Panty-type absorbent article

Abstract

An absorbent article (1) of the underwear type has an absorbent core (12) and an outer body (20). The non-stretchable sheets (211, 221, 212, 222) and stretchable sheets (213, 223) of the outer body (20) are intermittently joined by a plurality of joints (40). At least one of the first joints (41) and the second joints (42) of the plurality of joints (40) is different in shape and area. The outer body (20) has a first joint area provided with a plurality of first joints (41) and a second joint area provided with a plurality of second joints (42) in the thickness direction overlapping with the absorbent core (12).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an absorbent underwear-type product. Background Technology

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses an underwear-type absorbent article with a stretchable structure in which an elastic membrane is laminated between a first layer and a second layer, and the first and second layers are joined by spaced-apart dot-shaped joints. Furthermore, by increasing the area ratio of the dot-shaped joints in the portion of the stretchable structure that overlaps with the absorbent core (absorbent body), a non-stretchable region is formed, thus suppressing the shrinkage of the absorbent core. As a method for increasing the area ratio of the dot-shaped joints in the non-stretchable region, methods are disclosed that increase the area of ​​each dot-shaped joint or increase the number of dot-shaped joints per unit area.

[0003] Prior art literature

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2016-140477 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0007] However, in the non-stretchable region of Patent Document 1, only one type of dot-shaped joint with the same shape and area is provided. Therefore, in the non-stretchable region of Patent Document 1, multiple dot-shaped joints with relatively large areas are provided, or more dot-shaped joints with relatively small areas are provided.

[0008] When the area of ​​all the dotted joints in the non-stretchable area is large, the shrinkage force of the non-stretchable area can be reliably suppressed, but the user can easily feel the hardness of the dotted joints. On the other hand, when the area of ​​all the dotted joints in the non-stretchable area is small, the user cannot easily feel the hardness of the dotted joints, but it may not be able to completely suppress the shrinkage force of the non-stretchable area.

[0009] Furthermore, in a stretchable structure where the non-stretchable sheets (first layer, second layer) and the stretchable sheets (elastic membrane) are intermittently joined, deflection (unevenness) of the non-stretchable sheets occurs between the point-like joints during contraction. When the deflection of the non-stretchable sheets is large or the number of deflections is numerous, the unevenness of the non-stretchable sheets becomes significant in the areas overlapping with the absorbent core. This makes it difficult for users to confirm the size of the absorbent core, potentially causing them anxiety about leakage.

[0010] The present invention was made in view of the aforementioned problems, and its object is to provide an underwear-type absorbent article that reduces the user's anxiety about leakage and suppresses stiffness by suppressing the contraction of the absorbent core caused by the stretch sheet and suppressing the unevenness of the outer body overlapping the absorbent core.

[0011] Methods for solving problems

[0012] The main invention for achieving the above-mentioned objective is an underwear-type absorbent article having a vertical direction, a horizontal direction, and a front-back direction, and having an absorbent body with an absorbent core and an outer body disposed on the non-skin side compared to the absorbent body. The outer body is characterized by having a non-stretchable sheet and a stretchable sheet that stretches along the horizontal direction. The non-stretchable sheet and the stretchable sheet are intermittently joined by multiple joints. These multiple joints include multiple first joints of the same shape and area and multiple second joints of the same shape and area. At least one of the shape and area of ​​the first joints and the second joints is different. The outer body has a first joint area with multiple first joints and a second joint area with multiple second joints. When the underwear-type absorbent article is viewed from above in its unfolded state along the thickness direction, the outer body has an area where the first joint area and the second joint area coincide in the region overlapping with the absorbent core in the thickness direction.

[0013] Other features of the invention will become clear from the description in this specification and the accompanying drawings.

[0014] Invention Effects

[0015] According to the present invention, an underwear-type absorbent article can be provided, which reduces the user's anxiety about leakage and suppresses stiffness by suppressing the contraction of the absorbent core caused by the stretch sheet and suppressing the unevenness of the outer body overlapping the absorbent core. Attached Figure Description

[0016] Figure 1 This is a schematic three-dimensional diagram of a disposable underwear-type diaper 1.

[0017] Figure 2 This is a rough top view of diaper 1 in its unfolded and stretched state, viewed from the skin side.

[0018] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A rough cross-sectional view at line II.

[0019] Figure 4 This is an explanatory diagram of the joint 40 provided on the front body 21.

[0020] Figure 5 This is an explanatory diagram of the joint 40 located on the rear body 22.

[0021] Figure 6A This is an explanatory diagram of the overlapping area OR1 of the first joint region R1 and the second joint region R2. Figure 6B This is an explanatory diagram of the overlapping area OR2 between the third joint region R3 and the second joint region R2.

[0022] Figures 7A to 7C This is an explanatory diagram of the concave and convex features in the outer casing 20.

[0023] Figures 8A to 8C This is a diagram showing a modified example of the configuration of the first joint 41 and the second joint 42 in the overlapping region OR1.

[0024] Figures 9A to 9F This is an explanatory diagram of a joint 40 having a shape along its long axis.

[0025] Figure 10 This is a diagram showing a modified example of the joint 40 disposed on the diaper 1.

[0026] Figure 11A and Figure 11B This is an illustration of the first overlapping region OR1 in a group of diapers of different sizes. Detailed Implementation

[0027] From the description in this specification and the accompanying drawings, at least the following matters become clear.

[0028] An absorbent underwear-type article has vertical, horizontal, and front-back directions, and includes an absorbent body with an absorbent core and an outer body disposed on the non-skin side compared to the absorbent body. The outer body comprises a non-stretchable sheet and a stretchable sheet that stretches along the horizontal direction. The non-stretchable sheet and the stretchable sheet are intermittently joined by multiple joints. Each joint includes a plurality of first joints of the same shape and area and a plurality of second joints of the same shape and area. At least one of the shapes and areas of the first and second joints differs. The outer body includes a first joint region with a plurality of first joints and a second joint region with a plurality of second joints. When the absorbent underwear-type article is viewed from above in its unfolded state along the thickness direction, the outer body has a region where the first joint region and the second joint region overlap with the absorbent core in the thickness direction.

[0029] According to this type of underwear-type absorbent article, in the area of ​​the outer casing overlapping the absorbent core, the contraction force of the stretchable sheet can be reliably and significantly reduced by utilizing a larger area and size joint. Therefore, the lateral contraction of the absorbent core can be suppressed. Furthermore, by utilizing a smaller area and size joint, the deflection of the non-stretchable sheet between the joints can be reduced without hardening the outer casing, thus suppressing surface irregularities on the outer casing overlapping the absorbent core. Therefore, the user can easily confirm the size of the absorbent core, reducing anxiety about leakage. Additionally, by reducing the deflection (height of the protrusion) of the non-stretchable sheet between the joints, the angle of the non-stretchable sheet relative to the contraction direction (lateral direction) of the stretchable sheet is reduced. This increases the resistance of the non-stretchable sheet to the contraction force of the stretchable sheet, further reducing the contraction force of the stretchable sheet.

[0030] In this underwear-type absorbent article, the first joint is characterized in that its vertical length is longer than that of the second joint.

