Absorbent article with frangible path with tear region

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to an absorbent article comprising a first tape and a second tape, the first tape and / or the second tape comprising one or more frangible paths. Each of the one or more substrates forming the tape has a material tear strength and the frangible path has a path tear strength. The material tear strength is greater than the path tear strength such that when a user tears along the one or more frangible paths, the tear propagates along the frangible paths rather than in an unintended tear direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to absorbent articles, and more particularly, to absorbent articles having a front waist region and / or a rear waist region that include one or more breakable paths. Background Art

[0002] Some absorbent articles have components that include elastomeric laminates. Such elastomeric laminates may include an elastic material bonded to one or more nonwovens. The elastic material may include an elastic film and / or an elastic strand. In some laminates, multiple elastic strands are joined to the nonwoven when the multiple strands are in a stretched state, so that when the elastic strands relax, the nonwoven gathers and then forms corrugations and roughness. The resulting elastomeric laminate can be stretched to the extent that the corrugations allow the elastic strands to extend.

[0003] Absorbent articles in the form of diaper pants may also be constructed with an absorbent infrastructure connected to front and rear elastic bands, wherein the opposite end regions of the front and rear bands are connected to each other at the side seams. In some cases, the elasticity of the front and rear bands is removed in the region where the infrastructure is connected to these bands. Therefore, in some conversion processing configurations suitable for assembling such diaper pants, stretched elastic strands are glued between two continuous nonwoven webs to form an elastic laminate. The elastic strand area can then be intermittently disabled along the length of the elastic laminate by cutting the elastic strands in the region connected to the infrastructure (sometimes referred to as abdominal elastic cutting).

[0004] Some caregivers who take care of larger incontinent babies or toddlers may prefer closed trouser-type disposable absorbent articles so that the absorbent article can be applied to the child or removed from the child when the child is in a standing position. A shortcoming of this product form is that it may be unhygienic and inconvenient to remove and process the product containing feces. For example, pulling the product down may cause feces to be smeared along the user's legs. In other examples, the caregiver can tear the bonded side with force. Then, the force used may cause the diaper to release energy quickly, thereby causing the caregiver to lose control of the product and cause feces to overflow. In contrast, when the child lies on his back, it is easy to achieve the removal and processing of the traditional open or tape diaper form with fasteners. In this case, open the fastener, remove the diaper from under the child, roll the diaper into a roughly cylindrical shape, and then fix the fastener around the rolled dirty diaper, thereby closing the leg opening for sanitary treatment.

[0005] In order to avoid removing the soiled diaper pants from the wearer by sliding the soiled diaper pants down the wearer's legs or tearing the bonded side seams, some diaper pants can be configured with tear lines in the front or back belts. Such tear lines may include perforations that allow caregivers to more easily separate the belts along the perforation lines. Once the belts are separated, the diaper pants can be more easily removed from the wearer without having to slide the diaper pants down the wearer's legs like traditional open tape diapers. However, due to the position of the wearer, the caregiver may not be able to tear along these tear lines, so that the belt is cut along the tear lines. Therefore, the caregiver may tear the belt in an unexpected manner, resulting in the belt not being torn along the perforation lines, but tearing at other locations. This may make it more difficult to remove the product. For example, the difficulty of removing the diaper may require the caregiver to start and complete the tearing operation with both hands. For example, some tear lines may require the caregiver to grasp the belts on both sides of the tear line and pull in opposite directions to start and complete the tearing process. Therefore, the necessity to tear such straps with both hands may increase the difficulty of the process of removing the diaper pants from an infant or child who is moving or attempting to move during diaper removal.

[0006] Therefore, it would be beneficial to create pant-style articles that provide caregivers with the ability to remove and dispose of soiled product in a manner similar to traditional open diaper formats. Additionally, it would be beneficial to provide diaper pants having a frangible path that is configured such that a tearing operation can be initiated and completed such that the belt separates only along the frangible path and not elsewhere in the diaper. Summary of the invention

[0007] In one form, an absorbent article comprises: a chassis comprising a topsheet, a backsheet, and an absorbent core positioned between the topsheet and the backsheet, the chassis comprising a longitudinally extending first side edge and a longitudinally extending second side edge, the longitudinally extending second side edge being laterally separated from the first side edge by a first end edge and a second end edge longitudinally separated from the first end edge; a first band joined to a portion of the chassis, wherein the first band comprises a first substrate, wherein the first substrate comprises a first frangible path, wherein at least a portion of the first frangible path extends from a lateral centerline of the first band at a path angle of less than 90 degrees, wherein the first substrate has a material tear strength and a material basis weight according to a trap tear method, wherein the first frangible path has a path tear strength according to the trap tear method, wherein the material tear strength of the first substrate is greater than the path tear strength of the first frangible path, and wherein the material tear strength of the first substrate is at least 2N greater than the path tear strength of the first frangible path.

[0008] In another form, an absorbent article includes: a chassis, the chassis including a topsheet, a backsheet and an absorbent core positioned between the topsheet and the backsheet, the chassis including a longitudinally extending first side edge and a longitudinally extending second side edge, the longitudinally extending second side edge being laterally separated from the first side edge by a first end edge and a second end edge longitudinally separated from the first end edge; a first band, the first band being joined to a portion of the chassis and having a longitudinal centerline and a lateral centerline, the lateral centerline being substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal centerline, wherein the first band includes a breakable path, wherein at least a portion of the breakable path extends from the lateral centerline of the first band at a path angle of less than 90 degrees, wherein the first band has a material tear strength and a material basis weight according to a trap tear method, wherein the breakable path has a path tear strength according to the trap tear method, wherein the material tear strength of the first band is at least 2N greater than the path tear strength of the first breakable path.

[0009] In another form, an absorbent article includes: a chassis including a topsheet, a backsheet, and an absorbent core positioned between the topsheet and the backsheet, the chassis including a longitudinally extending first side edge and a longitudinally extending second side edge, the longitudinally extending second side edge being laterally separated from the first side edge by a first end edge and a second end edge longitudinally separated from the first end edge; a first belt including an inner wearer-facing surface and an outer garment-facing surface, the first belt also including a laterally extending inner edge and a laterally extending outer edge, the outer edge being positioned longitudinally outward of the inner edge; a break path In a first tape, the frangible path extends between an inner edge and an outer edge of the first tape, wherein the first tape has a material tear strength according to a trap tear method and a first tape basis weight, wherein the frangible path has a path tear strength according to a trap tear method, wherein the tear strength of the first tape divided by the substrate basis weight is greater than 0.2 N / gsm, wherein the tear strength of the frangible path divided by the first basis weight is greater than 0.05 N / gsm and less than 0.15 N / gsm, and wherein the difference between the material tear strength and the path tear strength is a tear strength Δ, and wherein the tear strength Δ divided by the material basis weight is greater than 0.2 N / gsm.

[0010] In another form, an absorbent article includes: a chassis including a topsheet, a backsheet, and an absorbent core positioned between the topsheet and the backsheet, the chassis including a longitudinally extending first side edge and a longitudinally extending second side edge, the longitudinally extending second side edge being laterally separated from the first side edge by a first end edge and a second end edge longitudinally separated from the first end edge; a first band joined to a portion of the chassis and having a longitudinal centerline and a lateral centerline, the lateral centerline being substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal centerline, wherein the first band includes a first substrate and a frangible path, wherein the first substrate of the first band includes a nonwoven having a majority of fibers oriented in a fiber orientation direction, wherein the frangible path has a path angle, wherein the path angle of at least a portion of the frangible path is less than 90 degrees to the fiber orientation direction, wherein the first substrate has a tear strength according to a trap tear method and a substrate basis weight, wherein the frangible path has a tear strength according to the trap tear method, and wherein the tear strength of the first substrate is greater than the tear strength of the frangible path. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a diaper pant in a prefastened configuration.

[0012] FIG. 1A shows a perspective view of a diaper pant with a continuous outer cover in a pre-fastened configuration.

[0013] FIG. 2A shows a plan view of a diaper pant with the portion of the diaper facing away from the wearer oriented toward the viewer.

[0014] 2B shows a plan view of a diaper pant with the wearer-facing portion of the diaper oriented toward the viewer.

[0015] 2C shows a plan view of the diaper pant with the portion of the diaper facing away from the wearer oriented toward the viewer, illustrating the size and shape features of the first and second belts.

[0016] 2D shows a plan view of the diaper pant with the portion of the diaper facing away from the wearer oriented toward the viewer, illustrating the size and shape features of the first and second belts.

[0017] 2E shows a plan view of a diaper pant with the portion of the diaper facing away from the wearer oriented toward the viewer, illustrating the size and shape features of the first and second belts.

