisture can be efficiently transpired.

[0041] For the pant-type absorbent article, it is preferable that the waist member have a portion having a two-layer structure in which a layer of the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric and a layer of the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric are laminated.

[0042] According to such a pant-type absorbent article, no extra sheet member is provided in the waist member, and thus the function of absorbing moisture from the wearer's skin with the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric and transpiring the absorbed moisture to the atmosphere from the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric is less likely to be hindered, and moisture can be efficiently transpired. In addition, according to such a structure, the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric is disposed in the entire region (the entire range from the upper end to the lower end) in the length direction of the waist member. Thus, moisture can be absorbed and transpired in a wide range in a region where the wearer sweats easily, such as the buttocks, and thus the wearer can feel less discomfort.

[0043] For the pant-type absorbent article, it is preferable that the average fiber density of the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric be greater than the average fiber density of the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric.

[0044] According to such a pant-type absorbent article, the higher the fiber density of the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric, the more likely it is to exhibit capillary phenomenon. Thus, by making the fiber density of the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric greater than the fiber density of the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric, the absorption efficiency of moisture by the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric is increased, and the wearer can feel less discomfort.

[0045] For the pant-type absorbent article, it is preferable that the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric have a plurality of compression portions that compress the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric in the thickness direction.

[0046] According to such a pant-type absorbent article, the fiber density of the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric is locally increased in the portion where the compression portion is provided, and the capillary phenomenon is more likely to occur. Thus, the moisture absorption efficiency of the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric can be improved, and the wearer is less likely to feel discomfort. In addition, by providing a plurality of compression portions in a dispersed manner, the rigidity of the nonwoven fabric is prevented from becoming excessively high, and a good skin touch is easily maintained.

[0047] For this pant-type absorbent article, it is preferable that the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric have a plurality of opening portions that penetrate the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric in the thickness direction.

[0048] According to such a pant-type absorbent article, since the side wall portion of the opening portion also becomes an interface with the atmosphere, the contact area of the atmosphere with the non-skin side sheet is likely to increase compared to the case where the opening portion is not provided. Thus, moisture also transpires from the side wall portion of the opening portion, and the transpiration rate of the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric can be improved. Thus, the wearer is less likely to feel discomfort.

[0049] For this pant-type absorbent article, it is preferable that the average thickness of the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric be thicker than the average thickness of the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric.

[0050] According to such a pant-type absorbent article, the thicker the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric, the deeper the depth of the opening portion in the thickness direction, and the area of the side wall portion of the opening portion increases. Thus, the area of the interface of the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric with the atmosphere increases, and the amount of moisture that transpires from the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric increases. Thus, the transpiration rate of the moisture in the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric is further improved, and the wearer is less likely to feel discomfort.

[0051] For this pant-type absorbent article, it is preferable that the outer edge portion of the opening portion of the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric on the skin side have a convex portion that protrudes toward the skin side.

[0052] According to such a pant-type absorbent article, the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric and the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric are brought into contact with each other by the convex portion, and the action of transferring moisture absorbed by the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric to the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric side is easily generated. Thus, moisture is less likely to remain in the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric that is in contact with the skin of the wearer, and the wearer is less likely to feel discomfort.

[0053] For this pant-type absorbent article, it is preferable that the pant-type absorbent article have a portion where the opening portion and the elastic member overlap.

[0054] According to such a pant-type absorbent article, the opening portion is provided at a position that is easily affected by the expansion and contraction of the elastic member, and thus moisture is promoted to transpire from the side wall portion of the opening portion to the atmosphere when the elastic member expands and contracts. Thus, the wearer is less likely to feel discomfort.

[0055] For this pant-type absorbent article, it is preferable that a plurality of the perforated portions be provided between two of the elastic members that are arranged adjacent to each other in the up-and-down direction.

[0056] According to such a pant-type absorbent article, a plurality of perforated portions are provided in the region between the up-and-down directions of the elastic members, whereby the area of the interface between the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric and the atmosphere increases, and thus transpiration of moisture can be efficiently produced even in a region that is less likely to be affected by the stretching and contracting of the elastic members. As a result, the wearer is less likely to feel discomfort.

[0057] For this pant-type absorbent article, it is preferable that the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric not be provided with a through hole that penetrates the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric in the thickness direction.

[0058] According to such a pant-type absorbent article, since the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric is not provided with a through hole, the area of the portion of the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric that comes into contact with the wearer's skin does not decrease, and it is easy to efficiently absorb moisture using the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric. As a result, the wearer is less likely to feel discomfort.

[0059] For this pant-type absorbent article, it is preferable that the average weight per unit area of the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric be greater than the average weight per unit area of the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric.

[0060] According to such a pant-type absorbent article, by making the weight per unit area of the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric greater than the weight per unit area of the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric, it is possible to increase the water retention capacity in the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric. As a result, it is easier for moisture to be transferred from the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric to the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric. In addition, by transferring moisture in the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric to the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric, it is possible for the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric to reabsorb moisture from the wearer's skin. As a result, the wearer is less likely to feel discomfort.

[0061] == First Embodiment ==

[0062] As the pant-type absorbent article of the present application, a pant-type disposable diaper (hereinafter also referred to as "diaper 1") will be described by way of example. However, the pant-type absorbent article of the present application also includes a pant-type sanitary napkin, and other pant-type absorbent articles.

[0063] <Diaper 1 Structure>

[0064] FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of diaper 1. FIG. 2 is a plan view of diaper 1 in an unfolded and stretched state. FIG. 3 is FIG. 2Fig. 1 is a schematic perspective view of the diaper 1 according to the first embodiment of the present application. Fig. 2 is a schematic plan view of the diaper 1 according to the first embodiment of the present application. Fig. 3 is a schematic sectional view of the diaper 1 according to the first embodiment of the present application taken along the A-A line. Further, the "extended state" of the diaper 1 refers to a state in which the diaper 1 as a whole (the product as a whole) is extended to be free of wrinkles, and specifically refers to a state in which the dimensions of each member (for example, the absorbent main body 10, the waist member 20, and the like described later) constituting the diaper 1 are made to be dimensions that are consistent with or close to the dimensions of the member as a single body.

[0065] In FIG. 1 the briefs-type state shown in Fig. 1, the diaper 1 has an up-down direction, a left-right direction, and a front-rear direction that intersect with each other, has a waist opening portion BH and a pair of leg opening portions LH, LH. The upper side in the up-down direction corresponds to the waist opening portion BH side, and the lower side corresponds to the lower crotch side. In addition, the front side in the front-rear direction corresponds to the abdominal side of the wearer, and the rear side corresponds to the back side of the wearer. In addition, in FIG. 2 the extended state shown in Fig. 2, the diaper 1 has a longitudinal direction and a lateral direction that intersect with each other. The longitudinal direction is a direction along the up-down direction in FIG. 1 Fig. 1, which corresponds to the lengthwise direction of the absorbent main body 10. The lateral direction is a direction along the left-right direction in FIG. 1 Fig. 1. In addition, as shown in FIG. 3 Fig. 1, the direction in which the materials constituting the diaper 1 are stacked is referred to as the thickness direction. The side in the thickness direction that comes into contact with the skin of the wearer is referred to as the skin side, and the opposite side is referred to as the non-skin side.