[0031] According to such an underwear-type absorbent article, the contractile force of the stretch sheet can be reduced over a wider range in the vertical direction by utilizing the first joint portion, which is longer in the vertical direction.

[0032] In this underwear-type absorbent article, the first joint has a larger area than the second joint.

[0033] According to this type of absorbent underwear, the elastic properties of the stretch sheet can be more reliably eliminated by utilizing the larger area of ​​the first joint, thereby reducing the shrinkage force of the stretch sheet.

[0034] In this underwear-type absorbent article, the first joint and the second joint, which are disposed in at least a portion of the overlapping area, are positioned in the vertical direction at least a portion of each other.

[0035] According to this type of absorbent underwear, the second joint can directly suppress the deflection of the non-stretchable sheet generated between the first joints arranged in the left-right direction, thereby reducing deflection. Therefore, it is possible to suppress unevenness on the surface of the outer casing that overlaps with the absorbent core.

[0036] In this underwear-type absorbent article, the vertical positions of the first and second joints, which are disposed in at least a portion of the overlapping area, do not overlap.

[0037] According to this type of absorbent underwear, the contractile force of the stretchable sheet can be reduced over a wider range in the vertical direction by utilizing the first and second joints that are offset in the vertical direction. In addition, the deflection of the non-stretchable sheet between the joints can be reduced, and the stiffness of the outer body caused by the joints can be dispersed in the vertical direction.

[0038] In this underwear-type absorbent article, the characteristic is that, when the underwear-type absorbent article is viewed from above in its unfolded state along the thickness direction, a portion of the first joint and the second joint disposed in at least a portion of the overlapping area overlaps with each other in the thickness direction.

[0039] According to this type of absorbent underwear, at the points where the joints overlap along the thickness direction, the elastic properties of the stretchable sheet can be more reliably eliminated (reduced). On the other hand, at the points where the joints do not overlap along the thickness direction, the deflection of the non-stretchable sheet between the joints can be reduced.

[0040] In this underwear-type absorbent article, the overlapping area is characterized by the sequential arrangement of a first joint, a second joint, and other first joints from one side in the left-right direction, wherein, in the left-right direction, the first joint is disposed near the second joint compared to the other first joints.

[0041] According to this type of absorbent underwear, the deflection of the non-stretchable sheet between the closely positioned first and second joints can be further reduced, and the unevenness on the surface of the outer casing overlapping the absorbent core, which is easily visually confirmed by the user, can be reduced. Therefore, the size of the absorbent core can be easily confirmed by the user.

[0042] In this underwear-type absorbent article, the plurality of joints are characterized in that the joints have a shape having a long axis direction, and the joints are configured such that the long axis direction is inclined relative to the vertical direction and the horizontal direction.

[0043] Based on this type of absorbent underwear, by preventing the long axis of the joint from running vertically and horizontally, the rigidity of the outer garment in both the vertical and horizontal directions can be reduced. Therefore, the outer garment easily follows the wearer's waistline and vertical bulges (abdomen, buttocks), making it difficult for the user to feel the stiffness of the absorbent underwear.

[0044] In this underwear-type absorbent article, the leg elastic member disposed on at least one side of the outer body in the front-back direction is disposed in a pair of curved regions along a pair of leg openings of the underwear-type absorbent article and a central region along the left-right direction connecting the pair of curved regions. The plurality of joints have a plurality of third joints of the same shape and the same area. At least one of the shape and area of ​​the third joint is different from the first joint and the second joint. The third joint satisfies at least one of the following: the length in the left-right direction is longer than the length of the first joint; the length in the up-down direction is longer than the length of the first joint; and the area is larger than the area of ​​the first joint. The outer body has a third joint region disposed of the plurality of the third joints. When the underwear-type absorbent article is viewed from above in its unfolded state along the thickness direction, the area of ​​the outer body in the central region where it overlaps with the absorbent core in the thickness direction has a region where the second joint region and the third joint region coincide.

[0045] According to such underwear-type absorbent articles, the contractile force of the area of ​​the outer body, which is equipped with a leg elastic member in addition to the elastic plate, can be reliably and significantly reduced by utilizing the third joint with a larger size and area.

[0046] In this underwear-type absorbent article, the characteristic is that, when the underwear-type absorbent article is viewed from above in its unfolded state along the thickness direction, the outer body has an end region that overlaps with the upper end of the absorbent core in the thickness direction, such that the value obtained by dividing the total area of ​​the joints disposed in the end region by the area of ​​the end region is smaller than the value obtained by dividing the total area of ​​the joints disposed in the region where the first joint region and the second joint region overlap by the area of ​​the overlapping region.

[0047] According to this type of underwear-type absorbent article, at the boundary between the overlapping part of the absorbent core and the outer body and the non-overlapping part of the absorbent core and the outer body, it is possible to suppress the rapid change of the contraction force of the stretchable sheet.

[0048] In this underwear-type absorbent article, the characteristic is that the underwear-type absorbent article is of a first size, and the value obtained by dividing the area of ​​the region where the first joint area and the second joint area overlap by the area of ​​the entire outer body is different from the value obtained by performing the division operation on other underwear-type absorbent articles of the second size that have the same brand name and sub-brand name as the underwear-type absorbent article.

[0049] According to such an underwear-type absorbent article, since the shrinkage force of the stretchable sheet can be reduced by matching the size of the absorbent core of the corresponding size, the shrinkage of the absorbent core can be suppressed, and the unevenness of the surface of the outer body overlapping the absorbent core can be reduced.

[0050] Additionally, a group of absorbent underwear-type articles is provided, comprising: a first absorbent underwear-type article of a first size; and a second absorbent underwear-type article of a second size, wherein the first absorbent underwear-type article and the second absorbent underwear-type article have the same brand name and sub-brand name, characterized in that the first absorbent underwear-type article and the second absorbent underwear-type article each have a vertical direction, a horizontal direction, and a front-back direction, and each has an absorbent body having an absorbent core and an outer body disposed on the non-skin side compared to the absorbent body, the outer body having a non-stretchable sheet and a stretchable sheet that stretches along the horizontal direction, the non-stretchable sheet and the stretchable sheet being intermittently joined by a plurality of joints, the plurality of joints having a plurality of first [unclear] of the same shape and the same area. The first and second joints have the same shape and area, and at least one of the shape and area of ​​the first and second joints is different. The outer body has a first joint area with multiple first joints and a second joint area with multiple second joints. When the underwear-type absorbent article is viewed from above in its unfolded state along the thickness direction of the underwear-type absorbent article, the outer body has an area where the first joint area and the second joint area overlap with the absorbent core in the thickness direction. The area of ​​the area where the first joint area and the second joint area overlap in the first and second underwear-type absorbent articles is different when divided by the area of ​​the entire outer body.

[0051] According to this group of underwear-type absorbent articles, since the shrinkage force of the stretchable sheet can be reduced in a way that matches the size of the absorbent core of the corresponding size, the shrinkage of the absorbent core can be suppressed, and the unevenness of the surface of the outer body overlapping the absorbent core can be reduced.