[0018] 2F shows a plan view of a diaper pant having a continuous outer cover with the portion of the diaper facing away from the wearer oriented toward the viewer.

[0019] 3 is a cross-sectional view of the diaper pant of FIG. 2A taken along line 3-3 showing the first elastic belt and the second elastic belt provided with panels.

[0020] 3A is a detailed cross-sectional view of a first belt having panel layers with one panel layer folded over another panel layer.

[0021] 3A1 is a detailed cross-sectional view of another exemplary configuration in which a first belt is provided with panel layers where one panel layer is folded over another panel layer.

[0022] 3A2 is a detailed cross-sectional view of another exemplary configuration in which a first belt is provided with panel layers where one panel layer is folded over another panel layer.

[0023] 3B is a detailed cross-sectional view of a second belt having panel layers with one panel layer folded over another panel layer.

[0024] 3C is a cross-sectional view of the diaper pant of FIG. 2F taken along line 3C-3C showing the first and second elastic belts with a panel layer and a continuous outer cover.

[0025] 4 is a perspective view of a diaper pant including a breakable path in the front belt and adjacent the absorbent chassis.

[0026] 5A is a perspective view of the diaper pant of FIG. 4 showing the front belt being torn along one of the frangible paths.

[0027] 5B is a perspective view of the diaper pant of FIG. 4 showing the front belt being torn along two frangible paths.

[0028] 6A is a perspective view of a diaper pant having a breakable path.

[0029] 6B is a front plan view of the diaper pant of FIG. 6A.

[0030] 6C illustrates a front plan view of the diaper pant of FIG. 6B when the first frangible path is torn.

[0031] 6D illustrates a front plan view of the diaper pant of FIG. 6C after the first frangible path has been completely torn.

[0032] 6E illustrates a front plan view of the diaper pant of FIG. 6D when the second frangible path is torn.

[0033] 6F shows a front plan view of the diaper pant of FIG. 6E after the second frangible path has been completely torn.

[0034] 7A is a perspective view of a diaper pant having another breakable path configuration.

[0035] 7B is a front plan view of the diaper pant of FIG. 7A.

[0036] 7C illustrates a front plan view of the diaper pant of FIG. 7B after being torn along the first and second initial tear areas along the first frangible path.

[0037] 7D illustrates a front plan view of the diaper pant of FIG. 7C after the first frangible path has been torn along the first and second initiation tear areas.

[0038] 7E illustrates a front plan view of the diaper pant of FIG. 7D after being torn along the first secondary tear area and the second secondary tear area along the first frangible path.

[0039] 8A is a front plan view of a diaper pant having another breakable path configuration.

[0040] 8B is a front plan view of a diaper pant having another breakable path configuration.

[0041] 8C is a front plan view of a diaper pant having another breakable path configuration.

[0042] 8D illustrates a front plan view of the diaper pant of FIG. 8A after being torn along the first secondary tear area and the second secondary tear area along the first frangible path.

[0043] 9A is a schematic diagram of the frangible path direction relative to the tear force direction and the path angle about the lateral centerline.

[0044] 9B is a schematic diagram of the frangible path direction relative to the tear force direction and the path angle about the lateral centerline.

[0045] 9C is a schematic diagram of the frangible path direction relative to the tear force direction and the path angle about the lateral centerline.

[0046] 9D is a schematic diagram of the direction of the frangible path relative to the tear force direction and the angle of the path with respect to the fiber orientation direction.

[0047] 9E is a schematic diagram of the direction of the frangible path relative to the tear force direction and the angle of the path with respect to the fiber orientation direction.

[0048] FIG. 10 is a graph showing the difference between belt tear strength and path tear strength.

[0049] FIG. 11A is a schematic diagram of a nonwoven bonding pattern.

[0050] FIG. 11B is a schematic diagram of a nonwoven bonding pattern.

[0051] FIG. 12A is a schematic diagram of a nonwoven bonding pattern.

[0052] FIG. 12B is a schematic diagram of a nonwoven bonding pattern.

[0053] 13 is a cross-sectional view of the fastener component of FIG. 8A .

[0054] 14 is a cross-sectional view of the fastener component of FIG. 8A , wherein the fastener component is integrally formed from a strap component. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0055] The following term explanations may help understand the present disclosure:

[0056] "Absorbent article" refers to a device that absorbs and contains body exudates, and more specifically, refers to a device that fits against or adjacent to the wearer's body to absorb and contain the various exudates discharged from the body. Exemplary absorbent articles include diapers, training pants, pull-on diapers (i.e., diapers with preformed waist and leg openings such as shown in U.S. Pat. No. 6,120,487), refastenable diapers or pant diapers, incontinence briefs and undergarments, diaper holders and liners, feminine hygiene undergarments such as panty liners, absorbent inserts, catamenial pads, and the like.

[0057] "Body-facing" and "garment-facing" refer to the relative position of an element or the relative position of surfaces of an element or a group of elements, respectively. "Body-facing" means that the element or surface is closer to the wearer during wear than some other elements or surfaces. "Garment-facing" means that the element or surface is farther from the wearer during wear than some other elements or surfaces (i.e., the element or surface is near the wearer's clothing, which may be worn over a disposable absorbent article).

[0058] The terms "elastic," "elastomeric," or "elastomeric" refer to materials that exhibit elastic properties, including any material that can be stretched or elongated to an elongation of more than 10% of its original length when a force is applied to its relaxed original length, and will substantially recover to about its original length when the applied force is released. Elastomeric materials may include elastomeric films, scrims, nonwovens, ribbons, strands, and other sheet-like structures.

[0059] As used herein, the term “joined” includes configurations in which an element is directly secured to another element by being directly attached to the other element, as well as configurations in which the element is indirectly secured to another element by being attached to an intermediate member which is in turn attached to the other element.

[0060] As used herein, the term "distal" is used to describe a location located away from the center of the body or away from a point of attachment, and the term "proximal" is used to describe a location located closer to the center of the body or a point of attachment.

[0061] 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 fiber materials, nonwovens, films, and foils (such as polymer films or metal foils). These materials may be used alone or may include two or more layers laminated together. Thus, a fiber web is a substrate.

[0062] The term "nonwoven" herein refers to a material made of continuous (long) filaments (fibers) and / or discontinuous (short) filaments (fibers) by processes such as spunbonding, meltblowing, carding, etc. Nonwovens do not have a woven or knitted filament pattern.

[0063] The term "machine direction" (MD) is used herein to refer to the direction of material flow during a process. Additionally, the relative placement and movement of materials can be described as flowing through a process from upstream in the process to downstream in the process in the machine direction.

[0064] The term "cross direction" (CD) is used herein to refer to a direction generally perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

[0065] "Pre-strain" refers to the strain applied to an elastic or elastomeric material before combining it with an elastomeric laminate or another element of an absorbent article. Pre-strain is determined by the following formula: Pre-strain = ((Extension length of elastic relaxed length of elastic component) / Relaxed length of elastic component) * 100.

[0066] "Decitex", also known as Dtex, is a measurement used in the textile industry for measuring yarn or filament. 1 dtex = 1 gram / 10,000 meters. In other words, if 10,000 linear meters of a yarn or filament weighs 500 grams, the yarn or filament will have 500 dtex.

[0067] The term "taped diaper" (also known as an "open diaper") refers to a disposable absorbent article that has an initial front waist region and an initial rear waist region that are not fastened, not prefastened, or not connected to each other when packaged before being placed on the wearer. The taped diaper can be folded about a lateral centerline with the interior of one waist region contacting the interior of the opposite waist region in a surface-to-surface manner without fastening or joining the waist regions together. and 6,861,571; and U.S. Patent Publication Nos. 2013 / 0072887 A1, 2013 / 0211356 A1, and 2013 / 0306226 A1, all of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0068] The term "pants" (also referred to as "training pants," "pre-closed diapers," "diaper pants," "pant-type diapers," and "pull-on diapers") refers herein to disposable absorbent articles designed for infants or adult wearers with a continuous peripheral waist opening and continuous peripheral leg openings. Pants can be constructed with a continuous or closed waist opening and at least one continuous closed leg opening before the wearer puts on the article. Pants can be preformed or prefastened using various techniques, including but not limited to joining the parts of the article together using any refastenable closure member and / or permanent closure member (e.g., seams, heat bonding, pressure welding, adhesives, cohesive bonding, mechanical fasteners, etc.). Pants can be preformed anywhere around the article in the waist region (e.g., side fastened or seamed, front waist fastened or seamed, back waist fastened or seamed). Exemplary diaper pants of various configurations are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,940,464, U.S. Pat. No. 5,092,861, U.S. Pat. No. 5,246,433, U.S. Pat. No. 5,569,234, U.S. Pat. No. 5,897,545, U.S. Pat. No. 5,957,908, U.S. Pat. No. 6,120,487, U.S. Pat. No. 6,120,489, U.S. Pat. No. 7,569,039, and U.S. Patent Publication No. 2003 / 0233082 A1, U.S. Patent Publication No. 2005 / 0107764 A1, U.S. Patent Publication No. 2012 / 0061016 A1, U.S. Patent Publication No. 2012 / 0061015 A1, U.S. Patent Publication No. 2013 / 0255861 A1, U.S. Patent Publication No. 2013 / 0255862 A1, U.S. Patent Publication No. 2013 / 0255863 A1, U.S. Patent Publication No. 2013 / 0255864 A1, and U.S. Patent Publication No. 2013 / 0255865 A1, all of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0069] "Closed" means that the opposing waist regions are permanently or refastenably joined when encapsulated to form a continuous waist opening and leg openings.

