Beam elastomeric laminate properties and regions

Abstract

The elastomeric laminates of the present disclosure can include closely spaced (e.g., average strand spacing of less than 4 mm) fine elastomeric strands (average denier of less than 400), and the laminates can be deformed by MD activation and / or aperturing. Further, the laminates of the present disclosure can include elastomeric strands having different polymer compositions. The laminates of the present disclosure can be used in disposable absorbent article components, including waistbands.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the Chinese invention patent application (application number: 202180016818.0, invention title: Performance and Region of Beam-type Elastomer Laminates) filed by Procter & Gamble on March 8, 2021 (PCT / US2021 / 021315), which entered the Chinese national phase. Technical Field

[0002] This disclosure relates to absorbent articles, and more specifically, to disposable absorbent articles comprising an improved elastomeric laminate configured to be performed in various components of the disposable absorbent article. Background Technology

[0003] Conventional stranded elastomer laminates, as disclosed in the art, are commonly used to prepare disposable trousers. Because conventional stranded elastomer laminates use large elastic strands (e.g., average split tex greater than 400) and have large inter-strand spacing (e.g., average strand spacing greater than 4 mm) at high pre-strain (e.g., greater than 200% of average pre-strain), they exhibit several undesirable performance parameters. Specifically, conventional laminates have higher than expected strand compressive strength (e.g., strand compressive strength greater than 1 psi) and modulus (e.g., segmental modulus greater than 14 gf / mm), resulting in poor sustained fit and red mark. Furthermore, the forces required to stretch many strips made with conventional stranded elastomer laminates may be too high (e.g., applied force greater than 2,500 gf), making it difficult for caregivers and wearers to put on the disposable trousers.

[0004] To overcome many of these drawbacks, laminates can be used that utilize fine elastomer strands with close spacing (e.g., an average strand spacing of less than 4 mm) to result in low strand stress (less than 1 psi) and low section modulus (less than 10 gf / mm). While these laminates offer improvements over conventional stranded elastomer laminates, it has been found that the modulus of a region or the entire strip can be further improved through mechanical deformation of said region or the entire strip.

[0005] These novel stranded elastomer laminates, including the mechanically deformable ones disclosed herein, offer even greater ease of wear / fitting without leaving marks on the wearer's skin due to the way they distribute force, and these novel stranded elastomer laminates also fit as well as previously disclosed laminates, even when compared to laminates comprising closely spaced fine elastic strands. Most surprisingly, the novel mechanically deformable stranded laminates are easier to wear, exert less pressure on the wearer's skin, and still provide excellent and sustained fit even in the event of injury.

[0006] Furthermore, previously disclosed elastomeric laminates utilize multiple regions. However, these regions create high-pressure areas. While the inventive laminates of this disclosure may utilize multiple regions, the regions of the inventive laminates exhibit greater strain at a given stress and have lower laminate modulus, providing a unique set of performance factors that are not possible in previously disclosed and utilized stranded laminates. Moreover, for the inventive laminates comprising multiple performance regions, the performance differences (e.g., laminate modulus and strain modulus ratio) between regions with higher and lower strain modulus ratios are further unique to the inventive laminates disclosed herein. The inventive laminates may also have multiple textured regions disclosed herein, which may be formed in part by mechanical deformation of the first region and lack of (or different or different intensities of) mechanical deformation in the second region. Another benefit of the regions of the inventive laminates disclosed herein is that such regions help to make disposable trousers more like textile garments and convey a comfortable fit or transmit signals of performance regions and contour fit. Overall, the elastomeric laminates of this disclosure differ in appearance and performance from any previously disclosed or commercially available elastomeric laminates.

[0007] This document also discloses that the elastomeric laminates of the present invention may optionally or additionally include pores in one or more layers or regions of the elastomeric laminates of the present invention. Furthermore, this document discloses that the elastomeric laminates of the present invention may optionally or additionally comprise strands of different polymer compositions. Each of these may contribute to the creation of regions or entire components exhibiting the characteristics of the present invention disclosed herein.

[0008] One of the advantages of activating, opening and / or using elastic strands containing different polymer compositions is that a single elastic member beam can be used to prepare laminates with multiple regions, even when using a single beam and even when the elastic members set on the beam have the same properties, pre-strain and spacing.

[0009] Most of the focus of this disclosure relates to disposable trousers and belts, but it should be noted that the novel laminates of this disclosure have many applications for disposable absorbent articles (e.g., adhesive diapers, pads, linings, etc.) and article components (e.g., top sheet, bottom sheet, hoop, side sheet, belt, etc.).

[0010] More details about the design concept of the novel stranded elastomer laminate are shown in the following section. Summary of the Invention

[0011] In a first embodiment, the elastomeric laminate of this disclosure may include a plurality of elastic strands bonded by an adhesive between a first substrate layer and a second substrate layer. The plurality of elastic strands may include an average strand spacing of about 0.25 mm to about 4 mm and an average denier of about 10 to about 400. A first segment of the elastomeric laminate may include a plurality of elastic members and mechanically deformable portions forming ridges and valleys, wherein the ridges and valleys extend substantially perpendicular to the plurality of elastic members. The first segment of the elastomeric laminate may have a laminate modulus of about 3 gf / mm to about 12 gf / mm, a strain greater than 110% at a stress of 9.1 gf / mm, and a strain modulus ratio greater than about 30 and less than about 80.

[0012] The elastomer laminate may further include a second segment excluding ridges and valleys, and the second segment may have a laminate modulus greater than that of the first segment.

[0013] The second section may include multiple elastic components.

[0014] The first segment of the elastomeric laminate may include a plurality of pores forming porous portions.

[0015] The elastomer laminate can form at least a portion of an absorbent article component, wherein the absorbent article component is selected from ear pieces, side pieces, belts, top pieces, bottom pieces, hoops, and combinations thereof.

[0016] The first segment of the elastomer laminate may have a laminate modulus of about 3 gf / mm to about 8 gf / mm, and when present, the second segment of the elastomer laminate may have a laminate modulus of about 4 gf / mm to about 10 gf / mm.

[0017] The first segment of the elastomer laminate may have a laminate modulus of about 3 gf / mm to about 10 gf / mm, a strain greater than 125% at a stress of 9.1 gf / mm, and a strain modulus ratio greater than about 30 and less than about 65.

[0018] The first segment of the elastomer laminate can form at least a portion of the waist region.

[0019] In a second form, the disposable absorbent trousers of this disclosure may include a base structure comprising a top sheet, a bottom sheet, and an absorbent core disposed between the top sheet and the bottom sheet. A first plurality of elastic strands may be disposed in a front waistband area, and a second plurality of elastic strands may be disposed in a back waistband area. The front waistband and back waistband areas may be joined together at laterally opposed side seams to form a waist opening and a leg opening. The front waistband area may be an area between: a) the nearest point of the nearest side front axis, which extends parallel to the lateral axis and passes through the laterally opposed side seam; and b) the farthest point of the farthest side front axis, which extends parallel to the lateral axis and passes through the farthest point of the laterally opposed side seam. The back waistband area may be an area between: a) the nearest point of the nearest side rear axis, which extends parallel to the lateral axis and passes through the nearest point of the laterally opposed side seam; and b) the farthest point of the farthest side rear axis, which extends parallel to the lateral axis and passes through the farthest point of the laterally opposed side seam. The anterior waist region may include an anterior component region disposed between the anterior furthest elastic tread line and the anterior proximal elastic tread line of the anterior waist region, and including both the anterior furthest and proximal elastic tread lines of the anterior waist region. The anterior component region may be defined by an anterior distal component region line and an anterior proximal component region line, the anterior distal component region line extending parallel to the lateral axis and passing through the furthest point of the anterior furthest elastic tread line, and the anterior proximal component region line extending parallel to the lateral axis and passing through the closest point of the anterior proximal elastic tread line. The anterior component region may then be divided into four identical component segments defined by a first component segment line, a second component segment line, and a third component segment line, each disposed parallel to the lateral axis and located at 25%, 50%, and 75% of the distance between the anterior distal component region line and the anterior proximal component region line, respectively. The front component region may include a first component segment (front segment 1), a fourth component segment (front segment 4), a second component segment (front segment 2), and a third component segment (front segment 3). The first component segment includes the farthest elastic strand, the fourth component segment includes the nearest elastic strand, the second component segment is adjacent to the front segment 1, and the third component segment is located between the front segments 2 and 4. The rear waist region includes a rear component region located between the farthest and nearest elastic strands of the rear waist region and includes both the farthest and nearest elastic strands of the rear waist region. The rear component region may be defined by a farthest rear component region line and a nearth rear component region line. The farthest rear component region line extends parallel to the lateral axis and passes through the farthest point of the farthest rear elastic strand, and the nearth rear component region line extends parallel to the lateral axis and passes through the nearest point of the nearest rear elastic strand. The rear component area is then divided into four identical component segments, which are defined by a first component segment line, a second component segment line, and a third component segment line. Each component segment line is arranged parallel to the lateral axis and is located at 25%, 50%, and 75% of the distance between the rear distal component area line and the rear proximal component area line, respectively.The rear component region may include a first component segment (rear segment 1), a fourth component segment (rear segment 4), a second component segment (rear segment 2), and a third component segment (rear segment 3). The first component segment includes the rear furthest elastic strand, the fourth component segment includes the rear nearest elastic strand, the second component segment is adjacent to the rear segment 1, and the third component segment is disposed between the rear segments 2 and 4. At least one of the front segments 1 to 4 may include a first plurality of elastic elements and at least one of the following: a plurality of holes, and mechanically deformable portions forming ridges and valleys. At least one of the front segments 1 to 4 may have a laminate modulus of about 3 gf / mm to about 12 gf / mm, a strain greater than 110% at a stress of 9.1 gf / mm, and a strain modulus ratio greater than about 30 and less than about 80. Disposable absorbent trousers may have an applied stress of about 7.5 gf / mm to about 14 gf / mm, a continuous fit load stress greater than 30% of the applied stress, and a continuous fit unload stress greater than 25% of the applied stress.

[0020] At least one of the front sections 1 to 4 may include mechanically deformable portions forming ridges and valleys, and may include an inner nonwoven fabric, an outer nonwoven fabric, and a first plurality of elastic members. Furthermore, at least one of the rear sections 1 to 4 may include mechanically deformable portions forming ridges and valleys, and may include an inner nonwoven fabric, an outer nonwoven fabric, and a second plurality of elastic members.

[0021] At least two of the front sections 1 to 4 may include mechanically deformed portions forming ridges and valleys, and at least two of the rear sections 1 to 4 may include mechanically deformed portions forming ridges and valleys.

[0022] Each of the front sections 1 to 4 may include mechanically deformed portions forming ridges and valleys, and each of the rear sections 1 to 4 may include mechanically deformed portions forming ridges and valleys.

[0023] Disposable absorbent trousers can have a maximum strain of more than 120% of the leg cuff under a force of less than 650 gf.

[0024] At least one of the front sections 1 to 4 may include a plurality of holes forming a perforated portion, and the perforated portion of the front component region may pass through a nonwoven fabric facing the garment rather than a nonwoven fabric setting facing the wearer.

[0025] One or both of the following segments 1, 3 and 4 may have a lower laminate modulus than one or both of the following segments 2.

[0026] One or both of the preceding sections 1 and 2 may have a lower laminate modulus than one or both of the preceding sections 3 and 4.

[0027] The absorbent article can be divided into three article segments: segment L, segment M, and segment R. The article segments are defined by a left article segment line and a right article segment line. The left article segment line extends parallel to the longitudinal axis and passes through the left-hand farthest point of the left side of the base structure. The right article segment line extends parallel to the longitudinal axis and passes through the right-hand farthest point of the right side, which is opposite to the left side of the base structure. Any part of the article defines segment L and the laterally opposite segment R to one lateral side or the other lateral side of segment M. The first segments L and R include mechanically deformed portions that form ridges and valleys, while segment M is substantially without ridges and valleys.

[0028] In a third form, the disposable absorbent trousers of this disclosure may include a base structure comprising a top sheet, a bottom sheet, and an absorbent core disposed between the top sheet and the bottom sheet. A first plurality of elastic strands may be disposed in the front waist area, and the first plurality of elastic strands may comprise a first polymer composition. A second plurality of elastic strands may be disposed in the front waist area, and the second plurality of elastic strands may comprise a second polymer composition. Each of the first plurality of elastic strands and the second plurality of elastic strands may have an average strand spacing of about 0.25 mm to about 4 mm. Each of the first plurality of elastic strands and the second plurality of elastic strands may have an average denier of about 10 to about 400. The first polymer composition and the second polymer composition may be different. The front waist area and the back waist area may be joined together at laterally opposed side seams to form a waist opening and a leg opening. The front waist area may be defined as the region between: a) the nearest point of the nearest side front axis, which extends parallel to the lateral axis and passes through the laterally opposed side seam; and b) the farthest point of the farthest side front axis, which extends parallel to the lateral axis and passes through the laterally opposed side seam. The anterior waist region may include an anterior component region disposed between the anterior furthest elastic tread line and the anterior proximal elastic tread line of the anterior waist region, and including both the anterior furthest and proximal elastic tread lines of the anterior waist region. The anterior component region may be defined by an anterior distal component region line and an anterior proximal component region line, the anterior distal component region line extending parallel to the lateral axis and passing through the furthest point of the anterior furthest elastic tread line, and the anterior proximal component region line extending parallel to the lateral axis and passing through the closest point of the anterior proximal elastic tread line. The anterior component region may then be divided into four identical component segments defined by a first component segment line, a second component segment line, and a third component segment line, each disposed parallel to the lateral axis and located at 25%, 50%, and 75% of the distance between the anterior distal component region line and the anterior proximal component region line, respectively. The front component region may include a first component segment (front segment 1), a fourth component segment (front segment 4), a second component segment (front segment 2), and a third component segment (front segment 3). The first component segment includes the farthest front elastic strand, the fourth component segment includes the nearest front elastic strand, the second component segment is adjacent to the front segment 1, and the third component segment is disposed between the front segments 2 and 4. At least one of the front segments 1 and 4 may include a first plurality of elastic components, at least one of the front segments 2 and 3 may include a second plurality of elastic components, and at least one of the front segments 1 and 4 may have a lower laminate modulus than at least one of the front segments 2 and 3.

[0029] The first segments 1 and 4 may have a first layer modulus, and the first segments 2 and 3 may have a second layer modulus, wherein the second layer modulus in one or both of segments 2 and 3 is higher than the first layer modulus in one or both of segments 1 and 4. Attached Figure Description

[0030] Figure 1A This is a top view showing a non-inventive laminate for comparison.

[0031] Figure 1B This is a top view showing the inventive laminate of this disclosure that has been deformed by MD activation.

[0032] Figure 1C This is a side view showing the inventive laminate of this disclosure that has been deformed by MD activation.

[0033] Figure 1D This is a perspective top view showing the inventive laminate of this disclosure that has been deformed by the opening.

[0034] Figure 1E This is a top view showing the inventive laminate of this disclosure that has been deformed by the opening.

[0035] Figure 2A This is a perspective side view showing the inventive laminate of this disclosure that has been deformed by MD activation.

[0036] Figure 2B This is a top view showing the laminate of the present invention, which has been deformed by the opening.

[0037] Figure 2C This is a top view showing the laminate of the present invention, which has been deformed by the opening.

[0038] Figure 2D This is a perspective side view showing the laminate of the present invention, which has been deformed by opening and MD activation.

[0039] Figure 3 This is a diagram showing a hook clamp used to perform a hip clamp test, and in which the applied force is determined.

[0040] Figure 4 Is Figure 3 A cross-sectional view at 4-4 is shown, illustrating the relationship between the applied force and the laminate force.

[0041] Figure 5A The stress-strain curves of the same stranded laminate and the same stranded laminate after mechanical deformation are shown, with the maximum effective strain and laminate modulus. Figure 5A The layered compounds are further detailed in Table A.

[0042] Figure 5B It shows Figure 5A Data generated from the first load of the mechanically deformed stranded laminate during the hip brace test, including stress-strain curves with maximum effective elongation, applied force, sustained fit load force, and sustained fit unload force.

[0043] Figure 5CThe effect of MD activation on the hip collar test of the stranded laminate and the same laminate after mechanical deformation is shown. Figure 5C The layered compounds are further detailed in Table A.

[0044] Figure 5D This is a front view showing the initial fit of a comparative product including a beam-type laminate strip. Figure 5D The products listed are described in further detail in Table B.

[0045] Figure 5D 'is shown Figure 5D A front view comparing the final fit of the product. Figure 5D The products listed are further detailed in Table B.

[0046] Figure 5E This is a front view of the initial fit of the product of the present invention, which is related to... Figure 5D Same, but with MD already activated. Figure 5E The products listed are described in further detail in Table B.

[0047] Figure 5E 'yes Figure 5E A front view of the final fit of the product of the present invention. Figure 5E The products listed are further detailed in Table B.

[0048] Figure 5F It is shown Figure 5D A perspective side view comparing the initial fit of the products. Figure 5F The products listed are described in further detail in Table B.

[0049] Figure 5F 'is shown Figure 5D A perspective side view comparing the final fit of the products. Figure 5F The products listed are further detailed in Table B.

[0050] Figure 5G yes Figure 5E A perspective side view of the initial fit of the product of the present invention. Figure 5G The products listed are described in further detail in Table B.

[0051] Figure 5G 'yes Figure 5E A perspective side view of the final fit of the product of the present invention. Figure 5G The products listed are further detailed in Table B.

[0052] Figure 5H It is shown Figure 5E A front view of the initial fit of the product of the present invention.

[0053] Figure 5H 'is shown Figure 5EA front view of the final fit of the product of the present invention.

[0054] Figure 5I This is a front view of the initial fit of the comparison product, which is compared with... Figure 5D Same as above, but the belt is made of durable yoga pants.

[0055] Figure 5I 'yes Figure 5I A front view comparing the final fit of the product.

[0056] Figure 5J yes Figure 5H A perspective side view of the initial fit of the product of the present invention.

[0057] Figure 5J 'is shown Figure 5H A perspective side view of the final fit of the product of the present invention.

[0058] Figure 5K It is shown Figure 5I A perspective side view comparing the initial fit of the products.

[0059] Figure 5K 'yes Figure 5I A perspective side view comparing the final fit of the products.

[0060] Figure 6A The image shows a beam-type laminate bonded with a contrast (non-inventory) adhesive having an average pre-strain of 150%, illustrating the percentage of contact area obtained by surface topography.

[0061] Figure 6B This is an image of the adhesive beam laminate of the present invention with an average pre-strain of 150%, showing the percentage of contact area obtained by surface morphology method, wherein... Figure 6B Layers and Figure 6A The same layered compound, but this layered compound has been activated by MD.

[0062] Figure 7A The laminate modulus of the beam-type elastomer laminate of the present invention, which has been activated by MD, is shown.

[0063] Figure 7B The section modulus of the beam-type elastomer laminate of the present invention, which has been MD activated, is shown.

[0064] Figure 8 It is a graph showing the force relaxation (force held over time) of a laminate including an extruded strand elastic component and the MD activated elastomer laminate of the present disclosure.

[0065] Figure 9AThis is a schematic side view of a conversion processing apparatus adapted to manufacture elastomer laminates, which includes equipment for deforming the elastomer laminates by MD activation.

[0066] Figure 9B It was taken from line 9B-9B. Figure 9A A top view of the conversion processing equipment.

[0067] Figure 9C It is a perspective side view of a conversion processing device adapted to deform elastomer laminates by MD activation.

[0068] Figure 9D It is a perspective front view of a conversion processing device adapted to deform elastomer laminates by MD activation.

[0069] Figure 9E It is a perspective side view of a conversion processing device adapted to deform elastomer laminates.

[0070] Figure 9F This is a schematic side view of a conversion processing apparatus adapted to manufacture elastomeric laminates, which includes equipment for deforming the elastomeric laminates through openings.

[0071] Figure 9G It was captured along the 9G-9G line. Figure 9F A top view of the conversion processing equipment.

[0072] Figure 9H This is a schematic side view of a conversion processing apparatus adapted to manufacture elastomer laminates, which includes devices for deforming the elastomer laminates by means of opening and MD activation.

[0073] Figure 9I It was taken from line 9I-9I. Figure 9H A top view of the conversion processing equipment.

[0074] Figure 9J It is a perspective side view of a conversion processing device adapted to deform elastomer laminates through openings.

[0075] Figure 10 The following curves showing the lumbar cuff stress versus lumbar cuff circumference generated in the hip cuff test are shown: Figure 5D The consistent beam-like layered compound, with Figure 5E Consistent with the same beam-like layered compound after MD activation, and with Figure 5I Consistent contrast yoga pants.

[0076] Figure 11 The results shown in the leg brace test Figure 10The leg clamp force and leg clamp strain curves of the laminate.

[0077] Figure 12A It is a perspective front view of pants including discrete front and back straps, which have been deformed by MD activation.

[0078] Figure 12B yes Figure 12A A perspective rear view of the pants.

[0079] Figure 12C A perspective front view of trousers including discrete front and back straps, which include segments 1 and 4 that have been deformed by MD activation.

[0080] Figure 12D yes Figure 12C The perspective rear view of the pants shows that sections 1 and 4 of the back strap have been deformed by MD activation.

[0081] Figure 12E yes Figure 12A The pants have a flat design on the sides of the seam belt to form the waist opening and leg opening.

[0082] Figure 12F yes Figure 12A The plan view of the pants before the joining straps form the waist opening and leg openings shows that sections 1 and 2 of the front strap have been deformed by MD activation, and sections 2 and 3 of the back strap have been deformed by MD activation.