[0052] ===Implementation Methods===

[0053] The following description uses adult-sized disposable diapers as an example of an absorbent underwear-type product. However, it is not limited to this; the absorbent underwear-type product of the present invention can also be applied to disposable diapers for children, menstrual underwear, etc.

[0054] <<Basic Structure of Diaper 1>>

[0055] Figure 1This is a schematic perspective view of the underwear-type disposable diaper 1 (hereinafter also referred to as diaper 1). Figure 2 This is a rough top view of diaper 1 in its unfolded and stretched state, viewed from the skin side. Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A rough cross-sectional view at line II (center in the left-right direction).

[0056] The unfolded state of diaper 1 refers to the state after the pair of side joints 24 provided on both sides of the pant-type diaper 1 are separated and the diaper 1 is opened and unfolded into a flat surface. The stretched state of diaper 1 refers to the state in which the elastic members of diaper 1 are stretched to the point that the wrinkles of diaper 1 cannot be visually confirmed. Specifically, it is the state in which the dimensions of each component constituting diaper 1 are consistent with or close to the dimensions of the individual component (i.e., the dimensions in the state where the elastic characteristics of the elastic member are not exhibited).

[0057] Diaper 1 has intersecting vertical, horizontal, and front-back directions, and as follows: Figure 3 As shown, the materials are layered in the thickness direction. In the vertical direction, the side that will become the wearer's waist is designated as the upper side, and the side that will become the wearer's crotch is designated as the lower side. In the front-back direction, the side that will become the wearer's abdomen is designated as the front side, and the side that will become the wearer's back is designated as the back side. In the thickness direction, the side that is in contact with the wearer is designated as the skin side, and the opposite side is designated as the non-skin side.

[0058] The diaper 1 has an absorbent body 10 and an outer body 20 disposed on the non-skin side compared to the absorbent body 10. The non-skin side of the absorbent body 10 is attached to the skin side of the outer body 20 by an adhesive or the like. The outer body 20 is composed of three parts, having a front part 21 corresponding to the wearer's abdomen, a back part 22 corresponding to the wearer's back, and a crotch part 23 connecting them.

[0059] Furthermore, in the diaper 1 of this embodiment, the outer body 20 is composed of three components (front body 21, back body 22, and crotch portion 23), but is not limited to this. For example, it may be composed of a single continuous component consisting of the front body 21, back body 22, and crotch portion 23. Alternatively, it may be configured to not have a crotch portion 23.

[0060] exist Figure 2In the unfolded state of the diaper 1 shown, the front part 21 is located at one end of the long side of the absorbent body 10, and the back part 22 is located at the other end of the long side of the absorbent body 10. Furthermore, the two ends of the long side of the absorbent body 10 are covered from the skin side by inner layers 2 and 3. In the unfolded state of the diaper 1, the absorbent body 10 is folded approximately in half along its long side, and the left and right sides of the front part 21 and the left and right sides of the back part 22 are joined together by welding or the like, forming a pair of side joints 24, thus becoming... Figure 1 The underwear type shown. That is, the long side of the absorbent body 10 is along the vertical direction of the diaper 1, the front part 21 and the back part 22 are connected to form a ring, and a waist opening 1a is formed at the upper end of the ring. In addition, a pair of leg openings 1b are formed on both sides in the left and right directions.

[0061] The absorbent body 10 forms a rectangular shape when viewed from above, such as Figure 3 As shown, the device has an absorbent core 12, a liquid-permeable top sheet 11 located on the skin side of the absorbent core 12, and a bottom sheet 13 located on the non-skin side of the absorbent core 11. In this embodiment, the bottom sheet 13 has a double-layer structure consisting of a non-liquid-permeable sheet 13a and a hydrophobic liquid-permeable sheet (e.g., a hydrophobic nonwoven fabric) 13b disposed on the non-skin side of the non-liquid-permeable sheet 13a.

[0062] The absorbent core 12 is a component that absorbs and retains excretory fluids such as urine. For example, an absorbent core can be formed into a predetermined shape by shaping liquid absorbent fibers such as pulp fibers mixed with superabsorbent polymers (SAP). Although not shown, the absorbent core 12 can also have its outer peripheral surface covered by a liquid-permeable sheet such as a tissue or nonwoven fabric.

[0063] like Figure 2 As shown, the front body portion 21 and the rear body portion 22 each have a waist area 21A, 22A that overlaps with the side joint portion 24 in the vertical direction, and a crotch area 21B, 22B that is lower than the waist area 21A, 22A.

[0064] The crotch areas 21B and 22B are roughly trapezoidal in shape, narrowing in width (length in the left-right direction) as they move downwards. In addition, the crotch area 22B of the back part 22 is larger than that of the front part 21, and can cover the wearer's buttocks.

[0065] like Figure 3As shown, the front body 21, back body 22, and crotch portion 23 each have non-skin side panels 211, 221, 231, skin side panels 212, 222, 232, and elastic panels 213, 223, 233 located between them. Furthermore, linear waist elastic members 214 and 224 that extend and retract in the left-right direction are provided at the upper ends of the front body 21 and back body 22. This ensures that the diaper 1 fits snugly against the wearer along the upper end of the waist opening 1a, preventing the diaper 1 from shifting or falling off. Additionally, linear leg elastic members 215, 225, and 234 are provided along the leg openings 1b on the crotch side region 21B of the front body 21, the crotch side region 22B of the back body 22, and both sides of the crotch portion 23 in the left-right direction. This ensures that the diaper 1 fits snugly against the wearer's legs, preventing leakage of excrement. On the other hand, the parts of the outer body 20 equipped with elastic tabs 213, 223, and 233 can be smoothly fitted to the wearer in a surface manner.

[0066] ===Regarding the joint 40===

[0067] Figure 4 This is an explanatory diagram of the joint 40 provided on the front body 21. Figure 5 This is an explanatory diagram of the joint 40 provided on the rear body 22. Figure 6A This is an explanatory diagram of the overlapping area OR1 of the first joint region R1 and the second joint region R2. Figure 6B This is an explanatory diagram of the overlapping area OR2 between the third joint region R3 and the second joint region R2. Figures 7A to 7C This is an explanatory diagram of the concave and convex features in the outer casing 20.

[0068] The front body 21 and the rear body 22 (outer body 20) are provided with non-skin side panels 211 and 221, skin side panels 212 and 222, and stretchable panels 213 and 223 that stretch in the left and right directions. The non-skin side panels 211 and 221 and the skin side panels 212 and 222 are non-stretchable panels that are not substantially stretchable, and can be exemplified by soft non-woven fabrics, etc. In the following description, the non-skin side panels 211 and 221 and the skin side panels 212 and 222 will also be referred to as non-stretchable panels.

[0069] The stretchable sheets 213 and 223 are disposed in the entire area below the waist elastic members 214 and 224 in the front body portion 21 and the rear body portion 22. Examples of stretchable sheets 213 and 223 include stretchable nonwoven fabrics and stretchable films. Furthermore, the stretchable sheets 213 and 223 may be able to stretch not only in the left-right direction, but also in the up-down direction and other directions. Additionally, the stretchable sheets 213 and 223 are not limited to being covered from both the skin side and non-skin side by non-stretchable sheets; they may also be a structure that covers only one side (i.e., the outer body 20 may also be a structure having only one of the non-skin side sheets 211 and 221 and the skin side sheets 212 and 222). Alternatively, a structure may be constructed by folding a non-stretchable sheet back in the up-down direction and sandwiching the stretchable sheets 213 and 223 therebetween.