[0070] "Open" means that the opposing waist regions are not initially joined to form a continuous waist opening and leg openings before or during application of the article to the wearer, but rather include closure means (such as a fastening system) to join the waist regions to form a waist opening and leg openings.

[0071] The present disclosure relates to absorbent articles including elastic laminates, and more specifically, to absorbent articles having elastic laminates in front waist regions and / or back waist regions with one or more breakable paths. In some configurations, the absorbent article may include: a first belt and a second belt, each belt including a first end region and a second end region, the second end region being laterally separated from the first end region by a central region. The first end region of the first belt is connected to the first end region of the second belt, and the second end region of the first belt is connected to the second end region of the second belt to form a waist opening. The absorbent article may also include a base structure, the base structure including a top sheet, a back sheet, and an absorbent core positioned between the top sheet and the back sheet. The base structure may also include a first end region and a second end region longitudinally separated from the first end region by a crotch region. The first end region of the base structure may be connected to the central region of the first belt, and the second end region of the base structure may be connected to the central region of the second belt. The first belt may also include an inner edge extending laterally and an outer edge extending laterally, the outer edge being positioned longitudinally outside the inner edge.

[0072] As discussed in more detail below, the first belt and / or the second belt may include one or more frangible paths. For example, the frangible path in the first belt and / or the second belt may extend between the inner edge of the first belt and the outer edge of the first belt. The frangible path may extend to the proximal end on the inner edge of the first belt and the distal end on the outer edge. Then, the frangible path may include a single tearing area or a first tearing area and a second tearing area. This frangible path configuration provides a feature that allows the elastic band of the diaper pants to tear relatively easily along the frangible path when removing the diaper pants from the wearer, thereby avoiding the need to remove the diaper pants by sliding the diaper pants over the legs of the wearer. The tear strength required for tearing along the frangible path may be much less than the tear strength of the tearing belt, so that the tearing only propagates along the frangible path and does not propagate to other areas of the belt. In addition, the frangible path may be configured to allow a caregiver or wearer to start and / or completely tear the belt with one hand when removing the diaper pants from the wearer.

[0073] Figures 1 to 2B show examples of absorbent articles 100 in the form of diaper pants 100P, which may include components formed according to the configuration disclosed herein. Specifically, Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a diaper pants 100P in a pre-fastened configuration. Figure 2A shows a plan view of a diaper pants 100P in which the portion of the diaper facing away from the wearer is oriented toward the observer, and Figure 2B shows a plan view of a diaper pants 100P in which the portion of the diaper facing the wearer is oriented toward the observer. The diaper pants 100P includes a base structure 102 and an annular elastic belt 104. As discussed in more detail below, a first elastic belt 106 and a second elastic belt 108 are bonded together to form the annular elastic belt 104.

[0074] Continuing to refer to FIGS. 1 to 2B , the diaper pant 100P and the chassis 102 each include a first waist region 116, a second waist region 118, and a crotch region 119 disposed between the first waist region and the second waist region. It can also be described that the chassis 102 includes a first end region 116a, a second end region 118a, and a crotch region 119 disposed between the first end region 116a and the second end region 118a. The first waist region 116 can be configured as a front waist region, and the second waist region 118 can be configured as a rear waist region. The diaper 100P can also include a laterally extending front waist edge 121 in the front waist region 116 and a longitudinally opposite and laterally extending rear waist edge 122 in the rear waist region 118. To provide a frame of reference for this discussion, FIGS. 2A and 2B illustrate the diaper 100P and the chassis 102 having a longitudinal axis 124 and a lateral axis 126. In some embodiments, the longitudinal axis 124 can extend through the front waist edge 121 and through the rear waist edge 122. And the lateral axis 126 may extend through a first longitudinal or right side edge 128 and a second longitudinal or left side edge 130 of the chassis 102. As previously mentioned, the longitudinal axis 124 extends perpendicularly through the front waist edge 121 and the back waist edge 122, and the lateral axis 126 extends perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis 124. When the diaper pant 100P is worn, the longitudinal direction may extend from the wearer's front waist, through the crotch, to the wearer's back waist. To provide a further frame of reference for this discussion, the diaper 100P in Figures 2A, 2B, and 18B is shown, wherein: the first elastic belt 106 includes a longitudinal centerline 124a and a lateral centerline 126a; the second elastic belt 108 includes a longitudinal centerline 124b and a lateral centerline 126b; and the chassis 102 includes a longitudinal centerline 124c and a lateral centerline 126c. The longitudinal centerlines 124a, 124b, 124c are perpendicular to the lateral centerlines 126a, 126b, 126c.

[0075] As shown in FIGS. 1 to 2B , the diaper pant 100P may include an inner body-facing surface 132 and an outer garment-facing surface 134. The chassis 102 may include a backsheet 136 and a topsheet 138. The chassis 102 may also include an absorbent assembly 140 having an absorbent core 142 disposed between a portion of the topsheet 138 and the backsheet 136. As discussed in more detail below, the diaper 100P may also include other structures, such as leg elastics and / or leg cuffs to enhance the fit around the wearer's legs.

[0076] As shown in FIG. 2A , the perimeter of the chassis 102 can be defined by a first longitudinal side edge 128, a second longitudinal side edge 130, a first laterally extending end edge 144 disposed in the first waist region 116, and a second laterally extending end edge 146 disposed in the second waist region 118. Both side edges 128 and 130 extend longitudinally between the first end edge 144 and the second end edge 146. As shown in FIG. 2A , the laterally extending end edges 144 and 146 can be located longitudinally inward of a laterally extending front waist edge 121 in the front waist region 116 and a laterally extending back waist edge 122 in the back waist region 118. In some configurations, the laterally extending end edges 144 and 146 can be connected to or located longitudinally outward of the laterally extending front waist edge 121 in the front waist region 116 and the laterally extending back waist edge 122 in the back waist region 118. When the diaper pants 100P is worn on the lower body of the wearer, the front waist edge 121 and the back waist edge 122 can surround a portion of the wearer's waist. At the same time, the side edges 128 and 130 can surround at least a portion of the wearer's legs. And the crotch area 119 can generally be positioned between the legs of the wearer, wherein the absorbent core 142 extends from the front waist area 116 through the crotch area 119 to the back waist area 118.

[0077] As previously mentioned, the diaper pants 100P may include a backsheet 136. The backsheet 136 may also define the outer garment-facing surface 134 of the base structure 102. The backsheet 136 may also include a woven or nonwoven material, a polymer film (such as a thermoplastic film of polyethylene or polypropylene) and / or a multilayer or composite material including a film and a nonwoven material. The backsheet may also include an elastomeric film. An exemplary backsheet 136 may be a polyethylene film having a thickness of about 0.012 mm (0.5 mil) to about 0.051 mm (2.0 mil). In addition, the backsheet 136 may also allow vapor to escape from the absorbent core (that is, the backsheet is breathable), while still preventing exudates from penetrating the backsheet 136.