[0083] Figure 12G It is a section taken along the lateral axis 44. Figure 12E A cross-sectional view of the trousers, showing an elastic top sheet (showing an elastic member 316 oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis 42) and an elastic bottom sheet (showing an elastic member 316 oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis 42).

[0084] Figure 12H It is a section taken along the longitudinal axis 42. Figure 12E A cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of the trousers, showing longitudinally opposed discrete bands, wherein the elastic member 316 is oriented parallel to the lateral axis 44 between the core wrap 74 and the top sheet 124, and parallel to the lateral axis 44 between the bottom sheet film 126 and the bottom sheet nonwoven fabric 127.

[0085] Figure 12I It is a section taken along the longitudinal axis 42. Figure 12E A cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of the belted trousers shows longitudinally opposed discrete inner belt layers 432 and a common outer belt layer 434, and shows a continuous elastic strand 316 extending across the core.

[0086] Figure 12J It is a section taken along the longitudinal axis 42. Figure 12E A cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of the belted trousers, showing a common inner belt layer 432 and a common outer belt layer 434.

[0087] Figure 12K It is a perspective front view of trousers including discrete front and back straps, which include segments L and R that have been deformed by MD activation.

[0088] Figure 12L yes Figure 12K The perspective rear view of the pants shows that the L and R sections of the back strap have been deformed by MD activation.

[0089] Figure 12M It is a perspective front view of trousers including discrete front and back straps, which have been deformed through openings.

[0090] Figure 12N yes Figure 12M A perspective rear view of the pants.

[0091] Figure 12O It is a perspective front view of trousers including discrete front and back straps, which include segments 1 and 4 that have been deformed by openings.

[0092] Figure 12P yes Figure 12O The perspective rear view of the pants shows that sections 1 and 4 of the back strap have been deformed through the openings.

[0093] Figure 12Q It is a perspective front view of trousers including discrete front and back straps, which include segments L and R that have been deformed by openings.

[0094] Figure 12R yes Figure 12Q The perspective rear view of the pants shows that the sections L and R of the back strap have been deformed through the openings.

[0095] Figure 12S It is a perspective front view of a disposable absorbent trousers that includes two different textured areas.

[0096] Figure 12T yes Figure 12C Side view of the pants.

[0097] Figure 12U It is a perspective front view of trousers including discrete front and back straps, the discrete front and back straps including segments L and R that have been deformed by MD activation and segment M that has been deformed by openings.

[0098] Figure 12VA perspective front view of trousers including discrete front and back straps, the discrete front and back straps including segments L and R deformed by MD activation and segments L, M and R deformed by openings.

[0099] Figure 13 This is a plan view of the pants before the side panels are joined to form the waist and leg openings. The side panels, waistband, inner leg cuffs, and outer leg cuffs have been MD activated.

[0100] Figure 14 This is a plan view of an adhesive diaper, which includes a pair of shaped, discrete elastomer ear flaps 530 and a pair of non-elastomer ear flaps 540. The ear flap waistband, inner leg cuffs, and outer leg cuffs have been MD activated.

[0101] Figure 15 A disposable absorbent article comprising the inventive laminate of this disclosure is shown in a package.

[0102] Figure 16 This indicates downward pressure on the stock price.

[0103] Figure 17 The average diameter of the elastic strand is shown.

[0104] Figure 18A This is a plan view of the trousers on the side of the joining strip before forming the waist opening and leg opening, showing the front part area 50 and the rear part area 51.

[0105] Figure 18B This is a plan view of the trousers on the side of the joining strip before forming the waist opening and leg opening, showing the front part area 50 and the rear part area 51.

[0106] Figure 18C This is a plan view of the trousers on the side of the joining strip before forming the waist opening and leg opening, showing the front part area 50 and the rear part area 51.

[0107] Figure 19 This is a graph showing the relationship between the average strand spacing and the average segment modulus.

[0108] Figure 20A A fixture for determining the leg cuff test of disposable trousers, used in conjunction with a tension tester, is shown.

[0109] Figure 20B The configuration of the clamp used in the tension tester for testing leg cuffs in disposable trousers is shown.

[0110] Figure 20C This demonstrates how to calculate the circumference of the product's leg opening.

[0111] Figure 20DThe hook clamp used for leg clamp testing is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0112] Introduction

[0113] This disclosure details improved stranded elastomeric laminates (also known as “beam-type laminates,” which include “beam-type elastic components” or “beam-type elastomeric laminates”) comprising a greater quantity of elastic strands having a finer texture (i.e., lower particle size) and a tighter spacing than previously disclosed or practiced in disposable absorbent articles. These improved stranded elastomeric laminates can be used as components (e.g., topsheets, bottomsheets, straps, earpieces, sidesheets, hoops, etc.) of disposable absorbent articles (e.g., disposable adhesive diapers, pants, pads, linings, etc.) to achieve improved fit and grip at the wearer’s waist, legs, crotch, and sides, thereby providing maximum stretch, ease of wear, most comfortable wearing conditions, improved leak protection, and better sustained fit. Furthermore, the stranded elastomeric laminates of this disclosure may also include one or more regions (including each region) that have been mechanically deformed by MD activation and / or openings; and may further or alternatively include elastomeric strands comprising different polymer compositions. One or a combination of these features greatly improves laminate stretching (even compared to previously disclosed beam-type laminates) without compromising fit (which is completely counterintuitive and unexpected), and the deformation also makes it possible to include laminates that include different regions (visually different and with different properties).

[0114] definition

[0115] The following definitions of terms will help in understanding this disclosure:

[0116] Regarding absorbent articles, "disposable" means absorbent articles that are not typically intended to be washed or otherwise restored or reused as absorbent articles (i.e., they are intended to be discarded after a single use and are preferably recyclable, compostable, or otherwise disposed of in an environmentally compatible manner). Disposable absorbent articles typically include adhesives between layers and / or elements to hold the article together (e.g., earpieces, side pieces, and straps are bonded to a base structure by adhesives, and the layers of earpieces, side pieces, straps, and base structure are bonded together using adhesives). Alternatively, thermal and / or pressure bonding may be used in conjunction with or instead of adhesives. In this case, a portion of the material layers may become partially melted and pressed together so that they are physically bonded together once cooled. Nonwoven (including, for example, polypropylene, polyethylene, etc.) adhesives (including, for example, styrene block copolymers (e.g., SIS, SBS)) and absorbent gelling materials (AGM 26—see Figures 12E to 12GThe AGM 26 core constitutes more than 50%, 75%, and typically more than 90% of the weight of the disposable absorbent article. Furthermore, the core containing AGM 26 is typically held within the base structure in a manner that would encapsulate and contain AGM 26 under normal conditions. Such disposable absorbent articles typically have an absorbency greater than about 100 mL of fluid and may have a capacity of up to about 500 mL of fluid or more. Stitching (including the use of thread) and / or weaving materials are generally not used in the manufacture of disposable absorbent articles. If stitching or weaving materials are used, they constitute a very small percentage of the disposable absorbent article. Some landing areas of disposable absorbent articles used for fasteners may include weaving materials, but other parts of the disposable absorbent article typically do not include weaving materials.

[0117] "Absorbent articles" refers to devices for absorbing and containing bodily excretions, and more specifically, devices that are worn or adjacent to the wearer's body to absorb and contain various bodily excretions. Exemplary absorbent articles include diapers, training pants, pantsuit diapers (i.e., diapers with pre-formed waist and leg openings, such as those shown in U.S. Patent 6,120,487), re-fastening diapers or pantsuits, incontinence briefs and underwear, diaper fasteners and linings, feminine hygiene underwear such as pant linings, feminine pads, absorbent inserts, absorbent pads, and panty (disposable and semi-durable) systems, etc.

[0118] "Proximal" and "distal" refer to the position of an element that is relatively close to or far from the longitudinal or lateral centerline of the structure, respectively (for example, relative to the same longitudinal axis, the proximal edge of a longitudinally extending element is closer to the longitudinal axis than the distal edge of the same element).

[0119] "Wear-facing" and "clothing-facing" refer to the relative positions of components or the relative positions of the surfaces of a component or group of components, respectively. "Wear-facing" means that during wear, a component or surface is closer to the wearer than some other components or surfaces. "Clothing-facing" means that during wear, a component or surface is further away from the wearer than some other components or surfaces (i.e., the component or surface is closer to the wearer's clothing, which may be worn over a disposable absorbent material).

[0120] "Longitudinal" refers to a direction that extends substantially perpendicularly from one waist edge of a workpiece to the opposite waist edge and is generally parallel to the maximum linear dimension of the workpiece. Directions within 45 degrees of the longitudinal direction are considered "longitudinal".

[0121] "Lateral" refers to the direction from the longitudinally extending side of a workpiece to the opposite longitudinally extending side, and is generally perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. Directions within 45 degrees of the longitudinal direction are considered "lateral".

[0122] "Setting" refers to the positioning of a component in a specific location or position.

[0123] "Jointing" includes configurations in which one element is directly fixed to another element by directly connecting one element to another element; it also includes configurations in which one element is indirectly fixed to another element by connecting one element to an intermediate member, which is then connected to other elements.

[0124] "Water-permeable" and "water-impermeable" refer to the permeability of a material within the intended use range of a disposable absorbent article. Specifically, the term "water-permeable" refers to a layer or layered structure having pores, openings, and / or interconnected void spaces that allows liquid water, urine, or synthetic urine to pass through its thickness without pressure. Conversely, the term "water-impermeable" refers to a layer or layered structure in which liquid water, urine, or synthetic urine cannot pass through its thickness without pressure (other than natural forces such as gravity). According to this definition, a water-impermeable layer or layered structure can be water vapor permeable (i.e., "vapor permeable").

[0125] "Elastic," "elastomer," or "elastomeric" means that a material exhibits elastic properties. These include any material that, when a force is applied to its relaxed initial length, can stretch or elongate to a length exceeding 10% of its initial length, and will substantially return to approximately its initial length upon release of the applied force. Elastomer materials can include elastomeric films, loosely woven fabrics, nonwovens, ribbons, strands, and other sheet-like structures.

[0126] "Pre-strain" refers to the strain applied to an elastic or elastomeric material before it is combined with another element of an elastomeric laminate or absorbent article. Pre-strain is determined by the following formula: Pre-strain = ((Extension of the elastic relaxation length of the elastic component) / Relaxation length of the elastic component) * 100.

[0127] Also known as decitex (Dtex), "decitex" is a measure used in the textile industry to measure yarn or filament. 1 decitex = 1 gram per 10,000 meters. In other words, if 10,000 linear meters of loose yarn or filament weighs 500 grams, then the yarn or filament will have 500 decitex.

[0128] The term "substrate" is used herein to describe a material that is primarily two-dimensional (i.e., in the XY plane) and whose thickness (in the Z direction) is relatively small (i.e., 1 / 10 or less) compared to its length (in the X direction) and width (in the Y direction). Non-limiting examples of substrates include fiber webs, one or more layers of fibrous material, nonwovens, films, and foils, such as polymer films or metal foils. These materials may be used alone or may comprise two or more layers laminated together. Thus, a fiber web is a substrate.

[0129] In this document, "nonwoven materials" refers to materials made from continuous (long) filaments (fibers) and / or discontinuous (short) filaments (fibers) using methods such as spunbonding, meltblowing, and carding. Nonwovens do not have woven filaments or braided filament patterns.

[0130] In this paper, "longitudinal" (MD) refers to the direction of material flow in the process. In addition, the relative placement and movement of materials can also be described as flowing through the process longitudinally from upstream to downstream.

[0131] In this article, “lateral” (CD) is used to refer to a direction that is roughly perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

[0132] "Adhesive diapers" (also known as "open-type diapers") refer to disposable absorbent articles that have unfastened, unpre-fastened, or unconnected initial front and back waist sections before being worn by the wearer. Adhesive diapers can be folded around a lateral centerline, with the interior of one waist section contacting the interior of an opposing waist section surface-to-surface without fastening or joining the waist sections together. Exemplary adhesive diapers in various suitable configurations are disclosed in the following U.S. Patent Nos. 5,167,897, 5,360,420, 5,599,335, 5,643,588, 5,674,216, 5,702,551, 5,968,025, 6,107,537, 6,118,041, 6,153,209, 6,410,129, 6,426,444, 6,586,652, 6,627,787, 6,617,016, 6,825,393, and 6,861,571; and U.S. Patent Publication Nos. 2013 / 0072,887A1; 2013 / 0211,356A1; and 2013 / 0306,226A1.

[0133] “Pants” (also known as “training pants,” “pre-closed diapers,” “diaper pants,” “pants diapers,” “underwear,” and “over-the-leg diapers”) herein refers to a disposable absorbent article designed for infant or adult wearers and having a continuous perimeter waist opening and continuous perimeter leg openings. Pants may be configured to have a continuous or closed waist opening and at least one continuous closed leg opening before the wearer puts on the article. Pants may be pre-formed or pre-fastened using a variety of techniques, including but not limited to using any re-fastening closure and / or permanent closure (e.g., stitching, thermal bonding, pressure welding, adhesives, glue bonding, mechanical fasteners, etc.) to join the parts of the article together. Pants may be pre-formed at any location around the waist area of ​​the article (e.g., side-fastened or seamed, front waist-fastened or seamed, back waist-fastened or seamed). Exemplary diaper pants in various configurations are disclosed in the following patents: U.S. Patents 4,940,464; 5,092,861; 5,246,433; 5,569,234; 5,897,545; 5,957,908; 6,120,487; 6,120,489; 7,569,039 and U.S. Patent Publication No. 2003 / 0233082A1; Patents 2005 / 0107764A1, 2012 / 0061016A1, 2012 / 0061015A1; 2013 / 0255861A1; 2013 / 0255862A1; 2013 / 0255863A1; 2013 / 0255864A1; and 2013 / 0255865A1, all of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0134] A "side seam" is the area that connects the front waistband to the back waistband to form the waist opening and leg opening. Side seams can be formed as permanent joints via heat, pressure, heating, or ultrasonic bonding. Side seams can also be formed via fastening elements to create a re-fastening side seam. In such cases, the length of the side seam is determined by the length of one or more fasteners. Side seams need to be strong enough to remain in place during use but easy to open for removal.

[0135] "Closed" means that the opposing waist areas are permanently or repeatedly fastened together during encapsulation to form a continuous waist opening and leg opening.

[0136] "Open type" refers to a design where, before or during the wearing of the garment, the opposing waist areas are not initially joined to form a continuous waist opening and leg opening, but instead include a closing device (such as a fastening system) to join the waist areas to form the waist opening and leg opening.

[0137] The "parts-to-spacing ratio" is determined by dividing the elastic fraction by the elastic spacing of the plurality of elastic components being examined. The elastomeric laminates of this disclosure may have a fraction-to-spacing ratio of about 65:1 to about 300:1, or about 80:1 to about 200:1.

[0138] The "denier to nonwoven weight ratio" is determined by dividing the elastic fraction by the nonwoven weight of one or more nonwoven substrates (i.e., inner or outer elastomeric substrate layers) of the elastomeric laminate disposed on one side of the elastic strand (the side facing the garment or the side facing the wearer). The elastomeric laminates of this disclosure may have a fraction to nonwoven weight ratio of about 1.5 to about 15, about 3 to about 12, or about 4 to about 10.

[0139] "Applied force" is the force that the caregiver may encounter when wearing absorbent clothing. The applied force is derived from two cycles of hip brace testing.

[0140] "Continuous fit load" is the force exerted on the wearer by the garment when the wearer's waist extends, such as during breathing or during movement (e.g., when the wearer changes from a standing to a sitting position or from a prone to a sitting position). The continuous fit load is derived from a two-cycle hip brace test.

[0141] "Continuous fit unloading force" is the force exerted on the wearer by the garment when the wearer's waist contracts, for example, during breathing or during movement (such as when the wearer changes from a sitting to a standing or from a sitting to a prone position). The continuous fit unloading force is derived from a two-cycle hip brace test.

[0142] "Mechanical deformation" occurs when the substrate or laminate is activated or opened by MD.

[0143] "Ring rolling" occurs when an elastomeric laminate is subjected to incremental strain. Incremental strain or elongation is applied to specific regions of the elastomeric laminate, where the nonwoven fibers of the elastomeric laminate in the deformation zone are physically altered. The fibers are stretched until fiber elongation or permanent deformation occurs. The strain required to induce fiber elongation or permanent deformation will depend on many properties, including material composition, fiber denier, yarn count, tooth engagement depth, range of deformation, and tension on the fiber web during deformation.

[0144] Other definitions may be shown in this article.

[0145] Elastomer lamination formation

[0146] This section provides some details relating to the method for preparing the stranded elastomer laminates of this disclosure. See also: Figures 9A to 9JMultiple elastic strands 316 (approximately 10 to 1500 strands having approximately 10 to approximately 400 deniers) are unwound along the longitudinal direction MD around a first axis of rotation 346 from a first beam 314 (which is a first metering device 310), and the multiple elastic strands 316 are transferred from the first beam 314 (e.g., a radial beam) to a second metering device 312 (which includes a first roller 323 having a second axis of rotation 329 and a second roller 331 having a third axis of rotation 334, the two rollers forming a nip 336). The multiple elastic strands 316 can be stretched along the longitudinal direction MD between the first metering device 310 and the second metering device 312 to pre-strain the multiple elastic elements 316 (approximately 50% to approximately 300%). The stretched elastic strands 316 can be bonded to the first base layer 306 and the second base layer 308 at the roll gap formed by the second metering device 312 via adhesive 351 from the adhesive application device 349 (or the plurality of elastic components 316 can be bonded by other suitable means, such as ultrasonic bonding) to produce an elastomeric laminate 302, such that each strand in the elastomeric laminate is spaced apart (on the CD) by about 0.25 mm to about 4 mm. This method forms the elastomeric laminate 302 of this disclosure and can be further incorporated into various absorbent article components (such as belts, ear flaps, side flaps, lateral barriers, top flaps, bottom flaps, hoops, waistbands, hoods, and / or base structures) to provide the beneficial effects described in this patent application. Further details of a method for forming a beam-type elastomeric laminate used in disposable absorbent articles are disclosed in U.S. Patent Publication No. 62 / 436,589, filed December 20, 2016, entitled "Methods and Apparatuses for Making Elastomeric Laminates with Elastic Strands Unwound from Beam," with Schneider as the first inventor. The elastomeric laminate 302 can be produced as part of an absorbent article production line, or it can be produced offline and unwound as an elastomeric laminate fed into the absorbent article production line. This disclosure provides details relating to the formation of the base or initial elastomeric laminate 302. Details of deforming this elastomeric laminate 302 to produce the inventive laminate of this disclosure are provided below.

[0147] Mechanical deformation of elastomer laminates

[0148] The elastomer laminate 302 disclosed herein can be mechanically deformed by MD activation and / or opening to achieve improved performance (e.g., ease of wear, less red staining, enhanced breathability) and improved garment-like aesthetics (smoother textures and a variety of textures).

[0149] MD activation

[0150] like Figure 1B , Figure 1C , Figure 2A , Figure 2D , Figures 9A to 9E , Figure 9H , Figure 9I , Figures 12A to 12F , Figure 12K , Figure 12L , Figures 12S to 12V , Figure 13 and Figure 14 As shown, the fibers in the elastomeric laminate 302 of this disclosure can be subjected to incremental strain through MD activation. Incremental strain or elongation can be applied to a portion or the entire elastomeric laminate 302. Sufficient strain can be applied such that the fibers of one or both base layers arranged in one direction are stretched until fiber elongation or permanent deformation occurs, such that portions of base layers 306 and 308 constituting ridges 102 and valleys 104 remain thicker than the stretched intermediate transition portion 139, which has a lower basis weight (relative to the ridges and valleys) due to the stretching during the deformation process—see [link to documentation]. Figure 2A The strain required to cause fiber elongation or permanent deformation will depend on many properties, including the fiber's material composition, denier, bonding pattern of the substrate, yarn count, tooth engagement depth, tooth pitch, range of deformation, tension on the fiber web during the deformation step, and processing speed. Generally, fiber elongation and / or deformation will occur primarily in one direction. Fibers arranged orthogonally or perpendicular to the direction in which fiber elongation or deformation occurs can remain substantially physically unchanged. Substantially unchanged physical properties of the fibers mean that the fibers will have the same mechanical strength, diameter, and elongation at break. When fibers are arranged at an angle or parallel to the direction in which fiber elongation or deformation occurs, the fibers are oriented in the direction of fiber elongation / deformation. However, in limited cases, a small number of these fibers may be torn or elongated, provided that the appearance, strength, and usability of the elastomer laminate are not substantially altered.

[0151] Fibers in directions orthogonal to the elongated or deformed fibers are typically redistributed. Redistribution refers to the process by which fibers are bundled, aggregated, or moved to new locations within the matrix as they slide past and pass each other. Fibers generally retain essentially unchanged physical properties resulting from redistribution.

[0152] To activate the elastomeric laminates of this disclosure, they can be sandwiched between two engaging embossing rollers driven by a rotational motion—see [link to relevant documentation]. Figures 9A to 9D .like Figure 9C and Figure 9D As shown, the roller has corresponding teeth 40, 46 and grooves 41, 43, which produce increasing uniaxial strain in any material passing between them. Although Figure 9C and Figure 9D The teeth and grooves are straight and extend along the transverse (CD), but the meshing teeth and grooves may alternatively be curved or arcuate, or may be angled relative to the CD and longitudinal (MD), transforming the shape into such alternative configurations of the substrate passing through the alternative roller—and possibly also for plates—for example. Figure 9E Those shown.