[0070] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, in the front body portion 21 and the rear body portion 22, the non-stretchable sheets 211, 221, 212, 222 and the stretchable sheets 213, 223 are intermittently joined by multiple joints 40. Examples of joining methods in the joints 40 include welding-based joining (thermal welding, ultrasonic welding, etc.) and adhesive-based joining. Furthermore, although not shown, it is possible that the joints 40 are also provided in the crotch portion 23, or that they are not provided in the crotch portion 23.

[0071] like Figure 7A As shown, when the stretchable sheets 213 and 223 contract, the non-stretchable sheets 211, 221, 212, and 222, which are intermittently arranged at the joints 40, flex in the thickness direction (becoming convex). That is, multiple small bumps and depressions are formed on the surfaces of the front body 21 and the back body 22. As a result, the skin feel of the diaper 1 is improved, and it also gives the impression of a soft diaper 1. In particular, when the stretchable sheets 213 and 223 are made of stretchable nonwoven fabric, since the structural fibers of the contracted stretchable sheets 213 and 223 bulge in the thickness direction, the fibers support the convex parts, making it difficult for the convex parts to be flattened. Therefore, the cushioning of the front body 21 and the back body 22 is improved.

[0072] In addition, the plurality of joints 40 have at least one difference in shape and area. Specifically, the plurality of joints 40 have a plurality of first joints 41 with the same shape and area (rectangular), a plurality of second joints 42 with the same shape and area (circular), a plurality of third joints 43 with the same shape and area (rectangular), and a plurality of fourth joints 44 with the same shape and area (rectangular).

[0073] Furthermore, even if the orientation of the joint 40 is different, it is set to the same shape when rotated and overlapped (when they become the same shape). In addition, even if they are the same type of shape (e.g., rectangles and triangles), they are set to different shapes if they are not similar shapes (e.g., different side lengths, angles, etc.).

[0074] In the outer casing 20, the area provided with a plurality of first joints 41 is designated as the first joint area R1, the area provided with a plurality of second joints 42 is designated as the second joint area R2, the area provided with a plurality of third joints 43 is designated as the third joint area R3, and the area provided with a plurality of fourth joints 44 is designated as the fourth joint area R4.

[0075] As a specific method for the Nth joint region (N=1 to 4), for each direction inclined within the range of 0 degrees to 180 degrees relative to a specified direction (e.g., left and right direction), the point of the Nth joint located on the outermost side (outer side of one side or both sides) is specified and set as the region connecting the specified point.

[0076] Specifically, a fourth joint region R4 is provided in the rectangular area above the absorbent core 12 in the front body portion 21 and the rear body portion 22 (the area surrounded by points abcd between the waist elastic members 214, 224 and the leg elastic members 215, 225). A second joint region R2 is provided in the area below the fourth joint region R4 (the area surrounded by points befghd). Furthermore, a first joint region R1 is provided in the area coinciding with the central portion in the left-right direction of the second joint region R2. The entire area of ​​the first joint region R1 coincides with and is contained within the second joint region R2. Additionally, a third joint region R3 is provided only in the rear body portion 22, coinciding with the central portion in the left-right direction of the second joint region R2, and located in the area below the first joint region R1. The entire area of ​​the third joint region R3 is also contained within the second joint region R2.

[0077] In each of the joint regions R1 to R4, the joints 40 are arranged in a staggered pattern. That is, the columns of joints 40, which are spaced apart in the vertical direction, are staggered by half a spacing in the horizontal direction. In addition, in each of the joint regions R1 to R4, the vertical and horizontal arrangement intervals L0 and W0 of the joints 40 are constant. Moreover, the arrangement intervals L0 and W0 of the joints 40 are consistent in all the joint regions R1 to R4.

[0078] Furthermore, the area of ​​the joint 40 increases in the order of the third joint 43, the first joint 41, the fourth joint 44, and the second joint 42. Therefore, the area ratio of the joint 40 (the total area of ​​the joints 40 per unit area / unit area) increases in the order of the third joint region R3, the first joint region R1, the fourth joint region R4, and the second joint region R2.

[0079] The larger the area ratio of the joint 40, the lower the contractile force (elastic force) generated by the stretchable pieces 213 and 223 in that area. This is because the elastic properties disappear (reduced) at the locations where the stretchable pieces 213 and 223 of the joint 40 are located. Therefore, the larger the area ratio of the joint 40, the smaller the area where the elastic force manifests in the stretchable pieces 213 and 223 becomes.

[0080] Therefore, by providing a fourth joint region R4 with a relatively small area ratio on the upper side of the absorbent core 12, the contractile force of the outer body 20 (front body 21 and rear body 22) on the upper side of the absorbent core 12 is appropriately maintained. As a result, the outer body 20 fits the wearer's waist.

[0081] Furthermore, by providing separate areas (both ends in the left-right direction) of the second joint region R2, which has a smaller area ratio of the joint 40, in the arrangement areas of the leg elastic members 215 and 225, it is possible to prevent the contraction force of the leg elastic members 215 and 225 from being reduced due to the joint 40, and the contraction force of the elastic sheets 213 and 223 can also be appropriately maintained. Therefore, the outer garment 20 fits snugly against the wearer's leg circumference.

[0082] On the other hand, such as Figure 6A As shown, a first joint 41 and a second joint 42 are provided in the overlapping region OR1 (hereinafter also referred to as the first overlapping region OR1) of the first joint region R1 and the second joint region R2. Therefore, in the first overlapping region OR1, the area ratio of the joint 40 is increased, and the contraction force of the stretch sheets 213 and 223 is reduced. Therefore, when the diaper 1 is viewed from above in its unfolded state along the thickness direction of the diaper 1, the overlapping region OR1 of the first joint region R1 and the second joint region R2 can be provided in the area where the outer body 20 (front body 21 and back body 22) overlaps with the absorbent core 12 in the thickness direction.

[0083] Therefore, in the region of the outer casing 20 that overlaps with the absorbent core 12 in the thickness direction, the contractile force of the stretchable sheets 213 and 223 is reduced, which can suppress the contraction of the absorbent core 12 in the lateral direction. As a result, gaps caused by the contraction wrinkles of the absorbent core 12 can be prevented, and the absorption area of ​​the absorbent core 12 can be maintained more widely, thus suppressing the leakage of excrement. In addition, the user can actually feel the size of the absorbent core 12, which can alleviate the user's anxiety about leakage.

[0084] in addition, Figure 6A The illustrated first joint 41 and second joint 42 have different shapes and areas. Specifically, the area of ​​the first joint 41 is larger than that of the second joint 42. In addition, the length L1 of the first joint 41 in the vertical direction of the diaper 1 is longer than the length d of the second joint 42, and the length W1 of the first joint 41 in the horizontal direction of the diaper 1 is larger than the length d of the second joint 42.

