absorbent materials

Abstract

The present invention provides an absorbent article (1) having a length direction (X) and a width direction (Y) orthogonal to that direction, and having a ventral region (F), a crotch region (M) and a dorsal region (R), an absorbent body (2) disposed in these regions, and an outer body (3) disposed on the non-skin-facing side of the absorbent body (2). The outer body (3) has an inner layer sheet (31), a middle layer sheet (32) and an outer layer sheet (33) as a stretchable sheet in sequence from the skin-facing side to the non-skin-facing side, and has a plurality of first elastic members (8) disposed between the inner layer sheet (31) and the middle layer sheet (32) in a manner extending in the width direction (Y). In the outer body (3), when the outer layer sheet (33) is in an elongated state, the outer layer sheet (33) and the middle layer sheet (32) are partially joined by a first joint (40), and the middle layer sheet (32) and the inner layer sheet (31) are at least partially joined by a second joint (50).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to absorbent articles. Background Technology

[0002] Disposable diapers and other absorbent items typically have an absorbent body and an outer casing disposed on the non-skin-facing side of the absorbent body. The two side edges of the outer casing in the ventral part and the two side edges of the outer casing in the dorsal part are joined to form a waist opening and a pair of leg openings.

[0003] As an absorbent article having such a structure, the applicant proposes an absorbent article in which multiple wrinkles are formed on the surface of an outer body having an outer sheet and an inner sheet, such that the pitch between the wrinkles on the surface of the inner sheet is smaller than the pitch between the wrinkles on the surface of the outer sheet in a relaxed state (see Patent Document 1).

[0004] Existing technical documents

[0005] Patent documents

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2010-284229 Summary of the Invention

[0007] The present invention relates to an absorbent article having a length direction corresponding to the front-back direction of the wearer and a width direction orthogonal to the length direction, having a ventral region and a dorsal region, and a crotch region located between the ventral region and the dorsal region, and having an absorbent body disposed along the length direction in the region from the ventral region to the dorsal region, and an outer body disposed on the non-skin-facing side of the absorbent body.

[0008] Preferably, the outer body comprises: an inner layer sheet disposed on the skin-facing side; an outer layer sheet disposed on the non-skin-facing side and constituting the outer surface of the absorbent article; a middle layer sheet disposed between the inner layer sheet and the outer layer sheet; and a plurality of first elastic members disposed between the inner layer sheet and the middle layer sheet in a manner extending in the width direction.

[0009] Preferably, the outer layer is a stretchable sheet.

[0010] Preferably, the outer body is formed such that, when the outer layer is elongated, the outer layer is partially joined to the middle layer via a first joint, and the middle layer is at least partially joined to the inner layer via a second joint. Attached Figure Description

[0011] Figure 1 This is a perspective view schematically showing a disposable diaper in a relaxed state as one embodiment of an absorbent article.

[0012] Figure 2 It is a schematic representation Figure 1 The diagram shows the unfolded plan view of the diaper with the skin-facing side (inner surface side) in its stretched and unfolded state.

[0013] Figure 3 It is a three-dimensional diagram schematically showing the stacking state of the inner, middle and outer layers of the outer casing in its maximum elongation state.

[0014] Figure 4 It is a schematic representation Figure 3 An enlarged perspective view of the main part of one embodiment of the stacked state of the inner, middle and outer layers of the outer casing in a relaxed state.

[0015] Figure 5 It is a schematic representation Figure 3 An enlarged perspective view of the main part of another embodiment of the outer casing in a relaxed state, showing the stacked state of the inner, middle and outer layers.

[0016] Figure 6 middle, Figure 6 (a) is a plan view of one embodiment of the arrangement of the first and second joints when viewed from above in the maximum elongation state of the outer casing. Figure 6 (b) is a plan view of another embodiment of the configuration of the first and second joints when viewed from above in the maximum elongation state of the outer body.

[0017] Figure 7 It is a schematic cross-sectional view of the outer casing along the length direction in its maximum elongation state.

[0018] Figure 8 It is a schematic cross-sectional view of the outer casing along the width direction in its maximum elongation state. Detailed Implementation

[0019] The absorbent article described in Patent Document 1 has a good appearance by forming wrinkles, but there is room for improvement in terms of improving the appearance by constructing it in a way that does not form wrinkles on the outer surface of the absorbent article.

[0020] Therefore, the present invention provides absorbent articles that have a good appearance and a good fit.

[0021] Hereinafter, the absorbent article of the present invention will be described based on its preferred embodiment. Figure 1 and Figure 2 In this paper, as a preferred embodiment of the absorbent article of the present invention, an embodiment of a shorts-type disposable diaper is shown.

[0022] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, a shorts-type disposable diaper 1 (hereinafter simply referred to as "diaper 1"), as an absorbent article, has an abdominal region F disposed on the wearer's abdomen and a dorsal region R disposed on the back, and a crotch region M located between the abdominal region F and the dorsal region R. Diaper 1 has a length direction X extending from the wearer's abdomen through the crotch towards the back, corresponding to the wearer's front-back direction, and a width direction Y orthogonal to it. The abdominal region F, the crotch region M, and the dorsal region R extend continuously along the wearer's front-back direction. The crotch region M has an excretion-facing portion (not shown) disposed opposite to the wearer's excretory portion when diaper 1 is worn.

[0023] In this specification, "skin-facing side" refers to the side of the diaper facing the wearer's skin when the diaper is worn, when considering the diaper or its constituent parts (e.g., the absorbent core). "Non-skin-facing side" refers to the side of the diaper facing away from the wearer's skin when worn. That is, the skin-facing side is the side closer to the wearer's skin, and the non-skin-facing side is the side farther from the wearer's skin. "When worn" refers to the state in which the diaper is maintained in the proper wearing position. "Maximum elongation state" refers to the state in which the component is stretched to the designed dimensions (the dimensions when expanded into a planar shape, excluding the influence of all elastic components) by the various elastic elements described later.

[0024] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the diaper 1 has an absorbent body 2 capable of absorbing and retaining excrement, and an outer body 3 disposed on the non-skin-facing side of the absorbent body 2. The outer body 3 is a component that forms the shape of the diaper 1. The periphery of the outer body 3 forms the outline of the diaper 1's ventral region F and dorsal region R, respectively. The outer body 3 has a ventral outer body 3F extending in the width direction Y and disposed in the ventral region F; and a dorsal outer body 3R extending separately in the width direction Y and disposed in the dorsal region R. The absorbent body 2 is mounted on the two outer bodies 3F and 3R, which are disposed at a predetermined interval in the length direction X. Details of the absorbent body 2 will be described later.

[0025] In the following description, the ventral outer casing 3F and the dorsal outer casing 3R are collectively referred to as outer casing 3. Unless otherwise specified, the description of outer casing 3 applies to both the ventral outer casing 3F and the dorsal outer casing 3R.

[0026] The diaper 1 is joined together by means of adhesive, heat sealing, ultrasonic sealing, or other joining methods, through the two side edges of the ventral outer body 3F and the two side edges of the dorsal outer body 3R in the width direction Y, thereby forming a pair of sealing parts E, E. Thus, the outer bodies 3F and 3R are connected in a ring shape. In addition, the diaper 1 has a waist opening WH for the wearer's waist to pass through, and a pair of leg openings LH for the wearer's lower limbs to pass through.