[0066] The diaper 1 has an absorbent main body 10 that has liquid absorbency, and a waist member 20 that is disposed on the non-skin side of the absorbent main body 10. In addition, the waist member 20 has a front waist portion 30 that corresponds to the front body portion of the diaper 1, and a rear waist portion 40 that corresponds to the rear body portion of the diaper 1. That is, the diaper 1 according to the first embodiment is a so-called three-piece briefs-type diaper, has, as a first member, the absorbent main body 10 that is fitted to the crotch portion of the wearer and absorbs excretions such as urine, has, as a second member, the front waist portion 30 that covers the abdominal side portion of the wearer, and has, as a third member, the rear waist portion 40 that covers the back side portion of the wearer.

[0067] In FIG. 2In the unfolded state, the front waist portion 30 and the rear waist portion 40 are arranged in parallel at a spacing in the longitudinal direction from each other, and the absorbent body 10 is erected therebetween with the respective end portions 10ea, 10eb of the absorbent body 10 in the longitudinal direction being joined to the skin side of the waist portions 30, 40 in the vicinity thereof, and the appearance shape of the diaper 1 is a substantially H shape in plan view. Further, the absorbent body 10 is folded in half with the central position CL in the longitudinal direction as the folding position from this state. In the folded state, the front waist portion 30 and the rear waist portion 40 facing each other in the left and right directions are joined to each other at the side portions 30sw, 40sw on the left and right sides, thereby forming a pair of side joint portions 50, 50. That is, the front waist portion 30 and the rear waist portion 40 are shaped into a ring by the pair of side joint portions 50, 50. Thus, the diaper 1 is in a short pants type state with the waist opening BH and a pair of leg opening LH, LH as shown in FIG. 1 formed by known joining means such as fusion, adhesion, etc.

[0068] (Absorbent body 10)

[0069] FIG. 4A is a plan view of the absorbent body 10, FIG. 4B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the absorbent body 10. The absorbent body 10 has an absorbent core 11 that absorbs and retains a discharged liquid such as urine, a topsheet 12 disposed at a position on the skin side in the thickness direction from the absorbent core 11, and a backsheet 13 disposed at a position on the non-skin side from the absorbent core 11. However, the absorbent body 10 can also have a sheet member other than the above-described sheet members. For example, the absorbent body 10 can also have a second sheet (not shown) between the topsheet 12 and the absorbent core 11 in the thickness direction.

[0070] The absorbent core 11 is a member that absorbs and retains a discharged liquid such as urine, and is formed of, for example, liquid-absorbent fibers such as pulp fibers mixed with a superabsorbent polymer (SAP). Further, the outer peripheral surface of the absorbent core 11 can also be covered with a liquid-permeable sheet member (core wrap sheet 11b) such as tissue paper or nonwoven fabric. The absorbent core 11 of the present embodiment has a narrowed portion 11c in which the width in the left and right directions narrows between the front side end and the rear side end in the longitudinal direction, and has a substantially hourglass shape in plan view as shown in FIG. 4A The narrowed portion 11c is a portion that is pinched between the legs of the wearer when the diaper 1 is worn, and the length in the left and right directions of this portion is shortened (the width is narrowed), whereby the absorbent core 11 easily fits to the crotch of the wearer. Further, although the absorbent core 11 is in a state of being overlaid in two layers in the thickness direction in the present embodiment as shown in FIG. 4B , the shape of the absorbent core 11 is not limited thereto.

[0071] The top sheet 12 is a liquid-permeable sheet, such as a hydrophilic thermobonded nonwoven fabric, a spunbonded nonwoven fabric, or the like. In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, the left and right side portions in the lateral direction of the top sheet 12 are folded back toward the non-skin side to wrap the absorbent core 11. FIG. 4B

[0072] The back sheet 13 is a two-layer structure formed of a liquid-impermeable sheet 13a and a hydrophobic outer cover sheet 13b disposed on the non-skin side of the liquid-impermeable sheet 13a. As the liquid-impermeable sheet 13a, for example, a resin film or the like is used, and as the outer cover sheet 13b, for example, a nonwoven fabric having softness or the like is used.

[0073] A pair of containment wall portions 15 are provided on the left and right side portions of the absorbent main body 10 in the longitudinal direction (lengthwise direction of the absorbent main body 10). In the present embodiment, the containment wall portions 15 are formed of the outer cover sheet 13b described above. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 1, in the lateral direction (transverse direction), a portion of the outer cover sheet 13b is extended outward beyond both ends of the absorbent core 11, and at the same time, is folded back toward the skin side at a plurality of positions as shown in FIG. 1, thereby forming a pair of containment wall portions 15. Containment wall elastic members 16 such as rubber bands are attached to the skin side end portions (front end portions) of the containment wall portions 15 in a state of being elongated in the longitudinal direction (lengthwise direction of the absorbent main body 10). When the diaper 1 is worn, based on the stretchability exhibited by the containment wall elastic members 16, the containment wall portions 15 stand up toward the skin side of the wearer, and fit to the crotch portion of the wearer. FIG. 4B

[0074] In addition, leg elastic members 17 such as rubber bands are attached to the left and right side portions of the absorbent main body 10 in a state of being elongated in the longitudinal direction (lengthwise direction of the absorbent main body 10). When the diaper 1 is worn, based on the stretchability exhibited by the leg elastic members 17, the left and right side portions of the absorbent main body 10 contract, and easily fit along the leg girth of the wearer.

[0075] (Front Waist Portion 30)

[0076] As shown in FIG. 1, the front waist portion 30 has a skin side sheet 31 disposed at a position closest to the skin side in the thickness direction, a non-skin side sheet 32 stacked on the non-skin side of the skin side sheet 31 adjacent to the skin side sheet 31, and a waist elastic member 35 provided between the skin side sheet 31 and the non-skin side sheet 32 in the thickness direction. The front waist portion 30 is basically a two-layer structure having the skin side sheet 31 and the non-skin side sheet 32, but the front waist portion 30 can also have a partial three-layer or more structure, such as the skin facing sheet 36 described later or the like. FIG. 3 The skin side sheet 31 and the non-skin side sheet 32 are liquid-permeable sheets, such as hydrophilic thermobonded nonwoven fabrics, spunbonded nonwoven fabrics, or the like. In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, the skin side sheet 31 and the non-skin side sheet 32 are formed of the same material, and are formed as a single sheet. In the present embodiment, the skin side sheet 31 and the non-skin side sheet 32 are formed of a hydrophilic thermobonded nonwoven fabric.

[0077] FIG. 2 ​​​The sheet member shown in a plan view as a long rectangular shape is formed of, for example, an SMS nonwoven fabric or the like. Further, in the diaper 1, the sheet member (nonwoven fabric) constituting the non-skin side sheet 32 has a higher hydrophilicity than the sheet member (nonwoven fabric) constituting the skin side sheet 31. That is, the skin side sheet 31 is constituted of a nonwoven fabric having a lower hydrophilicity (hereinafter also referred to as "hydrophobic nonwoven fabric"), and the non-skin side sheet 32 is constituted of a nonwoven fabric having a higher hydrophilicity than the skin side sheet 31 (hereinafter also referred to as "hydrophilic nonwoven fabric"). Details of the hydrophilicity of each sheet 31, 32 and the function based on the difference in the hydrophilicity will be described later.