[0085] Here, it is assumed that only the first joint 41 is disposed in the region of the outer casing 20 that overlaps with the absorbent core 12 in the thickness direction. This is achieved through... Figure 7C By configuring a greater number of first joints 41, the area ratio of the joints 40 is increased, which can suppress the shrinkage of the stretch pieces 213 and 223. Furthermore, due to the larger area and size of the first joints 41, the elastic properties of the stretch pieces 213 and 223 can be extensively and reliably eliminated, thus significantly reducing the shrinkage force of the stretch pieces 213 and 223. However, due to the greater number of first joints 41, the user may easily feel the stiffness of the joints 40, reducing the skin feel and wearing comfort of the diaper 1.

[0086] Conversely, suppose that only the second joint 42 is provided in the area of ​​the outer body 20 that overlaps with the absorbent core 12 in the thickness direction. In this case, although the user may not be able to feel the hardness of the joint 40, the elastic properties of the stretchable sheets 213 and 223 may not be completely lost in the smaller area and size of the second joint 42.

[0087] Furthermore, while maintaining the same area ratio for the joints 40, the number of joints 40 decreases when only the first joint 41 is configured. When the number of joints 40 is less, such as... Figure 7B As shown, the deflection (height of the protrusion) of the non-stretchable sheets 211, 221, 212, and 222 between the first joints 41 increases. If a large unevenness is formed on the surface of the outer cover 20 that overlaps with the absorbent core 12 in the thickness direction, it is difficult to visually confirm the shape of the absorbent core 12 from the outside of the diaper 1. As a result, the user cannot confirm the size of the absorbent core 12 and may feel uneasy about leakage. However, in order to reduce deflection, as... Figure 7C When the number of first joints 41 is unnecessarily increased as shown, the user can easily feel the hardness of the joints 40.

[0088] On the other hand, with only the second joint 42 configured, the number of joints 40 increases. This increases the number of flexural (protrusion) portions (non-stretchable pieces 211, 221, 212, 222) between the second joints 42. If multiple protrusions and depressions are formed on the surface of the outer cover 20 that overlaps with the absorbent core 12 in the thickness direction, it becomes difficult to visually confirm the shape of the absorbent core 12 from the outside of the diaper 1. Consequently, the user cannot confirm the size of the absorbent core 12 and may feel uneasy about leakage.

[0089] In contrast, in this embodiment, a first joint 41 and a second joint 42, differing in at least one of shape and area, are disposed in a mixed manner in the region of the outer casing 20 that overlaps with the absorbent core 12 in the thickness direction. Figure 6A Therefore, the lateral contraction force of the stretchable sheets 213 and 223 can be reliably suppressed by utilizing the first joint 41, which has a larger area and size, and the lateral contraction of the absorbent core 12 can be suppressed. Furthermore, compared to the first joint 41, the second joint 42, which has a smaller area and size, has a smaller effect on directly eliminating the elastic properties of the stretchable sheets 213 and 223, but it can divide the elastic force manifestation area of ​​the stretchable sheets 213 and 223 using the second joint 42. By shortening the continuous length of the elastic force manifestation area in the lateral direction, the contraction force of the stretchable sheets 213 and 223 can also be reduced.

[0090] Furthermore, the second joint 42 can reduce the deflection (height of the protrusion) of the non-stretchable sheets 211, 221, 212, 222 between the first joints 41, and reduce the unevenness of the surface of the outer cover 20 overlapping the absorbent core 12 in the thickness direction. Additionally, the number of joints 40 can be reduced by utilizing the first joints 41, and the number of unevennesses on the surface of the outer cover 20 overlapping the absorbent core 12 in the thickness direction is also reduced. Therefore, the visual confirmability of the absorbent core 12 from the outside of the diaper 1 is improved, and the user can easily confirm the size of the absorbent core 12, thus reducing anxiety about leakage. Furthermore, since an unnecessarily large number of first joints 41 are not required to reduce the deflection of the non-stretchable sheets 211, 221, 212, 222, it is possible to prevent the diaper 1 from hardening.

[0091] Furthermore, by reducing the deflection (height of the protrusion) of the non-stretchable pieces 211, 221, 212, 222 between the joints 40, the angle between the non-stretchable pieces 211, 221, 212, 222 and the contraction direction (left-right direction) of the stretchable pieces 213, 223 is reduced. This increases the resistance of the non-stretchable pieces 211, 221, 212, 222 to the contraction force of the stretchable pieces 213, 223, further reducing the contraction force of the stretchable pieces 213, 223.

[0092] Furthermore, it is sufficient that at least a portion of the outer body 20 overlapping the absorbent core 12 along the thickness direction has a first overlapping region OR1. For example, it is possible to have a structure in which the first overlapping region OR1 is provided only in one of the front body portion 21 and the rear body portion 22, or it is possible to have a structure in which the first overlapping region OR1 is provided in the crotch portion 23. In addition, it is also possible to provide three or more joint portions 40 with different shapes and areas in the first overlapping region OR1.

[0093] Furthermore, the joint 40 is not limited to Figure 4 and Figure 5 The illustrated joint. For example, the joint 40 may also be a shape other than a rectangle or a circle. In addition, the joints 40 may not be evenly spaced in the vertical and horizontal directions (i.e., they may be unevenly arranged), or they may not be staggered. Furthermore, the arrangement interval of the joints 40 may vary depending on the joint regions R1 to R4.

[0094] Furthermore, at least one of the shapes and areas of the first joint 41 and the second joint 42 may be different, but preferably, the length of the diaper 1 in the vertical direction of the first joint 41 is longer than that of the second joint 42 (L1 > d). As a result, the contractile force of the elastic sheets 213 and 223 can be reduced over a wider range in the vertical direction by utilizing the longer first joint 41.

[0095] Furthermore, it is preferable that the area of ​​the first joint 41 is larger than that of the second joint 42. As a result, the elastic properties of the stretchable sheets 213 and 223 can be more reliably eliminated by utilizing the larger area of ​​the first joint 41, and the contraction force of the stretchable sheets 213 and 223 can be reduced.

[0096] Alternatively, the length of the diaper 1 in the left-right direction of the first joint 41 may be longer than that of the second joint 42 (W1 > d). As a result, by utilizing the longer first joint 41 in the left-right direction, the length of the elastic force manifestation area in the stretchable sheets 213 and 223 in the left-right direction can be shortened, thereby reducing the contractile force of the stretchable sheets 213 and 223 in the left-right direction.

[0097] However, when the length of the first joint 41 in the vertical direction is greater than or equal to the length in the horizontal direction, multiple first joints 41 can be arranged in the horizontal direction. In this case, the elastic force manifestation area of ​​the stretchable sheets 213 and 223 can be divided more finely along the horizontal direction, and the contraction force of the stretchable sheets 213 and 223 can be reduced.

[0098] Furthermore, when comparing the size and area of ​​the joint 40 as described above, or when comparing the positional relationship and area of ​​the joint 40 as described below, it is assumed that the comparison is performed while the diaper 1 is stretched.

[0099] exist Figure 6A In the illustrated first overlapping region OR1, the second joint 42 is located at the center of the first joint 41 arranged in the vertical direction, and the second joint 42 is located at the center of the first joint 41 arranged in the horizontal direction. Furthermore, the vertical position of a portion of the first joint 41 coincides with the vertical position of the second joint 42, forming a column of the first joint 41 and the second joint 42 arranged in the horizontal direction.