[0153] The engagement depth is typically from about 0.010 inches to 0.150 inches, or from about 0.020 inches to about 0.100 inches. The pitch, which is the distance between the teeth, is typically from about 0.040 inches to about 0.300 inches, or from about 0.060 inches to about 0.200 inches, or from about 0.080 inches to about 0.100 inches.

[0154] The appearance of the resulting elastomeric laminate 302 is influenced by the composition of the nonwoven layers and the distribution, spacing, pre-strain, and relative angle of the elastic strands arranged between the nonwoven layers. The bonding pattern in the substrate (e.g., the nonwoven layer), as well as the relative spacing, number, and size of the protruding teeth or patterns and the depth of the protrusions (i.e., bonding), the tension on the elastomeric fiber web, and the speed of the rotating roller also affect the final appearance of the elastomeric laminate.

[0155] The elastomeric laminate 302 disclosed herein can be used with a mating plate (see [link]). Figure 9E ) or roller (see Figure 9C and Figure 9D This will be achieved through [method / method]. See also [link / reference]. Figure 9E The diagram illustrates an apparatus 110 for forming an elastomeric laminate. Apparatus 110 includes interlocking plates 112 and 114. Plates 112 and 114 include a plurality of interlocking teeth and grooves 40', 41', 43', and 46'. Plates 112 and 114 are joined together under pressure in a non-interfering, interlocking manner to form the elastomeric laminate of this disclosure. That is, the teeth and grooves 40' are interlocked with 43' and 46' with 41', but preferably do not contact each other during the elongation deformation process. Plate 114 shows a region 558 in which there may be no teeth or grooves, so that the elastomeric laminate 302 remains undeformed in said region 558. Similar regions without teeth or grooves may also be part of an interlocking roller design.

[0156] See now Figure 9DAn alternative apparatus, generally designated 338', for forming an elastomeric laminate 302 according to the teachings of this disclosure is shown. The apparatus 338' includes a pair of rollers 106' and 108'. Rollers 106' and 108' each have a plurality of teeth and grooves 40", 41", 43", and 46" extending circumferentially around rollers 106' and 108'. As the laminate 302 passes between rollers 106' and 108', the grooved region 558" will leave portions of the elastomeric laminate undeformed, while in this case, in the longitudinal direction, the portions of the elastomeric laminate passing between the teeth and grooves will exhibit incremental strain. The amount of incremental strain in these portions of the formed elastomeric laminate is controlled by the degree of interlocking between teeth and grooves 40' and 43' and 46' and 41'. The degree of interlocking can be precisely controlled by fixing the distance between the roller centers 301" and 302", thereby achieving a desired degree of incremental stretching.

[0157] Figure 9C It is an enlarged perspective view of a mechanical deformation device 338 employing opposing pressure applicators, which have three-dimensional surfaces that are at least partially complementary to each other. Figure 9C The illustrated mechanical deformation device 338 includes incremental stretching rollers 106 and 108. As the incremental stretching rollers rotate in the direction indicated by their associated arrows, the elastomeric laminate 302 passes through the nip 105 formed by the incremental stretching rollers 106 and 108. The uppermost incremental stretching roller 106 includes a plurality of teeth 40 and corresponding grooves 41 extending around the entire circumference of roller 106. The lowermost incremental stretching roller 108 includes a plurality of teeth 46 and corresponding grooves 43 extending around the entire circumference of roller 108. The teeth 40 on roller 106 engage or interlock with the grooves 43 on roller 108, while the teeth 46 on roller 108 engage or interlock with the grooves 41 on roller 106.

[0158] Teeth 40 and 46 on rollers 106 and 108 extend in a direction substantially perpendicular to a first direction of the elastomeric laminate or in a direction substantially parallel to the width of the elastomeric laminate, respectively. That is, teeth 40 and 46 extend in a direction parallel to the transverse or CD direction of the elastomeric laminate. Incremental stretching rollers 106 and 108 incrementally stretch the elastomeric laminate in a direction generally perpendicular to the CD direction, i.e., parallel to the first direction, thereby deforming a portion of the elastomeric laminate so that it remains in its deformed state after passing through the incremental stretching rollers 106 and 108, and releasing the tension on the elastomeric laminate. By stretching the elastomeric laminate, the nonwoven fabric forming a portion of the elastomeric laminate is substantially deformed and therefore does not return to its pre-deformation form.

[0159] After being deformed by incremental stretching rollers 106 and 108, the deformed elastomeric laminate comprises a plurality of ridges 102 and valleys 104. The ridges and valleys extend along substantially linear directions parallel to each other over the entire width of the elastomeric laminate. The ridges 102 and valleys 104 shown extend in directions substantially parallel to CD or transverse. Figure 9C As shown, each ridge and valley extends from one edge of the laminate across the elastomeric laminate. This embodiment forms ridges and valleys across the entire width of the fiber web, thereby providing uniform texture and extensibility throughout the elastomeric laminate. If the ridges and valleys do not extend completely across the elastomeric laminate, portions of the elastomeric laminate without ridges and valleys will have a different level of extensibility than portions of the elastomeric laminate including ridges and valleys, and portions without ridges and valleys will also have a higher laminate modulus than portions including ridges and valleys.

[0160] Incremental stretching rollers 106 and 108 may include any number of teeth and grooves to provide the desired deformation of the elastomeric laminate. Additionally, the teeth and grooves may be non-linear, such as, for example, curved, sinusoidal, sawtooth, etc. The engagement size and number of teeth and grooves on the incremental stretching rollers 106 and 108 can be any desired size. Furthermore, the teeth and grooves may extend in a direction different from that perpendicular to the travel direction of the elastomeric laminate. For example, the teeth and grooves may extend at an angle to the CD direction, but it may be desirable that this angle is not parallel to MD or the longitudinal direction, or that the angle is not within 10 degrees parallel to MD, or that the angle is not within 25 degrees parallel to MD, or that the angle is not close to 45 degrees parallel to MD.

[0161] It may be desirable to first activate the CD layer 302 (as a first process step) so that the ridges and valleys extend along the MD layer; then activate the MD layer 302 (as a second process step) so that the ridges and valleys extend along the CD layer.

[0162] It may be desirable to first CD activate (as a first process step) the over-bonded (see, for example, U.S. Patent 5,628,097) laminate 302, such that ridges and valleys extend along MD, and that CD activation breaks the over-bonded portions to form pores; then MD activate (as a second process step) the laminate 302, such that ridges and valleys extend along CD.

[0163] Opening

[0164] like Figure 1D , Figure 1E , Figures 2B to 2D , Figure 9F , Figures 9G to 9J and Figures 12M to 12R , Figure 12U and Figure 12VAs shown, another way to deform an elastomer laminate is through openings. This can be combined with MD activation (see [link]). Figure 9H and Figure 9I as well as Figure 12U and Figure 12V Or, as an alternative to MD activation, pore opening may be desired. Certain combinations of pore opening and MD activation may be desirable, as will be described in more detail below. When combining MD activation and pore opening on the same fiber web, it may be desirable to first MD activate the fiber web and then open the pores to avoid further advancement or distortion of the pores. However, it may be desirable to first open the fiber web and then MD activate the fiber web to create or open the pores. Furthermore, the substrate forming the laminate may include bonding sites when MD activation breaks to form pores.

[0165] Figure 9J The diagram illustrates perforating the elastomeric laminate of this disclosure by clamping the elastomeric laminate 302 between two engaging embossing rollers 120 and 121 driven by a rotational motion. Rollers 120 and 121 may have corresponding holes 134 and teeth 133, wherein teeth 133 pierce the elastomeric laminate 302 or one of the base layers 306, 308 constituting the elastomeric laminate 302 and contact the holes 134 to create holes 116, for example... Figure 1E The hole shown is typically circular, elliptical, triangular, slit-shaped, arc-shaped, or a combination thereof.

[0166] Openings in an elastomeric laminate, or in one or more base layers constituting an elastomeric laminate, can increase the ductility of the elastomeric laminate and / or decrease its laminate modulus, as well as increase the permeability of the base layer and / or the entire laminate. Generally, the higher the percentage of the surface area of ​​the elastomeric laminate occupied by the pores, the higher the ductility and the lower the laminate modulus. One or more elastomeric laminate base layers 306, 308 may include pores 116, wherein elastic strands 316 are present in the pore regions—see [link to documentation]. Figure 2B Holes 116 may extend through one or all of the substrate layers of the absorbent article component, such that the holes are aligned or misaligned in the substrate layers (e.g., 306, 308). When misaligned, the substrate layers (e.g., 306, 308) may have color contrast, making the holes more noticeable. Alternatively, the elastomeric laminate 302 may include a first laminate substrate 306 and a second laminate substrate 308, which are bonded together with elastic strands disposed between the first and second laminate substrates by an adhesive (e.g., by spin coating, tank coating, spraying, discrete patterning (on CD and / or MD) or a combination thereof), and the holes may extend through the two laminate substrates and through the elastic strands 316, thereby cutting off some or all of the strands in the hole region—see Figure 2CThe elastic element 316 retracts from the hole 116 and exits the hole to reach the end edge 135 of the adhesive block 141. The mechanical transformation for forming the hole can be performed on the substrate layer prior to forming the elastomer laminate. Alternatively, the mechanical transformation for forming the hole can be performed after forming the laminate.

[0167] When stretched and flattened, the surface area of ​​the elastomeric laminate 302 occupied by the pores themselves can be about 2% to about 25%, or about 5% to about 20%, or about 10% to about 15%. Generally, the higher the percentage of surface area occupied by the pores, the greater the ductility and the lower the modulus. The pores 116 can be formed by needle punching, hot air welding / opening, thermal bonding / opening, ultrasonic bonding / opening, pressure welding / opening, tensile opening, substrate bonding, or by opening a slit to form a pore upon activation (see, for example, U.S. Patent 6,830,800 and U.S. Patent Application 2003 / 0021951). The pores 116 can be uniformly distributed on the surface of the elastomeric laminate, or selectively disposed in one or more of segments 1, 2, 3, and 4 (see...). Figure 12O and 12P (where the holes are selectively located in segments 1 and 4, but not in segments 2 and 3). For example... Figure 12Q and Figure 12R As shown, the hole 116 can be selectively provided in one or more of segments L, M, or R. In some embodiments, the opening may exist only in segments 3 and 4 of segment M (see...). Figure 12U —In such embodiments, the pores allow the elastomer laminate to partially relax, thereby allowing the base structure to shrink less in the overlapping regions than would if the pores were not present in the elastomer laminate. Furthermore, the pores 116 may be present in regions of the elastomer laminate 302 that do not overlap with the base structure to provide not only an incremental increase in ductility and a decrease in the laminate modulus, but also improved permeability feel and function (see, for example...). Figure 12Q and Figure 12R ).

[0168] Deformation zone

[0169] like Figures 12A to 12F , Figures 12K to 12V , Figure 13 and Figure 14 As shown, product components (e.g., belts, side pieces, and lugs) may include multiple identical or different mechanically deformable zones, which may have similar shapes, proportions, arrangements, and / or patterns in various segments (e.g., segments 1, 2, 3, 4, L, R, or M). Figure 2A As shown, mechanically deformable regions can be formed in the elastomer laminate 302 via MD activation to produce a pattern of alternating ridges 102 and valleys 104 with a generally longitudinal orientation. Figure 2AThe elastomeric laminate shown is similar to an elastomeric laminate 302, which can be used as a strip 430 and oriented such that the longitudinal direction of the laminate is parallel to the transverse axis of the absorbent article including the strip 430. For example... Figure 2B As shown, the mechanically deformable zone can be formed in the elastomer laminate 302 by creating a pattern of holes 116 through openings.

[0170] like Figure 12C , Figure 12D , Figure 12F , Figure 12K , Figure 12L , Figures 120 to 12T As shown, the elastomer laminate 302 may also include undeformed (unaltered) regions, i.e., regions that are not mechanically deformed—see details. Figure 12C Sections 2 and 3 in the diagram. Alternatively, instead of the undeformed areas, the contrasting sections can have different mechanical deformation arrangements, achieved through different tooth heights, tooth spacing, tooth pitch, undeformed surface areas, and tooth shapes of the plates or rollers. For example, sections 1 and 4 can be mechanically deformed by intermeshing rollers with a first tooth configuration, and sections 2 and 3 can be mechanically deformed by intermeshing rollers (or plates) with a second tooth configuration (e.g., different tooth heights, tooth spacing, tooth pitch, undeformed surface areas, and tooth shapes). Similar to... Figure 9D The mechanical deformation process illustrated can be used to generate such mechanical deformation arrangements. Another way to achieve contrast sections is to use one type of deformation across the entire substrate and a second type of deformation in certain sections—see [link to documentation]. Figure 12V In this case, segments L, M, and R are perforated, but only segments L and R are MD activated. Another way to achieve contrasting segments is to use one deformation type in some segments and a second deformation type in others—see [link to documentation]. Figure 12U In this case, segment M is an open hole but not activated by MD, while segments L and R are activated by MD but not open holes.

[0171] Each segment of the elastomer laminate 302 may include a mechanical deformation arrangement to form identical or similar textured regions (i.e., exhibiting the same or substantially identical texture due to deformation mode, degree of deformation, etc.). Alternatively, the mechanical deformation arrangement in one or more segments 1, 2, 3, 4, L, M, and R may differ from the mechanical deformation arrangement in another segment to form different textured or performance regions. Different textured or performance regions can be formed by adjusting the engagement depth of the mechanical tool, the spacing of the elements on the mechanical tool, and the nonwoven type, bonding pattern, fiber web tension, strain rate, etc., of the laminate during the deformation process. It should also be noted that the texture and / or mechanical deformation arrangement may be mirrored across one or both of the longitudinal and / or transverse centerlines to produce a balanced, more overall textured appearance.

[0172] Even when it includes the same mechanical deformation arrangement and the same elastic profile as the adjacent area of ​​the article component, the garment-facing surface 2 of the base in the area where the wearer-facing surface 4 of the article component is typically bonded to the base structure by spin-coating or trough-coating adhesive can have identifiable texture differences because the adhesive that bonds the article component to the base structure can partially reduce the influence of the elastic component 316 in that area; in addition, the elastic strands can be cut in said area so that they pass discontinuously through the base structure 200.

[0173] like Figure 12A , Figure 12B , Figure 12E , Figure 12M and Figure 12N As shown, the elastomer laminate 302 may include a continuous mechanical deformation arrangement in the transverse direction (from side seam to side seam) and in the longitudinal direction (from the elastic member of the farthest component to the elastic member of the farthest component). Figure 12C , Figure 12D , Figure 12F , Figure 12O and Figure 12P A transversely continuous mechanical deformation arrangement is shown, which is longitudinally interrupted (i.e., discontinuous). Figure 12K , Figure 12L , Figure 12Q and Figure 12R A longitudinally continuous mechanical deformation arrangement is shown, which is laterally interrupted (i.e., discontinuous).

[0174] Extension / Cooperation

[0175] like Figure 12C and Figure 12D As shown, deformations from one segment can "extend" into another segment or "cooperate" with deformations in various segments to form a larger composite region. For example, the end edge of a deformed region in a segment can be substantially aligned with the end edge of a deformed region in an adjacent segment, such that the deformed region is or appears to be continuous across multiple segments, or that a larger composite region is formed (e.g., an arc, a serpentine curve, etc.). For example, a deformed region in segment 2 can have an end edge 151 substantially aligned with the end edge 152 of a deformed region in segment 3—see [link to documentation]. Figure 12S In this way, the deformable region can extend or appear to extend through segments 1, 2, 3, 4 and / or L, R and M. Furthermore, as... Figure 12TAs shown, the end edge of the deformable region in the segment of the first waist region can be substantially aligned with the end edge of the deformable region in the adjacent segment of the second waist region, so that the deformable region is or appears to be continuous from the first waist region to the second waist region, thereby forming a larger composite region—see the end edges 143 / 144 of the textured region in segment 1 of the front band 430f and segment 1 of the front band 430b, and see the end edges 145 / 146 of the textured region in segment 4 of the front band 430f and segment 4 of the front band 430b.

[0176] like Figure 12U As shown, it may be desirable for MD to activate segments L and R of the front and back bands, but not segment M of the front and back bands—segment M of the front and back bands can be apertured, while segments L and R of the front and back bands are not apertured. Figure 12U The basic structure 200 is also shown (particularly the outer cover nonwoven fabric or the substrate nonwoven fabric (see...) Figures 12H to 12J The substrate layer 127 (but not the film 126) can also be perforated.

[0177] like Figure 12V As shown, it may be desirable for MD to activate segments L and R of the front and rear bands, but not segment M of the front and rear bands—and in conjunction with this, segments L, M, and R of the front and rear bands can be open.

[0178] Texture

[0179] In addition to the improved properties of mechanically deformed elastomeric laminates, these laminates may include a desired texture. The texture of the elastomeric laminates of this invention contrasts with that of conventional stranded elastomeric laminates, and even with previously disclosed beam-type elastomeric laminates—see [link to previous document]. Figure 1A (traditional beam foundation) and Figure 1B (MD-activated beam-type foundation).

[0180] Absorbent articles, including those made from conventional stranded elastomer laminates (i.e., those with an elastic component having a density greater than 400 ppm, an elastic pitch greater than 4 mm, and an elastic pre-strain greater than 200%), have textures that include large, random wrinkles present on both the wearer-facing and garment-facing surfaces. The texture formed by these large, random wrinkles does not contribute to the appearance of the textile garment, and its size and roughness can adversely affect the wearer's skin, leaving marks and indentations.

[0181] Absorbent articles, including beam-type elastic components and elastomeric laminates formed from beam-type elastic components, particularly beam-type elastomeric laminates activated and / or open-celled, have more intentional, well-defined, and deliberate textures achieved by the beam-type elastomers incorporated into the elastomeric laminates. These intentional, well-defined, and deliberate textures and textured areas can be used to convey the intended use of the article, its function, and the intended wearer. The intentional, well-defined, and deliberate textures and textured areas achieved through laminates based on beam-type elastic components are consistent with textile garments that typically have such identifiable patterning and functional communication. For example, due to the visual nature of the design, and specifically the textures and / or textured areas, it is easy to distinguish between leggings intended for casual use and leggings intended for high-intensity activities such as aerobics, running, or sports.

[0182] The intentional, well-defined, and deliberate textures and textured regions achieved through beam-type elastomer laminates also influence the force distribution in the strip and the sustained fit by providing structural features, such as vertically oriented wrinkles. This is achieved through the texture itself, the adhesive pattern, and / or substrate deformation caused by MD activation and / or openings. The texture increases resistance to buckling and prevents the elastomer laminate from flipping, sagging, collapsing, and slipping during use.

[0183] It might be expected that the lateral plates are textured (e.g., MD activation to include ridges and valleys), but it might be expected that the underlying structure does not include ridges and valleys. This is discrete in either the lateral or ear plates (see [link to documentation]). Figure 13 and Figure 14 It may be particularly desirable for the material used to manufacture the side plates or ear plates to be separated from the outer cover nonwoven fabric, which may not be MD-activated—and therefore lack ridges and valleys. Specifically, the front segments L and R may include mechanically deformed portions forming ridges and valleys, and segment M may be substantially without (or completely without) ridges and valleys, such that less than 30%, less than 20%, or less than 10% of the surface area of ​​segment M comprises ridges and valleys. Such an implementation may be desirable on a continuous strip, but the MD activation will need to be discontinuous and aligned, such that the base structure is placed between the MD-activated portions of the strip.

[0184] It might be desirable for the side tabs to have openings, but it might be desirable for the underlying structure not to include openings. This is discrete in either the side tabs or the ear tabs (see [link]). Figure 13 and Figure 14In cases where the material used to manufacture the side tabs or lugs is separate from the outer cover nonwoven fabric, which may not be perforated—and therefore has no holes. Specifically, the front sections L and R may include holes, and section M may be substantially without (or completely without) holes, such that less than 30%, less than 20%, or less than 10% of the surface area of ​​section M includes holes. Such an embodiment may be desirable on a continuous strip, but the openings will need to be discontinuous and aligned, such that the base structure is placed between the perforated portions of the strip.

[0185] The chemical properties and structure of the elastic strands disclosed herein

[0186] Beam-type elastic components (e.g., 316) can be formed from spandex fibers. One type of spandex fiber is a "polyurethane urea" elastomer or a "high hard segment polyurethane" elastomer, which can be formed into fibers using a solution (solvent) spinning process (as opposed to processing in the molten state). The urea bonds in the polyurethane urea provide strong mutual chemical interactions that are crucial for providing "anchoring," which enables good stress relaxation properties at temperatures close to body temperature over time corresponding to diaper wear (including overnight). This type of anchoring enables better stress relaxation over time (i.e., the force decays little over time when held in a stretched state at body temperature) on many thermoplastic polyurethanes (polyurethanes with hard segment melts below 200°C) or thermoplastic styrene block copolymers.

[0187] The presence of urea bonds in spandex fibers necessitates their preparation via a spinning process. Spandex cannot be melt- / remelted or extruded like styrene block copolymers. Spandex prepolymers are combined with solvents and additives, and the solution is spun to prepare solid spandex fibers. Multiple fibers are then formed together to prepare a spandex strand. The spandex strand may have a surface finish to prevent sticking and tangling onto the spool. A spandex fiber may have about 15 dtex, so a 500 dtex strand may have a nominal 33 fibers wound together to prepare a single strand. Depending on the dtex used for the beam method, it may have 40 fibers (or filament 317), 30 fibers, 20 fibers, 15 fibers, 8 fibers, 5 fibers, 3 fibers, or even as few as 2 fibers. Spandex fibers may be monocomponent or bicomponent (as disclosed in WO201045637A2).