[0027] As described above, the outer casing 3, such as Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the device has a ventral outer body 3F and a separate dorsal outer body 3R. In each of the outer bodies 3F and 3R, multiple filamentary or strip-shaped first elastic members 8 are arranged in an elongated state, extending in the width direction Y. Thus, the two outer bodies 3F and 3R are configured to extend and retract in the width direction Y.

[0028] The first elastic member 8 is disposed around the periphery of the waist opening WH, which is composed of two outer bodies 3F and 3R. The outer bodies 3 are configured to exhibit elasticity in the width direction Y. Additionally, near the pair of leg openings LH, one or more filamentous or strip-shaped leg elastic members are disposed in an elongated state in the two outer regions of the absorbent body 2 in the width direction (not shown). This creates substantially continuous annular leg folds around the entire circumference of each pair of leg openings LH at their respective opening edges.

[0029] Figure 3 The diagram schematically illustrates the stacking state of the sheet constituting the outer casing 3 and the elastic component in their maximum elongation state. For example... Figure 3 As shown, the outer body 3 is a multi-layered structure formed by stacking an inner layer 31, a middle layer 32, and an outer layer 33. The inner layer 31 is disposed on the skin-facing side of the diaper 1 and is a non-elastic sheet constituting the skin-facing surface 1B of the diaper 1. The middle layer 32 is a non-elastic sheet disposed between the inner layer 31 and the outer layer 33. The outer layer 33 is disposed on the non-skin-facing side of the diaper 1 and is a sheet constituting the outer surface 1A of the diaper 1. Multiple first elastic members 8 are arranged in an elongated state between the inner layer 31 and the middle layer 32, extending in the width direction Y. Adjacent first elastic members 8 are spaced apart along the length direction X and arranged in a non-intersecting manner. Thus, the outer body 3 is arranged in a way that allows for stretching in the width direction Y.

[0030] The outer layer 33 constituting the outer body 3, such as Figure 3As shown, the stretch sheet is formed by joining multiple filamentous or strip-shaped second elastic members 35 to a non-elastic and stretchable fiber sheet such as a nonwoven fabric. In this stretch sheet, the second elastic members 35 are arranged at intervals in a non-stretched state, extending in one direction without intersecting each other. Furthermore, it is preferable that each second elastic member 35 is directly joined to the nonwoven fabric that constitutes the outer layer 33 by welding it along the entire length of the nonwoven fabric.

[0031] In this embodiment, the outer layer 33 is configured such that the second elastic member 35 extends in the width direction Y, thereby enabling the outer layer 33 itself to exhibit stretchability in the width direction Y.

[0032] The stretchable sheet used as the outer layer 33 is a sheet formed by directly bonding multiple second elastic members 35 to at least one side of a nonwoven fabric. The outer layer 33 is as follows: Figure 3 As shown, the second elastic member 35 is preferably located between the two nonwoven fabrics 36, 36 and is directly bonded to the surface of each nonwoven fabric.

[0033] As such a stretchable sheet, for example, the stretchable sheets described in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2008-179128 and Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2007-22066 can be used. Because such a stretchable sheet has a good feel, it can be used as a constituent material forming the outer surface of a diaper, thereby improving the feel and appearance of the diaper.

[0034] In the outer casing 3, the middle layer 32 and the outer layer 33, as well as the inner layer 31 and the middle layer 32, are joined together at designated locations by means of bonding, joining, and welding. Figure 4 The diagram illustrates the presence of Figure 3 The illustrated structure's outer casing is shown in one embodiment in a relaxed state. Additionally, in... Figure 5 The diagram illustrates the presence of Figure 3 Another embodiment of the outer casing of the structure shown is the joining of the pieces in a relaxed state.

[0035] exist Figure 4In the illustrated embodiment, the outer layer 33, serving as a stretchable sheet, has recesses 37 formed in a scattered pattern, extending from the non-skin-facing side to the skin-facing side. The outer surface 1A of the portion without recesses 37 (non-skin-facing side) is generally flat. When multiple recesses 37 are formed in a scattered pattern, it is preferable that the multiple recesses 37 are arranged in a row along the length direction X. In this case, the arrangement positions of adjacent recesses 37 in the length direction X can be at the same pitch in the width direction Y, or they can be offset by a predetermined pitch in the width direction. Furthermore, the arrangement positions of adjacent recesses 37 in the width direction Y can also be at the same pitch in the length direction X.

[0036] In addition, for ease of explanation, Figure 4 and Figure 5 The outer layer 33 is illustrated as a sheet, as described above, and can also be a multi-layered stretch sheet containing multiple nonwoven fabrics and multiple second elastic members.

[0037] Regarding the middle layer 32 and outer layer 33 in the outer casing 3, when the outer layer 33 is elongated, the middle layer 32 and outer layer 33 are partially joined by a first joint 40. This joint forms a space (hollow portion) divided by the middle layer 32 and outer layer 33. In this specification, "partially" means that the joint is formed intermittently, rather than being formed without gaps across the entire area of ​​the sheet plane. Therefore, the first joint 40 may be formed in multiple, for example, linear or strip-like, or scattered. When the middle layer 32 and outer layer 33 are partially joined, the area divided by the middle layer 32 and outer layer 33 is preferably hollow.

[0038] In the detailed morphology of the pieces constituting the outer casing 3, such as Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the middle layer sheet 32 ​​and the outer layer sheet 33 are partially joined via a first joint 40, preferably with a hollow region formed between the middle layer sheet 32 ​​and the outer layer sheet 33. Alternatively, the inner layer sheet 31 and the middle layer sheet 32 ​​are preferably partially joined via a second joint 50, with portions where the inner layer sheet 31 and the middle layer sheet 32 ​​are not joined. In this case, the outer casing 3 is more preferably provided that both the inner layer sheet 31 and the middle layer sheet 32 ​​are spaced apart from the outer layer sheet 33, forming a plurality of spaces S between the middle layer sheet 32 ​​and the outer layer sheet 33.

[0039] like Figure 4 and Figure 5As shown, in this embodiment, the space S is formed in a direction that intersects with, and preferably orthogonally to, the extension direction (width direction Y) of the first elastic member 8, i.e., the length direction X, and multiple rows are formed in the extension direction of the first elastic member 8, i.e., the width direction Y. In addition, when the outer body 3 is in a relaxed state, and the portion where the space S is formed is viewed in cross-section in the thickness direction, the inner layer sheet 31 and the middle layer sheet 32 ​​are integrally formed in a wavy shape and are spaced apart from the outer layer sheet 33.

[0040] Furthermore, when viewing the outer casing 3 along the thickness direction Z at the location where the space S is formed, the outer casing 3 is more preferably located in a region where none of the inner layer sheet 31, the middle layer sheet 32, and the outer layer sheet 33 are joined. That is, when viewing the region where the space S is formed along the thickness direction Z, it is preferable that... Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, this part of the outer body 3 has a portion where neither the first joint 40 nor the second joint 50 exists in the thickness direction.