[0100] In this way, at least a portion of the first joint 41 and the second joint 42 disposed in at least a portion of the first overlapping region OR1 may overlap in the vertical direction. Therefore, the second joint 42 can directly suppress the deflection of the non-stretchable sheets 211, 221, 212, 222 generated between the first joints 41 arranged in the left-right direction, thereby reducing deflection. Consequently, the unevenness of the surface of the outer casing 20 overlapping the absorbent core 21 in the thickness direction can be further reduced, making it easier for the user to confirm the size of the absorbent core 12. In particular, as... Figure 6A As shown, by placing the second joint 42 in the center of the first joint 41 arranged in the left-right direction, the deflection on both sides of the second joint 42 in the left-right direction can be reduced equally.

[0101] Figures 8A to 8C This is a diagram showing a modified example of the configuration of the first joint 41 and the second joint 42 in the first overlapping region OR1. Figure 6A Different, such as Figure 8A As shown, it is also possible that the positions of the first joint 41 and the second joint 42, which are disposed in at least a portion of the first overlapping region OR1, do not overlap in the vertical direction.

[0102] Therefore, the contraction force of the stretchable sheets 213 and 223 can be suppressed over a wider range in the vertical direction by utilizing the first joint 41 and the second joint 42, which are offset along the vertical direction. Furthermore, even when... Figure 8AIn this case, the second joint 42 can also be used to reduce the deflection of the non-stretchable pieces 211, 221, 212, and 222 generated between the first joint 41. Furthermore, in Figure 8A Since the first joint 41 and the second joint 42 are not arranged in the left-right direction, the contraction force of the stretchable sheets 213 and 223 can be locally reduced or hardened at specific positions in the up-down direction.

[0103] Alternatively, when observing the unfolded diaper 1 from above along the thickness direction, such as... Figure 8B As shown, in the first joint 41 and the second joint 42 disposed in at least a portion of the first overlapping region OR1, a portion of each other overlaps in the thickness direction.

[0104] In this case, the elastic properties of the stretchable sheets 213 and 223 can be more reliably eliminated by utilizing the overlapping portion of the first joint 41 and the second joint 42, thereby reducing the contraction force of the stretchable sheets 213 and 223. On the other hand, at the portion where the first joint 41 and the second joint 42 do not overlap, the deflection of the non-stretchable sheets 211, 221, 212, and 222 can be suppressed, thereby reducing deflection.

[0105] In addition, such as Figure 8C As shown, the joints 40 arranged sequentially from one side of the first overlapping region OR1 in the left-right direction are defined as a first joint 41a, a second joint 42a, and other first joints 41b. In this case, it is also possible that, in the left-right direction, compared with the other first joints 41b, the first joint 41a is located near the second joint 42a. That is, the center-to-center distance W3 between the first joint 41a and the second joint 42a is shorter than the center-to-center distance W4 between the second joint 42a and the other first joints 41b.

[0106] As a result, the deflection of the non-stretchable sheets 211, 221, 212, and 222 between the closely spaced first joint 41a and second joint 42a is further reduced, making the deflection difficult for the user to perceive. Therefore, the number of easily perceptible bumps and recesses on the surface of the outer casing 20, which overlaps the absorbent core 12 in the thickness direction, can be reduced, making it easier for the user to confirm the size of the absorbent core 12.

[0107] In addition, such as Figure 2 As shown, in the outer body 20 on at least one side in the front-back direction (in the rear body 22 in this embodiment), a pair of curved regions 20C along a pair of leg openings 1b of the diaper 1 and a central region 20D in the left-right direction connecting the pair of curved regions 20C are provided. In this case, the following is preferred.

[0108] First, it can be, such as Figure 5 As shown, when the diaper 1 is viewed from above in its unfolded state along the thickness direction of the diaper 1, the outer body 20 has a region OR2 (hereinafter also referred to as the second overlapping region OR2) in the area where the central region 20D overlaps with the absorbent core 12 along the thickness direction. Furthermore, the third joint 43 may satisfy at least one of the following: its length in the left-right direction is longer than the first joint 41 (W2 > W1); its length in the vertical direction is longer than the first joint 41 (L2 > L1); and its area is larger than the first joint 41 (in this embodiment, the third joint 43 satisfies all of these conditions).

[0109] Therefore, in the area (central region 20D) of the outer body 20, which is equipped with a leg-circumference elastic member 225 that cuts across the absorbent core 12 in the left-right direction in addition to the elastic sheets 213 and 223, the area ratio of the joint 40 can be increased. That is, the contraction force of the elastic sheets 213 and 223 and the leg-circumference elastic member 225 can be reduced more reliably and significantly by using the third joint 43, which is larger in size and area than the first joint 41. In detail, the leg-circumference elastic member 225 can be finely divided in the left-right direction by the third joint 43, thereby reducing the contraction force of the leg-circumference elastic member 225. As a result, the contraction of the absorbent core 12 can be suppressed.

[0110] Alternatively, the structure may be such that no multiple joints 40 are provided in the area of ​​the outer body 20 outside the central region 20D. In this case, the third joint 43 of this embodiment corresponds to the first joint of the present invention.

[0111] Alternatively, similar to the first overlapping region OR1, a first joint 41 and a second joint 42 may also be provided in the central region 20D. In this case, the number of joints 40 per unit area may be increased, thereby more reliably reducing the contractile force of the elastic plates 213, 223 and the leg elastic member 225.

[0112] In addition, such as Figure 4 As shown, the leg-circumference elastic member 215 disposed on the front body portion 21 is only provided in the curved area along the leg-circumference opening 1b of the outer body 20, and does not transversely cut the absorbent core 12 in the left-right direction. Therefore, the contraction of the absorbent core 12 in the left-right direction is suppressed. In addition, although the leg-circumference elastic member 215 is disposed from the side joint portion 24 toward the lower end of the front body portion 21, it is preferable that the lower end of the leg-circumference elastic member 215 does not exhibit elastic characteristics, or that the leg-circumference elastic member 215 does not reach the lower end of the front body portion 21. As a result, the curling and other issues of the lower end of the front body portion 21 can be suppressed.

[0113] Furthermore, when viewing the diaper 1 in its unfolded state from above along its thickness direction, the region of the outer casing 20 that overlaps with the upper end 12A of the absorbent core 12 in the thickness direction is designated as the end region 20E. Preferably, the end region 20E does not have a first overlapping region OR1 where the first joining region R1 and the second joining region R2 coincide. Also, the area ratio of the joining portions 40 in the end region 20E may be smaller than the area ratio of the joining portions 40 in the first overlapping region OR1. That is, the value obtained by dividing the total area of ​​the joining portions 40 disposed in the end region 20E by the area of ​​the end region 20E may be smaller than the value obtained by dividing the total area of ​​the joining portions 40 disposed in the first overlapping region OR1 by the area of ​​the first overlapping region OR1.