[0078] In addition, a plurality of opening portions 32h as shown in a partial enlarged view of Fig. 6 are provided on the surface of the non-skin side sheet 32. The opening portion 32h is a through-hole that penetrates the non-skin side sheet 32 in the thickness direction, and by providing the opening portion 32h, the air permeability of the front waist portion 30 can be improved. In addition, the opening portion 32h can be visually recognized as being arranged on the non-skin side of the front waist portion 30, and thus the user can easily be reminded that the front waist portion 30 has good air permeability. Each opening portion 32h can be provided, for example, in a circular shape having a diameter of about 1 mm, but the shape, arrangement (number and pattern) of the opening portion 32h can be appropriately changed. Further, in the diaper 1, the skin side sheet 31 is not provided with a through-hole corresponding to the opening portion 32h. FIG. 2 The front waist portion 30 of the present embodiment has a folded-back portion 32f that is formed by folding back the upper end portion (front end portion in the longitudinal direction) of the non-skin side sheet 32 from the non-skin side to the skin side and from the front side to the back side in the longitudinal direction. The folded-back portion 32f covers part (upper end portion) of the skin side sheet 31, thereby suppressing the upper end edge of the skin side sheet 31 from being caught in the wearer's skin. However, it is not necessarily required to provide the folded-back portion 32f.

[0079] The waist elastic member 35 is arranged in multiple numbers in the up-and-down direction between the skin side sheet 31 and the non-skin side sheet 32, and is installed in an elongated state in the left-and-right direction. The stretchability exhibited by the waist elastic member 35 causes the front waist portion 30 to fit to the wearer's abdominal waist.

[0080]

[0081] ​The waist elastic member 35 can be attached using an adhesive such as a hot melt adhesive. For example, the hot melt adhesive is applied to the waist elastic member 35, which is elongated at a predetermined elongation ratio, and sandwiched by the skin-side sheet 31 and the non-skin-side sheet 32, whereby the waist elastic member 35 can be attached. That is, the skin-side sheet 31 and the non-skin-side sheet 32 are joined by the adhesive via the waist elastic member 35. In addition, the waist elastic member 35 can be attached by applying the adhesive to the skin-side sheet 31 and the non-skin-side sheet 32, or by using a fusion means of the fusion portion 60 described later.

[0082] In addition, the front waist portion 30 can have a skin surface sheet 36. As shown in FIG. 1, the skin surface sheet 36 is a sheet member arranged to cover the upper end portion (front end portion in the longitudinal direction) of the absorbent main body 10 from the skin side, and has a function as a cover sheet. This suppresses the upper end edge of the absorbent main body 10 from being caught in the wearer's skin when the diaper 1 is worn. The skin surface sheet 36 is formed of, for example, an SMS nonwoven fabric or the like. Furthermore, the skin surface sheet 36 is not necessarily provided. FIG. 3

[0083] In the case where a sheet member is provided at a position closer to the skin side than the skin-side sheet 31 or at a position closer to the non-skin side than the non-skin-side sheet 32 of the front waist portion 30 of the present embodiment, each sheet is arranged to cover only a partial portion of the skin-side sheet 31 and the non-skin-side sheet 32. For example, the skin surface sheet 36 in FIG. 1 is arranged to cover only a portion of the skin side of the skin-side sheet 31, and at least a portion of the skin-side sheet 31 is in a state of being exposed to the skin side of the wearer. FIG. 3

[0084] (Rear waist portion 40)

[0085] The rear waist portion 40 has substantially the same structure as that of the front waist portion 30. That is, the rear waist portion 40 has a skin-side sheet 41 arranged at a position closest to the skin side in the thickness direction, a non-skin-side sheet 42 stacked on the non-skin side of the skin-side sheet 41 adjacent to the skin-side sheet 41, and a waist elastic member 45 provided between the skin-side sheet 41 and the non-skin-side sheet 42 in the thickness direction. In addition, like the front waist portion 30, the rear waist portion 40 can have an opening portion 42h, a folded-back portion 42f, a skin surface sheet 46, and the like (see FIG. 1). FIG. 2 FIG. 3 Since the structures of the respective members are substantially the same as those of the respective members of the front waist portion 30, the description is omitted.

[0086] On the other hand, the outer appearance shape of the rear waist portion 40 is different from that of the front waist portion 30. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 1, the rear waist portion 40 has a curved shape in the longitudinal direction, and the skin-side sheet 41 and the non-skin-side sheet 42 are curved in the longitudinal direction. FIG. 2 ​​​As shown, the rear waist portion 40 has a crotch area 40b that is approximately trapezoidal in shape in the vertical direction, located below the side joint portion 50 (side portion 40sw). In the crotch area 40b, the lateral width widens from the lower side to the upper side in the vertical direction. By providing the crotch area 40b, the rear waist portion 40 can cover the wearer's buttocks when the diaper 1 is worn. That is, the crotch area 40b functions as a buttock cover.

[0087] Additionally, the crotch area 40b is provided with, for example... FIG. 2 The elastic member 47, such as a rubber band, is shown. The elastic member 47 is installed between the skin side piece 41 and the non-skin side piece 42 in a state of elongation along the outer edge of the crotch area 40b. The elasticity of the elastic member 47 makes it easy for the crotch area 40b of the back waist 40 to fit the wearer's buttocks when wearing the diaper 1. In addition, the crotch area 40b is not easy to roll up from the buttocks.

[0088] <Regarding the hydrophilicity of sheet components>

[0089] The hydrophilicity of the sheet material components will be explained here. In diaper 1, a hydrophobic nonwoven fabric is used as the skin side sheet 31, and a hydrophilic nonwoven fabric with higher hydrophilicity than the skin side sheet 31 is used as the non-skin side sheet 32. The hydrophilic nonwoven fabric in this embodiment is a nonwoven fabric whose hydrophilicity has been improved by treating the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric (hydrophilic treatment), which involves attaching a predetermined oil agent. As the oil agent used for the hydrophilic treatment, commercially available oil agents that have the effect of acting as antistatic interference agents for fibers, such as anionic oil agents, nonionic oil agents, and mixtures thereof, can be used. These oil agents are added to an oil tank and oiled using an oiling roller or the like, thereby improving the hydrophilicity of the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric and obtaining a hydrophilic nonwoven fabric. However, hydrophilic nonwoven fabrics can also be formed by other methods. For example, a hydrophilic nonwoven fabric can also be obtained by manufacturing a nonwoven fabric using fibers with higher hydrophilicity.

[0090] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the entire nonwoven fabric constituting the non-skin side sheet 32 ​​is hydrophilically treated to improve the overall hydrophilicity of the non-skin side sheet 32. However, it is also possible to improve the hydrophilicity of only a local area of ​​the non-skin side sheet 32. For example, it is also possible to configure a sheet member that has a portion with higher hydrophilicity and a portion with lower hydrophilicity by only hydrophilically treating a local area of ​​the non-skin side sheet 32.

[0091] The hydrophilicity of the sheet component can be evaluated by measuring the contact angle when ion-exchanged water comes into contact with the surface of the sheet component. Specifically, if the contact angle between the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric and ion-exchanged water is smaller than that between the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric and ion-exchanged water, then the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric has higher hydrophilicity than the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric. As the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric (non-skin side sheet 32) used in this embodiment, its contact angle with ion-exchanged water is preferably 90 degrees or less, more preferably 50 degrees or less. On the other hand, as the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric (skin side sheet 31), its contact angle with ion-exchanged water is preferably 90 degrees or more, more preferably 120 degrees or more.