[0041] exist Figure 4 and Figure 5 In the embodiments shown, for ease of explanation, the inner layer sheet 31 and the middle layer sheet 32 ​​are illustrated separately, but it is preferable that the inner layer sheet 31 and the middle layer sheet 32 ​​are in contact with each other.

[0042] In this embodiment, the space S is a hollow structure formed by the middle layer sheet 32 ​​and the outer layer sheet 33 spaced apart. When viewed in cross-section along the width direction Y in the relaxed state of the outer casing 3, the region Sa between the inner layer sheet 31 and the middle layer sheet 32, which overlaps with the formation position of the space S in the thickness direction Z, does not form a hollow region like the space S because the sheets 31 and 32 are in contact with each other. Furthermore, depending on the material of the middle layer sheet 32, the inner layer sheet 31 and the middle layer sheet 32 ​​may be partially or completely spaced apart without hindering the formation of the hollow region Sa.

[0043] The first joint 40 and the second joint 50 described above are formed independently by bonding methods such as adhesives, heat sealing, and ultrasonic sealing. Preferably, at least the first joint 40 is formed by ultrasonic sealing. By using ultrasonic sealing to form the first joint 40, high bonding strength can be exhibited even when the planar area of ​​the joint is reduced to reduce the number of joint points. As a result, the formation of undesirable wrinkles in the outer layer 33 can be further reduced.

[0044] By constructing the above structure, the rigidity of the inner layer 31 and the middle layer 32 is not easily transmitted to the outer layer 33. This reduces the formation of unwanted wrinkles in the outer layer 33, or makes it easier to form the desired wrinkles that the outer layer 33 originally possesses. Therefore, the good texture of the outer layer 33 can be maintained, further improving the appearance of the diaper. In addition, it also has the advantage of ensuring sufficient breathability when the diaper 1 is worn, preventing stuffiness caused by wearing the diaper, and improving the comfort of using the diaper.

[0045] To create a space S by separating the inner layer 31 and the middle layer 32 from the outer layer 33, for example, during the manufacturing process of the outer casing, the inner layer 31 and the middle layer 32 can be joined together with the first elastic member 8 in an extended state disposed therebetween, forming a first laminate with a second joint portion 50. Then, with the middle layer 32 of the first laminate facing the outer layer 33, the first laminate and the outer layer 33 are joined together in an extended state to form the first joint portion 40. Alternatively, the extended outer layer 33 can be joined with the middle layer 32, forming a second laminate with the first joint portion 40. Then, with the middle layer 32 of the second laminate facing the inner layer 31 and the first elastic member 8 in an extended state disposed therebetween, the second laminate and the inner layer 31 are joined together in an extended state to form the second joint portion 50.

[0046] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the first joint 40 is preferably formed in a scattered pattern, and more preferably in a scattered pattern at the position corresponding to the recess 37 in the outer layer 33. With such a structure, the contractile force generated by the first elastic member 8 is not easily transmitted to the outer layer 33 side, and unwanted wrinkles are not easily formed on the outer layer 33 constituting the outer surface 1A of the diaper 1, thus maintaining the good appearance of the diaper 1.

[0047] Regarding the inner layer sheet 31 and the middle layer sheet 32, the inner layer sheet 31 and the middle layer sheet 32 ​​are at least partially joined by a second joint 50. The second joint 50 is formed individually or in multiples in a linear or strip-like manner, or in a scattered manner, or formed without gaps over the entire area of ​​the sheet plane (using so-called full-surface coating). When the second joint 50 is formed in a linear, strip-like, or scattered manner, the second joint 50 may be formed only between adjacent first elastic members 8, or formed only between the first elastic members 8, or formed in a combination thereof. Figure 4 and Figure 5 In the embodiment shown, for ease of explanation, the inner layer sheet 31 and the middle layer sheet 32 ​​are shown in a way that they are spaced apart, but in reality, the inner layer sheet 31 and the middle layer sheet 32 ​​are in contact with each other.

[0048] The second joining portion 50 is preferably formed only in the manner of being separated from the first elastic member 8. That is, the second joining portion 50 preferably joins the inner layer sheet 31 and the middle layer sheet 32 ​​only in the manner of being separated from the first elastic member 8. In this case, the middle layer sheet 32 ​​is partially joined to the inner layer sheet 31. By configuring it with such a structure, the contractile force generated by the first elastic member 8 is not easily transmitted to the outer layer sheet 33 side, and unwanted wrinkles are not easily formed on the outer layer sheet 33 that constitutes the outer surface of the diaper 1, so that the appearance of the diaper 1 can be maintained better.

[0049] Figure 5 The diagram illustrates the presence of Figure 3 Another embodiment of the bonding of the outer casing in a relaxed state, as shown in the diagram. Figure 5 For ease of explanation, the outer layer 33 is illustrated as a single sheet. As mentioned above, it can also be a multi-layered stretch sheet containing multiple non-woven fabrics and multiple second elastic components.

[0050] exist Figure 5 In the illustrated embodiment, the outer layer 33, which serves as a stretchable sheet, has multiple recessed portions 37 that are recessed from the non-skin-facing side to the skin-facing side, arranged in a scattered pattern. The portions without recessed portions 37 become protrusions or ridges protruding outward from the non-skin-facing side 1A of the outer layer 33. Regarding... Figure 5 Unless otherwise specified, the embodiments shown can be appropriately applied to the points described above. Figure 4 Description of the implementation method. Figure 5 The implementation shown can also effectively improve the appearance of the diaper.

[0051] Returning to the description of the other components of diaper 1, the absorbent body 2, as... Figure 2 As shown, when viewed from above, the absorbent body 2 has a rectangular shape extending along the length direction X. The absorbent body 2 extends from the ventral region F to the dorsal region R along the length direction X. The absorbent body 2 is joined to the central region of the width direction Y of the ventral outer body 3F and the dorsal outer body 3R by a bonding method such as an adhesive.

[0052] Absorbent subject 2 such as Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown, the diaper 1 includes a liquid-permeable front sheet 21 forming the skin-facing side, a liquid-impermeable or leak-proof sheet 22 forming the non-skin-facing side, and a liquid-retaining absorbent body 23. Like the absorbent body 2, the absorbent body 23 has a shape that is longer in the longitudinal direction X of the diaper 1 and is disposed between the front sheet 21 and the leak-proof sheet 22. The front sheet 21 and the leak-proof sheet 22 cover the entire surface of the absorbent body 23 and are joined together at the outer side edges of the absorbent body 23 along the longitudinal direction X using a known joining method such as an adhesive.

[0053] The absorbent core 23 typically comprises an absorbent core and a cover chip (not shown) covering the absorbent core. The absorbent core is made of a composite of hydrophilic fibers such as pulp fibers, or a material made of a polymer that maintains the absorbency of the composite. The cover chip is made of thin paper or a water-permeable nonwoven fabric. The cover chip preferably covers the entire surface of the absorbent core, both the skin-facing and non-skin-facing sides.

[0054] On both sides of the skin-facing surface of the absorbent body 2 along the length direction X, there are a pair of leak-proof flaps 24, 24, made of liquid-repellent or water-repellent and breathable sheets. Near the free end of each leak-proof flap 24, one or more filamentous elastic members 25 for forming the leak-proof flap are arranged in an elongated state along the length direction X. The leak-proof flaps 24, by contracting the elongated elastic members 25 for forming the leak-proof flaps when the diaper 1 is worn, stand up at least in the crotch area M, thereby preventing urine and other excrement from flowing outward in the width direction Y.