[0188] It is also related to the chemical properties of the beam elastic component, and it may be desirable to coat the beam elastic component with oil, such as silicone oil or mineral oil, including about 10%, about 7%, about 5%, about 3%, or about 1% silicone oil or mineral oil. Treating the beam elastic component with oil helps prevent sticking (crosslinking) when the strands are wound onto the spool or beam, and it also reduces the COF of the strands in textile machinery (for weaving, knitting, and warping methods).

[0189] Commercially available spandex yarns may also be called Lycra, Creora, Roica, or Dorlastan. Spandex is commonly referred to as elastic fiber or polyurethane fiber.

[0190] LYCRA HYFIT strands (products of Invista, Wichita, and Kansas) are suitable for fabricating strands comprising multiple elastic components 316, which constitute an elastomeric laminate 302. Some strands (such as the aforementioned LYCRA HYFIT) may comprise multiple individual fibers wound together to form the strand. With respect to elastic strands formed from multiple individual fibers, it has been found that individual fibers can move relative to each other, thereby altering the cross-sectional shape of the strand and becoming unwound. This can lead to poor control of the strand and poor adhesion / bonding / joining of the elastic strand to one or both of the first base layer 306 and the second base layer 308 of the elastomeric laminate 302. To minimize the negative impact on strands containing multiple fibers, it is advantageous to minimize the number of fibers in a given strand. Therefore, it is desirable to have less than about 40 fibers per strand, less than about 30 fibers per strand, less than about 20 fibers per strand, less than about 10 fibers per strand, less than about 5 fibers per strand, and 1 fiber forming the strand. In the case of forming a single fiber that can deliver a strand with performance comparable to that of a multi-fiber strand in the prior art, it is desirable that the fiber has a fiber decibel of about 22 to about 300 and a fiber diameter of about 50 micrometers to about 185 micrometers.

[0191] Elastomer strands with different polymer compositions

[0192] While multiple meridional beams can be used to produce different properties and different texture areas by including beams comprising different numbers of elastic elements and / or elastic elements with different properties, and / or the elastic elements of two beams can be set at different spacings, and / or separate beams can deliver elastic elements with different pre-strains, and / or different meridional beams can deliver elastic elements with different orientations in the product, such as linings, bows, angles, etc.; a single beam can alternatively be used to achieve some of the differences in the same performance areas and texture areas.

[0193] A single warp beam can be used to create different properties and textured areas by winding it with elastic strands of different polymer compositions. The advantage of this is that a single beam can comprise elastic strands of the same density, pre-strain, and spacing; the only difference is that the strands are made of two, three, four, or other different polymer compositions. This is advantageous because the beam will exhaust its elasticity simultaneously, which might not be the case for two separate beams wound with elastic strands of different densities or strains.

[0194] For example, a single beam can be wound with a first plurality of strands containing polymer composition A, and the beam can also be wound with a second plurality of strands containing polymer composition B. Polymer composition A may be selected from rubber block polymers, including polyesters such as polyethylene adipate, propylene adipate and butylene adipate, poly-1,5-pentanediol, 1,6-hexanediol or 1,10-decanediol, or polyethers such as polyethylene glycol, polypropylene glycol, polybutanediol, etc.; and rigid blocks, including diphenylmethane 4,4′-diisocyanate (MDI), toluene-2,4-diisocyanate (TDI), hexamethylene diisocyanate (HDI), methylene dicyclohexyl diisocyanate (hydrogenated MDI (HMDI)) or isophorone diisocyanate (IPDI); and optional coupling agents selected for rigid blocks, including diamines (hydrazine and ethylenediamine, etc.) or diols (butanediol, 1,5-pentanediol, 1,6-hexanediol, etc.). Polymer composition B may be selected from rubber block polymers, including polyesters such as polyethylene adipate, propylene adipate and butylene adipate, poly-1,5-pentanediol, 1,6-hexanediol or 1,10-decanediol, or polyethers such as polyethylene glycol, polypropylene glycol, polybutanediol, etc.; and rigid blocks, including diphenylmethane 4,4′-diisocyanate (MDI), toluene-2,4-diisocyanate (TDI), hexamethylene diisocyanate (HDI), methylene dicyclohexyl diisocyanate (hydrogenated MDI (HMDI)) or isophorone diisocyanate (IPDI); and optional coupling agents selected for rigid blocks, including diamines (hydrazine and ethylenediamine, etc.) or diols (butanediol, 1,5-pentanediol, 1,6-hexanediol, etc.), but polymer composition B may be a combination of rubber and rigid blocks different from polymer composition A and / or different optional coupling agents.

[0195] Furthermore, the beam may also include a third plurality of strands comprising a polymer composition C, the polymer composition being selected from rubber block polymers, including polyesters such as polyethylene adipate, propylene adipate and butylene adipate, poly-1,5-pentanediol, 1,6-hexanediol or 1,10-decanediol, or polyethers such as polyethylene glycol, polypropylene glycol, polybutanediol, etc.; and rigid blocks, including diphenylmethane 4,4′-diisocyanate (MDI), toluene-2,4-diisocyanate (T... The polymer composition C may be a combination of a rubber and a rigid block and / or a different optional coupling agent selected from polymer composition A and / or polymer composition B. The coupling agent may include diamines (such as hydrazine and ethylenediamine) or diols (such as butanediol, 1,5-pentanediol, 1,6-hexanediol, etc.).

[0196] For example, a single beam can be wound with a first plurality of strands containing polymer composition A, or the beam can be wound with a second plurality of strands containing polymer composition B. This arrangement can be used to produce... Figure 12C The illustrated embodiment has the same effect, wherein segments 1 and 4 may include a first plurality of elastic elements comprising polymer composition A, and wherein segments 2 and 3 may include a second plurality of elastic elements comprising polymer composition B—using polymer compositions A and B can serve as a substitute for mechanical deformation or can be used in combination with mechanical deformation to enhance the effect. Even if polymer compositions A and B are similar in performance, the number of elastic elements in each segment can have an additive effect, thereby translating slight performance differences into significant performance and / or texture differences—this is especially true when beam-type elastic elements are used, as each of segments 1 to 4 may include more than 100 fine elastic elements 316. Thus, similar to Figure 12C The implementation scheme can have a higher layer modulus in sections 2 and 3, and a lower layer modulus in sections 1 and 4, and vice versa.

[0197] A single beam can be wound with a first plurality of strands containing polymer composition A, or with a second plurality of strands containing polymer composition B, or with a third plurality of strands containing polymer composition C, wherein polymer compositions A, B, and C are each different polymer compositions, each with a different modulus, and each with the same fractional property and wound on the beam with the same spacing and the same strain.

[0198] The elastomeric laminates disclosed herein

[0199] The "elastomer laminate 302" disclosed herein may include a plurality of elastic members 316 between a first substrate 306 and a second substrate layer 308, wherein the plurality of elastic members 316 (generally referred to as "first plurality of elastic members", "second plurality of elastic members", etc.) have an average strand spacing of about 0.25 mm to about 4 mm, an average fraction of about 10 to about 400, and a strand under-strength of about 0.1 psi to about 1 psi, and the elastomeric laminate is mechanically deformable. The elastomeric laminate may also include a first plurality of elastic members having a polymer composition different from that of the second plurality of elastic members.

[0200] Furthermore, the "elastomer laminate 302" of this disclosure may include a plurality of elastic members 316 between a first substrate 306 and a second substrate layer 308, wherein the plurality of elastic members 316 (generally referred to as "first plurality of elastic members", "second plurality of elastic members", etc.) have an average strand spacing of about 0.25 mm to about 4 mm, an average fraction of about 10 to about 400, and a strand under-strength of about 0.1 psi to about 1 psi, and the elastomeric laminate includes the first plurality of elastic members having a polymer composition different from that of the second plurality of elastic members. The elastomeric laminate may also be mechanically deformable.

[0201] The elastomeric laminate 302 can be used to form at least a portion of various article components or various absorbent article components, such as belts, side panels, waistbands, or leg cuffs. Furthermore, the elastomeric laminate 302 can be used to form an area of ​​an article or at least a portion of an article area, such as the front waist area, crotch area, or back waist area. When the elastomeric laminate 302 forms at least a portion of at least one of the group consisting of belts, base structures, side panels, top panels, bottom panels, and ear flaps, and combinations thereof, the plurality of elastic elements 316 of the elastomeric laminate 302 may include about 40 to about 1000 elastic strands. Furthermore, when the elastomeric laminate 302 forms at least a portion of at least one of the group consisting of waistbands, waist caps, inner leg cuffs, outer leg cuffs, and combinations thereof, the first plurality of elastic elements 316 of the elastomeric laminate 302 may include about 10 to about 400 elastic strands. Ultimately, "multiple elastic components" is a contextual term in which certain properties (e.g., average distribution, average strand spacing, strand under-pressure, etc.), arrangement, attributes, characteristics, settings, etc., of the elastic components are referenced to define what certain "multiple elastic components" are.

[0202] Furthermore, the elastomeric laminate 302 may form at least a portion of one or more of a group of article components including a strip 430, side sheets 330, a base structure 200, a top sheet 124, a bottom sheet 125, and an ear sheet 530. The elastomeric laminate 302 may include a plurality of elastic components 316 having about 40 to about 1,000 elastic strands having an average strand spacing of about 0.25 mm to about 4 mm, an average split length of about 10 to about 400, and an average prestrain of about 50% to about 300%. It may also include a first substrate 306 and a second substrate 308, each having a basis weight of about 6 g / m² to about 45 g / m².

[0203] When the elastomer laminate 302 can form at least a portion of one or more of a group of article components including a waistband 122, a waist cap 123, an inner leg cuff 150, an outer leg cuff 140, and a lateral barrier 16, and may include a plurality of elastic components 316 having about 10 to about 400 elastic strands having an average strand spacing of about 0.25 mm to about 4 mm, an average split length of about 10 to about 400, and an average prestrain of about 50% to about 300%, and a first substrate 306 and / or a second substrate 308, each of the first substrate and the second substrate having a basis weight of about 6 g / m² to about 45 g / m².

[0204] The belt 430, side panels 330, earpieces 530, base structure 200, top panel 124, bottom panel 125, waist belt 122, waist cap 123, inner leg cuff 150, outer leg cuff 140, or any of the lateral blocking elements may include: an elastomeric laminate 302 comprising a plurality of elastic elements 316 having a thigh compression of about 0.1 psi to about 1 psi, or about 0.2 psi to about 0.8 psi; or an elastomeric laminate comprising more than about 13% at 100 μm. And / or a contact area percentage greater than about 27% at 200 μm and / or greater than about 39% at 300 μm and / or a height value of 2%-98% < 1.6 mm; comprising an elastomeric laminate comprising a contact area percentage greater than about 13% at 100 μm and / or greater than about 27% at 200 μm and / or greater than about 36% at 300 μm and / or a height value of 2%-98% < 2.2 mm; comprising an elastomeric laminate having a height of about 0.2 mm. -1 Approximately 1mm -1 The wrinkle frequency and the wrinkle wavelength from about 0.5 mm to about 5 mm.

[0205] In addition to the beam-type elastic strand 316 which can be used in each of the absorbent article components, other elastic components (such as elastic nonwovens, elastomeric films, elastomeric foams, elastomeric loose fabrics, and elastomeric strips, or combinations thereof) can be used in combination with the beam-type elastic component 316.

[0206] The absorbent product disclosed herein

[0207] Products incorporating the elastomeric laminates of this disclosure may include absorbent articles 100 of various structures and / or forms that are generally designed and configured to manage bodily excretions such as urine, menstrual fluid and / or feces, including disposable adhesives and trousers, including disposable absorbent articles for infants and adults.

[0208] As shown in the figure, the absorbent article 100 of this disclosure may include a base structure 200, which includes a top sheet 124, a bottom sheet 125, and an absorbent core 128 disposed at least partially between the top sheet 124 and the bottom sheet 125. The base structure 200 may also include an inner leg clamp 150 and an outer leg clamp 140 (clamps are generally referred to as 52).

[0209] One end of the absorbent article 100 may be configured as a front waist region 36, and the longitudinally opposite end may be configured as a rear waist region 38. The middle portion of the absorbent article 100 extending longitudinally between the front waist region 36 and the rear waist region 38 may be configured as a crotch region 37. The length of each of the front waist region 36, the rear waist region 38, and the crotch region 37 may be, for example, about 1 / 3 of the length of the absorbent article 100 (see example...). Figure 14 Alternatively, the length of each of the front waistband 36, the back waistband 38, and the crotch area 37 may have other dimensions (e.g., defined by the longitudinal dimension of the strap immediately adjacent to the side seam or the longitudinal dimension of the ear / side piece immediately adjacent to the central base structure—see example). Figure 12E and 13 ; or the work-in-process has continuous parts such as Figure 18C In the case of trousers, side seam 172 (or where the side seam will be 172') defines the boundary between the front waistband and back waistband and the crotch area (see...). Figure 12E and Figure 12F The alternative component sections 1'-4' and alternative front waist area 36' and rear waist area 38' and crotch area 37', wherein the rear belt is longer than the front belt in the longitudinal direction).

[0210] When the side seam is used to define the front and back waist areas, as well as the crotch area, this can be described as follows:

[0211] "The front waist region 36 is the area between: a) the nearest side front axis 410, which extends parallel to the lateral axis 44 and passes through the nearest point of the laterally opposite front side seams 172 or 172'; and b) the farthest side front axis 411, which extends parallel to the lateral axis and passes through the farthest point of the laterally opposite front side seams 172 or 172'; and the rear waist region 38 is the area between: a) the nearest side rear axis 510, which extends parallel to the lateral axis 44 and passes through the nearest point of the laterally opposite rear side seams 172 or 172'; and b) the farthest side axis 511, which extends parallel to the lateral axis and passes through the farthest point of the laterally opposite rear side seams 172 or 172'."

[0212] The absorbent article 100 may have a laterally extending front waist edge 136 in the front waist region 36 and a longitudinally opposing and laterally extending rear waist edge 138 in the rear waist region 38.

[0213] The base structure 200 of the absorbent article 100 may include a first longitudinally extending side 237a and a laterally opposite, second longitudinally extending side 237b. Both sides 237 may extend longitudinally between a front waist end 136 and a rear waist end 138. The base structure 200 may form a portion of the laterally extending front waist end 136 in the front waist region 36 and a portion of the longitudinally opposite, laterally extending rear waist end 138 in the rear waist region 38. Furthermore, the base structure 200 may include an inner surface 202 (forming at least a portion of the surface 4 facing the wearer), an outer surface 204 (forming at least a portion of the surface 2 facing the garment), a longitudinal axis 42, and a lateral axis 44. The longitudinal axis 42 may extend through the midpoint of the front waist end 136 and the midpoint of the rear waist end 138, while the lateral axis 44 may extend through the midpoint of the first side 237a and the midpoint of the second side 237b.

[0214] See Figure 12E For belt-type absorbent articles, this is generally the case; the base structure 200 may have a length measured along the longitudinal axis 42 that is less than the length of the absorbent article 100. The two sides 237 of the base structure 200 may not extend longitudinally to one or both of the front waist end 136 and the rear waist end 138. The base structure 200 may not form part of one or both of the laterally extending front waist end 136 in the front waist region 36 and the longitudinally opposing and laterally extending rear waist end 138 in the rear waist region 38.

[0215] See Figure 12G The base structure 200 may include an elastic member 316 oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis 42 between the film nonwoven fabric 127 and the film 126. Alternatively, the base structure 200 may include an elastic member 316 oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis 42 between the core wrapping 74 and the film 125. Furthermore, Figure 12H The basic structure 200 is shown to include an elastic member 316 oriented parallel to the lateral axis 44 between the film 126 and the nonwoven fabric 127. Figure 12G An elastic member 316 oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis 42 is also shown between the first topsheet layer 124a and the second topsheet layer 124b. Furthermore, Figure 12H The elastic member 316 is shown oriented parallel to the lateral axis 44 between the top sheet 124 and the core wrapping 74.

[0216] Part or all of the absorbent article 100 may be made laterally elastically stretchable. The stretchability of the absorbent article 100 may be desired to allow it to conform to the wearer's body during movement. This stretchability may also be desired, for example, to allow caregivers to extend the front waist area 36, ​​back waist area 38, crotch area 37, and / or the base structure 200, thereby providing additional body coverage for wearers of different body types, i.e., customizing the fit of the absorbent article 100 for the individual wearer and facilitating ease of wear. This stretchability may give the absorbent article 100 a generally hourglass shape, provided that the crotch area 37 is stretched to a relatively smaller extent than the waist areas 36 and / or 38. This stretchability may also give the absorbent article 100 a customized appearance during use.

[0217] The base structure 200 may be substantially rectangular and may have discrete side pieces 330 attached to the base structure 200 at or near the side 237 of one or both of the front waist area 36 and the rear waist area 38. Figure 13 ), Extendable earpiece 530 ( Figure 14 ) and / or non-extendable earpieces 540 ( Figure 14 One or more of the base structure side edge 237, the base structure front edge 236, and the base structure rear edge 238 may be convex or concave, arched or curved. The base structure 200 may include an integral side panel 330, an integral extendable lug, an integral strap 430, or an integral non-extendable lug 540 formed by one or more of the following: an outer cover nonwoven fabric, a backsheet film, outer leg cuff material, a top panel, or a core wrap 74 disposed in one or both of the front and rear waist areas (see [link]). Figure 14 Alternatively, the infrastructure 200 may include discrete side pieces 330 (see...). Figure 13 Discrete extendable earpiece 530 (see) Figure 14 ) or discrete band 430 or band layer ( Figure 12H and Figure 12I (Inner layer 432)). The base structure may be shaped or non-rectangular in one waist region and substantially rectangular in the opposite waist region. Alternatively, the base structure may be substantially rectangular in one or both waist regions and non-rectangular in the crotch region.

[0218] The absorbent article of this disclosure may include a plurality of laterally extending elastic elements, wherein the elastic elements are present in a first waist region, a crotch region and an opposite second waist region.

[0219] Closed-fitting trousers

[0220] Closed-fitting absorbent fabrics are typically in Figures 5D to 5K '、 Figures 12A to 12D , Figures 12K to 12VThe trousers are open and designed to be packaged in a closed form with a waist opening 190 and two leg openings 192, and are designed to be worn on the wearer like a pair of durable underwear. The trousers may include discrete elastomeric side panels 330 in one or both of the front waistband 36 and the back waistband 38. Figure 13 ) and / or discrete band 430 ( Figures 12A to 12F , Figure 12H , Figure 12I (included) Figures 12K to 12V and Figure 18A Alternatively, the side piece 330 and / or the strip 430 may be integrally formed with other components of the article, such as the base structure 200.

[0221] When the absorbent article includes front and back straps 430, the sides of the front and back straps 430 on one side of the article can be permanently or repeatedly fastened together, and the front and back side panels on opposite sides of the article can be permanently or repeatedly fastened together to form a waist opening 190 and a pair of leg openings 192. The straps 430 provide an elastically extendable feature structure that provides a more comfortable and close-fitting fit by initially conforming the article 100 to the wearer when the trousers are already filled with exudate and maintaining this fit well throughout the wearing time, as the elastomer side panels allow the trousers to stretch and contract laterally. Furthermore, the elastomer straps 430 provide ease of wear and form and maintain wearing force and tension to hold the article 100 to the wearer and enhance fit, especially when a beam-type elastomer laminate is used to form the straps 430. The elastomer side panels achieve ease of wear, allowing the trousers to conformally pull up to the wearer's hips and be positioned at the waist, where the straps 430 conform to the body and provide sufficient tension to maintain the position of the garment on the wearer. The tension generated by the side panels is transmitted from the elastic straps 430 along at least a portion of the waist opening 190 and along the leg openings 192. Generally, specifically with respect to the discrete side panels 330, the base structure 200 is disposed between the side panels 330 and extends to form a portion of the waist edges 136 and / or 138 of the trousers including the side panels 330. In other words, a portion of the waist edges 136 and / or 138 of one or both of the front waist area 36 and the back waist area 38 may be partially formed by the side panels 330 and partially formed by the base structure 200.

[0222] Pants including side panels 330 (or 430) may also include a pair of laterally opposed re-fastening seams. The re-fastening side seams can be formed by re-fasteningly attaching the inner surface of a portion of the article (e.g., side panel 330) to the outer surface of another portion of the article 100 (e.g., longitudinally opposed side panels 330 or base structure 200) to form the re-fastening side seams. Figure 13The front panel 330 is shown, including a fastener 175 comprising a hook facing away from the wearer (fastener 175 is disposed on the outer surface of the front panel 330f), the hook being repositionably attached to a mating fastener 178. Figure 13 (The ring or suitable nonwoven material) is fitted with fastener 178 on the inner surface of the rear side panel 330b.

[0223] The trousers including the band 430 may also include a first permanent side seam 172 and a second permanent side seam 172 laterally opposed. The permanent side seam 172 may be formed by joining an inner surface of a portion of the article 100 (e.g., the band 430) to an outer surface of another portion of the article 100 (e.g., the longitudinally opposed band 430 or the base structure 200). Alternatively, the permanent side seam 172 may be formed by joining an inner surface of a portion of the article 100 (e.g., the band 430) to an inner surface of another portion of the article 100 (e.g., the longitudinally opposed band 430). Any trousers including the above-described side panel 330 configuration may include a waistband 122, wherein at least a portion of the waistband 122 (e.g., the band 430) may be... Figure 13 (As shown) The waist belt 122 is positioned at or immediately adjacent to the waist edge 136 and / or 138 and overlaps with a portion of the central base structure 200. The waist belt 122 may extend laterally to overlap with a portion of the inner leg cuff 150 and / or a portion of the elastomer side panel 330. The waist belt 122 may be positioned on the inner surface 202 of the base structure 200, or alternatively between the top panel 124 and the bottom panel 125.