[0078] As also described above, the diaper pants 100P may include a top sheet 138. The top sheet 138 may also define all or part of the inner surface 132 of the base structure 102 facing the wearer. In addition, the top sheet 138 may be liquid permeable, thereby allowing liquids (e.g., menstrual fluid, urine and / or loose stools) to penetrate its thickness. The top sheet 138 may be made of various materials (such as woven materials and nonwoven materials); open or hydraulically formed thermoplastic films; open-cell nonwovens, porous foams; reticulated foams; reticulated thermoplastic films; and thermoplastic scrims. Woven materials and nonwoven materials may include natural fibers such as wood fibers or cotton fibers; synthetic fibers such as polyester fibers, polypropylene fibers, or polyethylene fibers; or combinations thereof. If the top sheet 138 includes fibers, the fibers may be processed by spunbonding, carding, wet-laid, meltblown, spunlace, or other methods known in the art. The top sheet 138 may be selected from a high-loft nonwoven top sheet, an open-cell film top sheet, and an open-cell nonwoven top sheet. Exemplary apertured films may include those described in US Pat. No. 5,628,097, US Pat. No. 5,916,661, US Pat. No. 6,545,197, and US Pat. No. 6,107,539, all of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0079] As mentioned above, the diaper pants 100P may also include an absorbent assembly 140 joined to the chassis 102. As shown in Fig. 2A, the absorbent assembly 140 may have a front edge 148 extending laterally in the front waist region 116, and may have a rear edge 150 extending longitudinally opposite and laterally in the rear waist region 118. The absorbent assembly may have a right edge 152 extending longitudinally, and may have a left edge 154 extending laterally opposite and longitudinally, and these two absorbent assembly side edges 152 and 154 may extend longitudinally between the front edge 148 and the rear edge 150. The absorbent assembly 140 may additionally include one or more absorbent cores 142 or absorbent core layers. The absorbent core 142 may be at least partially disposed between the top sheet 138 and the back sheet 136, and may be formed in various sizes and shapes compatible with diapers. Exemplary absorbent structures for use as absorbent cores of the present disclosure are described in US Pat. No. 4,610,678, US Pat. No. 4,673,402, US Pat. No. 4,888,231, and US Pat. No. 4,834,735, all of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0080] Some absorbent core embodiments may include a fluid storage core that includes a reduced amount of cellulose air felt material. For example, such cores may include less than about 40%, 30%, 20%, 10%, 5% or even 1% cellulose air felt material. Such cores may mainly include an absorbent gelling material having a content of at least about 60%, 70%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95% or even about 100%, wherein the remainder of the core includes microfiber glue (if applicable). Such cores, microfiber glue and absorbent gelling materials are described in U.S. Patent No. 5,599,335, U.S. Patent No. 5,562,646, U.S. Patent No. 5,669,894 and U.S. Patent No. 6,790,798 and U.S. Patent Publication No. 2004 / 0158212 A1 and U.S. Patent Publication No. 2004 / 0097895 A1, all of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0081] As previously mentioned, the diaper 100P may also include elasticized leg cuffs 156. It should be understood that the leg cuffs 156 may be and are sometimes referred to as leg circumferences, side wings, barrier cuffs, elastic cuffs, or gasket cuffs. The elasticized leg cuffs 156 may be constructed in various ways to help reduce leakage of body exudates in the leg regions. Exemplary leg cuffs 156 may include those described in U.S. Patent No. 3,860,003, U.S. Patent No. 4,909,803, U.S. Patent No. 4,695,278, U.S. Patent No. 4,795,454, U.S. Patent No. 4,704,115, U.S. Patent No. 4,909,803; and those in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2009 / 0312730 A1, all of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0082] As mentioned above, the diaper pants can be manufactured with the looped elastic belt 104 and provided to the consumer in a configuration in which the front waist region 116 and the rear waist region 118 are connected to each other as packaged before being applied to the wearer. Thus, the diaper pants can have a continuous peripheral waist opening 110 and continuous peripheral leg openings 112, such as shown in Figure 1. The looped elastic belt can be formed by joining a first elastic belt to a second elastic belt with permanent side seams or with an openable and reclosable fastening system disposed on or adjacent to laterally opposite sides of the belt.

[0083] As previously mentioned, the annular elastic band 104 may be defined by a first elastic band 106 connected to a second elastic band 108. As shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B , the first elastic band 106 extends between a first longitudinal side edge 111a and a second longitudinal side edge 111b and defines first and second opposite end regions 106a, 106b and a central region 106c. And the second elastic band 108 extends between a first and second longitudinal side edge 113a, 113b and defines first and second opposite end regions 108a, 108b and a central region 108c. As measured in an extended state, the distance between the first and second longitudinal side edges 111a, 111b defines a pitch PL of the first elastic band 106, and the distance between the first and second longitudinal side edges 113a, 113b defines a pitch PL of the second elastic band 108. The central region 106c of the first elastic belt is connected to the first waist region 116 or the first end region 116a of the chassis 102, and the central region 108c of the second elastic belt 108 is connected to the second waist region 118 or the second end region 118a of the chassis 102. As shown in FIG1 , the first end region 106a of the first elastic belt 106 is connected to the first end region 108a of the second elastic belt 108 at the first side seam 178, and the second end region 106b of the first elastic belt 106 is connected to the second end region 108b of the second elastic belt 108 at the second side seam 180 to define the annular elastic belt 104 and the waist opening 110 and the leg openings 112. It should be understood that the first belt 106 and the second belt 108 may be permanently or refastenably connected to each other at the first side seam 178 and the second side seam 180. The side seams 178, 180 may include permanent bonds, such as heat, pressure, or adhesive bonds, or may be releasable bonds, such as mechanical or adhesive fasteners.

[0084] As shown in Fig. 2A and Fig. 2B, the first elastic belt 106 also defines an outer side extending edge 107a and an inner side extending edge 107b, and the second elastic belt 108 defines an outer side extending edge 109a and an inner side extending edge 109b. The outer edge 107a of the first belt 106 is positioned longitudinally outward of the inner edge 107b, and the outer edge 109a of the second belt 108 is positioned longitudinally outward of the inner edge 109b. Thus, as shown in Fig. 1, the peripheral edge 112a of one leg opening can be defined by a portion of the inner side extending edge 107b of the first elastic belt 106, a portion of the inner side extending edge 109b of the second elastic belt 108, and a portion of the first longitudinal or right side edge 128 of the chassis 102. And the peripheral edge 112b of the other leg opening can be defined by a portion of the inner side extending edge 107b, a portion of the inner side extending edge 109b, and a portion of the second longitudinal or left side edge 130 of the chassis 102. The outer laterally extending edges 107a, 109a may also define a front waist edge 121 and a laterally extending rear waist edge 122 of the diaper pant 100P.

[0085] It should be understood that the first elastic band 106 and the second elastic band 108 can define different sizes and shapes. In some configurations, the first elastic band 106 and / or the second elastic band 108 can define a curved profile. For example, the inner lateral edges 107b, 109b of the first elastic band 106 and / or the second elastic band 108 can include non-linear portions or curved portions in the first opposite end region and the second opposite end region. Such curved profiles can help define a desired shape for the leg opening 112 (such as, for example, a relatively rounded leg opening). In addition to having a curved profile, the elastic bands 106, 108 can also include elastic strands 168 extending along non-linear paths or curved paths, which can correspond to the curved profiles of the inner lateral edges 107b, 109b.

[0086] FIG2C shows a configuration in which both the first elastic band 106 and the second elastic band 108 define a generally rectangular shape. For example, as shown in FIG2C , the outer laterally extending edge 107a of the first elastic band 106 may have a lateral width W1D, and the inner laterally extending edge 107b may have a lateral width W1P, wherein W1D and W1P are equal or substantially equal. In addition, the outer laterally extending edge 109a of the second elastic band 108 may have a lateral width W2D, and the inner laterally extending edge 109b may have a lateral width W2P, wherein W2D and W2P are equal or substantially equal.

[0087] In some configurations, at least one of the first elastic band 106 and the second elastic band 108 may include lateral edges having different lengths. For example, FIG. 2D illustrates a configuration in which the first elastic band 106 defines a generally rectangular shape (such as described with reference to FIG. 2C ) and in which the outer laterally extending edge 109a and the inner laterally extending edge 109b of the second elastic band 108 have different lengths. As shown in FIG. 2D , the outer laterally extending edge 109a of the second elastic band 108 may have a lateral width W2D, and the inner laterally extending edge 109b may have a lateral width W2P, wherein W2D is greater than W2P.

[0088] In some configurations, the first elastic band 106 and the second elastic band 108 may each include lateral edges having different lengths. For example, FIG. 2E shows a configuration in which the outer lateral extending edge 107a and the inner lateral extending edge 107b of the first elastic band 106 have different lengths, and in which the outer lateral extending edge 109a and the inner lateral extending edge 109b of the second elastic band 108 have different lengths. As shown in FIG. 2E , the outer lateral extending edge 107a of the first elastic band 107 may have a lateral width W1D, and the inner lateral extending edge 107b may have a lateral width W1P, wherein W1D is greater than W1P, and in which the outer lateral extending edge 109a of the second elastic band 108 may have a lateral width W2D, and the inner lateral extending edge 109b may have a lateral width W2P, wherein W2D is greater than W2P.