[0055] The front sheet 21, leak-proof sheet 22, and absorbent core 23 can all be components that have been used in disposable diapers without particular limitations. For example, various nonwoven fabrics and perforated films can be used as the front sheet 21. The leak-proof sheet 22 can be a resin film or a laminate of a resin film and nonwoven fabric. The absorbent core 23 can be an aggregate of hydrophilic fibers such as wood pulp or hydrophilically treated synthetic fibers, or a material containing a water-absorbing polymer in the aggregate. Furthermore, the same material as the front sheet 21 can be used as the core. Additionally, the same material as the leak-proof sheet 22 can be used as the sheet for forming the leak-proof fold.

[0056] The sheets constituting the inner layer sheet 31, the middle layer sheet 32, and the outer layer sheet 33 can be non-elastic fiber sheets such as nonwoven fabrics. The nonwoven fabrics used for the inner layer sheet 31, the middle layer sheet 32, and the outer layer sheet 33 can be, independently, nonwoven fabrics used in this technical field, such as spunbond nonwoven fabrics, thermally bonded nonwoven fabrics, spunlace nonwoven fabrics, meltblown nonwoven fabrics, and hot-air nonwoven fabrics.

[0057] As constituent materials of the first elastic member 8 and the second elastic member 35, materials that use the following resins independently, or molded articles formed by mixing the following resins and plasticizers, can be listed.

[0058] Examples of resins constituting elastic components include synthetic rubbers such as natural rubber, EVA rubber, styrene-butadiene rubber, cis-butadiene rubber, isoprene rubber, and chloroprene rubber, as well as polyurethanes and thermoplastic elastomers. Examples of thermoplastic elastomers include styrene-based elastomers such as SBS (styrene-butadiene-styrene), SIS (styrene-isoprene-styrene), SEBS (styrene-ethylene-butadiene-styrene), and SEPS (styrene-ethylene-propylene-styrene), olefin elastomers such as ethylene-based α-olefin elastomers and propylene elastomers copolymerized from ethylene-butene-octene, polyester elastomers, and polyurethane elastomers. These constituting resins can be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0059] Examples of plasticizers include paraffin oil and various surfactants. They can be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0060] The absorbent article with the above structure is preferably a disposable diaper. Because the outer layer 33, which constitutes the outer surface of the absorbent article, uses a stretchable sheet, it is not easy for visible wrinkles to form on the surface of the outer body 3. This makes the skin feel and texture of the outer body 3 better and improves the appearance of the absorbent article.

[0061] Furthermore, the first joint 40 is partially formed, and when viewed from above the outer body 3, the total area of ​​the second joint 50 is larger than the total area of ​​the first joint 40. Therefore, the stretching force generated by the expansion and contraction of the first elastic member 8 is primarily supplied to the inner layer 31 and the middle layer 32, absorbing this stretching force and preventing it from being easily transmitted to the outer layer 33. As a result, the appearance is good, demonstrating a high degree of fit for the wearer, and the overall aesthetic is improved.

[0062] When the first elastic member 8 contracts, wrinkles that are not visible from the outside are easily formed on the inner layer 31 and the middle layer 32. On the other hand, on the outer layer 33, unwanted wrinkles caused by the contraction of the first elastic member 8 are not easily formed on the outside. Therefore, the absorbent article has an excellent appearance when worn and when not worn, and has the advantage of increasing the consumer's desire to buy and use it.

[0063] In order to form a structure in which the total area S2 of the second joint 50 is larger than the total area S1 of the first joint 40 when viewed from above, for example, the first joint 40 can be partially formed and the second joint 50 can be continuously formed over the entire area of ​​the sheet, or the first joint 40 can be partially formed and the second joint 50 can be partially formed in a manner that is larger than the area of ​​the first joint 40.

[0064] By forming such a structure, when the first elastic member 8, located between the inner layer 31 and the middle layer 32, stretches or contracts, its stretching force is mainly imparted to the inner layer 31 and the middle layer 32, and not easily imparted to the outer layer 33. As a result, the fit of the diaper 1 to the wearer side can be further improved, and the stretching force generated by the first elastic member 8 is less likely to be transmitted to the outer layer 33 side. Consequently, undesirable wrinkles are less likely to form on the outer layer 33 constituting the outer surface of the diaper 1, maintaining the texture of the outer layer 33 and preserving the appearance of the diaper 1 well.

[0065] Furthermore, the structure in which the total area S2 of the second joint 50 is larger than the total area S1 of the first joint 40 is preferably satisfied in at least one of the outer body 3 located in the ventral region F (i.e., ventral outer body 3F) and the outer body 3 located in the dorsal region R (i.e., dorsal outer body 3R), and more preferably satisfied in the ventral outer body 3F. By having a structure in the ventral outer body 3F where the total area S2 of the second joint 50 is larger than the total area S1 of the first joint 40, the absorbent article appears more appealing when viewed from the front (i.e., the area located on the wearer's ventral side). Because of its attractive appearance, it can increase the consumer's desire to purchase.

[0066] From the viewpoint of further improving fit and appearance, the ratio P1 of the total area S1 of the first joint 40 to the planar area of ​​the outer body 3 in the maximum elongation state is preferably 0.5% or more, more preferably 0.7% or more, preferably 15% or less, and more preferably 5% or less.

[0067] From the viewpoint of preventing increased rigidity due to the formation of the joint and thus making it difficult to form wrinkles, and further improving the appearance of the diaper, it is preferable that the second joint 50 is not formed in the entire area of ​​the outer body 3 in its maximum elongation state. Specifically, from the same viewpoint, the ratio P2 of the total area S2 of the second joint 50 to the planar area P2 of the outer body 3 in its maximum elongation state, expressed as a percentage, is preferably 5% or more, more preferably 15% or more, more preferably 50% or less, and more preferably 30% or less.

[0068] From the viewpoint of further improving fit and appearance, it is preferable that, in the outer body 3, when the first elastic member 8 and the outer layer 33, which serves as a stretching sheet, are stretched to the same length along the extension direction of the elastic member, the elongation ratio F1 of the first elastic member 8 is higher than the elongation ratio F2 of the outer layer 33. For example, if the first elastic member 8 is made of polyurethane resin filamentous rubber and the second elastic member in the outer layer 33 is made of styrene-based elastomer (described later) in filamentous form, satisfying the difference between the elongation ratios F1 and F2 is preferable from the viewpoint of enabling the manufacture of absorbent articles with high productivity.

[0069] The elongation ratios of the first elastic member 8 and the outer layer 33 can be measured using the following method. First, with the absorbent article being measured at its maximum elongation, two marks are made on the outer body in this state using an oil-based pen, spaced a certain interval La apart, in the stretching direction of the first elastic member 8 and the outer layer 33. If the elastic member plasticizes or breaks due to components contained in the oil-based pen, two marks are made using a water-based pen or chalk instead of the oil-based pen. Next, the first elastic member 8 and the outer layer 33 are cut out between the two marks. The length Lb of the cut first elastic member 8 and the outer layer 33 is measured in a non-stretched state. This measurement is performed three times for each of the first elastic member 8 and the outer layer 33, and the elongation ratio (times) is obtained by using the formula "La / Lb", which is the arithmetic mean of the values ​​calculated by dividing the interval La by the interval Lb. The interval La can be set to, for example, 100 mm.