[0224] Specifically regarding the 430, such as Figure 12I and Figure 12J As shown, the inner strip layer 432 and / or outer strip layer 434 of the first elastomer strip and the second elastomer strip 430 may be formed by a common strip layer. When the first elastomer strip and the second elastomer strip 430 have a common strip layer, the common strip layer may extend from the first waist edge in the first waist region to the longitudinally opposite second waist edge in the second waist region, i.e., from the front waist edge 136 to the rear waist edge 138.

[0225] Additionally, regarding the belted trousers 400 specifically, such as... Figure 12E As shown, the belted pant 400 may have a first elastic band 430 disposed in a first waist region having a first longitudinal length and a second elastic band 430 disposed in a second waist region having a second longitudinal length, wherein the longitudinal length of the first band is greater than the longitudinal length of the second band at or near the side seam along the side edge of the band. This length difference helps to provide hip coverage in the back of the pant, thereby providing a more underwear-like appearance. Furthermore, while this advantage of the belted pant 400 is disclosed in the present invention, having longitudinally longer side panels 330 in the back waist region 38 also has advantages.

[0226] Open-type adhesive products

[0227] Open-type adhesive absorbent products are generally in Figure 14 The adhesive diaper 500 (open-type article) may include elastomeric ear flaps 530 in one or both of the front waist area 36 and the back waist area 38. The elastomeric ear flaps 530 may be structurally integrated with other elements of the article 100 or may be a separate element engaged with another element of the article 100. The elastomeric ear flaps 530 provide a resiliently stretchable feature that provides a more comfortable and close fit by initially conforming the article 100 to the wearer when the adhesive diaper 500 is filled with exudate and maintaining this fit well throughout the wear time, because the elastomeric ear flaps 530 allow the diaper to stretch and contract to fit the wearer. Furthermore, the elastomer ear flaps 530 form and maintain wearing force (tension) and enhance the tension formed and maintained by the fastening system 179 (including fasteners 175, such as hooks) that can be releasably engaged with the main fasteners 178 (e.g., loops) to hold the article 100 on the wearer and enhance fit. The elastomer ear flaps 530 particularly help maintain the line of force formed by the fastening system 179, thereby allowing the diaper to conformally fit the hips of a wearer with dynamic movement, and initially pre-tension the waist opening 190 and leg opening 192 because when the adhesive diaper 500 is put on the wearer, the person putting on the diaper... The elastomer ear flaps 530 are typically stretched so that when the elastomer ear flaps 530 contract, tension is transmitted from the elastomer ear flaps 530 along at least a portion of the waist opening 190 and the leg opening 192. Although the open-type articles of this disclosure may have elastomer ear flaps 530 disposed in the rear waist region 38, alternatively, the adhesive diaper 500 may be provided with elastomer ear flaps 530 disposed in the front waist region 36 or both the front waist region 36 and the rear waist region 38. The open-type articles may also have elastomer ear flaps 530 disposed in a first waist region and elastomer ear flaps 530 or non-elastic ear flaps 540 disposed in a second waist region.

[0228] Alternatively, an open, adhesive, absorbent article may include an elastomeric band 430 disposed in one of the waist zones. The elastomeric band 430 may be engaged and / or positioned in specific locations or positions, and may be structurally integrated with other elements of the article 100 or as a separate element engaged with another element of the article 100. In a band-type adhesive diaper, the elastomeric band 430 may be disposed in the back waist zone 38. The elastomeric band 430 may have fasteners disposed at or near laterally opposite ends of the band. Fasteners 175 may be disposed on the inner surface of the band 430 to engage with discrete mating fastening members 178 or with the outer surface 204 of the article (such as the backing nonwoven fabric 127) to secure the article to the wearer.

[0229] Outer Cover Material

[0230] The backing sheet 125 may include a backing film 126 and a backing nonwoven material 127. The backing nonwoven material 127 may also be referred to as an outer cover material. The outer cover material forms at least a portion of the surface of the absorbent article 100 facing the garment and effectively “covers” the backing film 126 such that the film is not present on the surface facing the garment. The outer cover material may include adhesive patterns, holes, textures, and / or three-dimensional features. The textures, hole patterns, etc., of the backing sheet may be formed in a manner complementary to or corresponding to the mechanical deformation arrangement of the side panels, ear flaps, or strap portions of the article.

[0231] Absorption core

[0232] As used herein, the term "absorbent core" 128 refers to a component of the absorbent article 100 that has the maximum absorbent capacity and contains absorbent material. See also Figures 12H to 12J In some cases, the absorbent material (e.g., 26) may be positioned within a core pouch or core wrapper 74. Depending on the specific absorbent article, the absorbent material may be irregularly shaped or non-irregularly shaped. The absorbent core 128 may include, consist substantially of, or consist of a core wrapper, the absorbent material, and an adhesive encapsulated within the core wrapper. The absorbent material may include synthetic fibers, cellulose fibers, superabsorbent polymers, foam, or combinations thereof. In some cases, the absorbent material may contain at least 80%, at least 85%, at least 90%, at least 95%, at least 99%, or up to 100% superabsorbent polymer by weight of the absorbent material. In such cases, the absorbent material may be devoid of or at least substantially devoid of a breathable felt—in such cases, AGM 26 may be held in place by an adhesive 54, such as a thermoplastic adhesive. And, for swim diapers, the article may be devoid of superabsorbent polymers. The periphery of the absorbent core (which may be the periphery of the core wrapper) may define any suitable shape, such as, for example, a rectangular “T,” “Y,” “hourglass,” or “dog bone” shape. The periphery of the absorbent core, which has a general "dog bone" or "hourglass" shape, can gradually taper towards the crotch area 37 of the absorbent article 100 along its width.

[0233] See Figures 12E to 12G The absorbent core 128 may have areas with little or no absorbent material, wherein the wearer-facing surface of the core pouch 74 may be attached to the garment-facing surface of the core pouch 74. These areas with little or no absorbent material may be referred to as “channels” 129. These channels may take any suitable shape and may provide any suitable number of channels. In other cases, the absorbent core may be embossed to create the imprint of the channels. Figures 12E to 12G The absorber core shown is merely an exemplary absorber core. Many other absorber cores, with or without channels, are also within the scope of this disclosure.

[0234] As used herein, a full absorbent core is an absorbent core that holds (or is able to hold) a load of at least 50, 100, or 200 milliliters (mls) for use in diapers, pants, and adult incontinence products. Disposable absorbent articles of this disclosure, including absorbent cores, are designed to fit the wearer to an empty absorbent core (i.e., an unfilled core) and to fit the wearer for a perceptible period of time (2 or more hours) even when the core is full.

[0235] Collect materials

[0236] One or more wicking materials (e.g., AGM 26) may be present at least partially between the top sheet 124 and the absorbent core 128. The wicking material is typically a hydrophilic material that provides significant wicking of bodily fluids. These materials allow the top sheet 124 to dehydrate and allow bodily fluids to rapidly enter the absorbent core 128. The wicking material 130 may include, for example, one or more nonwoven materials, foams, cellulose materials, cross-linked cellulose materials, air-laid cellulose nonwoven materials, spunlace materials, or combinations thereof. In some cases, portions of the wicking material may extend through portions of the top sheet 124, and / or the top sheet 124 may be nested with the wicking material. Typically, the wicking material or layer may have a width and length smaller than that of the top sheet 124. The wicking material may be a second top sheet in the context of a feminine pad. The wicking material may have one or more channels, as described in the absorbent core 128 section (including embossed types). The channels in the wicking material may be aligned or misaligned with the channels in the absorbent core 128. In one example, the first collection material may include a nonwoven material, and the second collection material may include a cross-linked cellulose material.

[0237] Top film

[0238] The absorbent article 100 of this disclosure may include a top sheet 124. The top sheet 124 is a portion of the absorbent article 100 that comes into contact with the wearer's skin. As is known to those skilled in the art, the top sheet 124 may be bonded to portions of the bottom sheet 125, absorbent core 128, leg cuffs 52, and / or any other layer. The top sheet 124 may be soft, feel loose, and be non-irritating to the wearer's skin. Furthermore, at least a portion or all of the top sheet may be liquid-permeable, allowing liquid bodily effluents to easily permeate its thickness. Suitable top sheets may be made of a wide variety of different materials, such as porous foam, mesh foam, open-cell plastic film, woven materials, nonwoven materials, natural fibers (e.g., wood fibers or cotton fibers), synthetic fibers or filaments (e.g., polyester fibers or polypropylene fibers or PE / PP bicomponent fibers or mixtures thereof), or woven or nonwoven materials of combinations of natural and synthetic fibers. The top sheet may have one or more layers. The topsheet may be open, may have any suitable three-dimensional feature structure, and / or may have multiple embossings (e.g., adhesive patterns). The topsheet may be open by over-adheding a material and subsequently breaking the over-adhesion through ring rolling, as disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 5,628,097 to Benson et al., May 13, 1997, and in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. US2016 / 0136014 to Arora et al. Any portion of the topsheet may be coated with a skin-care composition, antibacterial agent, surfactant, and / or other beneficial agents. The topsheet may be hydrophilic or hydrophobic, or may have hydrophilic and / or hydrophobic portions or layers. If the topsheet is hydrophobic, pores will typically be present to allow bodily fluids to pass through it. The topsheet may include adhesive patterns, pores, and / or three-dimensional features.

[0239] negative

[0240] The absorbent article 100 of this disclosure may include a backing sheet 125. The backing sheet 125 is typically the portion of the absorbent article 100 positioned adjacent to the garment-facing surface of the absorbent core 128. The backing sheet 125 may be bonded to portions of the top sheet 124, the backing sheet nonwoven material 127, the absorbent core 128, and / or any other layer of the absorbent article by any attachment method known to those skilled in the art. A backing sheet film 126 prevents or at least inhibits the absorption and containment of bodily fluids in the absorbent core 128 from soiling articles such as sheets, underwear, and / or clothing. The backing sheet is typically liquid-impermeable, or at least substantially liquid-impermeable. The backing sheet may be, for example, or comprise a thin plastic film, such as a thermoplastic film, having a thickness of about 0.012 mm to about 0.051 mm. Other suitable backing sheet materials may include breathable materials that allow vapors to escape from the absorbent article while still preventing or at least inhibiting the permeation of bodily fluids through the backing sheet. The backing sheet may include adhesive patterns, perforations, and / or three-dimensional features.

[0241] Leg braces

[0242] The absorbent article 100 of this disclosure may include leg cuffs 52, which include an inner leg cuff 150 and an outer leg cuff 140. The inner leg cuff 150 may be positioned laterally inward of the outer leg cuff 140. Each of the blocking leg cuffs 52 may be formed of a material element bonded to the absorbent article 100, such that it may extend upward from the wearer-facing surface of the absorbent article 100 and provide improved containment of bodily outflows near the junction of the wearer's torso and legs. The inner leg cuff 150 is defined by a proximal edge directly or indirectly bonded to (or formed of) a top sheet and / or a bottom sheet, and a free end edge, which is intended to contact the wearer's skin and form a seal. The inner leg cuff 150 extends longitudinally at least partially (or completely) between the front end edge 136 and the rear end edge 138 of the absorbent article 100 on opposite sides of the base structure and may be present at least in the crotch area 37. The inner leg cuff 150 may each include one or more elastic elements 316 (e.g., elastic strands or strips) near or at their free end edges. These elastic elements 316 enable the inner leg cuff 150 to help form a seal around the wearer's legs and torso. The outer leg cuff 140 extends at least partially between the front end edge 136 and the rear end edge 138. The outer leg cuff 140 essentially enables the portions of the absorbent article 100 near the base structure sides 237a and 237b to help form a seal around the wearer's legs. The outer leg cuff 140 may extend at least within the crotch area 37.

[0243] Belt / Waist Cap

[0244] The absorbent article 100 of this disclosure may include one or more elastic waistbands 122. The elastic waistbands 122 may be positioned on a surface facing the garment or on a surface facing the wearer, or may be formed between them. As an example, a first elastic waistband 122 may be present in a front waist area 36 near a front waist edge 136, and a second elastic waistband 122 may be present in a back waist area 38 near a back waist edge 138. The elastic waistbands 122 may help seal the absorbent article 100 around the wearer's waist and at least prevent bodily exudates from overflowing the absorbent article 100 through the waist opening. In some cases, the elastic waistband may completely surround the waist opening 190 of the absorbent article 100. A hood 123 may be formed from an extension of the waistband 122 and may retain a lower structure not attached to the central portion of the hood 123 to allow bodily exudates flowing along the top panel 124 to be trapped between the top panel 124 and the underside of the hood 123. In other words, the waist cap 123 may be joined to the underlying structure, such as the central base structure 200 of the absorbent article 100, along the longitudinal distal edge of the waist cap 123 and / or along the laterally opposite side of the waist cap 123.

[0245] bring

[0246] In addition to the content disclosed above regarding the belts in the sections on open adhesive articles and closed trouser articles, the front belt 430f and rear belt 430b may also include a front inner belt layer and a rear inner belt layer 432, and a front outer belt layer and a rear outer belt layer 434, having an elastomeric material (e.g., strands 316 or a membrane (which may be open-celled)) at least partially disposed between them. The elastic strands 316 or the membrane may be relaxed (including cut) to reduce elastic strain on the absorbent core 128, or alternatively may be continuously distributed over the entire absorbent core 128. The elastic strands 316 may have a uniform or variable spacing between them in any part of the belt. The elastic strands 316 may also be pre-stressed by the same amount or different amounts. The front belt 430f and / or the rear belt 430b may have one or more regions without elastic elements, wherein the base structure 200 overlaps with the belts 430f and 430b. In other cases, at least some of the elastic strands 316 may extend continuously over the base structure 200. The inner and / or outer layers may include adhesive patterns, openings, and / or three-dimensional feature structures.

[0247] The front inner and rear inner stripes 432 and the front outer and rear outer stripes 434 can be joined using adhesives, thermal bonding, pressure bonding, ultrasonic bonding, or thermoplastic bonding. Various suitable stripe configurations can be found in U.S. Patent Application Publication 2013 / 0211363.

[0248] The front belt end edge 438f and the rear belt end edge 438b may extend longitudinally beyond the front base structure end edge 236 and the rear base structure end edge 238, or they may share a common end. The front belt side edge and the rear belt side edge 437 may extend laterally beyond the base structure side edges 237a and 237b. The front belt 430f and the rear belt 430b may be continuous (i.e., having at least one continuous layer from the belt end edge 438f to the opposite belt end edge 438b) (see [reference]). Figure 12I and Figure 12J Alternatively, the front belt 430f and the rear belt 430b may be discontinuous from the belt end 438f to the opposite belt end 438b (see 434). Figure 12H The numbers 432 and 434 in the original text make them discrete.

[0249] As disclosed in U.S. Patent 7,901,393, the longitudinal length of the rear strap 430b (along the central longitudinal axis 42) may be greater than the longitudinal length of the front strap 430f, and this can be particularly useful for increasing hip coverage when the rear strap 430b has a greater longitudinal length than the front strap 430f adjacent to or immediately adjacent to the side seam 172. Alternatively, the bottom corner of the longer rear strap may be trimmed diagonally or curved.

[0250] The front strap 430f and back strap 430b may include slits, holes, and / or openings, which provide enhanced breathability, softness, and a garment-like texture. The lingerie-like appearance can be enhanced by substantially aligning the waist and leg edges at the side seam 172.

[0251] The component sections disclosed herein

[0252] Components of the absorbent article, including the elastomer laminate 302, can be segmented to allow for structural measurement and detailed characterization. Waist belt 122 (see...) Figure 13 ), Waist hat 123 (see Figure 14 The inner leg band 150, outer leg band 140, and lateral barrier 165 each include one section. Regarding the waist belt 122, waist cap 123, inner leg band 150, outer leg band 140, and lateral barrier 165, this section is defined as being disposed between the farthest elastic member and the nearest elastic member, and includes the area of ​​both the farthest and nearest elastic members.

[0253] Other components (such as the base structure 200, top plate 124 (see also...) Figure 12G and Figure 12H ), negative 125 (see Figure 12G and Figure 12H ), Side piece 330 (see Figure 13 Earpiece 530 (see) Figure 14 ) and strips (e.g., front and rear strips) 430 (see Figures 12C to 12F , Figure 12I , Figure 12O and Figure 12P , Figure 12S and Figure 12T All of these include multiple segments as described herein. Regarding side pieces 330, ear pieces 530, and strip pieces 430, a portion of the component to be segmented is defined as the area disposed between and including both the farthest elastic member and the nearest elastic member of the elastomeric laminate 302 forming the component—except where, in the case where only a portion of the component is defined as segmented, it is the area disposed between and including both the farthest elastic member and the nearest elastic member of the defined portion of the elastomeric laminate 302 (see [link to documentation]). Figure 12E and Figure 12FAn alternative rear waist region 38' (which is part of the rear belt component) is included. This region is defined by a first line extending parallel to the lateral axis 44 (of which the component is part) and passing through the farthest point of the farthest elastic member, and a second line extending parallel to the lateral axis and passing through the nearest point of the nearest elastic member. For each of these elements, the region is then divided into four equal segments defined by three lines arranged parallel to the lateral axis 44 and positioned at 25%, 50%, and 75% of the distance between the first and second lines. The region includes a first segment, "1" or "segment 1", which includes the farthest elastic member; a fourth segment, "4" or "segment 4", which includes the nearest elastic member; a second segment, "2" or "segment 2", located adjacent to segment 1; and a third segment, "3" or "segment 3", located between segments 2 and 4. In the claims, any one of segments 1 to 4 may generally be referred to as "first segment"; any two of segments 1 to 4 may generally be referred to as "first segment and second segment", etc. The same applies to segments L, M, and R.

[0254] For example, the front waist area 36, ​​including the front belt 430f, can be segmented as follows (see...). Figure 18A -C):

[0255] "The front waist region 36 includes a front component region 50, which is disposed between the farthest front elastic thread 417 and the nearest front elastic thread 418 of the front waist region 36 and includes the farthest front elastic thread 417 and the nearest front elastic thread 418 of the front waist region 36."

[0256] The anterior component region 50 is defined by an anterior distal component region line 419 and an anterior proximal component region line 421. The anterior distal component region line extends parallel to the lateral axis 44 and passes through the farthest point 420 of the anterior farthest elastic strand 417, and the anterior proximal component region line extends parallel to the lateral axis 44 and passes through the nearest point 422 of the anterior nearest elastic strand 418.

[0257] The front component region 50 is then divided into four identical component segments defined by a first component segment line 423, a second component segment line 424, and a third component segment line 425. Each component segment line is arranged parallel to the lateral axis 44 and is located at 25%, 50%, and 75% of the distance between the front distal component region line 419 and the front proximal component region line 421.

[0258] The front component region 50 includes a first component segment (front segment 1), a fourth component segment (front segment 4), a second component segment (front segment 2), and a third component segment (front segment 3). The first component segment includes the farthest front elastic strand 417, the fourth component segment includes the nearest front elastic strand 418, the second component segment is adjacent to the front segment 1, and the third component segment is located between the front segments 2 and 4. For example, the rear waist region 38 including the rear strap 430f can be segmented as follows (see...). Figure 18A -C):

[0259] "The rear waist region 38 includes a rear component region 51, which is located between the rear farthest elastic line 517 and the rear waist region 38 nearest elastic line 518 and includes the rear farthest elastic line and the rear waist region nearest elastic line."

[0260] The rear component region 51 is defined by a rear distal component region line 519 and a rear proximal component region line 521. The rear distal component region line extends parallel to the lateral axis 44 and passes through the farthest point 520 of the rear farthest elastic strand 517, and the rear proximal component region line extends parallel to the lateral axis 44 and passes through the nearest point 522 of the rear nearest elastic strand 518.

[0261] The rear component region 51 is then divided into four identical component segments defined by a first component segment line 523, a second component segment line 524, and a third component segment line 525, each of which is parallel to the lateral axis 44 and is located at 25%, 50%, and 75% of the distance between the rear distal component region line 519 and the rear proximal component region line 521.

[0262] The rear component region 51 includes a first component section (rear section 1), a fourth component section (rear section 4), a second component section (rear section 2), and a third component section (rear section 3). The first component section includes the farthest rear elastic strand 517, the fourth component section includes the nearest rear elastic strand 518, the second component section is adjacent to the rear section 1, and the third component section is located between the rear sections 2 and 4.

[0263] For an embodiment in which one or both of the laterally extending elastic members disposed in the waist region include an arcuate portion extending longitudinally inward from the nearest point of the side seam, the nearest point of the nearest side elastic member is where the elastic member intersects a line extending longitudinally from the nearest point of the first side seam to the nearest point of the laterally opposite side seam, such as... Figure 18B As shown.

[0264] Regarding the basic structure 200 and the top panel 124 (see...) Figure 12G ) and negative 125 (see Figure 12G The elastomeric laminate 302 has elastic members 316 extending substantially longitudinally. A portion of the member to be segmented is defined as a region between the farthest elastic member of the elastomeric laminate 302 disposed on a first side of the longitudinal axis 42 and the farthest elastic member of the elastomeric laminate 302 disposed on a second side of the longitudinal axis 42, and including both the farthest elastic members of the elastomeric laminate 302 on the first and second sides of the longitudinal axis 42. This region is defined by a first line extending parallel to the longitudinal axis 42 and passing through the farthest point of the farthest elastic member on the first side of the longitudinal axis 42, and a second line extending parallel to the longitudinal axis 42 and passing through the farthest point of the farthest elastic member on the second side of the longitudinal axis 42. For each of these elements, the region is subsequently divided into four equal segments defined by three lines disposed parallel to the longitudinal axis 42 and at 25%, 50%, and 75% of the distance between the first and second lines. The region includes a first segment, "1" or "segment 1", which includes the farthest elastic member on a first side of the longitudinal axis; a fourth segment, "4" or "segment 4", which includes the farthest elastic member on a second side of the longitudinal axis; a second segment, "2" or "segment 2", located adjacent to segment 1; and a third segment, "3" or "segment 3", located between segments 2 and 4.