[0114] Therefore, at the boundary between the region of the outer body 20 overlapping with the absorbent core 12 and the region of the outer body 20 not overlapping with the absorbent core 12 in the thickness direction, abrupt changes in the contraction force of the stretchable sheets 213 and 223 can be suppressed. Thus, distortion of the outer body 20 in the aforementioned boundary portion can be suppressed.

[0115] Figures 9A to 9F This is an explanatory diagram of a joint 40 having a shape along its long axis. The plurality of joints 40 disposed on the outer casing 20 are preferably shaped along their long axis. In this embodiment, the first joint 41, the third joint 43, and the fourth joint 44 are rectangular in shape, having a shape along their long axis.

[0116] As a shape with its major axis, a rectangle can be exemplified ( Figure 9A ), roughly rectangular (e.g. Figure 9B Such a rectangle with curved sides, like Figure 9C Rectangles with rounded corners, parallelograms, etc. Figure 9D ), oval ( Figure 9E ),diamond( Figure 9F As shown in the figure, in rectangles, approximately rectangles, parallelograms, and ellipses, the direction of the straight line connecting the centers of opposite shorter sides (curves) is defined as the major axis direction. In a rhombus, the direction along the longer diagonal is defined as the major axis direction.

[0117] When the joint 40 has a shape with the long axis direction as described above, the joint 40 is preferably configured to be inclined with respect to the vertical and horizontal directions with respect to the long axis direction. For example, the first joint 41 in this embodiment is configured to be inclined at 45 degrees with respect to the vertical and horizontal directions with respect to the long axis direction.

[0118] Therefore, since the long axis of the highly rigid joint 40 is not along the long side or the width direction, the rigidity of the outer body 20 in the vertical and horizontal directions can be reduced. As a result, the outer body 20 can easily deform along the wearer's waist and the bulges (abdomen and buttocks) in the vertical direction, making it difficult for the wearer to feel the stiffness of the diaper 1.

[0119] Furthermore, when the joint portion 40, located in the area of ​​the outer casing 20 overlapping with the absorbent core 12, is inclined along its long axis, its vertical length increases compared to the case where the long axis is along the left-right direction. Therefore, the contractile force of the stretchable sheets 213 and 223 can be reduced by utilizing a wider range of the joint portion 40 throughout the vertical direction. Additionally, since the horizontal length of the joint portion 40 is appropriately shortened, a greater number of joint portions 40 can be arranged along the left-right direction. Therefore, the elastic force manifestation area in the stretchable sheets 213 and 223 can be finely divided along the left-right direction, reducing the contractile force of the stretchable sheets 213 and 223. On the other hand, compared to the case where the long axis is along the vertical direction, the horizontal length of the joint portion 40 increases, thus shortening the horizontal length of the elastic force manifestation area in the stretchable sheets 213 and 223, reducing the contractile force of the stretchable sheets 213 and 223. In this way, when the long axis of the joint 40 is tilted, the effect of both the joint 40 being longer in the vertical direction and the joint 40 being longer in the horizontal direction can be obtained, and the area of ​​the joint 40 can be reduced, thus preventing the diaper 1 from hardening.

[0120] Alternatively, it can be that the joints have different tilting patterns along their long axis, arranged in a mixed manner. Figure 4 and Figure 5 In this diaper, a symmetrically inclined joint 40 is provided between the joints 40 arranged along the long axis. As a result, since the distribution of the contraction force of the elastic sheet 213 is symmetrical, the appearance of the diaper 1 can be improved or the balance of the fastening force can be improved.

[0121] Figure 10 This diagram shows a modified example of the joint portion 40 disposed on the diaper 1. Alternatively, a fifth joint portion region R5, where the area ratio of the joint portion 40 is higher than that of the second joint portion region R2, may be disposed in the region of the outer body 20 arranged in the left-right direction along the first overlapping region OR1 and the second overlapping region OR2. Figure 10 In the illustrated fifth joint region R5, compared to the second joint region R2, the number of second joints 42 provided per unit area is increased, thereby improving the area ratio of the joints 40. However, this is not a limitation; multiple joints 40 may be provided in the fifth joint region R5.

[0122] exist Figure 10 In this case, because the contraction of the outer garment 20 on both outer sides of the absorbent core 12 in the left-right direction is also suppressed, the outer garment 20 expands in the left-right direction, allowing it to cover the buttocks and the front crotch area. Furthermore, the appearance of the diaper 1 is reduced. However, compared to the first overlapping region OR1 and the second overlapping region OR2, the fifth joint region R5 reduces the area ratio of the joint 40. Therefore, the contractile force of the outer garment 20 can be appropriately maintained, and the outer garment 20 can fit snugly against the wearer's buttocks, etc.

[0123] Figure 11A and Figure 11B This is an illustration of the first overlapping area OR1 in a group of diapers 1 of different sizes. Diapers 1 can also be marketed as a group of diapers 1 in multiple sizes (e.g., S, M, L, etc.). This allows the wearer to wear a diaper 1 that corresponds to their body size. In this case, the group of diapers 1 in multiple sizes can carry the same brand name and sub-brand name and be marketed. This allows the user to choose the desired diaper 1.

[0124] In addition, the same brand name refers to information indicating the variety of products in the product group (incontinence care products) that includes diapers 1 (e.g., "lifree"). The same sub-brand name refers to information indicating the names of different products (underwear-type diapers, pads, etc.) within the same brand (e.g., "refreshing underwear").

[0125] exist Figure 11A In the illustrated group of diapers 1, the overall area of ​​the outer body 20 differs between the first size diaper 1 (e.g., M-size diaper 1, first underwear-type absorbent article) and the second size diaper 1 (e.g., L-size diaper 1, second underwear-type absorbent article), but the area of ​​the first overlapping region OR1 is the same (or approximately the same). Therefore, the area ratio of the first overlapping region OR1 in the outer body 20 (the value obtained by dividing the area of ​​the first overlapping region OR1 by the overall area of ​​the outer body 20) differs in the different sizes of diapers 1, and the area ratio is smaller in the case of the larger size (L-size).

[0126] Therefore, even if the outer casing 20 is larger in a larger size, the first overlapping region OR1 will not unnecessarily increase in size relative to the absorbent core 12 if the size of the absorbent core 12 is the same (or approximately the same). Thus, the contractile force of the stretchable sheets 213 and 223 can be prevented from decreasing excessively. Conversely, even if the outer casing 20 is smaller, the first overlapping region OR1 will not unnecessarily decrease in size relative to the absorbent core 12 if the size of the absorbent core 12 is the same (or approximately the same). Thus, the contractile force of the stretchable sheets 213 and 223 overlapping with the absorbent core 12 can be reduced. That is, the contractile force of the region of the outer casing 20 corresponding to the size of the absorbent core 12 can be reduced regardless of the area of ​​the outer casing 20, and the unevenness of the surface of the outer casing 20 overlapping with the absorbent core 12 can be reduced.

[0127] In addition, the overall area of ​​the outer casing 20 refers to, for example, Figure 2 The planar area of ​​the outer body 20 in the diaper 1 in its unfolded and extended state is shown. In addition, when the first overlapping region OR1 is respectively provided on the front body 21 and the back body 22, etc., when multiple first overlapping regions OR1 are provided on the diaper 1, it is set as the area ratio based on the total area of ​​the multiple first overlapping regions OR1.