[0070] In the above-described measurement method, the elongation ratio F1 of the first elastic member 8 is preferably 2.0 times or more, more preferably 2.3 times or more, preferably 3.2 times or less, and more preferably 3.0 times or less. Furthermore, under the same conditions, the elongation ratio F2 of the outer layer sheet 33 is preferably 1.5 times or more, more preferably 2.0 times or more, preferably 3.0 times or less, and more preferably 2.7 times or less.

[0071] When the first joint 40 is formed in a scattered pattern, it is preferable that the arrangement of the first joint 40 and the second joint 50 is in a predetermined relationship when viewed from above the outer casing 3. Figure 6 In (a) and (b), one embodiment is shown, which is the configuration of the first joint 40 and the second joint 50 of the outer body 3 when the outer body 3 is in its maximum elongated state when viewed from above.

[0072] exist Figure 6In the embodiment shown in (a), the formation position of the second joint 50 is consistent with the arrangement position of the first elastic member 8. In the embodiment shown in the figure, the outer layer sheet 33 and the middle layer sheet 32 ​​are partially joined in a scattered manner through the first joint 40, and the middle layer sheet 32 ​​and the inner layer sheet 31 are partially joined in a linear manner through the second joint 50.

[0073] In detail, such as Figure 6 As shown in (a), preferably when viewed from above, the plurality of first joints 40 are arranged in a row 4L of first joints in one direction. Furthermore, it is preferable that the second joints 50 are formed as a line or strip extending in the width direction Y, and more preferably, that the second joints 50 overlap with the first elastic member 8. In this case, it is preferable that the imaginary line L1 along the extension direction of the first joint row 4L and the imaginary line L2 along the extension direction of the second joints 50 are not parallel. In this embodiment, the first joint row 4L is inclined and extends in a direction intersecting the length direction X and the width direction Y. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the second joints 50 are preferably arranged as follows: Figure 6 As shown, multiple imaginary lines L2 are formed along the width direction Y, overlapping with the first elastic member 8 that extends along the width direction Y. Therefore, in this embodiment, the imaginary line L2 extends along the width direction Y.

[0074] By forming such a structure, the contractile force of the first elastic component 8 can be easily dispersed in multiple directions and is not easily transmitted to the outer layer 33. This reduces the wrinkles that are formed on the surface of the outer body along with the contractile force, resulting in an absorbent article with an excellent appearance.

[0075] exist Figure 6 In the embodiment shown in (b), regarding the relationship with Figure 6 The different parts of the implementation shown in (a) will be described. For points not specifically described, appropriate explanations can be provided. Figure 6 Explanation of (a).

[0076] exist Figure 6 In the embodiment shown in (b), when viewed from above, the outer casing 3 has a first first joint row 4L formed by a plurality of first joints 40 extending in one direction, and a second first joint row 4M formed by a plurality of first joints 40 extending in one direction.

[0077] The first joint row 4L is inclined and extends in a direction intersecting the length direction X and the width direction Y. The second joint row 4M is inclined in the opposite direction to the first joint row 4L and extends in a direction intersecting the length direction X and the width direction Y.

[0078] The first joint row 4L is an imaginary line L1 that connects any first joint 40 and the first joint 40 most closely adjacent to that first joint 40. Considering that there are multiple imaginary lines L1, the imaginary line L1 with the smallest acute angle formed by these imaginary lines and the imaginary line L2 extending along the extension direction of the second joint 50 is taken as the imaginary line L1.

[0079] Similarly, the second first joint row 4M is an imaginary line L9 connecting any first joint 40 and the first joint 40 most closely adjacent to that first joint 40. Considering that there are multiple imaginary lines L9, the imaginary line L9 with the smallest acute angle formed with the imaginary line L2 along the extension direction of the second joint 50 is taken as the imaginary line L9.

[0080] Preferably, the imaginary line L1 along the extension direction of the first first joint row 4L and the imaginary line L9 along the extension direction of the second first joint row 4M are not parallel to the imaginary line L2 along the extension direction of the second joint 50.

[0081] This structure also reduces the occurrence of wrinkles on the surface of the outer body caused by the contraction force of the first elastic component 8, resulting in an excellent appearance.

[0082] The angle θ on the acute side of the angle formed by imaginary lines L1 and L2 (refer to) Figure 6 Each of the following is independently preferred to be greater than 0 degrees, more preferably greater than 5 degrees, more preferably less than 50 degrees, and even more preferably less than 30 degrees. Furthermore, it is preferable that the imaginary line L2 is parallel to the width direction Y. By forming such a structure, a good appearance can be achieved, and the fit to the wearer can be further improved, especially the fit of the diaper to the waist. Regarding... Figure 6 The angle between the acute angle formed by the imaginary line L9 and the imaginary line L2 in (b) can also be set within the range of the aforementioned angle θ.

[0083] When the first joints 40 are formed in a scattered pattern, it is preferable that, when viewed from above, the first joints 40 overlap a predetermined number within a predetermined length of the first elastic member 8. Specifically, when viewed from above, the first joints 40 are arranged such that, for every 100 mm of the first elastic member 8 at its maximum elongation along the extension direction, there is preferably one or more overlapping first joints 40, more preferably ten or more, more preferably fifty or fewer, and more preferably thirty or fewer. By forming such a structure, the contractile force of the first elastic member 8 is less likely to be transmitted to the outer sheet 33, thus reducing creases formed on the surface of the outer body and resulting in a diaper with a good appearance. The number of first joints 40 described above is based on the arithmetic mean of the number of first joints 40 measured when measuring 10 first elastic members 8.

[0084] When the first joint portions 40 are formed in a scattered dot pattern, it is also preferable that, in the maximum elongation state of the outer body 3 in the diaper 1, the intervals between the first joint portions 40 in the length direction X and the intervals between the first elastic members 8 are in a specified relationship. Specifically, in the maximum elongation state of the outer body 3 in the diaper 1, the interval W1 (refer to Figure 6 ) between the adjacent first joint portions 40 in the length direction X is preferably smaller than the interval W2 (refer to Figure 6 ) between the adjacent first elastic members 8 in the length direction X, and more preferably 0.9 times or less of the interval W2. In addition, the interval W1 is preferably larger than 0.5 times of the interval W2, and more preferably 0.6 times or more of the interval W2. That is, in the relationship between the interval W1 and the interval W2, it is preferable to at least satisfy the relationship of "0.5×W2 < W1 < W2". By forming such a structure, it is possible to maintain the strength and texture of the outer body 3 that can withstand use, and reduce the load locally applied to the first joint portions 40 by the contraction force of the first elastic members 8, so that the excessive contraction force of the first elastic members 8 is not easily transmitted to the outer layer sheet 33, and thus further reduce the formation of undesired wrinkles due to the contraction force, resulting in a diaper with a more excellent appearance.