[0092] For example, the contact angle can be measured using the MCA-J contact angle meter manufactured by Kyowa Interface Science Co., Ltd., by the following method: First, drop approximately 20 picoliters of ion-exchanged water onto the surface of the fibers constituting the sheet component (the sheet being measured), and then immediately measure the contact angle using the contact angle meter. Measurements are performed at multiple locations (e.g., five or more locations) on the surface of the sheet being measured, and the average value is taken as the contact angle. Furthermore, the ambient temperature for the measurement is set to 22°C.

[0093] Alternatively, one can photograph the measured piece with ion-exchanged water dropped on it from the cross-sectional direction of the measured piece, analyze the photographed image, and measure the angle between the droplet of ion-exchanged water and the measured piece to measure the contact angle.

[0094] <On water absorption and transpiration>

[0095] Next, the mechanism by which moisture is absorbed from the wearer's skin in the waistband component 20 of the diaper 1 and then evaporated into the atmosphere will be explained. FIG. 5A and FIG. 5B This diagram illustrates the cross-sectional shape of the front waist section 30 when the diaper 1 is worn. FIG. 5A and FIG. 5B Both schematically show the cross-sections in the thickness direction and the vertical direction. FIG. 5A The middle part represents the state of the waist elastic member 35 when it contracts in the left and right direction. FIG. 5B The text indicates the state when the waist elastic member 35 extends to the right. Furthermore, the front waist part 30 will be described below, but the rear waist part 40 is the same as the front waist part 30.

[0096] When the wearer wears diaper 1, the waist elastic member 35 located on the front waist section 30 contracts in the left-right direction, so that the front waist section 30 fits snugly against the wearer's waist, thus preventing misalignment. At this time, as the waist elastic member 35 contracts in the left-right direction, the skin side piece 31 and the non-skin side piece 32, which are joined by the waist elastic member 35, also contract in the left-right direction. Therefore, as...FIG. 1 As shown, multiple folds extending in the vertical direction are formed on the surface of the front waist section 30. These folds are formed by localized protrusions in the thickness direction of a sheet member that was previously planar when the non-skin side panel 32 (and skin side panel 31) contracted in the left-right direction. FIG. 5A In the middle, between two adjacent waist elastic members 35, 35 in the vertical direction, small folds are formed by the non-skin side plate 32 protruding to the non-skin side (the side not facing the wearer's skin) in the thickness direction. These small folds are arranged in a vertical direction to form folds that extend in the vertical direction.

[0097] If the wearer moves their body from this position by walking, sitting, or standing, the contracted waist elastic member 35 elongates, and the skin side panel 31 and non-skin side panel 32 also elongate in the lateral direction. As a result, the protrusion of the skin side panel 31 and non-skin side panel 32 along the thickness direction is eliminated in the elongated portion, becoming... FIG. 5B That kind of planar shape along the skin. When the wearer is wearing diaper 1, it contracts as described above ( FIG. 5A ) and elongation state ( FIG. 5B (This appears repeatedly.)

[0098] FIG. 6 It is an enlarged representation FIG. 5A A cross-sectional view of region X. FIG. 6 During this process, when the waist elastic member 35 contracts in the left-right direction, the skin side sheet 31 also contracts in the left-right direction as described above. Therefore, the fibers constituting the skin side sheet 31 are compressed in the left-right direction, causing the distance between the fibers to narrow, and the fibers constituting the skin side sheet 31 become dense.

[0099] If the skin-side sheet 31 (hydrophobic sheet) is pressed against the wearer's skin in this state, moisture such as sweat adhering to the wearer's skin is easily absorbed by the skin-side sheet 31. This is because the fibers constituting the skin-side sheet 31 become denser, thus allowing moisture to be easily drawn into the spaces between the fibers through capillary action. In this way, in the front waist section 30 of the diaper 1, the skin-side sheet 31, made of hydrophobic nonwoven fabric, is contracted by the waist elastic member 35, thereby easily absorbing moisture from the wearer's skin.

[0100] FIG. 7 It is an enlarged representation FIG. 5B A cross-sectional view of region Y. When the waist elastic member 35 elongates, the skin side plate 31 and the non-skin side plate 32 also elongate, thus both becoming planar. Therefore, the non-skin side of the skin side plate 31 overlaps with the skin side of the non-skin side plate 32, making them easy to come into contact with each other. That is, with FIG. 6Compared to the previous case, the contact area between the skin side panel 31 and the non-skin side panel 32 is larger. Therefore, moisture absorbed by the skin side panel 31 moves from the skin side panel 31 to the non-skin side panel 32 via this contact area, and diffuses within the non-skin side panel 32. In this embodiment, this is because the non-skin side panel 32, made of hydrophilic nonwoven fabric, is more hydrophilic than the skin side panel 31, made of hydrophobic nonwoven fabric. Therefore, moisture easily transfers and diffuses to the more hydrophilic non-skin side panel 32. Consequently, moisture is less likely to remain within the skin side panel 31 and is less likely to come into contact with the wearer's skin.

[0101] FIG. 8 It is an enlarged representation FIG. 5B A cross-sectional view of region Y, representing the area from FIG. 7 The state after a predetermined time has elapsed. Water transferred from the skin side sheet 31 to the non-skin side sheet 32 ​​diffuses within the more hydrophilic non-skin side sheet 32 ​​and from the non-skin side of the non-skin side sheet 32 ​​(on...). FIG. 8 The moisture evaporates outward from the interface between the non-skin side sheet 32 ​​and the atmosphere. In this embodiment, as the waist elastic member 35 elongates, the non-skin side sheet 32 ​​itself also elongates, thus facilitating the diffusion of moisture within the non-skin side sheet 32, thereby easily causing moisture evaporation over a large area of ​​the non-skin side sheet 32. Furthermore, the evaporation of moisture held by the non-skin side sheet 32 ​​to the non-skin side facilitates the transfer of moisture back from the skin side sheet 31 to the non-skin side sheet 32.

[0102] In this way, moisture can be absorbed from the wearer's skin in the front waist section 30 of the diaper 1, and the absorbed moisture can evaporate to the non-skin side of the non-skin side panel 32 (hydrophilic nonwoven fabric). Furthermore, if the wearer moves their body while wearing the diaper 1, the waist elastic member 35 expands and contracts, thus repeating the process. FIG. 6 to FIG. 8 The moisture movement described herein allows for efficient absorption of moisture from the wearer's skin and release of it to the non-skin side, thus reducing discomfort for the wearer. Furthermore, this effect can be achieved even when other sheet materials are layered on the non-skin side of the non-skin side panel 32. However, if no other sheet materials are layered on the non-skin side of the non-skin side panel 32 (i.e., if the non-skin side of the non-skin side panel 32 faces the atmosphere), evaporation efficiency can be further improved. Therefore, it is preferable that the non-skin side panel 32 is positioned closest to the non-skin side in the waistband member 20 (front waistband 30) of the diaper 1.