[0128] However, it is not limited to the above situations, such as Figure 11B As shown, the area of ​​the first overlapping region OR1 can vary depending on the size of the diaper 1; for example, the area of ​​the first overlapping region OR1 can be increased proportionally to the size of the diaper 1. Therefore, even when the size of the absorbent core 12 varies according to the size of the diaper 1, the contractile force of the area of ​​the outer body 20 corresponding to the size of the absorbent core 12 can be reduced. Furthermore, in smaller diapers 1, unnecessarily reduced contraction of the outer body 20 can be prevented.

[0129] The embodiments of the present invention have been described above. However, these embodiments are provided to facilitate understanding of the present invention and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Furthermore, the present invention can certainly be modified and improved without departing from its spirit, and equivalents are included in the present invention.

[0130] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0131] 1. Diapers (absorbent underwear type), 2. and 3. Inner layer sheets.

[0132] 10 Absorbent Subjects

[0133] 11 Top film, 12 Absorbent core, 13 Film,

[0134] 20 Exterior, 20C Curved Area, 20D Central Area

[0135] 21. Front of body, 22. Back of body, 23. Crotch area

[0136] 211 Non-skin side film (non-stretch film)

[0137] 212 Skin Side Film (Non-Stretchable Film)

[0138] 213 stretchable sheet,

[0139] 214 Waist elastic component, 215 Leg elastic component,

[0140] 221 Non-skin side film (non-stretch film)

[0141] 222 Skin Side Patch (Non-Stretchable Patch)

[0142] 223 stretchable sheet,

[0143] 224 waist elastic component, 225 leg elastic component,

[0144] 24 Side joints

[0145] 40 joints

[0146] 41 First joint, 42 Second joint,

[0147] 43 Third joint (first joint), 44 Fourth joint

[0148] R1 first joint area, R2 second joint area

[0149] R3 Third Joint Region (First Joint Region), R4 Fourth Joint Region.

Claims

1. An absorbent article in the form of underwear, the absorbent article having a vertical direction, a horizontal direction, and a front-back direction, and having an absorbent body with an absorbent core and an outer body disposed on the non-skin side compared to the absorbent body, characterized in that, The outer casing includes a non-stretchable sheet and a stretchable sheet that extends and retracts along the left-right direction. The non-stretchable sheet and the stretchable sheet are intermittently joined by multiple joints. The plurality of joints include a plurality of first joints of the same shape and the same area and a plurality of second joints of the same shape and the same area. In the first joint and the second joint, at least one of their shapes and areas are different. The outer casing includes a first joint region with a plurality of first joints and a second joint region with a plurality of second joints. When the underwear-type absorbent article is viewed from above in its unfolded state along the thickness direction, the outer body has a region in which the first joint region and the second joint region coincide in the area overlapping with the absorbent core in the thickness direction. When observing the unfolded absorbent underwear in a top view along its thickness direction, In the first and second joints, which are disposed in at least a portion of the overlapping region, a portion of each other overlaps in the thickness direction.

2. The absorbent underwear-type garment according to claim 1, characterized in that, Compared to the second joint, the first joint has a longer vertical length.

3. The absorbent underwear-type garment according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, Compared to the second joint, the first joint has a larger area.

4. The absorbent underwear-type garment according to claim 1, characterized in that, In the first and second joints, which are disposed in at least a portion of the overlapping region, at least a portion of their vertical positions overlap.

5. The absorbent underwear-type garment according to claim 1, characterized in that, In the first and second joints, which are disposed in at least a portion of the overlapping region, the vertical positions do not overlap.

6. The absorbent underwear-type garment according to claim 1, characterized in that, In the overlapping area, a first joint, a second joint, and other first joints are arranged sequentially from one side in the left-right direction. In the left-right direction, compared with the other first joints, the first joint is disposed near the second joint.

7. The absorbent underwear-type garment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The plurality of joints have a shape having a long axis direction. The joint is configured such that the long axis direction is inclined relative to the vertical direction and the horizontal direction.

8. The absorbent underwear-type garment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The leg elastic member disposed on at least one side of the outer body in the front-back direction is disposed in a pair of curved regions along a pair of leg openings of the underwear-type absorbent article and a central region connecting the pair of curved regions in the left-right direction. The plurality of joints have a plurality of third joints with the same shape and the same area. At least one of the shape and area of ​​the third joint is different from that of the first joint and the second joint. The third joint satisfies at least one of the following: its length in the left-right direction is greater than the length of the first joint; its length in the up-down direction is greater than the length of the first joint; and its area is greater than that of the first joint. The outer casing has a third joint area equipped with a plurality of the third joints. When the underwear-type absorbent article is viewed from above in its unfolded state along the thickness direction, the outer body has a region in the central region where the absorbent core overlaps with the second joint region and the third joint region in the thickness direction.

9. The absorbent underwear-type garment according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the underwear-type absorbent article is viewed from above in its unfolded state along the thickness direction, the outer casing has an end region that overlaps with the upper end of the absorbent core in the thickness direction. The value obtained by dividing the total area of ​​the joints disposed in the end region by the area of ​​the end region is smaller than the value obtained by dividing the total area of ​​the joints disposed in the region where the first joint region and the second joint region overlap by the area of ​​the overlapping region.

10. The absorbent underwear-type article according to claim 1, characterized in that, The absorbent underwear-type item is of the first size. The value obtained by dividing the area of ​​the region where the first joint area and the second joint area overlap by the total area of ​​the outer garment is different from the value obtained by performing the division operation on other underwear-type absorbent articles that have the same brand name and sub-brand name as the underwear-type absorbent article and are of the second size.

11. A group of underwear-type absorbent articles, said group of underwear-type absorbent articles comprising: First-size first-type absorbent underwear; and Second size, second underwear type absorbent item, The first and second absorbent underwear-type items share the same brand name and sub-brand name, characterized in that... The first and second underwear-type absorbent articles have vertical, horizontal, and front-back directions, respectively, and each has an absorbent body with an absorbent core and an outer body disposed on the non-skin side compared to the absorbent body. The outer casing includes a non-stretchable sheet and a stretchable sheet that extends and retracts along the left-right direction. The non-stretchable sheet and the stretchable sheet are intermittently joined by multiple joints. The plurality of joints include a plurality of first joints of the same shape and the same area and a plurality of second joints of the same shape and the same area. In the first joint and the second joint, at least one of their shapes and areas are different. The outer casing includes a first joint region with a plurality of first joints and a second joint region with a plurality of second joints. When the underwear-type absorbent article is viewed from above in its unfolded state along the thickness direction, the outer body has a region in which the first joint region and the second joint region coincide in the area overlapping with the absorbent core in the thickness direction. When observing the unfolded absorbent underwear in a top view along its thickness direction, In the first and second joint portions, which are disposed in at least a portion of the overlapping region, a portion of each other overlaps in the thickness direction. In the first underwear-type absorbent article and the second underwear-type absorbent article, the area of ​​the region where the first joint region and the second joint region overlap is divided by the total area of ​​the outer garment to obtain different values.

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