[0089] 2C to 2E, the first elastic band 106 may define a longitudinal length LT1 extending between the outer side extending edge 107a and the inner side extending edge 107b, and the second elastic band 108 may define a longitudinal length LT2 extending between the outer side extending edge 109a and the inner side extending edge 109b. In some configurations, LT1 may be equal to LT2. In some configurations, LT1 may be less than or greater than LT2. Continuing to refer to FIGS. 2C to 2E, in some configurations, W1D may be equal to W1P, or W1D may be different from W1P. In some configurations, W2D may be equal to W2P, or W2D may be different from W2P. In some configurations, W1D and / or W1P may be equal to or different from W2D and / or W2P.

[0090] 2A, 2B, and 3, the first elastic belt 106 and the second elastic belt 108 may also each include a first substrate 162 and a second substrate 164. The first substrate 162 may be oriented to define at least a portion of the garment-facing surface 115a of the first elastic belt 106 and the garment-facing surface 117a of the second elastic belt 108, and the second substrate 164 may be oriented to define at least a portion of the wearer-facing surface 115b of the first elastic belt 106 and the wearer-facing surface 117b of the second elastic belt 108. The first substrate 162 may extend a maximum length L1 from the proximal edge 162b to the distal edge 162a, and the second substrate 164 may extend a maximum length L2 from the proximal edge 164b to the distal edge 164a. It should be understood that the distal edge 162a and / or the proximal edge 162b of the first substrate 162 may be straight and / or curved and / or may be parallel or non-parallel to each other. It should also be understood that the distal edge 164a and / or proximal edge 164b of the second substrate 164 may be straight and / or curved and / or may be parallel or non-parallel to each other. Therefore, the maximum length L1 refers to the longest distance extending longitudinally between the distal edge 162a and the proximal edge 162b of the first substrate 162, and the maximum length L2 refers to the longest distance extending longitudinally between the distal edge 164a and the proximal edge 164b of the second substrate 164. In some configurations, L1 may be equal to, less than or greater than L2. In some configurations, L1 may be equal to or less than LT1, and L2 may be equal to or less than LT2. In some configurations, the distal edge 162a of the first substrate 162 may define at least a portion of the front waist edge 121 and / or at least a portion of the back waist edge 122, and / or the distal edge 164a of the second substrate 164 may define at least a portion of the front waist edge 121 and / or at least a portion of the back waist edge 122. Thus, in some configurations, the distal edge 162a of the first substrate 162 and / or the distal edge 164a of the second substrate 164 can define at least a portion of the waist opening 110 .

[0091] It should also be understood that the first substrate 162 and / or the second substrate 164 can extend continuously from the first belt 106 to the second belt 108. For example, the first substrate 162 can be configured to define a continuous outer cover 162' that extends continuously from the first waist edge 121 to the second waist edge 122, such as shown in Figures 1A, 2F, and 3C. It should also be understood that a diaper pant 100P having a continuous outer cover, as shown in Figures 1A, 2F, and 3C, can also be configured to include various aspects of the breakable paths and fastener components discussed herein.

[0092] It should be understood that the first substrate 162 and the second substrate 164 can define various lateral widths that may or may not be equal. For example, as shown in FIG. 2B , the first substrate 162 can extend laterally between the first longitudinal edge 162e and the second longitudinal edge 162f to define a first lateral width W1, and the second substrate 164 can extend laterally between the first longitudinal edge 164e and the second longitudinal edge 164f to define a second lateral width W2.

[0093] In some configurations, the proximal edge 162b of the first substrate 162 and / or the proximal edge 164b of the second substrate 164 can extend laterally across the backsheet 136. As shown in Figures 2A to 3, the first substrate 162 includes a garment-facing surface 162c and an opposite wearer-facing surface 162d, and the second substrate 164 includes a garment-facing surface 164c and an opposite wearer-facing surface 164d.

[0094] In some configurations, the first elastic belt 106 and / or the second elastic belt 108 may include at least a folded portion of the first substrate 162 and / or the second substrate 164. For example, as shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B , the first elastic belt 106 and / or the second elastic belt 108 may include a folded portion 162g of the first substrate 162 that extends longitudinally between a fold line 162h in the first substrate 162 and a lateral edge 162i. Thus, the folded portion 162g of the first substrate 162 may be connected to a wearer-facing surface 164d of the second substrate 164. In some configurations, the folded portion 162g of the first substrate 162 may also be connected to and / or overlap the chassis 102. In some configurations, the folded portion 162g of the first substrate 162 may also be connected to a wearer-facing surface 162d of the first substrate 162. In some configurations, a portion of the folded portion 162g of the first substrate 162 may not be bonded to the base structure 102 and / or the second substrate 164, thereby forming a recess having an opening oriented toward the lateral centerline 162c of the base structure 102. In another example, the first elastic band 106 and / or the second elastic band 108 may include a folded portion of the second substrate 164, which extends longitudinally between the fold line in the second substrate 164 and the lateral edge. Therefore, the folded portion of the second substrate 164 may be connected to the garment-facing surface 162c of the first substrate 162. Therefore, in some configurations, the fold line of the first substrate 162 and / or the fold line of the second substrate 164 may define at least a portion of the waist opening 110. It should be understood that various waist configurations can be utilized. For example, as shown in Figure 3A1, the folded portion 162g may be sandwiched between the second substrate 164 and the backsheet 136. 3A2, the second substrate 164 may be sandwiched between the folded portion 162g and the backsheet 136. Although FIGS. 3A1 and 3A2 illustrate the configuration of the first band 106, it should be understood that such a configuration may be applied to the second band 108.

[0095] It should be understood that the first elastic band 106 and the second elastic band 108 may include the same material and / or may have the same structure. In some embodiments, the first elastic band 106 and the second elastic band may include different materials and / or may have different structures. It should also be understood that the components of the first elastic band 106 and the second elastic band 108 (such as the first substrate 162 and / or the second substrate 164) may be constructed of various materials. For example, the first band and / or the second band may include the first substrate 162 and / or the second substrate 164, which may be made of a material such as a plastic film; an open-aperture plastic film; a woven or nonwoven web of the following fibers: a natural material (e.g., wood fiber or cotton fiber), a synthetic fiber (e.g., polyolefin, polyamide, polyester, polyethylene, or polypropylene fiber), or a combination of natural fibers and / or synthetic fibers; or a coated woven or nonwoven web. In some configurations, the first band and / or the second band may include the first substrate 162 and / or the second substrate 164 of a nonwoven web containing synthetic fibers, and may include a stretchable nonwoven. In some configurations, the first elastic belt and the second elastic belt may include an inner hydrophobic non-stretchable nonwoven material and an outer hydrophobic non-stretchable nonwoven material. It should be understood that the belt can be constructed in various ways, such as, for example, disclosed in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2022 / 0142828 A1 and Chinese Patent Application No. CN2021 / 077843, both of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0096] One or more substrates of the belt may include fibers. The properties of these fibers may be the same or different in the inner surface of the belt facing the clothes and the outer surface facing the wearer. In addition, the properties of these fibers may be present in one or more substrate layers forming the belt. These fibers may be processed by spunbond, carded web, wet-laid web, meltblown, spunlace, water jet or other methods known in the art. The nonwoven fabric may be a composite material, such as a spunbond-meltblown-spunbond (SMS) material. For example, at least one of the outer surface of the substrate facing the clothes and the inner surface facing the wearer may include a carded nonwoven material. At least one of the outer surface of the belt facing the clothes and the inner surface facing the wearer may include a substrate with multiple fibers, which are spunlace or have been subjected to a water jet process. In addition, the substrate may include multiple fibers with a denier less than about 1.5 or less than about 1.25 or less than about 1, specifically listing all 0.1 increments in the above range and all ranges formed therein or thereby.

[0097] The fibers of the substrate of the present disclosure may include monocomponent fibers or multicomponent fibers, such as bicomponent fibers or tricomponent fibers. As used herein, multicomponent fibers refer to fibers containing more than one chemical substance or material (i.e., multi-component fibers). The fibers may contain petroleum-based resins, recyclable resins, and / or bio-based resins, such as polylactic acid from NatureWorks, polyethylene and / or polypropylene from Braskem, and polyethylene terephthalate from Lanxess. The fibers may have, for example, a circular, triangular, trilobal, or other shaped cross-section. Typically, different polymer components have different melting temperatures, viscosities, glass transition temperatures, crystallinity, and / or crystallization rates. Multicomponent fibers (such as bicomponent fibers) may include skin / core, side-by-side, island-in-the-sea, and / or eccentric configurations, or may have other configurations. As an example, in the context of bicomponent fibers, fibers including a core / skin configuration may be composed of a first polymer and a second polymer, the first polymer forming the core of the fiber, the second polymer partially or completely surrounding the first polymer and forming the skin of the fiber. For example, the substrate may include polypropylene-polyethylene side-by-side bicomponent fibers.