[0085] In the maximum elongation state of the outer body 3 in the diaper 1, the interval W1 between the adjacent first joint portions 40 in the length direction X is preferably 1.0 mm or more, more preferably 4.0 mm or more, preferably 10.0 mm or less, and more preferably 6.0 mm or less, respectively and independently. In addition, in the maximum elongation state of the outer body 3 in the diaper 1, the interval W2 between the adjacent first elastic members 8 in the length direction X is preferably 3.5 mm or more, more preferably 5.0 mm or more, preferably 20.0 mm or less, and more preferably 11.0 mm or less, respectively and independently.

[0086] Regarding the relationship between the dimensions of the first joint portions 40 and the first elastic members 8 in the width direction Y, it is preferable that the dimensions of the outer body 3 in the diaper 1 in the relaxed state and in the maximum elongation state are in a specified relationship. Specifically, the interval between the adjacent first joint portions 40 in the width direction in the relaxed state is set as the interval W5 (refer to Figure 4 ), and the interval between the adjacent first joint portions 40 in the width direction in the maximum elongation state is set as the interval W6 (refer to Figure 6When the length of the first elastic member 8 in the relaxed state is set to W7 and the length of the first elastic member 8 in the extended direction in the maximum elongated state is set to W8, the ratio of length W8 to length W7 (W8 / W7) is set to R2. In this case, the ratio of R1 to R2 (R1 / R2) is preferably 0.4 or more, more preferably 0.6 or more, preferably 1.0 or less, and more preferably 0.8 or less. By forming such a ratio, the local load of the contractile force of the first elastic member 8 can be reduced, and the contractile force can be dispersed in the planar direction of the outer body. Therefore, it is possible to further reduce the formation of undesirable wrinkles on the outer body caused by the contractile force, resulting in a diaper with a better appearance.

[0087] In the relaxed state, the interval W5 between adjacent first joint portions 40 in the width direction Y is preferably 0.3 mm or more, more preferably 1.1 mm or more, more preferably 2.5 mm or less, and more preferably 2.0 mm or less. Furthermore, in the maximum elongated state, the interval W6 between adjacent first joint portions 40 in the width direction is preferably 1.0 mm or more, more preferably 3.0 mm or more, more preferably 5.0 mm or less, and more preferably 4.0 mm or less.

[0088] The ratio R1 of interval W6 to interval W5 is preferably 1.8 or more, more preferably 2.0 or more, preferably 3.0 or less, and more preferably 2.7 or less.

[0089] The ratio R2 of the length W8 of the first elastic member 8 in its maximum elongation state to the length W7 of the first elastic member 8 in its relaxed state is synonymous with the elongation ratio F1 of the first elastic member 8 described above. Therefore, the ratio R2 is preferably 2.0 or more, more preferably 2.3 or more, more preferably 3.2 or less, and more preferably 3.0 or less.

[0090] exist Figure 7 The figure schematically shows a cross-sectional view along the length direction X of the outer body 3 of the diaper 1 in its maximum elongated state. The width direction Y in this figure is the front-to-back direction of the paper (not shown). As shown in the figure, the outer layer 33 constituting the outer body 3 is preferably a stretchable sheet formed by joining multiple second elastic members 35 between two nonwoven fabrics in a manner extending in the width direction Y. Furthermore, the arrangement of the first elastic member 8 and the second elastic member 35 preferably includes portions where each elastic member 8, 35 does not overlap. Figure 7 In the embodiment shown, the elastic components 8 and 35 do not overlap each other in the thickness direction Z.

[0091] More specifically, in a top view of the outer body 3 in the diaper 1 at its maximum elongation, the area of ​​the overlapping region of the first elastic member 8 and the second elastic member 35 is preferably 80% or less, more preferably 50% or less, and even more preferably 0% of the total area of ​​the second elastic member 35, that is, it is even more preferable that the elastic members 8 and 35 do not overlap each other in the thickness direction Z.

[0092] By forming such a structure, the location where the contraction stress in the first elastic member 8 is generated is different from the location where the contraction stress in the second elastic member 35 of the outer layer 33 is generated. This allows the stress generated by the elastic member to be dispersed, thus maintaining the fit to the wearer caused by the contraction of the elastic member. Furthermore, it can further reduce unwanted creases formed on the outer body due to contraction force, resulting in a diaper with a better appearance.

[0093] In addition, Figure 8 The figure schematically shows a cross-sectional view along the width direction Y of the outer body 3 of the diaper 1 in its maximum elongated state. The length direction X in the figure is the front-to-back direction of the paper (not shown). As shown in the figure, when the outer body 3 of the diaper 1 is in its maximum elongated state, it is preferable that the total length T2 of the second joint 50 along the width direction Y is greater than the total length T1 of the first joint 40 along the width direction Y. By forming such a structure, it is easier to transfer more of the contractile force of the first elastic member 8 to the inner layer 31 and the middle layer 32, which can further improve the fit to the wearer. In addition, because the contractile force of the first elastic member 8 is less likely to be transferred to the outer layer 33 side, unwanted wrinkles are less likely to form on the outer layer 33 constituting the outer surface of the diaper 1, the good texture of the outer layer 33 can be maintained, and the appearance of the diaper 1 can be improved.

[0094] Let the maximum elongation of the outer body 3 along the width direction Y be length Ty, and the total length of the first joint portions 40 along the extension direction of the joint row in the first joint portion 40 be T1. The ratio of the total length T1 to the length Ty (T1 / Ty) is preferably 0.05 or more, more preferably 0.10 or more, more preferably 0.30 or less, and more preferably 0.20 or less. By forming it within such a range, the fit to the wearer and the appearance of the diaper can be further improved. Regarding the total length T1, in the top view of the outer body 3 in its maximum elongation state, the total length of each of the first joint portions 40 at 10 points is measured when viewed along the extension direction of the joint row of the first joint portion 40, and the arithmetic mean at this time is taken as the total length T1. In addition, when there are multiple joint rows, it is calculated based on the total length of each of the first joint portions 40 when viewed along each joint row.

[0095] Let the maximum elongation of the outer body 3 along the width direction Y be length Ty, and the total length of the second joint 50 along the extension direction be T2. The ratio of the total length T2 to the length Ty (T2 / Ty) is preferably 0.15 or more, more preferably 0.5 or more, preferably 1.0 or less, and more preferably 0.8 or less. By forming it within this range, the fit to the wearer and the appearance of the diaper can be further improved. Regarding the total length T2, in a top view of the outer body 3 at its maximum elongation, the total length of the second joint 50 is measured at 10 points when viewed along the extension direction, and the arithmetic mean of these measurements is taken as the total length T2.

[0096] The maximum elongation length Ty of the outer body 3 along the width direction Y can be appropriately changed according to the shape of the absorbent article to be targeted, preferably 300 mm or more, more preferably 350 mm or more, more preferably 550 mm or less, and more preferably 500 mm or less.

[0097] The difference between the ratio (T2 / Ty) and the ratio (T1 / Ty) ((T2 / Ty)-(T1 / Ty)) is preferably 0.10 or more, more preferably 0.50 or more, more preferably 1.00 or less, and more preferably 0.70 or less.

[0098] By forming such a range, the fit to the wearer and the appearance of the diaper can be further improved.