[0103] Furthermore, in the front waist section 30, a waist elastic member 35 is provided between the skin-side plate 31 and the non-skin-side plate 32, thereby creating a structure that facilitates the absorption of moisture from the wearer's skin and its evaporation into the atmosphere. If the waist elastic member 35 were positioned closer to the skin-side plate 31 than the skin-side plate 31, a gap could easily form between the wearer's skin and the skin-side plate 31. That is, because the contact area between the wearer's skin and the skin-side plate 31 is reduced, it may be difficult for the wearer's skin to absorb moisture. Additionally, if the waist elastic member 35 were positioned closer to the non-skin-side plate 32 than the non-skin-side plate 32, the evaporation of moisture from the non-skin-side side of the non-skin-side plate 32 to the atmosphere would be hindered by the front waist elastic member 35, making evaporation difficult. In contrast, in this embodiment, since the waist elastic member 35 is provided between the skin-side plate 31 and the non-skin-side plate 32, the movement of moisture is not easily obstructed, allowing for efficient absorption and evaporation of moisture.

[0104] Furthermore, in diaper 1, moisture movement is easily generated as described above due to the stretching and contraction of the waist elastic member 35. Therefore, it is preferable to have a portion around the waist elastic member 35 where the skin side sheet 31 (hydrophobic nonwoven fabric) and the non-skin side sheet 32 ​​(hydrophilic nonwoven fabric) are joined together. With such a structure, the stretching and contraction of the waist elastic member 35 can be more effectively controlled, thereby improving the evaporation effect of moisture. That is, since the skin side sheet 31 and the non-skin side sheet 32 ​​easily stretch and contract along with the stretching and contraction of the waist elastic member 35, moisture movement is easily promoted. In addition, since the sheets are tightly attached to each other at the joint, the transfer of moisture from the less hydrophilic skin side sheet 31 to the more hydrophilic non-skin side sheet 32 ​​can be smoother.

[0105] Furthermore, an adhesive such as a hot-melt adhesive is used in the front waist section 30 (waist section member 20) of the diaper 1, thereby bonding the skin side sheet 31 (hydrophobic nonwoven fabric) and the non-skin side sheet 32 ​​(hydrophilic nonwoven fabric) together via the waist elastic member 35. Therefore, the elastic force of the waist elastic member 35 is directly transmitted to the skin side sheet 31 and the non-skin side sheet 32, thereby further improving the water evaporation effect. In addition, the oil contained in the adhesive enhances the hydrophilicity at the joints between the sheets, allowing for smoother water transfer.

[0106] Furthermore, in the diaper 1, in the region between a pair of side joints 50, 50 in the left-right direction, elastic waist members 35, 45 are provided between the skin-sensitive side pieces 31, 41 (hydrophobic nonwoven fabric) and the non-skin-sensitive side pieces 32, 42 (hydrophilic nonwoven fabric). Therefore, at least one region between the pair of side joints 50, 50 in the waist member 20 becomes a structure that easily absorbs moisture from the wearer's skin and releases the absorbed moisture into the atmosphere. This region is located at the wearer's waist when wearing the diaper 1, and is an area where the wearer is prone to sweating and experiencing stuffiness. In this embodiment, since moisture can be easily absorbed and evaporated into the atmosphere in such a waist area, stuffiness in this waist area when wearing the diaper 1 can be suppressed, thus reducing discomfort.

[0107] Especially when the wearer wears shorts-type diapers, the back of the waist area tends to sweat more than the abdominal area, making it feel stuffy and hot. To address this, in diaper 1, in the area between a pair of side joints 50, 50 in the back waist section 40, a waist elastic member 45 is provided between the skin-friendly side panel 41 (hydrophobic nonwoven fabric) and the non-skin-friendly side panel 42 (hydrophilic nonwoven fabric). This allows for easy absorption of sweat and other moisture on the back of the waist area and efficient evaporation into the atmosphere, thus suppressing stuffiness and reducing discomfort.

[0108] Furthermore, in the diaper 1 of this embodiment, the non-skin side pieces 32 and 42, made of hydrophilic nonwoven fabric, are positioned on the non-skin side closest to the waist member 20 (30, 40) in the thickness direction (see reference). FIG. 3 That is, at least a portion of the outermost layer of the waist member 20 is provided with a hydrophilic nonwoven fabric. Thus, at least a portion of the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric becomes an interface with the atmosphere, and the moisture retained in the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric easily evaporates into the atmosphere. If a hydrophobic sheet member is stacked and positioned closer to the non-skin side than the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric, the evaporation of moisture from the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric to the atmosphere is hindered in this stacked portion, potentially causing moisture to easily remain in the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric. In contrast, in this embodiment, since there is a portion where no other member is sandwiched between the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric and the atmosphere, moisture evaporation can be achieved efficiently. Furthermore, even if other members (such as a post-processing strip for performing post-processing operations on the diaper 1) are provided in portions of the non-skin side panels 32, 42 (hydrophilic nonwoven fabric), the aforementioned effect can be obtained in areas where these other members are not provided.

[0109] Preferably, the waist member 20 (30, 40) has a two-layer structure, consisting of a skin-side sheet 31 (41) made of hydrophobic nonwoven fabric and a non-skin-side sheet 32 ​​(42) made of hydrophilic nonwoven fabric, which are stacked along the thickness direction. By eliminating redundant sheet members in the waist member 20, the absorption and evaporation of moisture are less obstructed, allowing for more efficient moisture release. Although the waist member 20 of this embodiment... FIG. 3 The folded section 32f shown has a three-layer structure, but in most areas of the waist member 20, it has a two-layer structure consisting of two sheet members, skin side panels 31 and 41 and non-skin side panels 32 and 42, which can efficiently allow water to evaporate.

[0110] Furthermore, due to this construction, since hydrophilic nonwoven fabric is integrally arranged along the longitudinal direction (vertical direction of diaper 1) of the waist components 20 (30, 40), moisture absorption and evaporation can be achieved from the upper end to the lower end of the waist components 20. For example, when the wearer wears diaper 1, sweat and other moisture can be easily wicked away to the outside of diaper 1 in a large area from the back to the buttocks on the back side (back waist component 40). Therefore, even in the lower areas of the waist where the wearer is prone to sweating, moisture does not easily come into contact with the skin, thus reducing discomfort for the wearer.

[0111] However, the above does not exclude situations where other sheet components are placed on the non-skin side of the waistband component 20, closer to the skin than the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric (non-skin side panels 32, 42). For example, the skin side panel 31 (hydrophobic nonwoven fabric) can be folded back towards the non-skin side and layered to partially cover the non-skin side of the non-skin side panel 32. In this case, moisture evaporation can be maintained in the non-layered areas, thus reducing discomfort for the wearer.

[0112] Preferably, in the waistband component 20 of the diaper 1, the average fiber density of the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric (skin-side panels 31, 41) is greater than the average fiber density of the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric (non-skin-side panels 32, 42). In this embodiment, when the waistband elastic components 35, 45 contract, the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric absorbs moisture from the wearer's skin through capillary action caused by the reduced inter-fiber distance of the fibers constituting the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric. Therefore, the higher the fiber density of the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric, the easier it is to generate capillary action and the easier it is to absorb moisture. Furthermore, since the movement of moisture from the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric to the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric is based on the difference in hydrophilicity between the nonwoven fabrics, even if the fiber density of the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric is increased, the function of evaporating the absorbed moisture into the atmosphere is not easily impaired. Therefore, by making the fiber density of hydrophobic nonwoven fabric greater than that of hydrophilic nonwoven fabric, the absorption efficiency of moisture (sweat, etc.) of hydrophobic nonwoven fabric is improved compared to the case where the fiber density of hydrophobic nonwoven fabric is less than that of hydrophilic nonwoven fabric, thus making the wearer less likely to experience discomfort. Furthermore, the average fiber density of the nonwoven fabric is calculated as follows: for nonwoven fabric of a predetermined size, the weight and average thickness (described later) are measured, and the weight of the sheet is divided by the product of the sheet's area and the average thickness (the volume of the sheet).