[0265] Regarding the basic structure 200, top sheet 124, and bottom sheet 125 (see...) Figure 12HThe elastomeric laminate 302 has elastic members 316 extending substantially laterally oriented. A portion of the member to be segmented is defined between the farthest elastic member of the elastomeric laminate 302 on a first side of the lateral axis 44 and the farthest elastic member of the elastomeric laminate 302 on a second side of the lateral axis 44, and includes both the farthest elastic members of the elastomeric laminate 302 on the first and second sides of the lateral axis 44. This region is defined by a first line extending parallel to the lateral axis 44 and passing through the farthest point of the farthest elastic member on the first side of the lateral axis 44, and a second line extending parallel to the lateral axis 44 and passing through the farthest point of the farthest elastic member on the second side of the lateral axis 44. For each of these elements, the region is subsequently divided into four equal segments defined by three lines arranged parallel to the lateral axis 44 and positioned at 25%, 50%, and 75% of the distance between the first and second lines. The region includes a first segment, "1" or "segment 1", which includes the farthest elastic member on the first side of the lateral axis; a fourth segment, "4" or "segment 4", which includes the farthest elastic member on the second side of the lateral axis; a second segment, "2" or "segment 2", located adjacent to segment 1; and a third segment, "3" or "segment 3", located between segments 2 and 4.

[0266] The absorbent product section disclosed herein

[0267] In addition to the aforementioned "component sections" of the absorbent article, the absorbent article itself can be divided into "article sections"—see [link to article section]. Figure 12E , Figure 12F , Figure 12K , Figure 12L , Figure 12Q , Figure 12R , Figure 12U and Figure 12V , Figure 13 , Figure 14 and Figures 18A to 18CThe product segment can be used to characterize the structure of a product component that overlaps with and extends laterally beyond the base structure. Specifically, the middle segment "M" or "segment M" of the product region is defined by a left product region line 650 extending parallel to the longitudinal axis 42 and passing through the left-hand side 237a of the base structure 200 to its farthest left point 651, and a right product region line 652 extending parallel to the longitudinal axis 42 and passing through the right-hand side 237b of the base structure 200 (laterally opposite to the left-hand side 237a) to its farthest right point 653. All contents on one or the other side of the M product segment are the left product region segment "L" or "segment L" and the laterally opposite right product region segment "R" or "segment R". More specifically, segments L and R can be referred to by the position of segments L, R, or M in the front region 33, the rear region 38, or the crotch region 37, and, where appropriate, by the product segment they overlap. For example, regarding belt 430, it may be referred to as segment 1 (adjacent to waist opening 190) in segment L with front waist zone 36. Also, a portion of belt 430 may be mentioned that extends longitudinally beyond base structure 200 in segment M of rear waist zone 38.

[0268] The properties of the elastomer laminates and articles disclosed herein

[0269] General Instructions

[0270] Part or all of the absorbent article 100 may be mechanically deformable by MD activation and / or opening, thereby becoming stretchable to a degree greater than the inherent stretchability of one or more materials used to make the article (e.g., a nonwoven backing material, lining, straps, side panels, elastomeric laminates, or combinations thereof). Advantageously, the quasi-elastic properties of the elastomeric laminate may be altered by mechanically deforming part or all of the laminate as described below. Additional stretchability may be required to allow the absorbent article 100 to stretch to fit over the wearer's body and accommodate changes in body size during the wearer's movement. Additional stretchability is also desirable, for example, to allow a user of a particular size of oversized diaper 20 (including the absorbent article 100) to stretch the front waist area 36 and / or the back waist area 38 before stretching, so that the oversized diaper can be pulled across the wearer's hips and then contracted to wrap around the waist of a single wearer whose waist circumference is typically smaller than the circumference measured at the wearer's hips. Provided the crotch area 37 is extended to a relatively small extent compared to the waist area, such extension of the waist area allows the diaper cover 20 to have a generally hourglass shape and to give the diaper cover 20 a fitted appearance when worn. Furthermore, additional stretchability provided by the mechanical deformation of some or all of the elastomeric laminates may be desirable in order to minimize the cost of the diaper cover 20. Specifically, a smaller amount of material is required to manufacture a diaper that can properly conform to a wearer of a given size when the material is mechanically deformed as described herein.

[0271] The additional stretchability of the absorbent article 100 in the lateral direction may be more useful than the additional stretchability in the longitudinal direction. When the wearer changes posture from standing to sitting, the wearer's abdomen may expand, and the corresponding abdominal expansion increases the circumference around the absorbent article 100, making lateral extension of the waist area particularly advantageous.

[0272] Such elastomeric laminates 302 can be laterally stretched beyond their original dimensions with a relatively small force required to stretch the same material to the same extent as when undeformed. Specifically, the effect of applying opposing divergent forces, generally perpendicular to the formed ridges 102 and valleys 104, during the mechanical deformation of the laminate includes the extension of this formed fibrous web material along the axis between the opposing forces. Therefore, such elastomeric laminates can exhibit stretchability properties more similar to those of the elastic material itself within a range of ductility, which is useful for the type of lateral extension desired in absorbent articles. Furthermore, such elastomeric laminates can provide a given level of ductility with less material, and thus offer advantages in terms of material cost and the cost of manufacturing absorbent articles.

[0273] The range of stretchability of a fibrous web material or elastomer laminate can be controlled by varying the degree of deformation in a region, and can range from near zero to a maximum value depending on the original material. For example, the mechanically deformable material used in absorbent article 100 (e.g., a diaper cover 20) is typically deformable to provide incremental stretchability of about 5% to about 25% of the original size, greater than the original undeformed size. A portion of absorbent article 100 may have an incremental stretchability level ranging from 5%, 10%, and 15% at its lower end and from 15%, 20%, and 25% at its upper end. The desired stretchability level is achieved by applying opposing dispersive forces in the stretching direction of about 3,000 grams or about 2,000 grams. However, it should be readily understood that any specific value of the maximum stretchability in the range of about 5% to about 25% can be selected to suit the specific choice of the original size of the absorbent article and the size range of the intended wearer. Specifically, disposable absorbent pants with a specific unstretched waist opening circumference are suitable for wearers with a waist circumference equal to that unstretched waist opening circumference up to the maximum stretchability.

[0274] When the elastomeric laminate is subjected to applied elongation, it exhibits elastic-like properties as it extends in the direction of the applied elongation, and returns to its substantially unstretched state once the applied elongation is removed, unless the laminate is stretched beyond its yield point. The elongation of the laminate can be adjusted by varying the percentage of the laminate surface comprised of ridges 102 and valleys 104. This can be achieved, for example, by varying the width of the ridges 102 and valleys 104, the spacing between adjacent ridges 102 and valleys 104, and / or the depth of the ridges 102 and valleys 104. A higher percentage of the area covered by the ridges 102 and valleys on the elastomeric laminate will increase the overall elongation of the laminate. The elastomeric laminate is capable of undergoing multiple cycles of applied elongation up to the yield point without losing its substantially recoverable ability. Therefore, once the applied elongation is removed (e.g., when the absorbent article 100 is stretched across the wearer's hips during use), the elastomeric laminate of this disclosure can return to its substantially unstretched state.

[0275] Applying force, continuous adhesion load force and continuous adhesion unloading force

[0276] Absorbent articles, including conventional stranded elastic components and elastomeric laminates, typically require high applied forces to ensure sufficient sustained fit load and sustained fit unload to maintain the article's position on the wearer. Like articles including beam-type elastic components, especially beam-type elastic components in mechanically deformable laminates, absorbent articles including conventional stranded elastic components do not retain elasticity and therefore often have significant consumer performance trade-offs: either poor wearability with good sustained fit and grip, or easy wearability with poor sustained fit, grip, and leakage performance.

[0277] The higher-resolution elastic component of conventional stranded elastic laminates has individual elastic filaments 317, which are twisted together to form an elastic strand, ranging from 30 to 60 strands (see example). Figure 17 The low-specification elastic component of a beam-type elastomer laminate contains between 3 and 7 elastic filaments. The low-specification elastic component used in beam-type elastomer laminates has fewer individual filaments compared to the high-specification elastic component. In some cases, the lower specificity can have as few as 1 / 10 the number of filaments. Considering the twisting of the elastic filaments to form a strand, an elastic component containing more filaments will have more filament-to-filament interactions during strand extension and contraction. This increased interaction can adversely affect the retention of sustained bonding load and unloading forces. Furthermore, larger bundles of twisted filaments can cause different filaments to bond to the laminate substrate at different points along the strand, thus introducing additional constraints on the individual filaments in the bundle, further affecting the filaments' ability to extend and contract. The lower-specification elastic strands of beam-type elastomer laminates contain significantly fewer filaments, and therefore the filaments can extend and contract more independently of each other, thus providing an elastic response closer to that of a monofilament strand.

[0278] Absorbent articles comprising undeformed beam-type elastic laminates can have an applied force between about 900 gf and about 1,600 gf, a sustained adhesion load force greater than the applied force by about 30%, and a sustained adhesion unloading force greater than the applied force by about 25%. Alternatively, absorbent articles comprising undeformed beam-type elastic laminates can have an applied force between about 1,500 gf and about 3,000 gf, a sustained adhesion load force greater than the applied force by about 35%, and a sustained adhesion unloading force greater than the applied force by about 30%. While this performance is a significant improvement over conventional stranded elastomer laminates, mechanically deformed elastomer beam-type laminates perform even better without sacrificing key adhesion performance indicators.

[0279] To achieve the best user experience, it is desirable to provide an absorbent article that has an appropriate balance of applied force, continuous adhesion load force, and continuous adhesion load force. Figure 5A Force-elongation curves are shown, illustrating where these forces are intercepted along the curve. The desired result is an article having an elastomeric laminate including mechanical deformation, having an applied force equal to or less than that of an article having an elastomeric laminate without mechanical deformation, and a sustained-fit load force and sustained-fit unload force comparable between articles having elastomeric laminates with and without mechanical deformation. For articles with similar applied forces, the sustained-fit load force and sustained-fit unload force can also be expressed as a percentage of the applied force. The actual applied force, sustained-fit load force, sustained-fit unload force, laminate modulus, and strain modulus ratio for articles having elastomeric laminates with and without mechanical deformation can be found in Table A (below). Figure 5A It is the basic twist shown in Table A ( Figure 5A The "stretched laminate" in Table A and the "basic laminate" in Table A) and the same laminate after mechanical deformation ( Figure 5A The diagram shows the laminar modulus of the "mechanically deformed stranded laminate" and the "basic laminate (mechanically deformed)". Figure 5B This is the layered compound of the present invention ( Figure 5A The diagram shows the continuous bonding load and continuous bonding unloading force of the "mechanically deformed stranded laminate". Figure 5C It is a stranded laminate ( Figure 5C (solid line in the middle) and the same layer after mechanical deformation ( Figure 5C The diagram (with the dashed line in the middle) illustrates the continuous bonding load force and the continuous bonding unloading force.

[0280] Table A: Effect of Mechanical Deformation on Beam-Type Elastomer Laminate Hip Hoops

[0281]

[0282] exist Figures 5D to 5K Two products are shown: a beam-type elastic component (of the present invention) comprising an adhesive bonded to a mechanically deformable elastomeric laminate, and a beam-type elastic component (not of the present invention) comprising an adhesive bonded to a non-mechanically deformable elastomeric laminate. Human model fit tests were performed on both products. During the human model fit tests, the product was applied to a mechanically manipulated human model, which underwent a series of fixed movements to simulate the movements of a real infant. After application, the initial positions of the trousers placed on the human model were measured: 1) initial position at the front waist, 2) initial position at the back waist, and 3) initial rise (measured from a fixed point in the front, through the crotch, to a fixed point in the back). Figure 5D The initial fit of a beam-type elastic member (not of this invention) bonded with an adhesive comprising a non-mechanically deformable elastomeric laminate is shown from the front. Figure 5F The initial fit of a beam-type elastic component (not of this invention) bonded by an adhesive comprising a non-mechanically deformable elastomeric laminate is shown from the side / rear. Figure 5E This invention demonstrates the initial fit of a beam-type elastic member (the present invention) bonded with an adhesive, comprising an elastomeric laminate with mechanical deformation, from the front. Figure 5G The initial fit of a beam-type elastic component (of the present invention) bonded by an adhesive comprising a mechanically deformable elastomeric laminate is shown from the side / rear. The article is then loaded with 75 ml of synthetic urine and subjected to a mechanical manipulation step. After the first cycle of mechanical manipulation, the article is again loaded with another 75 ml of synthetic urine and then subjected to a second cycle of mechanical manipulation. After the second cycle, the final position of the article, the final position of the front waist, the final position of the rear waist, and the final rise are measured. Figure 5D This illustrates the final fit from the front of a beam-type elastic member (not of this invention) bonded with an adhesive comprising a non-mechanically deformable elastomeric laminate. Figure 5F The final fit of a beam-type elastic component (not of this invention) bonded by an adhesive comprising a non-mechanically deformable elastomeric laminate is shown from the side / rear. Figure 5E This invention demonstrates the final fit of a beam-type elastic member (the present invention) bonded with an adhesive, comprising an elastomeric laminate with mechanical deformation, from the front. Figure 5G This invention demonstrates the final fit of a beam-type elastic component (of the present invention) bonded by an adhesive, comprising an elastomeric laminate with mechanical deformation, from the side / rear. Figure 5D '、 Figure 5E '、 Figure 5F 'and Figure 5GThe black lines above are for reference and are used to compare beam-type elastic members bonded with adhesives comprising non-mechanically deformable elastomeric laminates and beam-type elastic members bonded with adhesives comprising mechanically deformable elastomeric laminates. Based on the graphs, tables, and images, it is clear that although the ductility of the mechanically deformable elastomeric laminate is significantly increased relative to that of the non-mechanically deformable elastomeric laminate, the sustained adhesion under sustained-load and sustained-unload forces of the mechanically deformable and non-mechanically deformable beam-type elastomer strips are substantially the same.

[0283] The actual measurement results from the human model tests are shown in Table B (below). The data shows that the total sagging of articles comprising beam-type elastic components bonded with adhesives containing mechanically deformable elastomeric laminates (of the present invention) and articles comprising beam-type elastic components bonded with adhesives containing non-mechanically deformable elastomeric laminates (not of the present invention) is within + / - 10% (a measure of the degree of slippage of the product from its initial position to its final position). Compared to commercially available products, articles comprising beam-type elastic components bonded with adhesives containing mechanically deformable elastomeric laminates have significantly less sagging. Compared to articles comprising beam-type elastic components bonded with adhesives containing mechanically deformable elastomeric laminates (of the present invention), commercially available products (not of the present invention) have 129% to 159% higher frontal sagging and 135% to 157% higher total sagging.

[0284] Table B: Measurements of sustained fit from laboratory human model testing

[0285]

[0286]

[0287] Table C shows the ratio of the laminate modulus and strain modulus of the product of the present invention to those of currently commercially available products.

[0288] Table C: Comparison of currently available products with the mechanically deformable products of this invention

[0289]

[0290] Table D shows the effect of mechanical deformation on the leg braces of the beam-type elastomer laminate (the "base laminate" in Table D is...). Figure 11 The solid line in the text refers to "stretched laminate leg ring" and is not part of this invention; and the "base laminate (mechanically deformed)" in Table D is... Figure 11 The dotted line in the figure represents "mechanically deformable leg ring" and is part of the present invention.

[0291] Table D: Effect of Mechanical Deformation on Beam-Type Elastomer Laminate Leg Brackets

[0292]

[0293] Table E: Effect of Mechanical Deformation on the Percentage of Contact Area

[0294]

[0295] The role of parameters

[0296] Among the many relevant parameters for measuring how a laminate performs, the stranded elastomer laminate of this disclosure outperforms stranded elastomer laminates in the art, including:

[0297] The hip brace is relevant because it measures the elongation and contraction of the closed circumference of the absorbent material. Data generated from this test can be used to determine the applied force, sustained fit load force, and sustained fit unload force.

[0298] The applied force is relevant because it is a measure of the force that the caregiver or wearer may encounter while wearing absorbent clothing.

[0299] Pants (including waistband and side panels) made using the elastomeric laminate 302 of this disclosure may have an applied force of about 900 gf to about 1600 gf, or may have an applied force of about 1,000 gf to about 1,400 gf.

[0300] The sustained fit load force is relevant because it is a measure of the force exerted on the wearer by the article when the wearer's waist extends, for example during breathing or during the wearer's movement (such as when the wearer changes from a standing to a sitting position).

[0301] Pants (including waistband and side panels) made using the elastomer laminate 302 of this disclosure can have a continuous fit load force greater than about 30% of the applied force.

[0302] The sustained fit unloading force is relevant because it is a measure of the force exerted on the wearer by the article when the wearer's waist contracts, for example, during breathing or during the wearer's movement (such as when the wearer changes from a sitting to a standing position).

[0303] Pants (including waistband and side panels) made using the elastomeric laminate 302 disclosed herein can have a sustained fit unloading force greater than about 25% of the applied force.

[0304] Surface morphology (contact area percentage, wrinkle frequency, wrinkle wavelength, and 2%–98% height value) is relevant because it is a measure of the texture properties of the elastomeric laminate. Surface morphology defines the contact area percentage, which is the portion of the surface that can contact the skin; wrinkle frequency and wrinkle wavelength characterize structural aspects of the texture; and the 2–98% height value helps to define the thickness of the elastomeric laminate.

[0305] Surface morphology

[0306] Surface morphology is the surface morphology of the elastomeric laminate measured using optical profilometry. The 3D surface data is then sampled and processed to extract several parameters describing the percentage of contact area and 2-98% height of the elastomeric laminate sample surface, as well as the wrinkle frequency and wrinkle wavelength.

[0307] See Figure 6A and Figure 6B And as shown in Table E (above), for comparing various absorbent articles, a first setting (100 micrometers), a second setting of 2 times or 200 micrometers of the skin thickness, and a third setting of 300 micrometers of the skin thickness were selected to determine the percentage of contact area corresponding to the skin thickness. It is evident from surface morphology measurements (see Table E) that MD activation ( Figure 6B The beam-type elastic laminate has the same properties as the unactivated ( Figure 6A The beam-type elastic laminate has essentially the same contact area percentage as the non-activated beam-type elastic laminate, but also has the advantage of a more uniform texture (compared to the non-activated beam-type elastic laminate—see [link]). Figure 1B (This invention) and Figure 1A (Not of this invention), particularly the uniformity of ridges and valleys. Furthermore, similar to the unactivated beam-type elastic laminate, the MD-activated beam-type elastic laminate also exhibits a significant difference in surface smoothness compared to prior art structures, as shown in Table E. These differences in increasing surface contact and surface smoothness will have a direct and significant impact on minimizing or eliminating skin imprints of various structures that can be generated by the beam-type elastic laminate 302. In contrast, data with height values ​​above 2% to 98% show that prior art products have a rougher surface, partly due to their greater fractional elasticity and larger spacing, leading to larger uncontrolled random wrinkles. Combining the larger uncontrolled wrinkles with the significantly lower surface contact area of ​​the prior art, it can be seen that for the implementation of prior art products, pressure on the skin and skin imprints can be significantly greater, and articles including beam-type elastomer laminates are significantly lower.

[0308] The elastomeric laminate 302 disclosed herein may have a contact area percentage greater than about 13% at 100 μm and / or greater than about 27% at 200 μm and / or greater than about 39% at 300 μm. Furthermore, the elastomeric laminate 302 may have a height value of 2%-98% less than about 1.6.

[0309] Infra-groin pressure (average infra-groin pressure) is relevant because it is a measure of the pressure that elastic components will exert on the skin. Lower infra-groin pressure is associated with fewer skin indentations and marks, resulting in improved skin condition and comfort.

[0310] The modulus of a laminate is relevant because it is a measure of the slope of the force-elongation curve within a given segment of the elastomer laminate. Conversely, if the force increases rapidly with elongation, the modulus of the material is higher than that where the force increases more slowly with elongation. Different segments may be desirable. The laminate modulus and segment modulus are related; the laminate modulus is the linear slope of the segment between 2 gf / mm and 5 gf / mm, and the segment modulus is defined as the linear slope of the segment between 3 gf / mm and 7 gf / mm.

[0311] See Figure 19 This paper demonstrates how segment modulus can be determined based on any combination of the average ply spacing and average fractional strength of spandex yarns. Segment modulus is significantly correlated with product performance and consumer perception for two key reasons. First, segment modulus is how consumers perceive the ease of wear, fit, and comfort of a product. Segment modulus conveys the ease and extent of stretching under a given applied force. If the segment modulus is too high, consumers perceive the product as too small, too tight, and uncomfortable, and it has a higher likelihood of skin imprinting. On the other hand, if the segment modulus is too low, consumers perceive the product as too large, too loose, and it does not hold its position properly or wrap around the legs and waist correctly. Consumer testing has shown that a segment modulus between approximately 4 gf / mm and approximately 9 gf / mm is the preferred range for absorbent clothing.