[0099] When viewed along the thickness direction Z, the inner layer 31, middle layer 32 and outer layer 33 constituting the outer body 3 can have a portion where only the first joint 40 exists, a portion where only the second joint 50 exists, a portion where both the first joint 40 and the second joint 50 exist, and a portion where neither the first joint 40 nor the second joint 50 exists.

[0100] Preferably, when viewed along the thickness direction Z of the outer cover 3, the outer layer 33 and the middle layer 32 are joined by the first joint 40, and there is a portion where the middle layer 32 and the inner layer 31 are not joined. That is, when viewed along its thickness direction Z, the outer cover 3 preferably has at least a portion where only the first joint 40 exists. By forming such a structure, the contractile force of the first elastic member 8 is not easily transmitted to the outer layer 33 side, thus maintaining the good texture of the outer layer 33 and further improving the appearance of the diaper.

[0101] The present invention has been described above based on its preferred embodiments, but the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above.

[0102] The present invention further discloses the following notes.

[0103] <1>

[0104] An absorbent article has a length direction corresponding to the wearer's front-back direction and a width direction orthogonal to the length direction, has a ventral region and a dorsal region, and a crotch region located between the ventral region and the dorsal region, and has an absorbent body disposed along the length direction in the region from the ventral region to the dorsal region, and an outer body disposed on the non-skin-facing side of the absorbent body, wherein...

[0105] The aforementioned outer casing includes: an inner layer sheet disposed on the skin-facing side; an outer layer sheet disposed on the non-skin-facing side and constituting the outer surface of the aforementioned absorbent article; a middle layer sheet disposed between the inner layer sheet and the outer layer sheet; and a plurality of first elastic members disposed between the inner layer sheet and the middle layer sheet in a manner extending in the aforementioned width direction.

[0106] The outer layer is a telescopic sheet.

[0107] The outer body is formed such that, in a state where the outer layer can be extended, the outer layer is partially joined to the middle layer through a first joint, and the middle layer is at least partially joined to the inner layer through a second joint.

[0108] <2>

[0109] As mentioned above <1> The absorbent materials recorded in the text, among which,

[0110] When the absorbent article is in its maximum elongated state, when viewed from above, the total area of ​​the second joint in the outer body located in at least one of the ventral region and the dorsal region is larger than the total area of ​​the first joint.

[0111] <3>

[0112] As mentioned above <2> The absorbent materials recorded in the text, among which,

[0113] When the absorbent article is in its maximum elongated state, when viewed from above, the ratio of the total area of ​​the first joint to the planar area of ​​the outer body is 0.5% or more and 15% or less, preferably 0.7% or more and 15% or less, and more preferably 0.7% or more and 5% or less.

[0114] <4>

[0115] As mentioned above <2> or <3> The absorbent materials recorded in the text, among which,

[0116] When the absorbent article is in its maximum elongated state, when viewed from above, the ratio of the total area of ​​the second joint to the planar area of ​​the outer body is 5% or more and 50% or less, preferably 15% or more and 30% or less.

[0117] <5>

[0118] As mentioned above <1> ~ <4> Any of the absorbent articles recorded in the text, among which,

[0119] The elongation ratio of the first elastic component is higher than that of the outer layer.

[0120] <6>

[0121] As mentioned above <5> The absorbent materials recorded in the text, among which,

[0122] The elongation ratio of the first elastic component is 2.0 times or more and 3.2 times or less, preferably 2.3 times or more and 3.0 times or less.

[0123] <7>

[0124] As mentioned above <5> or <6> The absorbent materials recorded in the text, among which,

[0125] The elongation ratio of the outer layer sheet is 1.5 times or more and 3.0 times or less, preferably 2.0 times or more and 2.7 times or less.

[0126] <8>

[0127] As mentioned above <1> ~ <7> Any of the absorbent articles recorded in the text, among which,

[0128] The aforementioned first joint is formed in a scattered pattern.

[0129] <9>

[0130] As mentioned above <8> The absorbent materials recorded in the text, among which,

[0131] When viewed from above, the plurality of the aforementioned first joints are arranged in a row forming a first joint in one direction.

[0132] The second joint is formed in such a way that it extends in the width direction.

[0133] The imaginary line extending along the first joint row is not parallel to the imaginary line extending along the second joint.

[0134] <10>

[0135] As mentioned above <8> or <9> The absorbent materials recorded in the text, among which,

[0136] When viewed from above, the first joint portion is configured such that, in its maximum elongation state along its extension direction, every 100 mm of length, there are one or more overlapping portions, preferably one or more but less than 50 overlapping portions, and more preferably 10 or more but less than 30 overlapping portions.

[0137] <11>

[0138] As mentioned above <8> ~ <10> Any of the absorbent articles recorded in the text, among which,

[0139] In the maximum elongation state of the absorbent article, the interval W1 between adjacent first joints in the length direction is smaller than and larger than 0.5 times the interval W2 between adjacent first elastic members in the length direction. Preferably, the interval W1 is more than 0.6 times and less than 0.9 times the interval W2.

[0140] <12>

[0141] As mentioned above <8> ~ <11> Any of the absorbent articles recorded in the text, among which,

[0142] When the ratio of the distance between adjacent first joints in the width direction in the maximum elongated state of the absorbent article to the distance between adjacent first joints in the width direction in the relaxed state of the absorbent article is R1, and the ratio of the length of the first elastic member in the maximum elongated state to the length of the first elastic member in the relaxed state is R2, the value of R1 / R2 is 0.4 or more and 1.0 or less, preferably 0.6 or more and 0.8 or less.

[0143] <13>

[0144] As mentioned above <1> ~ <12> Any of the absorbent articles recorded in the text, among which,

[0145] The outer layer is a stretch sheet formed by a second elastic member arranged to extend in the aforementioned width direction and joined between the two nonwoven fabrics.

[0146] When viewed from above in its maximum elongated state, the area of ​​the overlapping region between the first elastic member and the second elastic member is 80% or less, preferably 50% or less, and more preferably 0% of the total area of ​​the second elastic member.

[0147] <14>

[0148] As mentioned above <1> ~ <13> Any of the absorbent articles recorded in the text, among which,

[0149] In the aforementioned outer casing, multiple rows of spaces are provided between the outer layer and the middle layer in the extending direction of the first elastic member. The middle layer and the inner layer are spaced apart from the outer layer, and these spaces are formed in a direction intersecting the extending direction of the first elastic member.

[0150] When the outer body is viewed along its thickness direction at the location where the aforementioned space is formed, the outer body has a portion where none of the inner layer, the middle layer, and the outer layer are joined.

[0151] <15>

[0152] As mentioned above <1> ~ <14> Any of the absorbent articles recorded in the text, among which,

[0153] The inner layer sheet and the middle layer sheet are joined together only through the first elastic member to form the second joint.

[0154] <16>

[0155] As mentioned above <1> ~ <15> Any of the absorbent articles recorded in the text, among which,

[0156] When the absorbent article is in its maximum elongation state, the total length of the second joint along the width direction is greater than the total length of the first joint along the width direction.

[0157] <17>

[0158] As mentioned above <16> The absorbent materials recorded in the text, among which,

[0159] When the absorbent article is in its maximum elongation state, the ratio of the total length of the first joint along the width direction to the maximum elongation length of the outer body along the width direction is 0.05 or more and 0.30 or less, preferably 0.10 or more and 0.20 or less.