[0113] One method to increase the fiber density of hydrophobic nonwoven fabrics (skin-side panels 31, 41) is to provide compression sections that locally compress the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric along its thickness direction. Specifically, this can be achieved by embossing the surface of the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric, thereby dispersively forming multiple compression sections. In the areas with such compression sections (embossing), the fiber density of the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric is locally increased, making capillary action more likely. Furthermore, by dispersing and providing finer compression sections, excessive increases in the stiffness of the nonwoven fabric are prevented, maintaining a pleasant feel against the skin. This improves the absorption efficiency of moisture (sweat, etc.) from the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric, reducing discomfort for the wearer.

[0114] In addition, the waist component 20 of the diaper 1 is provided with multiple openings 32h and 42h that penetrate the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric (non-skin side panels 32 and 42) along the thickness direction, thereby making it easier for moisture to evaporate. FIG. 9 Is with FIG. 8 The corresponding diagram illustrates the evaporation of water when the non-skin side panel 32 has an opening for 32 hours. For example, in FIG. 8 As explained, when water evaporates from the non-skin side plate 32, the water evaporates from the interface between the non-skin side plate 32 and the atmosphere, that is, from the surface of the non-skin side of the non-skin side plate 32 (at... FIG. 9 (In the attached diagram, 32s is used to indicate evaporation into the atmosphere.) In contrast, in images...FIG. 9 When the non-skin side panel 32 has an opening 32h, the sidewall portion 32hs of the opening 32h also becomes an interface with the atmosphere. That is, compared to the case where the opening 32h is not provided, the area of ​​the interface between the atmosphere and the non-skin side panel 32 is more likely to increase. Therefore, in addition to evaporation from the non-skin side surface 32s of the non-skin side panel 32, moisture also evaporates from the sidewall portion 32hs of the opening 32h, and more moisture that has diffused and been retained in the non-skin side panel 32 is more likely to evaporate. As a result, the evaporation rate of moisture in the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric can be increased, thereby reducing discomfort for the wearer.

[0115] Furthermore, it is preferable that when the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric (non-skin side panel 32) has an opening 32h, the thickness t32 of the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric (non-skin side panel 32) is thicker than the thickness t31 of the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric (skin side panel 31). The thicker the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric (non-skin side panel 32), the longer the distance in the thickness direction of the opening 32h penetrating the non-skin side panel 32 (i.e., the deeper the opening), and the larger the area of ​​the sidewall portion 32hs of the opening 32h. As a result, the area of ​​the interface between the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric and the atmosphere increases, and the amount of water evaporating from the sidewall portion 32hs easily increases. Therefore, the water evaporation rate in the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric is further improved, making it less likely for the wearer to experience discomfort. Furthermore, for the thickness of nonwoven fabrics, for the portion of the nonwoven fabric without openings (32h) being measured, a dial thickness gauge (Mitutoyo ID-C1012C) or an equivalent instrument can be used, with the contact pressure set to 3 gf / cm. 2 The thickness of the nonwoven fabric is measured by applying pressure to the target area and taking the thickness at several arbitrary points (e.g., 5 points). The average value of these measurements is taken as the thickness of the nonwoven fabric. Furthermore, if the spacing between adjacent openings 32h (i.e., the distance between openings 32h) is narrower than the size of the probe of a dial-type thickness gauge, the probe may cross the openings 32h, potentially preventing accurate measurement of the thickness of the portion without openings 32h. In such cases, it is preferable to use a non-contact thickness measuring device such as an ultrasonic thickness gauge or a laser displacement gauge to measure the thickness of the portion of the nonwoven fabric without openings 32h.

[0116] Alternatively, it can be a protrusion 32hp formed by the outer edge of the opening portion 32h protruding towards the skin side of the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric (non-skin side panel 32) on the skin side (see reference). FIG. 9 By providing such a protrusion 32hp, the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric (non-skin side panel 32) can easily come into contact with the non-skin side of the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric (skin side panel 31). Therefore, it is possible to easily generate an action that transfers moisture absorbed by the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric to the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric side (see reference).FIG. 7 Therefore, moisture is less likely to remain in the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric (skin side panel 31) that comes into contact with the wearer's skin, thus reducing discomfort for the wearer.

[0117] Furthermore, a protrusion 32hp can be formed when the opening 32h is made during the manufacturing process of the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric (non-skin side sheet 32). For example, when the opening 32h is formed by inserting a predetermined pin from the non-skin side toward the skin side in the thickness direction of the non-skin side sheet 32, a burr protruding toward the skin side is formed at the outer edge of the opening 32h on the skin side when the pin passes through the non-skin side sheet 32, and this burr becomes the protrusion 32hp.

[0118] Furthermore, it is preferable that the opening 32h (42h) in the front waist portion 30 (rear waist portion 40) overlaps with the waist elastic member 35 (45). FIG. 2 In this structure, at least one of the multiple openings 32h is located at a position overlapping with the waist elastic member 35. According to this structure, when the waist elastic member 35 stretches and contracts in the lateral direction, moisture absorbed by the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric (skin side panel 31) is transferred to the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric (non-skin side panel 32), easily promoting the evaporation of moisture from the interface between the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric (non-skin side panel 32) and the atmosphere. In other words, by providing openings 32h at positions easily affected by the stretching and contraction of the waist elastic member 35, moisture evaporation is facilitated more easily. Therefore, it reduces discomfort for the wearer.

[0119] Furthermore, preferably, a plurality of openings 32h are provided between two adjacent waist elastic members 35, 35 arranged in the vertical direction. FIG. 2 In this design, numerous openings 32h are provided between two adjacent waist elastic members 35, 35 in the vertical direction. This increases the interface area between the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric (non-skin side panel 32) and the atmosphere in the vertical region between the waist elastic members 35, 35. Even in areas less affected by the stretching and contraction of the waist elastic members 35, moisture evaporation can be easily and efficiently achieved. Therefore, it reduces discomfort for the wearer.

[0120] Furthermore, preferably, the waist member 20 does not have openings (through holes) corresponding to the opening portion 32h in the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric (skin side panels 31, 41). It is assumed that if through holes are provided in the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric, the contact area between the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric and the wearer's skin is reduced, making it difficult to absorb moisture based on capillary action as described above. In contrast, in the diaper 1 of this embodiment, since no through holes are provided in the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric (skin side panels 31, 41) extending along the thickness direction, the contact area between the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric and the wearer's skin is not reduced, allowing for efficient absorption of sweat and other moisture using the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric. Therefore, it is less likely to cause discomfort to the wearer.