[0098] The fibers of the substrate of the present disclosure may include curled fibers. These curled fibers may be included in at least one of the outer surface of the belt facing the clothes and the inner surface facing the wearer. When the different polymer components of the multi-component fiber have different melting temperatures, viscosities, glass transition temperatures, crystallinity and / or crystallization rates, and are arranged in the fiber in an eccentric skin / core type or a side-by-side configuration, curled fibers can be produced. When the multi-component fiber is cooled after formation, the first polymer component can solidify and / or shrink at a faster rate than the second polymer component, and the second polymer component can have sufficient rigidity to resist compression along the longitudinal fiber axis. When the strain on the fiber is relieved, the continuous fiber can be deformed and curled, thereby causing the so-called "curl" in the fiber. The curling of the fiber contributes to the softness and fluffiness of the nonwoven web, which is desired by consumers. Additional details of the fibers suitable for the substrate discussed herein are disclosed in U.S. Patent 2020 / 0337910, which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0099] The elastic material 167 may be positioned between the wearer-facing surface 162d of the first substrate 162 and the garment-facing surface 164c of the second substrate 164. It should be understood that the elastic material 167 may include one or more elastic elements, such as strands, ribbons, elastic films or sheets extending along the length of the elastic band. As shown in Figures 2A and 3, the elastic material 167 may include a plurality of elastic strands 168. In some configurations, the elastic material 167 may be an elastic film for forming a zero-strain elastic laminate, which includes an elastic film bonded to one or more nonwoven layers and subsequently subjected to mechanical deformation or activation sufficient to weaken the nonwoven layer and enable the laminate to elastically stretch and recover.

[0100] It should also be understood that the first substrate 162, the second substrate 164, and / or the elastic material 167 of the first elastic band 106 and / or the second elastic band 108 can be bonded together and / or to other components (such as the chassis 102) using adhesives and / or mechanical bonds. It should be understood that adhesive bonding and mechanical bonding can be used alone or in combination with each other.

[0101] In some configurations, when the first substrate 162, the second substrate 164 and / or the elastic material 167 are combined to form the first elastic band 106 and / or the second elastic band 108, an adhesive can be applied to at least one of them. In some configurations, when the first substrate 162, the second substrate 164 and / or the elastic material 167 are combined to form the first elastic band 106 and / or the second elastic band 108, a mechanical bonding device can apply a mechanical bonding piece to at least one of them. Such mechanical bonding pieces can be applied using heat, pressure and / or ultrasonic devices. In some configurations, a mechanical bonding device can apply a bonding piece that bonds the first substrate 162, the second substrate 164 and / or the elastic material 167 together, and / or can be used to capture or fix the contraction elastic strands of discrete lengths in the first elastic band 106 and / or the second elastic band 108.

[0102] It should also be understood that the first substrate 162, the second substrate 164 and / or the elastic material 167 can be bonded together using various methods and equipment to produce various elastomeric laminates, such as U.S. Patent Publication Nos. 2018 / 0168878 A1, 2018 / 0168877 A1, 2018 / 0168880 A1, 2018 / 0170027 A1, 2018 / 0169964 A1, 2018 / 0168879 A1, 2018 / 0170026 A1, 2018 / 0168889 A1, 2018 / 0168874 A1, 2018 / 0168875 A1, 2018 / 0168890 A1, 2018 / 0168887 A1, 2018 / 0168892 A1 A1, 2018 / 0168876 A1, 2018 / 0168891 A1, 2019 / 0070042 A1, 2019 / 0070041 A1, 2021 / 0282797 A1 and 2021 / 0275362 A1 and combinations thereof, all of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0103] It should be understood that the components of the first elastic band 106 and / or the second elastic band 108 can be assembled in various ways and in various combinations to produce various desired characteristics, which can vary along the lateral width and / or longitudinal length of the first elastic band 106 and / or the second elastic band 108. Such characteristics can include, for example, decitex value, bonding pattern, hole arrangement, elastic positioning, average decitex value, average pre-strain value, roughness frequency, roughness wavelength, height value and / or contact area. It should be understood that different characteristics can be imparted to various components (such as, for example, the first substrate 162, the second substrate 164 and the elastic material 167) before and / or during the assembly stage of the first elastic band 106 and / or the second elastic band 108.

[0104] It should be understood that the first elastic band 106 and / or the second elastic band 108 may include various configurations of band elastic material 167 arranged relative to each other and relative to the first substrate 162 and the second substrate 164. As discussed above, the elastic material 167 may include configurations of one or more elastic elements (such as strands, ribbons, films, or sheets) positioned in various arrangements. In some configurations, the elastic material 167 may include various elastic components, elastic features and arrangements, and methods for assembly, such as 2018 / 0168889 A1, 2018 / 0168874 A1, 2018 / 0168875 A1, 2018 / 0168890 A1, 2018 / 0168887A1, 2018 / 0168892 A1, 2018 / 0168876 A1, 2018 / 0168891 A1, 2019 / 0298586 A1, 2019 / 0070042 A1, 2018 / 0168878 A1, 2018 / 0168877 A1, 2018 / 0168880 A1, 2018 / 0168887A1 A1, 2018 / 0169964 A1, 2018 / 0168879 A1, 2018 / 0170026 A1 and 2019 / 0070041 A1, 2021 / 0282797 A1 and 2021 / 0275362 A1, all of which are incorporated herein by reference. It should also be understood that the elastic material 167 herein can be configured to have the same or different colors in various different positions on the first elastic band 106 and / or the second elastic band 108.

[0105] In some configurations, the elastic material 167 can be constructed as elastic strands 168 arranged at constant intervals in the longitudinal direction. In other embodiments, the elastic strands 168 can be arranged at different intervals in the longitudinal direction. In some configurations, the decitex value of the elastic strands 168 can be constant, or can vary in the longitudinal direction. In some configurations, the elastic material 167 in a stretched state can be inserted and joined between the uncontracted substrate layers. When the elastic material 167 relaxes, the elastic material 167 returns to the unstretched state and contracts the substrate layer. The elastic material 167 can provide a desired contraction force change in the area of ​​the annular elastic band. It should be understood that the base structure 102 and the elastic bands 106, 108 can be constructed in a manner different from that shown in the drawings. It should also be understood that the elastic material 167 can be continuously or intermittently joined to the substrate along the interface between the elastic material 167 and the substrate. In some configurations, the elastic strands 168 may be in the form of extruded elastic strands, which may also be bonded to the first substrate 162 and / or the second substrate 164 in a pre-corrugated configuration, such as disclosed, for example, in U.S. Patent No. 5,681,302, which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0106] As discussed above, for example, with reference to FIGS. 2A and 3 , the elastic material 167 discussed herein can be in the form of elastic strands 168. In some configurations, the elastic strands 168 can be parallel to each other and / or to the lateral axis 126. It should be understood that the first elastic band 106 and / or the second elastic band 108 can be configured to include various amounts of elastic strands 168. In some configurations, the elastic strands 168 can be grouped in pairs. In some configurations, the first elastic band 106 and / or the second elastic band 108 can include about 10 to about 1500 elastic strands 168. It should also be understood that the elastic strands 168 herein can have various decitex values, strand spacing values, and pre-strain values, and such elastic strands 168 can be used with other elastic strands to produce the first elastic band 106 and the second elastic band 108 including elastic strands 168 having various combinations of decitex values, strand spacing values, and pre-strain values. For example, in some configurations, the average decitex of one or more elastic strands 168 may be greater than 500. In some configurations, the average decitex of one or more elastic strands 168 may be about 10 to about 1500, specifically reciting all 1 decitex increments within the above range and all ranges formed therein or thereby. In some configurations, multiple elastic strands 168 may have an average strand spacing of less than or equal to 4 mm. In some configurations, multiple elastic strands 168 may have an average strand spacing of about 0.25 mm to about 4 mm, specifically reciting all 0.01 mm increments within the above range and all ranges formed therein or thereby. In some configurations, multiple elastic strands 168 may have an average strand spacing greater than 4 mm. In some configurations, the average prestrain of each of the multiple elastic strands may be about 50% to about 400%, specifically reciting all 1% increments within the above range and all ranges formed therein or thereby. In some configurations, the elastic strands 168 include an average strand spacing of about 0.25 mm to about 4 mm and an average decitex of about 10 to about 500. In some configurations, the elastic strands 168 can have an average pre-strain of about 75% to about 300%.