[0312] The second key impact of segment modulus is the number of sizes required to fit a range of consumers across a range of products. A higher segment modulus may require offering more sizes to achieve a proper fit, within the range where a given consumer perceives the product as comfortable.

[0313] The elastomer laminate 302 disclosed herein may have a laminate modulus of about 3 gf / mm to about 12 gf / mm, or about 4 gf / mm to about 10 gf / mm, or about 7 gf / mm to about 14 gf / mm, or about 3 gf / mm to about 9 gf / mm.

[0314] The first segment of the elastomeric laminate 302, which can be used for absorbent article components, may have a segment modulus of about 3 gf / mm to about 12 gf / mm, and the second segment may have a segment modulus of about 4 gf / mm to about 10 gf / mm.

[0315] The first segment of the elastomer laminate 302 may have a laminate modulus that is 20%, 30%, or 50% larger than that of the second segment of the elastomer laminate.

[0316] Strain is a measure of the percentage of a laminate's elongation along its modulus (MD) to its original length (as defined herein). 100% strain is equivalent to the laminate elongating along its MD to twice its original length. Stress is a measure of how much force is required to elongate the laminate (as defined herein) for each width of its CD. For example, if an elastomer laminate with a 500 mm relaxation dimension along its MD and a 100 mm relaxation dimension along its CD is stretched at a force of 2000 gf, and this force results in a 1000 mm elongation of the laminate's MD, this is equivalent to a laminate stress of 20 gf / mm at 100% laminate strain. Laminate stress and strain are directly related to product application, product fit, product continued fit, and product comfort.

[0317] The elastomer laminate 302 disclosed herein may have a strain greater than 110% under a stress of 9.1 gf / mm, greater than 60% under a stress of 10 gf / mm, greater than 100% under a stress of 10 gf / mm, or greater than 120% or greater than 150% under a stress of 9.1 gf / mm.

[0318] The applied stress (and applied force) is related to the ease or difficulty of applying a closed-form product. During application, the product's waistband typically extends to a circumference larger than its intended fit. This is necessary for pulling the product up in the hip and waist areas. Lower applied force (applied stress) at the desired waistband strain (extension) makes the product easier to apply.

[0319] Pants (including waistband and side panels) made using the elastomeric laminate 302 of this disclosure may have applied stress of about 7.5 gf / mm to about 14 gf / mm, or about 10 gf / mm to about 14 gf / mm, or about 11 gf / mm to about 14 gf / mm.

[0320] The maximum strain of the leg cuff is a critical parameter that significantly affects not only the wearability of the garment but also comfort and imprinting, especially for wearers with larger thighs and when the wearer moves, sits, or stands. It is well known that the body shape and size of the waist, hips, and thighs change when a wearer transitions from a standing to a sitting position. It is crucial that the waist opening (and especially the leg opening) have sufficient extension to accommodate these changes in shape and size. The maximum strain of the leg cuff parameter defines the maximum extension of the leg opening and thus indicates how well it conforms to the wearer's intended fit.

[0321] Pants (including waistband and side panels) made using the elastomeric laminate 302 of this disclosure may have a maximum leg cuff strain of more than about 125% or more than about 150% or more than about 180% under a force of less than 650 gf.

[0322] ratio

[0323] One of the key product structure ratios is the product pitch to belt spacing ratio. This ratio is important because it defines the leg openings to vary with product size, which is crucial for ease of wear, comfort, and skin imprint. Product pitch is determined by measuring the product along its longitudinal centerline when it is fully extended. Belt spacing is the distance between the nearest elastic element in the first waist zone and the nearest elastic element in the second waist zone. It has been determined that a product pitch to belt spacing ratio of approximately 2.1 to approximately 2.7 provides an appropriately sized leg opening for ease of wear and comfort throughout the wearer's movement, while minimizing skin imprint. Another key product structure ratio is the product pitch to seam spacing ratio. This ratio is important because it defines the size of both the waist and leg openings to vary with product size, which is also crucial for ease of wear, comfort, and skin imprint. Product pitch is determined by measuring the product along its longitudinal centerline when it is fully extended. Seam spacing is determined by measuring the distance between seams when the product is fully extended between seams. It has been determined that a product pitch to seam spacing ratio of approximately 0.9 to approximately 1.3 provides appropriately sized waist and leg openings for ease of wear and comfort throughout the wearer's movement, minimizing skin imprint. The waist opening is determined by the seam spacing, and the leg opening by a combination of the seam spacing and the belt spacing, as the leg opening is formed in part by the proximal edge of the belt between the center base structure and the side seams, and the side edge of the base structure positioned between the proximal edges of the front and rear belts. Another key product structure ratio is the product pitch to center base structure length ratio. This ratio determines the waistband size, which is determined by the difference between the center base structure length and the product pitch. This difference can vary between products of different sizes; therefore, this ratio guarantees the correct waistband size. The product pitch is determined as described above. The center base structure length is determined by measuring the center base structure along the longitudinal centerline when the center base structure is fully extended. It has been determined that a product pitch to seam spacing ratio of approximately 1.0 to approximately 1.5 provides appropriately sized waist and leg openings for easy, snug, and comfortable fit at the waist throughout the wearer’s movement, while minimizing skin imprint.

[0324] Elastomer laminates used in absorbent articles require a certain degree of elongation, with a dimensional change from a fully contracted state to a fully extended state sufficient to accommodate users with defined ranges of waist, hip, and leg circumferences. For a given combination of elastic components, the degree of elongation can be increased by increasing the pre-strain level in the elastic components of the elastomeric laminate before assembly. An increase in pre-strain results in a greater degree of contraction and a smaller fully contracted length. When elongated, a smaller contracted length relative to the fully extended length provides a higher degree of elongation. In this configuration, a higher degree of elongation can be achieved without affecting the laminate modulus if the fractions and spacing remain constant. Alternatively, the elastomeric laminates of this disclosure can be mechanically deformed as described herein to transform an elastomeric laminate having a first degree of elongation and a first laminate modulus into a mechanically deformed elastomeric laminate having a second degree of elongation greater than the first degree of elongation and a second laminate modulus lower than the first laminate modulus. The simultaneous increase in elongation and decrease in modulus is a result of deformation of the base layer forming the laminate. This phenomenon is characteristic of the mechanical deformation of the elastomeric laminates of this disclosure. This unexpected increase in elongation / strain and decrease in laminate modulus results in a strain modulus ratio characteristic of the elastomer laminates of this disclosure. The importance of the strain modulus ratio lies in the fact that the article can be stretched or tightened to a significantly greater extent under equal or lower forces, which has a significant impact on wearability and comfort when the wearer experiences a range of movements and positions, such as the expansion and contraction of the waist during breathing. Lower modulus and strain mean lower forces and greater elongation, which translates to significantly improved comfort and freedom of movement. The elastomer laminate 302 of this disclosure may have a strain modulus ratio greater than about 12 and less than about 80 or greater than about 30 and less than about 80.

[0325] Please refer to the Methods section of this disclosure for details on performing tests on each of these parameters.

[0326] Examples of elastomeric laminates and articles thereof disclosed herein

[0327] Examples 1 to 4

[0328]

[0329]

[0330]

[0331] Examples 5 to 8

[0332]

[0333]

[0334] Examples 9 to 11

[0335]

[0336]

[0337]

[0338] Examples 12 and 13

[0339]

[0340]

[0341] The method disclosed herein

[0342] General Sample Preparation

[0343] General sample preparation is intended for methods that do not have specific sample preparation instructions in the method itself.

[0344] When collecting samples for testing, the samples must contain multiple elastic strands and / or elastic materials, elastic sparse fabric, elastic bands, elastic strips, etc. In cases where the elastic material and / or elastic strands are not fully secured within the sample, the test sample must be obtained in a manner where the elastic material and / or elastic strands within the test area of ​​the sample are as intended and will not change due to sample collection. If the elastic material or any elastic strands are released, creep, or separate within or from the laminate, the sample is discarded and a new sample is prepared. Furthermore, depending on the method, the portion or region of the stranded elastomer laminate to be tested will include multiple elastic strands between regions of the first and second nonwoven materials, excluding any cut windows (such as inelastic component areas or regions overlapping the core or central base structure), and excluding any seams joining multiple article components together. However, some methods may require testing absorbent article components, including cut windows and seams (e.g., hip brace testing).

[0345] For trousers, remove the side panels attached to the base structure and separate the side panels at the side seams. Identify the elastic material across the entire width of the panel. Identify the furthest longitudinal edge of the elastic material or elastic strand (closest to the waistline) and the closest longitudinal edge of the elastic material or elastic strand (closest to the leg edge). Determine the midpoint between the furthest and closest edges of the elastic strand or elastic material. Cut a 40mm wide strip across the entire panel centered at the midpoint. Repeat these steps for each front and back side panel containing elastic material and / or elastic strands.

[0346] For adhesive diapers, remove the ear flaps where they are attached to the base structure. Identify the elastic material that runs the entire width of the flap. Identify the farthest edge or elastic strip (closest to the waistline) and the nearest edge or elastic strip (closest to the legline). Determine the midpoint between the farthest and nearest edge of the elastic strip. Cut a 40mm wide strip across the entire ear flap, centered at the midpoint. Repeat these steps for each front and back ear flap containing elastic material and / or elastic strips.

[0347] For belt articles, mark the front and back of the product by extending a line from the side of the core to the waist edge. Remove the belt from the article using a suitable device (e.g., a cryo-spray), taking care not to delaminate the belt or loosen the elastic components. Separate the front and back belts along any seams. Identify the farthest edge or elastic strand (closest to the waist edge) and the nearest edge or elastic strand (closest to the leg edge) to determine the midpoint between the farthest and nearest edge of the elastic strand or elastic material. If linear, cut a 40mm wide strip parallel to the waist edge across the entire belt section, or if linear and centered at the midpoint, cut a 40mm wide strip parallel to the elastic strand. If the strip has areas that do not contain elastic strands or elastic material (e.g., portions overlapping the core, etc.), cut along the ends of the elastic strands / elastic material to remove the non-elastic area and treat it as two samples.

[0348] For belts, they are tested as a single piece of material. The belt is removed from the product using an appropriate device (e.g., a cryo-spray), taking care not to delaminate the belt or loosen the elastic components.

[0349] For the leg clamps, each leg clamp is tested as a single piece of material. The inner leg clamp sample is considered to be the portion of the inner leg clamp extending from its nearest edge to its farthest elastic component, including that farthest elastic component, and extending longitudinally to the front and rear waist edges of the base structure. The outer leg clamp sample is considered to be the portion of the outer leg clamp extending from its farthest edge to its nearest elastic component, including that nearest elastic component, and extending longitudinally to the front and rear waist edges of the base structure.

[0350] For all sample bars, the span correction width (SCW) is calculated as follows:

[0351]

[0352] Where d is the distance (mm) between the two distal strands, and n is the number of strands when n>1. Clamp the strip at each end and measure the length between the clamps, accurate to 1 mm. Apply a weight equal to 3 g / mm SCW. After 10 seconds, measure the final length, accurate to 1 mm. Calculate the elongation as (final length - initial length) / initial length.

[0353] Average line spacing

[0354] Using a ruler calibrated to a certified NIST ruler and accurate to 0.5 mm, measure the distance between the two distal strands within a segment, accurate to 0.5 mm, and then divide by the number of strands in that segment - 1.

[0355] Average spacing between stock lines = d / (n-1), where n>1

[0356] The report is accurate to 0.1 mm.

[0357] Lower resistance level (also known as lower average resistance level)

[0358] Defined as the average pressure exerted by each individual elastic strand of a segment under specific conditions. These conditions are defined as (see...). Figure 16 and Figure 17 ):

[0359] -Stretch the section to a stress of 7 gf / mm (within the consumer-preferred stress range as determined experimentally).

[0360] - The section is stretched across the cylinder, and the circumference of the cylinder is defined as the representative circumference.

[0361] in:

[0362] -Line resistance (psi) = 1.422 * line strength / (2 * representative radius * average line diameter)

[0363] - Representative radius (mm) = Representative perimeter / (2*π)

[0364] - Representative perimeter (mm) = 460mm

[0365] - Stress (gf / mm) = (Sum of strand forces within the section) / (Segment width)

[0366] - Segment width (mm) = (Number of elastic components in the segment) * Average strand spacing (mm)

[0367] - Line force (gf) = Line strain (%) * 0.046875 * Average value

[0368] -Stretch strain (%) = Strain in each elastic strand within the segment

[0369] - Average strand diameter (mm) = 2 * sqrt(strand cross-sectional area / π)

[0370] - Cross-sectional area of ​​the strand (mm) 2 = Average density / strand linear density / 10,000

[0371] - Linear density (g / cc) = 1.15 g / cc (industry standard for spandex elastic components based on polyurethane urea)

[0372] - deciter (g / 10,000m) = standard textile unit of measurement. Deciter is the weight in grams of 10,000m of material.

[0373] - Average prestrain = the amount of stretching of the elastic strands in the section before being combined with (one or more) base layers.

[0374] - Maximum strain = Mean prestrain. This is the maximum strain that can be stretched in each section. It cannot exceed the mean prestrain.

[0375] - Maximum segment force = the sum of the forces of each strand in the segment that is stretched to its maximum strain.

[0376] Section modulus

[0377] Defined as the modulus of a given segment. The segment modulus (also called the modulus) is the linear slope of stress versus strain data for a segment between 3 gf / mm and 7 gf / mm, as determined in the first load cycle of the hip brace test (see [reference]). Figure 7B For these calculations, the stress used is the stress contained within the laminate, such as... Figure 4 and Figure 5A As shown. The stress contained within the laminate is half the stress measured during the hip collar test when the test measures both sides of the closed band. The segment modulus can also be calculated as:

[0378] Section modulus = [7gf / mm – 3gf / mm] / [(section strain at 7gf / mm) – (section strain at 3gf / mm)]

[0379] in:

[0380] Strain at -7gf / mm = 7gf / mm * (average strand spacing) / fractional factor

[0381] Strain at -3gf / mm = 3gf / mm * (average strand spacing) / fractional factor

[0382] - Average spacing between strands (mm) = d / (n-1)

[0383] -d represents the distance (mm) between the two distal strands of the segment.

[0384] -n represents the number of strands; when n>1

[0385] - Decimal factor = 37.5 * average decimal / 800 (e.g., measured, specified decimal)

[0386] - Section modulus is recorded in (gf / mm).

[0387] Layer modulus

[0388] Defined as the modulus of a given segment. The laminate modulus is the linear slope of stress versus strain data for a segment between 2 gf / mm and 5 gf / mm, as determined in the first load cycle of the hip brace test (see [reference]). Figure 7A For these calculations, the stress used is the stress contained within the laminate, such as... Figure 4 and Figure 5A As shown. The stress contained within the laminate is half the stress measured during the hip brace test when the test measures both sides of the closed band.

[0389] strain modulus ratio

[0390] Strain modulus ratio = strain / laminate modulus

[0391] in:

[0392] -Strain = Strain under laminate stress of 9.1 gf / mm

[0393] Average score (Dtex)

[0394] The average fractional tex method is used to calculate the average fractional tex of elastic fibers present in the whole article or in a sample of interest extracted from the article on a length-weighted basis. The fractional tex value is the mass in grams of fibers present in 10,000 meters of the material in a relaxed state. The fractional tex values ​​of elastic fibers or elastomeric laminates containing elastic fibers are typically reported by the manufacturer as part of the specifications for the elastic fiber or elastomeric laminate containing elastic fibers. If available, the average fractional tex is calculated against these specifications. Alternatively, if these specified values ​​are unknown, the fractional tex value of a single elastic fiber is measured by determining the cross-sectional area of ​​the fiber in a relaxed state using a suitable microscopy technique (such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM)), determining the fiber composition by Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, and subsequently using a literature value of the density of the composition to calculate the mass in grams of fibers present in 10,000 meters of fiber. The fractional tex values ​​of individual elastic fibers removed from the whole article or a sample extracted from the article, provided by the manufacturer or measured experimentally, are used in the expression below, where a length-weighted average of the fractional tex values ​​among the present elastic fibers is determined.

[0395] If known, the lengths of the elastic fibers present in the article or a sample extracted from the article are calculated based on the overall dimensions of the article or sample having these and the elastic fiber pre-strain ratio associated with the component of the article or sample. Alternatively, if the dimensions and / or elastic fiber pre-strain ratio are unknown, the absorbent article or a sample extracted from the absorbent article is disassembled, and all elastic fibers are removed. This disassembly may be carried out, for example, by gentle heating to soften the adhesive, by using a cryogenic spray (e.g., Quick-Freeze, Miller-Stephenson Company, Danbury, CT), or by using a suitable solvent that will remove the adhesive without swelling, altering, or damaging the elastic fibers. The length of each elastic fiber in its relaxed state is measured and recorded in millimeters (mm), accurate to the millimeter.

[0396] Calculate the average score

[0397] The relaxation length L present in the absorbent article or in a sample extracted from the absorbent article i and fiber fractional value d i Individual elastic fibers (obtained from the manufacturer's specifications or measured experimentally) i For each of the absorbent articles or samples extracted from absorbent articles, the average fractional cup is defined as:

[0398]

[0399] Where n is the total number of elastic fibers present in the absorbent material or a sample extracted from the absorbent material. Report the average decibels, accurate to the integer value of decibels (g / 10,000m).

[0400] If the fractional value of any individual fiber is not known from the specifications, it is determined experimentally as described below, and the fractional values ​​of (one or more) fibers are used in the above formula to determine the average fractional value.

[0401] Experimental determination of fiber partial characteristics

[0402] For each of the elastic fibers removed from the absorbent article or the sample extracted from the absorbent article according to the above process, each elastic fiber L in its relaxed state k The length of each elastic fiber was measured and recorded in millimeters (mm), accurate to the millimeter. The composition of each elastic fiber was determined by FT-IR spectroscopy, and its density ρ was also analyzed. k The values ​​were determined based on available literature. Finally, each fiber was analyzed by SEM. The fiber was vertically cut along its length at three approximately equal locations using a sharp blade to produce clean cross-sections for SEM analysis. The three exposed fiber segments with these cross-sections were mounted in a relaxed state on the SEM sample holder, sputter-coated with gold, introduced into the SEM for analysis, and imaged at a resolution sufficient to clearly elucidate the fiber cross-sections. The fiber cross-sections were oriented as perpendicular to the detector as possible to minimize any tilt distortion in the measured cross-sections. The fiber cross-sections can vary in shape, and some fibers may consist of multiple individual filaments. In any case, the area of ​​each of the three fiber cross-sections was determined (e.g., using the diameter of a circular fiber, the major and minor axes of an elliptical fiber, and image analysis of more complex shapes), and recorded in square micrometers (μm). 2 Three regions of an elastic fiber, with each region being a unit. k The average value, accurate to 0.1 μm 2 The measured fractional properties d of the kth elastic fiber k Calculated using the following formula:

[0403] d k =10,000m×a k ×ρ k ×10 -6

[0404] Where d k In grams (per 10,000 meters of calculated length), a k With μm 2 The unit is ρ. k In grams per cubic centimeter (g / cm³) 3 The unit is L. For any elastic fiber analyzed, the experimentally determined L...k and d k The value is then used in the expression above for the average.

[0405] Surface morphology (contact area percentage, wrinkle frequency, wrinkle wavelength, and 2-98% height value)

[0406] In the surface topography method, the elastomeric laminate sample is removed from the absorbent article and extended across and into contact with the convex surface of a transparent horizontal cylindrical tube segment, allowing the surface topology of the wearer-facing side of the laminate to be measured through the transparent tube segment using optical profilometry. The 3D surface data is then sampled and processed to extract several parameters describing the percentage and height of the contact area on the surface of the elastomeric laminate sample, as well as the frequency and wavelength of its associated roughness. All sample preparation and testing are performed in a conditioned chamber maintained at approximately 23 ± 2 °C and approximately 50 ± 2% relative humidity, and the samples are equilibrated in this environment for at least 24 hours prior to testing.

[0407] Sample preparation

[0408] Each elastomer laminate sample extracted from the product was mounted onto a horizontal pipe segment as described below. The segment was cut from a sufficiently long, optically clear, colorless cast acrylic cylindrical tube with an outer diameter of 8.0 inches (203 mm) and a wall thickness of 0.1875 inches (4.76 mm). The segment had a dimension of 4.0 inches (102 mm) along an axis parallel to the central cylindrical axis of the parent tube and a circumferential arc length of 5.5 inches (140 mm).

[0409] The elastic laminate sample extends in its principal tensile direction to a ratio corresponding to its elongation at 3 g / mm (mass / linear width), where its width is determined by a span-corrected width measurement as defined in the thickness testing method, and where the elongation is the average ratio measured under static load for the first ten seconds of application. In this extended state, the extended elastomer laminate sample is oriented such that its wearer-facing surface contacts the convex surface of the tube segment, and the extension axis is oriented around the circumference of the tube segment. The extended laminate is secured at both ends of the transparent tube segment such that the wearer-facing surface of the laminate is visible through the concave side of the transparent tube segment.

[0410] Five duplicate elastomeric laminate samples were isolated and prepared from five identical absorbent articles in this manner for analysis.

[0411] 3D surface image acquisition

[0412] A three-dimensional (3D) surface topography image of the wearer-facing surface of an extended elastomeric laminate sample is obtained using a DLP-based, structured light 3D surface topography measurement system (a suitable surface topography measurement system is the MikroCAD Premium instrument or equivalent, commercially available from LMI Technologies Inc., Vancouver, Canada). The system includes the following main components: a) a digital light processing (DLP) projector with direct digital control micromirrors; b) a CCD camera with a resolution of at least 1600 x 1200 pixels; c) projection optics suitable for measuring an area of ​​at least 60 mm × 45 mm; d) recording optics suitable for measuring an area of ​​60 mm × 45 mm; e) a desktop tripod based on a small hardstone slab; f) a blue LED light source; g) computer-run surface texture analysis software for measurement, control, and evaluation (suitable software is MikroCAD software or equivalent with Mountain Map technology); and h) a calibration plate purchased from the supplier for lateral (XY) and vertical (Z) calibration.