[0121] Furthermore, preferably, in the waist component 20, the area weight per unit area of ​​the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric (non-skin side panels 32, 42) is greater than that of the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric (skin side panels 31, 41). In conventional nonwoven fabrics, the greater the area weight per unit area, the greater the amount of moisture that can be retained (water retention capacity). Therefore, by making the area weight per unit area of ​​the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric greater than that of the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric, the water retention capacity in the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric can be further improved. As a result, the transfer of moisture from the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric to the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric can occur more easily (see reference). FIG. 7 Furthermore, by transferring moisture from the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric to the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric, the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric can reabsorb moisture from the wearer's skin. This reduces discomfort for the wearer. Additionally, the weight per unit area is the average of values ​​obtained as follows: sheets of predetermined size are cut from the sheet component being measured at multiple points (e.g., 10 points), and the weight of each sheet is measured using an electronic balance, divided by the area of ​​that sheet.

[0122] <Modified Examples of Installation Methods for Waist Elastic Members 35 and 45>

[0123] In the above embodiment, the waist elastic members 35 and 45 are installed on the waist member 20 using an adhesive method such as a hot melt adhesive. However, the installation method of the waist elastic members 35 and 45 is not limited to this. For example, the waist elastic members 35 and 45 can also be installed on the waist member 20 using a welding method such as ultrasonic welding. Furthermore, since ultrasonic welding is a known technology, a description of ultrasonic welding is omitted in this specification.

[0124] FIG. 10A and FIG. 10BThis figure illustrates a method for mounting the waist elastic member 35 to the front waist section 30 using welded portions 60. In this modified example, the waist elastic member 35 is mounted to the front waist section 30 using multiple welded portions 60, 60... distributed in both the left-right and up-down directions. Each welded portion 60 is formed into a generally rectangular shape by ultrasonic welding, and they join the skin side panel 31 and non-skin side panel 32 of the front waist section 30 in the thickness direction. Furthermore, the waist elastic member 35 is clamped from both sides in the up-down direction by a pair of welded portions 60, 60, which are adjacent in the up-down direction, thereby mounting the waist elastic member 35 to the front waist section 30.

[0125] like FIG. 10A As shown, the pair of weld portions 60, 60 constituting the weld portion pair 60s are arranged with a vertical spacing GH60 between them. Furthermore, the size of the spacing GH60 is set to be the same as or slightly larger than the diameter d35t of the waist elastic member 35 in its extended state (GH60 ≥ d35t). That is, the waist elastic member 35 in its extended state is positioned vertically between the weld portions 60s.

[0126] Next, if the elastic member 35 of the waist relaxes from its extended state, then as FIG. 10B As shown, the waist elastic member 35 contracts in the left-right direction while expanding in the up-down direction, and its diameter d35 in its natural state becomes larger than the vertical distance GH60 between the welded portions 60s (d35 > GH60). Therefore, the waist elastic member 35 is clamped between the welded portions 60s in the up-down direction. This results in the waist elastic member 35 being mounted on the front waist portion 30.

[0127] In addition, FIG. 1 In the shorts-type diaper 1, the waist elastic member 35 (45) is in its relaxed natural state after being stretched as described above. Furthermore, in the shorts-type diaper 1, the waist elastic member 35 (45) is attached to the front waist portion 30 (back waist portion 40) via lateral joints 50, 50 on both sides in the left and right directions. Therefore, when wearing the diaper 1, even if the front waist portion 30 (back waist portion 40) stretches in the left and right directions, the waist elastic member 35 (45) will not detach from the waist member 20.

[0128] ===Second Implementation Method===

[0129] In the second embodiment, a shorts-type diaper 2 (hereinafter also referred to as "diaper 2") with a structure that is different from that in the first embodiment will be described. FIG. 11A This is a top view of diaper 2 in its unfolded and extended state. FIG. 11B yesFIG. 11A A rough cross-sectional view at line BB. Furthermore, FIG. 11A and FIG. 11B The directions (e.g., longitudinal direction, transverse direction, etc.) are the same as those defined in the first embodiment.

[0130] The diaper 2 of the second embodiment has an absorbent body 10 that absorbs liquid and a waist member 20 disposed on the non-skin side of the absorbent body 10. However, in the diaper 2, the front waist portion 30 and the rear waist portion 40 are integrally formed. That is, the diaper 2 is a so-called two-piece disposable diaper composed of an absorbent body 10 as an inner body and a waist member 20 as an outer body.

[0131] In FIG. 11A When the diaper 2 in its unfolded state is formed into a shorts shape, the absorbent body 10 and the waistband 20 are folded together with the central position CL in the longitudinal direction as the folding position. The side portions 30sw and 40sw of the front waistband 30 and the rear waistband 40, which are opposite each other in this folded state, are joined together in the left and right directions to form a pair of side joints 50, 50. Thus, with... FIG. 1 Similarly, the diaper 2 becomes a shorts-shaped form with a waist opening BH and a pair of leg openings LH, LH.

[0132] In diaper 2, since the basic structure and function of the absorbent body 10 are substantially the same as those of diaper 1 in the first embodiment, descriptions are omitted. Furthermore, in FIG. 11A In the diaper 1, the crotch portion at the central position CL in the longitudinal direction (the length direction of the absorbent body 10) has a portion whose width in the left-right direction is wider than the width in the left-right direction of the waist member 20. Therefore, when the diaper 1 is worn, in the area near the crotch of the wearer, the two end edges (edges) of the absorbent body 10 in the left-right direction contact the wearer's legs.

[0133] Furthermore, in diaper 2, the portion of the waist member 20 that is forward of the central position CL in the longitudinal direction (the length direction of the absorbent body 10) becomes the front waist part 30, and the portion that is backward of the central position CL becomes the rear waist part 40. The waist member 20 has a skin side sheet 21, a non-skin side sheet 22 that is stacked adjacent to the skin side sheet 21 on the non-skin side of the skin side sheet 21, and waist elastic members 35 and 45 (see reference) disposed between the skin side sheet 21 and the non-skin side sheet 22 in the thickness direction. FIG. 11B ).

[0134] The skin-friendly side panel 21 is made of the same hydrophobic nonwoven fabric as the skin-friendly side panel 31 of diaper 1. The non-skin-friendly side panel 22 is made of the same hydrophilic nonwoven fabric as the non-skin-friendly side panel 32 of diaper 1. That is, the non-skin-friendly side panel 22 is made of a nonwoven fabric with a higher hydrophilicity than the skin-friendly side panel 21. In addition, similar to diaper 1, the waist elastic members 35 and 45 are made of elastic bands or the like, and they are installed between the skin-friendly side panel 21 and the non-skin-friendly side panel 22 in a state of elongation in the left and right directions.

[0135] In the diaper 2 of the second embodiment, similar to the diaper 1 of the first embodiment, moisture can be absorbed from the wearer's skin and efficiently evaporated into the atmosphere. Specifically, the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric (skin side panel 21) disposed in contact with the wearer's skin contracts with the contraction of the waist elastic members 35, 45, thereby reducing the interfiber distance of the fibers constituting the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric. This facilitates capillary action, allowing moisture such as sweat to be absorbed from the wearer's skin. Furthermore, when the waist elastic members 35, 45 elongate, the contact area between the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric (skin side panel 21) and the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric (non-skin side panel 22) increases, causing moisture to transfer from the less hydrophobic nonwoven fabric to the more hydrophilic nonwoven fabric. The transferred moisture evaporates into the atmosphere from the interface between the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric and the atmosphere. In this way, moisture is efficiently released from the wearer's skin into the atmosphere, thereby reducing discomfort for the wearer.