[0107] In some configurations, the first plurality of elastic strands may have a first average prestrain of about 75% to about 300%, and the second plurality of elastic strands may have a second average prestrain greater than the first average prestrain. In some configurations, the first plurality of elastic strands have an average strand spacing of about 0.25 mm to about 4 mm and an average decitex of about 10 to about 500; and the second plurality of elastic strands may have an average strand spacing greater than about 4 mm and an average decitex greater than about 450.

[0108] In some configurations, such as shown in FIG. 2A , the elastic strands 168 may be referred to herein as outer waist elastics 170 and inner waist elastics 172. The elastic strands 168, such as the outer waist elastics 170, may extend laterally continuously between the first and second opposite end regions 106a, 106b of the first elastic belt 106 and between the first and second opposite end regions 108a, 108b of the second elastic belt 108. Some elastic strands 168, such as the inner waist elastics 172, may be configured to be discontinuous in certain areas, such as, for example, where the first and second elastic belts 106, 108 overlap portions of the chassis 102, such as the absorbent assembly 140.

[0109] As shown in FIG. 2A , the first elastic belt 106 and / or the second elastic belt 108 may be configured with a low stretch area 701 and a high stretch area 703. The first elastic belt 106 and / or the second elastic belt 108 may include a first high stretch area 703a and a second high stretch area 703b separated laterally by the low stretch area 701. Portions of the chassis 102 (such as the backsheet 136 and the absorbent assembly 140) may be connected to the first elastic belt 106 and / or the second elastic belt 108 in the low stretch area 701 in the first waist region 116 and / or the second waist region 118. The high stretch area 703 is elasticized by an elastic material 167 such as elastic strands 168, 172; and the low stretch area 701 may include a cut line that separates the elastic material 167 such as elastic strands 168, 172. In some configurations, the elastic material 167 may be cut in an unbonded area where the elastic material is not bonded to the first substrate 162 and the second substrate 164. Therefore, the elastic material 167 is retracted from the unbonded area and forms a low stretch zone 701. In some configurations, the elastic material 167 can be cut into several discrete pieces. Then, the low stretch zone 701 defines a relatively smaller elastic zone than the high stretch zone 703 of the first elastic band 106 and / or the second elastic band 108. The discrete elastic blocks 167 that have been cut and elastically contracted do not add any significant amount of elasticity to the low stretch zone 701. Therefore, when a force is applied, the high stretch zone 703 will be stretched more than the low stretch zone 701. As provided above, the term "elastic", "elastomer" or "elastomeric" refers to a material that exhibits elastic properties, and they include any material that can be stretched or stretched to an elongated length exceeding 10% of its initial length when a force is applied to its relaxed initial length, and will be substantially restored to about its initial length when the applied force is released. In some configurations, the first elastic belt 106 and / or the second elastic belt 108 can be configured with elastic, high-stretch areas 703 and can be configured with inelastic or “non-elastic” low-stretch areas 701 .

[0110] As described above, the diaper pants 100P described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3C may include one or more frangible paths in the first belt 106 and / or the second belt 108. For example, FIGS. 4, 5A, and 5B illustrate an exemplary diaper pants 100P having a first belt 106 that includes a frangible path 700. The frangible path 700 may be configured to allow the first elastic belt 106 to tear relatively easily along the frangible path 700, such as when removing the diaper pants 100P from a wearer. FIG. 5A illustrates a view of the diaper pants 100P of FIG. 4, showing the first belt 106 being torn after passing through the outer longitudinal outer side-extending edge 107a and the inner side-extending edge 107b of the first belt 106 along the frangible path 700. Thus, the first elastic belt 106 shown in FIG. 5A is separated by opposing tear lines 705. It should be understood that the first elastic belt 106 can be torn along both frangible paths 700 in FIG. 5A. For example, Fig. 5B illustrates the diaper pants of Fig. 4, showing that the front belt is torn along two breakable paths 700. As shown in Fig. 5B, after the first and second opposing end regions 106a, 106b are separated from the central region 106c by tearing the elastic belt 106 along the breakable paths 700, the central region 106c of the first elastic belt 106 can remain bonded to the chassis 102.

[0111] As discussed in more detail below, the frangible path 700 may include a plurality of lines of weakness 704 configured such that all of the elastic strands 168 in the first elastic belt 106 are severed at least once in the frangible path 700. Severing the elastic strands 168 in the frangible path 700 helps make it relatively easy to tear the first elastic belt 106 along the frangible path 700. For example, when the elastic strands 168 are severed, only the first substrate 162 and the second substrate 164 of the first elastic belt 106 need to be torn, without also tearing the uncut elastic strands 168. It should be understood that the diaper pant 100P may include various numbers of frangible paths 700 that may be: positioned in various locations; define various shapes; and extend various lengths. For example, the first elastic band 106 may include a first band length defined by a longitudinal distance between the proximal edge 107b and the distal edge 107a, and the frangible path 700 may extend a total length from the outermost edge of the line of weakness 704 closest to the proximal edge 107b of the first band 106 to the outermost edge of the line of weakness 704 closest to the distal edge 107a of the first band 106. In some configurations, the frangible path 700 may extend a total length greater than, equal to, or less than the first band length. In some configurations, the line of weakness 704 may extend from a first end to a second end, and the sum of the lengths of all the lines of weakness 704 in the frangible path 700 may be greater than the total length of the frangible path.

[0112] In some configurations, the diaper pants 100P can be constructed so that one or both of the first elastic belt 106 and the second elastic belt 108 include one or more frangible paths 700. The frangible paths 700 can be positioned in various positions on the first elastic belt 106 and the second elastic belt 108. For example, as shown in Figures 4, 5A and 5B, the frangible paths 700 can extend to overlap with the chassis 102. In some configurations, the frangible paths 700 can extend straight and / or be curved and / or have curved portions. In some configurations, the frangible paths 700 extend the entire length of the first belt 106 and / or the second belt 108 longitudinally or less than the entire length thereof. In some configurations, the frangible paths 700 can be partially or completely positioned laterally between the first side seam 178 and the second side seam 180 and the chassis 102.

[0113] In some configurations, the breakable path 700 may be constructed and / or positioned to provide access to other features and / or have the function of other features, such as a disposal feature. For example, the diaper pants 100P shown in Figures 4, 5A, and 5B includes a fastener component 707 positioned on the wearer-facing surface 115b of the first elastic belt 106. In some configurations, the fastener component 707 may be positioned between the first elastic belt 106 and the base structure 102. The fastener component 707 may be configured to be repeatedly fastened to other parts of the diaper pants 100P, such as the first elastic belt 106, the clothing-facing surface of the second elastic belt 108, or the base structure 102. Therefore, once the first elastic belt 106 is torn along the breakable path 700, the diaper pants 100P can be removed from the wearer and rolled up or folded for disposal, and the fastener component 707 can be connected to another part of the diaper pants 100P to help keep the diaper pants 100P in a disposal configuration.

[0114] It should also be understood that the fastener component 707 can be constructed in various ways, such as hooks, loops and / or adhesives. For example, the fastener component 707 may include a hook element or adhesive that is suitable for being repeatedly and securely connected to another surface of the diaper pants 100P. In some configurations, the fastener component 707 may include a loop element that is suitable for being repeatedly and securely connected to the hook surface on the diaper pants 100P. The fastener component 707 can be an independent element connected to the elastic band 106 in various ways, such as mechanical bonding, adhesive bonding or both. In some configurations, the fastener component 707 can be formed integrally by the material of the elastic bands 106, 108. In some configurations, the fastener component 707 can be printed and / or include materials of various different colors so that the fastener component 707 is visible from the outside of the diaper pants 100P.

[0115] As previously mentioned, the fastener component 707 may include a hook material that can be repeatedly and firmly engaged with a substrate (such as a nonwoven) on the outer surface of the diaper pants 100P. For example, the fastener component 707 may include a substrate that includes a hook, wherein the substrate is bonded to the elastic bands 106, 108, such as a second substrate 164, which can be in the form of a nonwoven. It should be understood that the substrate can be bonded to the elastic bands 106, 108 in various ways, such as, for example, by mechanical bonding, thermal bonding, ultrasonic bonding and / or adhesive bonding or a combination thereof. In some configurations, the hook can be integrally formed by the second substrate 164, which can be in the form of a nonwoven. The fastener component 707 may include a combination of a material or two or more materials that are arranged in a configuration that overlaps at least partially. In some configurations, the fastener component 707 may include other fastener types known in the art.