[0160] <18>

[0161] As mentioned above <16> or <17> The absorbent materials recorded in the text, among which,

[0162] When the absorbent article is in its maximum elongation state, the ratio of the total length of the second joint along the width direction to the maximum elongation length of the outer body along the width direction is 0.15 or more and 1.0 or less, preferably 0.5 or more and 0.8 or less.

[0163] <19>

[0164] As mentioned above <16> ~ <18> Any of the absorbent articles recorded in the text, among which,

[0165] When the absorbent article is in its maximum elongation state, the difference between the ratio of the total length of the second joint along the width direction to the maximum elongation length of the outer body along the width direction and the ratio of the total length of the first joint along the width direction to the maximum elongation length of the outer body along the width direction is 0.10 or more and 1.00 or less, preferably 0.50 or more and 0.70 or less.

[0166] <20>

[0167] As mentioned above <1> ~ <19> Any of the absorbent articles recorded in the text, among which,

[0168] In the aforementioned outer casing, when viewed along its thickness direction, the outer layer sheet and the middle layer sheet are joined by the first joint, and there is a portion where the middle layer sheet and the inner layer sheet are not joined.

[0169] <21>

[0170] As mentioned above <1> ~ <20> Any of the absorbent articles recorded in the text, among which,

[0171] The ratio R2 of the length W8 of the first elastic member 8 in the maximum elongated state of the absorbent article to the length R2 of the first elastic member in the relaxed state of the absorbent article is 2.0 or more and 3.2 or less, preferably 2.3 or more and 3.0 or less.

[0172] Industrial availability

[0173] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide absorbent articles that have a good appearance and a good fit.

Claims

1. An absorbent article having a length direction corresponding to the wearer's front-back direction and a width direction orthogonal to the length direction, having a ventral region and a dorsal region, and a crotch region located between the ventral region and the dorsal region, and having an absorbent body disposed along the length direction in the region from the ventral region to the dorsal region, and an outer body disposed on the non-skin-facing side of the absorbent body, characterized in that: The outer body includes: an inner layer sheet disposed on the skin-facing side; an outer layer sheet disposed on the non-skin-facing side and constituting the outer surface of the absorbent article; a middle layer sheet disposed between the inner layer sheet and the outer layer sheet; and a plurality of first elastic members disposed between the inner layer sheet and the middle layer sheet in a manner extending in the width direction. The outer sheet is a stretch sheet formed by a second elastic member arranged to extend in the width direction and joined between the two nonwoven fabrics. The outer casing is configured such that, in a stretchable state, the outer layer is partially joined to the middle layer via a first joint, and the middle layer is at least partially joined to the inner layer via a second joint. In the outer layer, multiple recesses are formed in a scattered pattern from the non-skin-facing side to the skin-facing side, and the first joint is formed at a position corresponding to the recesses. When viewed from above in its maximum elongated state, the area of ​​the overlapping region between the first elastic member and the second elastic member is less than 80% of the total area of ​​the second elastic member. The first joint is formed in a scattered pattern. When viewed from above, the plurality of the first joints are arranged in a row forming a first joint in one direction. The second joint is formed in such a way that it extends in the width direction. The imaginary line extending along the first joint row is not parallel to the imaginary line extending along the second joint.

2. The absorbent article as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that: When the absorbent article is in its maximum elongated state, when viewed from above, the total area of ​​the second joint in the outer body located in at least one of the ventral and dorsal regions is larger than the total area of ​​the first joint.

3. The absorbent article as described in claim 2, characterized in that: When the absorbent article is in its maximum elongated state, when viewed from above, the total area of ​​the first joint is 0.5% to 15% of the planar area of ​​the outer body.

4. The absorbent article as described in claim 2 or 3, characterized in that: When the absorbent article is in its maximum elongated state, when viewed from above, the total area of ​​the second joint is 5% to 50% of the planar area of ​​the outer body.

5. The absorbent article as described in any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that: The elongation ratio of the first elastic component is higher than that of the outer layer.

6. The absorbent article as claimed in claim 5, characterized in that: The elongation ratio of the first elastic component is more than 2.0 times and less than 3.2 times.

7. The absorbent article as claimed in claim 5 or 6, characterized in that: The elongation ratio of the outer layer is more than 1.5 times and less than 3.0 times.

8. The absorbent article according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that: When viewed from above, the outer casing is configured such that the first elastic member overlaps with one or more of the first joints for every 100 mm of its maximum elongation along its extension direction.

9. The absorbent article according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that: In the maximum elongated state of the absorbent article, the interval W1 between adjacent first joints in the length direction is smaller than the interval W2 between adjacent first elastic members in the length direction and larger than 0.5 times the interval W2.

10. The absorbent article according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that: When the ratio of the distance between adjacent first joints in the width direction under the maximum elongation state of the absorbent article to the distance between adjacent first joints in the width direction under the relaxed state of the absorbent article is R1, and the ratio of the length of the first elastic member under the maximum elongation state to the length of the first elastic member under the relaxed state is R2, the value of R1 / R2 is 0.4 or more and 1.0 or less.

11. The absorbent article according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that: In the outer casing, multiple rows of spaces are provided between the outer layer and the middle layer in the extending direction of the first elastic member, wherein the middle layer and the inner layer are spaced apart from the outer layer, and the spaces are formed in a manner that extends in a direction intersecting the extending direction of the first elastic member. When the outer body is viewed along its thickness direction at the location where the space is formed, the outer body has a portion where none of the inner layer, the middle layer, and the outer layer are joined.

12. The absorbent article according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that: The inner layer sheet and the middle layer sheet are joined together only through the first elastic member to form the second joint.

13. The absorbent article according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that: When the absorbent article is in its maximum elongation state, the total length of the second joint along the width direction is greater than the total length of the first joint along the width direction.

14. The absorbent article as claimed in claim 13, characterized in that: When the absorbent article is in its maximum elongation state, the ratio of the total length of the first joint along the width direction to the maximum elongation length of the outer body along the width direction is 0.05 or more and 0.30 or less.

15. The absorbent article as claimed in claim 13 or 14, characterized in that: When the absorbent article is in its maximum elongation state, the ratio of the total length of the second joint along the width direction to the maximum elongation length of the outer body along the width direction is 0.15 or more and 1.0 or less.

16. The absorbent article according to any one of claims 13 to 15, characterized in that: When the absorbent article is in its maximum elongation state, the difference between the ratio of the total length of the second joint along the width direction to the maximum elongation length of the outer body along the width direction and the ratio of the total length of the first joint along the width direction to the maximum elongation length of the outer body along the width direction is 0.10 or more and 1.00 or less.

17. The absorbent article according to any one of claims 1 to 16, characterized in that: In the outer casing, when viewed along its thickness direction, the outer layer and the middle layer are joined by the first joint, and there is a portion where the middle layer and the inner layer are not joined.

18. The absorbent article according to any one of claims 1 to 17, characterized in that: The ratio R2 of the length W8 of the first elastic member in the maximum elongated state of the absorbent article to the length R2 of the first elastic member in the relaxed state of the absorbent article is 2.0 or more and 3.2 or less.

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