[0413] The optical 3D surface topography measurement system uses digital micromirror patterned edge projection (DMEP) technology to measure the surface height of a sample. The nature of this patterned projection technology allows for the inquiry of the sample's surface topography through transparent materials. The measurement result is a 3D dataset of the displacement of the surface height (defined as the Z-axis) relative to the horizontal (XY) plane. This 3D dataset can also be viewed as an image where each pixel is associated with an XY displacement and the pixel value is a recorded Z-axis height value. The system has a 60mm × 45mm field of view where the XY pixel resolution is approximately 37 micrometers and the height resolution is 0.5 micrometers, with a possible total height range of 32mm.

[0414] Calibrate the instrument using calibration plates purchased from the supplier for lateral (XY plane) and vertical (Z axis) directions, according to the manufacturer's specifications.

[0415] The elastomeric sample mounted on a transparent tube segment is positioned such that the concave surface of the tube segment faces upward, making the wearer-facing surface visible through the transparent material. The tube segment is placed on a support so that the convex (downward-facing) sample surface in the area to be analyzed is freely suspended rather than resting on the surface. The tube segment is oriented such that its circumferential direction (along the direction of the laminar flow or axis) is centered and perpendicular to the long axis (or, if the field of view is square, either the central axis) of the camera's field of view. 3D surface topological images of the elastomeric sample are collected by following the measurement procedures recommended by the instrument manufacturer, which may include focusing the measurement system and performing brightness adjustments. No pre-filtering options are used. The collected height image files are saved to an evaluation computer running surface texture analysis software.

[0416] If the field of view of the 3D surface topography measurement system exceeds the evaluation area on the elastomer laminate sample, the image can be trimmed before performing the analysis to remove irrelevant areas and maintain a rectangular field of view for the relevant parts, while maintaining XY resolution.

[0417] 3D surface image analysis

[0418] Open the 3D surface topography image in surface texture analysis software. Then perform the following filtering process on each image: 1) remove invalid or non-measured points; 2) apply a 5x5 pixel median filter to remove noise; 3) apply a 5 pixel × 5 pixel mean filter to smooth the surface; and 4) perform a subtraction to remove the general form and flatten the surface using a two-dimensional, second-order polynomial (determined by least-squares fitting of the surface topology image). The second-order polynomial is defined by the following formula:

[0419] f(x,y)=c1+c2x+c3y+c4x 2 +c5y 2 +c6xy

[0420] Each dataset that has been processed to this point as described above is called a "preprocessed sample dataset". The highest points in the resulting topology image correspond to those regions that are in contact with the convex surface of the pipe segment, and the lowest points are those points on the farthest side below the convex surface of the pipe segment.

[0421] Contact area percentage and 2-98% - height value

[0422] For each of the five replicate 3D surface topography images, the following analysis was performed on the preprocessed sample dataset. The contact area percentage and 2-98% height measurements were derived from the area-to-material ratio (Abbott-Firestone) curve extrapolated to the surface as described in ISO 13565-2:1996. This curve is a cumulative curve of the surface height distribution histogram relative to the range of measured surface heights. The material ratio is expressed as a percentage, corresponding to the area of ​​the points corresponding to the intersecting planes at a height equal to or higher than the surface at a given height or cut depth, relative to the cross-sectional area (view area) of the evaluation region. The height at the 2% material ratio was initially determined. The cut depth 100 μm below this height was then determined, and the material ratio at this depth was recorded as the contact area percentage at 100 μm. This process was repeated at cut depths of 200 μm and 300 μm below the determined 2% material ratio height, and the material ratios at these depths were recorded as the contact area percentage at 200 μm and 300 μm, respectively. All contact area percentage values ​​were recorded to an accuracy of 0.1%.

[0423] The 2-98% height value of the sample surface is defined as the height difference between the two material ratios excluding the small percentages of the highest and lowest points. The 2-98% height of the sample surface is the height between two cut depths corresponding to the 2% material ratio value and the 98% material ratio value, and is recorded to an accuracy of 0.01 mm.

[0424] Wrinkle frequency and wrinkle wavelength

[0425] Fourier transform spatial frequency analysis was performed on the preprocessed 3D surface topology image of each sample to determine the wrinkle frequency and wrinkle wavelength.

[0426] Each 3D surface topology image is decomposed into individual line profiles by isolating each row of individual data points running parallel to the elastic strands of the elastomeric laminate (if present and apparent) or more generally perpendicular to the dimensions exhibited by the wrinkles of the elastomeric laminate in a relaxed state. Therefore, these line profiles are a dataset in the form of height (in millimeters) versus distance (in millimeters).

[0427] For each recurring 3D surface topology image deconstructed, each line profile is averaged and centered, and a Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) is applied to compute the frequency amplitude spectrum of each line profile. The Fourier transform amplitudes of all extracted line profiles are averaged over the spatial spectral range, and the resulting average amplitude over the spatial spectral range is defined as F(1 / d), where 1 / d is the frequency amplitude in mm. -1 The inverse distance is in units. Finally, the function P(1 / d)=d×F 2 (1 / d), plotting the spatial frequency power spectral density relative to 1 / d, has a pre-factor of distance d to correct for expected 1 / d noise. The inverse distance 1 / d value of P(1 / d) at its maximum is defined as the wrinkle frequency, and in mm -1 Record in units, accurate to 0.001mm. -1 The reciprocal of the wrinkle frequency is defined as the wrinkle wavelength and is recorded in mm, accurate to 0.01 mm.

[0428] Reporting of method parameters

[0429] After performing the above 3D surface image analysis on repeated 3D surface topology images of all five samples, the following output parameters were defined and reported. The arithmetic mean of all five contact area percentages at 100 μm was defined as the average contact area percentage at 100 μm and recorded to an accuracy of 0.1%. The arithmetic mean of all five contact area percentages at 200 μm was defined as the average contact area percentage at 200 μm and recorded to an accuracy of 0.1%. The arithmetic mean of all five contact area percentages at 300 μm was defined as the average contact area percentage at 300 μm and recorded to an accuracy of 0.1%. The arithmetic mean of all five 2–98% height measurements was defined as the average 2–98% height and recorded in mm to an accuracy of 0.01 mm. The arithmetic mean of all five wrinkle frequency measurements was defined as the average wrinkle frequency and recorded in mm to an accuracy of 0.001 mm. -1 The arithmetic mean of all five fold wavelength measurements was defined as the average fold wavelength and recorded in mm, accurate to 0.01 mm.

[0430] Mean prestrain

[0431] The average pre-strain of the samples was measured using a load sensor on a constant-rate stretching tensile testing machine (the appropriate instrument is the MTS Insight with Testworks 4.0 software, available from MTS Systems Corp., Eden Prairie, MN), with the measured force within 1% to 90% of the load sensor's limits. The articles were conditioned for 2 hours at 23°C ± 2°C and 50% ± 2% relative humidity prior to analysis, and subsequently tested under the same environmental conditions.

[0432] Program the tension tester to perform elongation at break after initial gauge length adjustment. First, lift the clamp at 10 mm / min until a force of 0.05 N is applied. Set the current gauge length to the adjusted gauge length. Lift the clamp at 100 mm / min until the sample breaks (force decreases by 20% after the maximum peak force). Return the clamp to its original position. Acquire force and elongation data at 100 Hz throughout the experiment.

[0433] Set the nominal gauge length to 40 mm using a calibrated caliper block and zero the clamp. Insert the sample into the upper clamp so that the center of the test strip is positioned 20 mm below the clamp. The sample can be folded perpendicular to the pull shaft and placed in the clamp to achieve this position. After the clamp is closed, excess material can be trimmed. Insert the sample into the lower clamp and close the lower clamp. Again, the strip can be folded and subsequently trimmed after the clamp is closed. Zero the load cell. The sample should have minimal slack but less than 0.05 N of force on the load cell. Start the test procedure.

[0434] From the data construction, force (N) is applied to the extension (mm). The average prestrain is calculated based on the bending of the extension corresponding to the nonwoven material joining the elastic component in the curve. Two lines are plotted, corresponding to the region of the curve before bending (mainly the elastic component) and the region after bending (mainly the nonwoven material). The extension where these two lines intersect is read, and the % prestrain is calculated based on the extension and the corrected measurement length. This is recorded as % prestrain 0.1%. The arithmetic mean and average prestrain of three replicate samples for each elastomer laminate are calculated, accurate to 0.1%.

[0435] Hip brace test (or full outer cover waist opening circumference extension test)

[0436] This method is a two-cycle hysteresis test used to determine: the maximum elongation (and maximum effective strain) of the waistband of a disposable garment with a continuous waist at a stress of 18.2 gf / mm; the applied force (and applied stress); the sustained fit load force (and sustained fit load stress); and the sustained fit unload force (and sustained fit unload stress). The garment may be pre-fastened trousers or a closable garment. This method is also used to determine the laminate modulus and segment modulus.

[0437] The circumferential elongation force (and stress) at the waist opening of all products was measured using a load cell on a constant-rate elongation tension tester with a computer interface (the appropriate instrument is the MTS Insight using Testworks 4.0 software, available from MTS Systems Corp., Eden Prairie, MN). The measured force was within 10% to 90% of the load cell's limits. The initial circumference around the joint arm 1516 was measured using a flexible measuring tape 1519. The accuracy of the measuring tape was traceable to NIST or other standards organizations and could be verified using a traceable scale. All tests were conducted in a conditioning chamber maintained at approximately 23°C ± 2°C and approximately 50% ± 2% relative humidity. Samples were conditioned under the same conditions for 2 hours prior to testing. Five parallel determinations were analyzed and the results were averaged.

[0438] For this test, a custom hook clamp 1510 was used. Figure 3and Figure 4 The hook clamp 1510 includes a pair of J-shaped hooks 1512, each hook having an attachment member 1514 designed to be mounted to a stationary base and an upper movable gripper (via a load sensor) of the tester. Each J-shaped hook 1512 has a substantially circular cross-sectional shape with a diameter D of about 1 cm. The hook 1512 has a width W of about 25 cm. If the elastic side piece to be tested extends beyond the end of the engaging arm, or bundles at the J-curve of the clamp, W is lengthened to accommodate a longer side piece. The hooks 1512 exhibit a smooth curvature to form two engaging arms 1516 perpendicular to the attachment member 1514. Each attachment member is equipped with a locking bushing 1513 that secures the engaging arms 1516 of the hook parallel to each other and perpendicular to the tension axis of the tension tester.

[0439] The stress in the waist area of ​​a product is calculated by first determining the narrowest longitudinal length within the closed waistband. For disposable products with a continuous waist, this is typically the length of the side seam. For pre-fastened trousers, this is typically the longitudinal length of the attached fastener. For example, in a closed-form product with the narrowest longitudinal length within the waistband as an 11cm side panel, the maximum stress at 18.2gf / mm would be 2000gf.

[0440] Manually move the chuck upwards. Suspend the workpiece from the top engagement arm 1516 so that the workpiece is supported only by the top arm, and zero the load sensor. Lower the top engagement arm so that the base structure 200 can slide onto the engagement arm 1516, with the elastic side centered on the tension axis of the tester, as shown. Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown. When first sliding onto the engagement arm 1516, the base structure 200 should have some slack. Adjust the engagement arm 1516 to remove any slack from the workpiece, but ensure that no more than 5 grams of force is measured on the load sensor. Zero the chuck. Using a flexible measuring tape with a mm scale, wrap the measuring tape 1519 around the engagement arm 1516 and bring it close to the zeroing point. Figure 3 and Figure 4 Use the waist opening of the product to measure the circumference of the loose waist opening. Record the initial circumference to an accuracy of 1 mm. Remove the measuring tape from arm 1516.

[0441] The test consists of 7 different steps.

[0442] 1. This is called the first load. Program the tension tester to move the clamp upwards at a rate of 254 mm / min. Allow the clamp to extend until a stress of 18.2 gf / mm is reached. At this point, record the elongation as the maximum elongation. Also calculate the maximum effective strain using the initial perimeter. Maximum effective strain = (maximum elongation) / (initial perimeter / 2).

[0443] 2. Hold the chuck extension for 30 seconds.

[0444] 3. This is called the first unloading. Return the chuck to the starting position at a rate of 254 mm / min.

[0445] 4. Hold the clamp extension for 60 seconds.

[0446] 5. This is called the second loading. Move the chuck upwards at a rate of 254 mm / min. Extend until a stress of 18.2 gf / mm is reached.

[0447] 6. Hold the clamp extension for 30 seconds.

[0448] 7. This is called the second unloading. Return the chuck to the starting position at a rate of 254 mm / min.

[0449] Data was collected at a sampling rate of 100 Hz throughout the experiment.

[0450] The remaining four parallel determinations were repeated in a similar manner.

[0451] Maximum effective strain (i.e. maximum elongation) = (maximum elongation at 18.2 gf / mm) / (initial perimeter / 2)

[0452] Apply strain (i.e., apply elongation) = maximum effective strain multiplied by 80%.

[0453] The applied force (i.e., the applied stress) = the force (gf / mm) under applied strain during the first load (step 1 of the hip brace test) (stress).

[0454] Continuous fit load force (i.e., continuous fit load stress) = force (gf / mm) at (maximum effective strain / 2) during the second load cycle (step 5 of the hip brace test) (stress).

[0455] Continuous fit unloading force (i.e., continuous fit unloading stress) = force (gf / mm) at (maximum effective strain / 2) during the second unloading cycle (step 7 of the hip brace test) (stress).

[0456] Leg brace test

[0457] The method is a two-cycle hysteresis test used to determine the maximum strain of a leg cuff with continuous leg openings (192) under a force of 650 gf (1300 gf in the load sensor of the MTS tester). The product may be pre-fastened trousers or a closable product.

[0458] Leg extension force was measured using a load cell on a constant-rate extension tension tester with a computer interface (a suitable instrument is the MTS Insight using Testworks 4.0 software, available from MTS Systems Corp., Eden Prairie, MN). The measured force was within 10% to 90% of the load cell's limits. The initial gap X between the clamps 1430 was measured using a scale. The accuracy of the scale is traceable to NIST or other standards organizations and can be verified using a traceable scale. All tests were performed in a conditioning chamber maintained at approximately 23°C ± 2°C and approximately 50% ± 2% relative humidity. Samples were conditioned under the same conditions for 2 hours prior to testing. Five parallel determinations were analyzed and the results were averaged.

[0459] For this test, the instrument is equipped with such Figure 20A The two clamps 1430 specified in the document. Figure 20A The attached diagram shows that each clamp 1430 has a 0.375-inch diameter shaft (Type 303 stainless steel) bent at a 70° angle, with an inner diameter of 0.625 inches. Figure 20C As shown, clamp 1430 is oriented at 1440 in the tension tester, and the machine is oriented such that the extension of the clamp is vertical. Clamp 1430 (in Figure 20B , Figure 20C and Figure 20D The gap X between (as shown in the diagram) was initially set so that there was no stretching in the product leg opening 192. Figure 20D As shown, the product is inserted into the device by inserting the leg opening 192 into the hook at the top of the clamp 1430. Figure 20B As shown, the leg opening 192 should contact the inner bottom of the top clamp 1430 at the point indicated by 1450. This represents the deepest part of the hook and is 0.625 inches from the inner edge 1460 of the clamp 1430, as... Figure 20A As shown, when the product leg opening 192 hangs down from the top clamp 1430, the opposite side of the same leg opening hangs down below the bottom edge 1470 of the bottom clamp 1430. Once the product is in the machine, the machine's force channel is set to zero (this eliminates the sample's weight in the calculation).

[0460] - The test length for this method is at point 1450 ( Figure 20B The circumference of the clamp 1430 at the location shown is the calculated value.

[0461] Test length = 2*(X+D+pi*r)

[0462] Where X is the gap between the fixtures (in) Figure 20B and Figure 20C(as shown in the diagram), and D is the diameter of the shaft of clamp 1430 and is equal to 0.375 inches. X increases as clamp 1430 moves apart during the test.

[0463] The clamps 1430 are slowly moved apart at a rate of 2.0 in / min (5.04 cm / min). As the clamps slowly move apart, the test operator must ensure that the bottom clamp 1430 captures the bottom of the leg opening 192 at point 1450 of the bottom clamp (the leg opening 192 should be captured at point 1450 of each clamp between the two clamps 1430). The clamps continue to move apart at a rate of 2.0 in / min until a tare load of 0.05 N is reached. The test length at this location is recorded as Lo. Lo is the relaxed leg circumference at the leg opening 192 of the base structure 200.

[0464] Immediately stretch the product at a rate of 10 in / min (25.4 cm / min) until it reaches 1300 gf or the sample breaks.

[0465] The leg force is calculated by dividing the force in the machine's load sensor by 2 (since the leg opening 192 is wrapped around the clamp 1430, the leg force is the tension in the leg opening). The leg strain is calculated by (test length - Lo) / Lo.

[0466] The test consists of 7 different steps.

[0467] 1. This is called the first load. Program the tension tester to move the clamp upwards at a rate of 254 mm / min. Extend the clamp until a force of 1300 gf is reached. Record the elongation at this point as the maximum elongation. The maximum strain of the leg clamp is calculated as follows.

[0468] Maximum strain of the leg brace = (2 * (maximum elongation + D + pi * r) - Lo) / Lo

[0469] 2. Hold the chuck extension for 30 seconds.

[0470] 3. This is called the first unloading. Return the chuck to the starting position at a rate of 254 mm / min.

[0471] 4. Hold the clamp extension for 60 seconds.

[0472] 5. This is called the second loading. Move the chuck upwards at a rate of 254 mm / min. Extend until a force of 1300 gf is reached.

[0473] 6. Hold the clamp extension for 30 seconds.

[0474] 7. This is called the second unloading. Return the chuck to the starting position at a rate of 254 mm / min.

[0475] Data was collected at a sampling rate of 100 Hz throughout the experiment.

[0476] The remaining four parallel determinations were repeated in a similar manner.

[0477] in conclusion

[0478] The dimensions and values ​​disclosed herein should not be construed as strictly limited to the precise numerical values ​​cited. Rather, unless otherwise specified, each such dimension is intended to represent the stated value and a range around which it is functionally equivalent. For example, a dimension disclosed as “40 mm” is intended to represent “approximately 40 mm”.

[0479] Unless expressly excluded or otherwise limited, every reference cited herein, including any cross-references or related patents or patent applications, and any patent application or patent claiming priority to or benefiting from it, is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Reference to any reference is not an endorsement of it as prior art to any disclosed or protected art herein, nor is it an endorsement of any such invention, either on its own or in combination with any one or more references. Furthermore, where any meaning or definition of a term in this invention conflicts with any meaning or definition of the same term in referenced documents, the meaning or definition given to that term in this invention shall prevail.

[0480] While specific embodiments of the invention have been illustrated and described, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that numerous other changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Therefore, it is intended that all such changes and modifications falling within the scope of the invention be covered by the appended claims.

Claims

1. An elastomer laminate (302), said elastomer laminate comprising: Multiple elastic strands (316) bonded between the first and second base layers by an adhesive. The plurality of elastic strands (316) include an average strand spacing of 0.25 mm to 4 mm and an average decibel of 10 to 400; A first segment and a second segment are arranged along a direction perpendicular to the extension of the plurality of elastic strands, wherein the first segment undergoes mechanical deformation to form ridges and valleys, wherein the ridges and valleys extend perpendicular to the plurality of elastic strands; The second section undergoes mechanical deformation to form ridges and valleys, wherein the ridges and valleys extend perpendicular to the plurality of elastic strands; The first segment has a laminate modulus ranging from 3 gf / mm to 12 gf / mm, a strain greater than 110% under a stress of 9.1 gf / mm, and a strain modulus ratio greater than 30 and less than 80. The mechanical deformation arrangement of the first section is different from that of the second section, which results in the second section having a larger laminate modulus than the first section.

2. The elastomeric laminate according to claim 1, wherein, Mechanical deformation on the first or second segment is formed on the substrate by MD activation and / or opening.

3. The elastomeric laminate according to claim 2, wherein, The mechanical deformation causes the fibers in the elastomer laminate to undergo increasing strain, such that the fibers in one or both of the first and second base layers disposed in one direction will be stretched until fiber elongation or permanent fiber deformation occurs.

4. The elastomeric laminate according to claim 3, wherein, As fibers slide and pass over each other, fibers in directions orthogonal to the elongated or deformed fibers undergo redistribution, where fibers are aggregated or moved to new locations within the base layer.

5. The elastomeric laminate according to claim 2, wherein, The mechanical deformation is an opening, which can be circular, elliptical, triangular, slit, arc-shaped, or a combination thereof.

6. The elastomeric laminate according to claim 5, wherein, Holes are formed by needle punching, hot air welding, thermal bonding, ultrasonic bonding, pressure welding, and tensile drilling.

7. The elastomeric laminate according to claim 2, wherein, MD activation and pore opening are combined, in which the fiber mesh substrate is first MD activated and then pore opened.

8. The elastomeric laminate according to claim 2, wherein, MD activation and pore opening are combined, in which the fiber mesh substrate is first opened and then MD activated.

9. The elastomeric laminate according to claim 2, wherein, The substrate of the laminar compound includes adhesive sites, which break down to form pores upon MD activation.

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