[0136] ===Third Implementation Method===

[0137] In the third embodiment, a shorts-type diaper 3 (hereinafter also referred to as "diaper 3") with a structure that differs from the structures of the first and second embodiments will be described. FIG. 12A This is a top view of diaper 3 in its unfolded and extended state. FIG. 12B yes FIG. 12A A rough cross-sectional view at the CC line. Furthermore, FIG. 12A and FIG. 12B The directions (e.g., longitudinal direction, transverse direction, etc.) are the same as those defined in the first embodiment.

[0138] The diaper 3 of the third embodiment has an absorbent body 10 with absorbent properties and a waist member 20 disposed on the non-skin side of the absorbent body 10. However, as FIG. 12B As shown, in diaper 3, a portion of the component constituting the front waist section 30 (skin side panel 21) and a portion of the component constituting the rear waist section 40 (skin side panel 21) are integrally formed. In the following text, this type of diaper will also be referred to as a simple three-piece disposable diaper.

[0139] In FIG. 12AWhen the diaper 3 in its unfolded state is formed into a shorts shape, the absorbent body 10 and the waistband 20 are folded together with the central position CL in the longitudinal direction as the folding position. The side portions 30sw and 40sw of the front waistband 30 and the rear waistband 40, which are opposite each other in this folded state, are joined together in the left and right directions to form a pair of side joints 50, 50. Thus, with... FIG. 1 Similarly, the diaper 3 becomes a shorts-shaped diaper with a waist opening BH and a pair of leg openings LH, LH.

[0140] In diaper 3, since the basic structure and function of the absorbent body 10 are substantially the same as those of diaper 1 in the first embodiment, the description is omitted.

[0141] Furthermore, in the diaper 3, the portion of the waist member 20 that is forward of the central position CL in the longitudinal direction (the length direction of the absorbent body 10) becomes the front waist part 30, and the portion that is backward of the central position CL becomes the rear waist part 40. The front waist part 30 has: a skin side sheet 21, which extends from one end (ventral side) to the other end (dorsal side) in the longitudinal direction along its skin side in the thickness direction; a non-skin side sheet 32, which is stacked adjacent to the skin side sheet 21 on its front (ventral side) side in the longitudinal direction on the non-skin side side of the skin side sheet 21; and a waist elastic member 35, which is disposed between the skin side sheet 21 and the non-skin side sheet 32 ​​in the thickness direction. The rear waist section 40 has a skin side plate 21 shared with the front waist section 30, a non-skin side plate 42 that is stacked adjacent to the skin side plate 21 on the non-skin side of the skin side plate 21 in the longitudinal direction (back side), and a waist elastic member 45 disposed between the skin side plate 21 and the non-skin side plate 42 in the thickness direction.

[0142] Skin side panel 21 is made of the same hydrophobic nonwoven fabric as skin side panel 31 of diaper 1. Non-skin side panels 32 and 42 are made of the same hydrophilic nonwoven fabric as non-skin side panels 32 and 42 of diaper 1. That is, non-skin side panels 32 and 42 are made of nonwoven fabric with higher hydrophilicity than skin side panel 21. In addition, similar to diaper 1, waist elastic members 35 and 45 are made of elastic bands or the like, and are installed between skin side panel 21 and non-skin side panels 32 and 42 in a state of elongation in the left and right direction.

[0143] In the diaper 3 of the third embodiment, similar to the diaper 1 of the first embodiment, moisture can be absorbed from the wearer's skin and efficiently evaporated into the atmosphere. Specifically, the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric (skin side panel 21) disposed in contact with the wearer's skin contracts with the contraction of the waist elastic members 35, 45, thereby reducing the interfiber distance of the fibers constituting the hydrophobic sheet. This facilitates capillary action, allowing moisture such as sweat to be absorbed from the wearer's skin. Furthermore, when the waist elastic members 35, 45 elongate, the contact area between the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric (skin side panel 21) and the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric (non-skin side panels 32, 42) increases, and moisture transfers from the less hydrophobic nonwoven fabric to the more hydrophilic nonwoven fabric. The transferred moisture evaporates into the atmosphere from the interface between the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric and the atmosphere. In this way, moisture is efficiently released from the wearer's skin into the atmosphere, thereby reducing discomfort for the wearer.

[0144] ===Other Implementation Methods===

[0145] The embodiments of the present invention have been described above, but these embodiments are intended to facilitate understanding of the invention and not to limit its interpretation. Furthermore, it is self-evident that the present invention can be modified and improved without departing from its spirit, and that equivalents are included in the present invention.

Claims

1. A shorts-type absorbent article having intersecting vertical, horizontal, and front-back directions. This shorts-type absorbent garment has a liquid-absorbing body and a waistband component located on a non-skin-facing side of the absorbent body, characterized in that... The shorts-type absorbent garment has, in at least a partial area of ​​the waistband, the following: Hydrophobic nonwoven fabric, which is placed on the side closest to the skin; A hydrophilic nonwoven fabric is laminated adjacent to the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric on the non-skin side of the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric, wherein the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric has a higher hydrophilicity than the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric. as well as An elastic member, disposed between the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric and the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric, extends and contracts along the left-right direction. The average fiber density of the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric is greater than that of the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric.

2. The shorts-type absorbent article according to claim 1, characterized in that, At least around the elastic member, there is a portion where the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric and the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric are joined.

3. The shorts-type absorbent article according to claim 2, characterized in that, The hydrophobic nonwoven fabric and the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric are bonded together via the elastic member using an adhesive.

4. The shorts-type absorbent article according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The waist component has a front waist component and a rear waist component. The shorts-type absorbent garment has a pair of lateral joints at both ends in the left-right direction, which join the front waist member and the rear waist member. The at least partial region of the waist member is located in the left-right direction at a portion between the pair of lateral joints.

5. The shorts-type absorbent article according to claim 4, characterized in that, The at least partial region of the waist member is located on the rear side of the waist member.

6. The shorts-type absorbent article according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The hydrophilic nonwoven fabric is at least partially disposed on the non-skin side of the waist member.

7. The shorts-type absorbent article according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The waist component has a two-layer structure consisting of a layer of the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric and a layer of the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric.

8. The shorts-type absorbent article according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The hydrophobic nonwoven fabric has a plurality of compression sections that compress the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric along its thickness direction.

9. The shorts-type absorbent article according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The hydrophilic nonwoven fabric has multiple openings that extend through the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric along its thickness direction.

10. The shorts-type absorbent article according to claim 9, characterized in that, The average thickness of the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric is greater than that of the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric.

11. The shorts-type absorbent article according to claim 9, characterized in that, The protrusion is formed by the outer edge of the opening portion protruding towards the skin side of the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric.

12. The shorts-type absorbent article according to claim 9, characterized in that, The shorts-type absorbent article has the portion where the opening overlaps with the elastic member.

13. The shorts-type absorbent article according to claim 9, characterized in that, A plurality of openings are provided between two elastic members arranged adjacent to each other in the vertical direction.

14. The shorts-type absorbent article according to claim 9, characterized in that, The hydrophobic nonwoven fabric does not have through holes extending through the thickness direction.

15. The shorts-type absorbent article according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The average weight per unit area of ​​the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric is greater than that of the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric.

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