[0116] It should be understood that the fastener component 707 may include any of a variety of shapes, including rectangular or other polygonal, circular, elliptical, a shape with an external convex or concave shape, or a combination thereof, or one or more lines or geometric shapes forming an array. It should be understood that the fastener component 707 may include various sizes. For example, in some configurations, the fastener component 707 may have a lateral width between about 5 mm and about 100 mm, specifically listing all 0.1 mm increments within the above range and all ranges formed therein or thereby. In some configurations, the fastener component 707 may have a longitudinal length between about 10 mm and about 100 mm, specifically listing all 0.1 mm increments within the above range and all ranges formed therein or thereby. The fastener component 707 may be aligned parallel to the lateral centerline 126a, 126b of the elastic band 106, 108, or may be oriented at an angle between 0 degrees and 90 degrees relative to the longitudinal centerline 126a, 126 of the elastic band 106, 108. The fastener component 707 may include an array of two or more spaced apart fastening elements. The fastener component 707 may have a visible through any layer of the elastic band 106, 108 in which the fastener component 707 is located. The elastic band 106, 108 and / or the infrastructure 102 may include printing or other markings that highlight the location, function and / or use of the fastener component 707 to the caregiver. The bond or bond pattern that attaches the fastener component 707 to the elastic band 106, 108 may be visually or tactilely different from the surrounding band material to provide a signal or mechanical gripping advantage to the caregiver.

[0117] It should also be understood that the frangible path 700 may include a line of weakness 704 that is: constructed in various ways; positioned in different positions and orientations relative to each other; defined by various shapes; and extends various lengths. For example, in some configurations, the line of weakness 704 may include discrete cut lines that pass through some or all layers of the elastic band 106. In some configurations, the line of weakness 704 includes discrete bonds in which the materials of the first substrate and the second substrate are fused together. In some configurations, the line of weakness 704 may be linear, curvilinear, or have a regular or irregular geometry, and may include one or more of perforations, bonds, holes, or mechanically thinned areas of materials such as nonwovens, or a combination thereof. It should also be understood that the line of weakness 704 may be formed to have different lengths and spacings to achieve different separation forces.

[0118] As described above, an absorbent article 100, such as a diaper pant 100P, can be configured with a frangible path 700 that includes a line of weakness 704 arranged in various ways to help improve the ability of a caregiver to remove a soiled diaper pant 100P from a wearer without having to remove the soiled diaper pant from the wearer by sliding the soiled diaper pant down the wearer's legs. As described above, the frangible path 700 can be configured to allow the first elastic band 106 and / or the second elastic band 108 to tear relatively easily along the frangible path 700, such as when removing the diaper pant 100P from the wearer. In addition, the frangible path 700 can also be configured to provide access to a fastener component 707 that can be used to help keep the soiled product in a disposal configuration. Exemplary embodiments of the frangible path 700 on a diaper pant 100P are discussed below in the context of the above description of various details of the absorbent article 100, the fastener component 707, the frangible path 700, and the line of weakness 704. It should be understood that the discussion herein regarding the frangible path 700 in the first elastic band 106 may also be applied to the frangible path 700 in the second elastic band 108 .

[0119] It should be understood that the frangible paths 700 can be positioned in various positions and / or orientations relative to other components of the absorbent article 100, and / or can be configured to function in various ways to assist in removing the diaper pants from the wearer. For example, the diaper pants 100P shown in Figures 6A and 6B may include one or more frangible paths 700 that extend between a distal end 808 on the outer edge 107a of the first belt 106 and a proximal end 810 on the inner edge 107b of the first belt 106. As shown in Figures 6A and 6B, the diaper pants 100P includes a first frangible path 700a and a second frangible path 700b in the first belt 106. The first frangible path 700a may extend between a first distal end 808a on the outer edge 107a of the first belt 106 and a first proximal end 810a on the inner edge 107b of the first belt 106. The second frangible path 700b may extend between a second distal end 808b on the outer edge 107a of the first strip 106 and a second proximal end 810b on the inner edge 107b of the first strip 106. It should be appreciated that the first and second frangible paths 700a, 700b may include a line of weakness 704 as described above.

[0120] It should be understood that the first distal end 808a and the second distal end 808b can be located at various lateral positions on the outer edge 107a of the first band 106. For example, in some configurations, the first distal end 808a and / or the second distal end 808b can be positioned in the central region 106c of the first band 106. In some configurations, the first distal end 808a and / or the second distal end 808b can be positioned laterally between the first longitudinal edge 128 and the second longitudinal edge 130 of the chassis 102. In some configurations, the first distal end 808a and / or the second distal end 808b can be positioned in the first end region 106a and / or the second end region 106b of the first band 106. In some configurations, the first distal end 808a and / or the second distal end 808b can be positioned laterally outboard of the first longitudinal edge 128 and the second longitudinal edge 130 of the chassis 102. In some configurations, the first distal end 808a and / or the second distal end 808b can be laterally positioned between the first longitudinal edge 128 of the chassis 102 and the first side seam 178, and / or can be laterally positioned between the second longitudinal edge 130 of the chassis 102 and the second side seam 180. In some configurations, the first distal end 808a can be laterally aligned with the first longitudinal edge 128 of the chassis 102 or the first longitudinal side edge 111a of the first band 106. In some configurations, the first distal end 808a can be laterally positioned between the first longitudinal edge 128 of the chassis 102 and the first longitudinal side edge 111a of the first band 106. In some configurations, the second distal end 808b can be laterally aligned with the second longitudinal edge 130 of the chassis 102 or the second longitudinal side edge 111b of the first band 106. In some configurations, the second distal end 808b can be positioned laterally between the second longitudinal edge 130 of the chassis 102 and the second longitudinal side edge 111b of the first band 106 .

[0121] It should also be understood that the first proximal end 810a and the second proximal end 810b can be located at various lateral positions on the inner edge 107b of the first band 106. For example, in some configurations, the first proximal end 810a and / or the second proximal end 810b can be positioned in the central region 106c of the first band 106. In some configurations, the first proximal end 810a and / or the second distal end 810b can be positioned laterally between the first longitudinal edge 128 and the second longitudinal edge 130 of the chassis 102. In some configurations, the first proximal end 810a and / or the second proximal end 810b can be positioned in the first end region 106a and / or the second end region 106b of the first band 106. In some configurations, the first proximal end 810a and / or the second proximal end 810b can be positioned laterally outboard of the first longitudinal edge 128 and the second longitudinal edge 130 of the chassis 102. In some configurations, the first proximal end 810a and / or the second proximal end 810b can be laterally positioned between the first longitudinal edge 128 of the chassis 102 and the first side seam 178, and / or can be laterally positioned between the second longitudinal edge 130 of the chassis 102 and the second side seam 180. In some configurations, the first proximal end 810a can be laterally aligned with the first longitudinal edge 128 of the chassis 102 or the first longitudinal side edge 111a of the first belt 106. In some configurations, the first proximal end 810a can be laterally positioned between the first longitudinal edge 128 of the chassis 102 and the first longitudinal side edge 111a of the first belt 106. In some configurations, the second proximal end 810b can be laterally aligned with the second longitudinal edge 130 of the chassis 102 or the second longitudinal side edge 111b of the first belt 106. In some configurations, the second proximal end 810b can be positioned laterally between the second longitudinal edge 130 of the chassis 102 and the second longitudinal side edge 111b of the first band 106 .

[0122] It should also be understood that the first distal end 808a and the second distal end 808b can be located at various longitudinal positions between the outer edge 107a and the inner edge 107b of the first band 106. And the first proximal end 810a and the second proximal end 810b can be located at various longitudinal positions between the outer edge 107a and the inner edge 107b of the first band 106. For example, in some configurations, as shown in FIG. 6B2, the first distal end 808a and / or the first proximal end 810a can be located on the first side seam 178 at a position longitudinally inward of the outer edge 107a of the first band 106 and longitudinally outward of the inner edge 107b. In addition, as shown in FIG. 6B2, the second distal end 808b and / or the second proximal end 810b can be located on the second side seam 180 at a position longitudinally inward of the outer edge 107a of the first band 106 and longitudinally outward of the inner edge 107b. Thus, completing the tearing process of the first tape 106 may also require tearing portions of the first side seam 178 and / or the second side seam 180 .

[0123] Continuing with reference to FIG. 6B , the first tape 106 may further include a gripping area 801 that provides a place where a user can grasp a portion of the first tape 106 and begin tearing the first tape along the frangible path 700. The gripping area 801 may include an accessible opening 802 in the first tape 106, and may further include a fastener component 707 positioned adjacent to the accessible opening 802. The accessible opening 802 may include a slit and / or opening in the first tape 106, and may penetrate some or all layers of the first tape 106. It should be understood that such a slit or opening may be curved and / or straight. The accessible opening 802 may also be considered part of the frangible path 700.

[0124] As shown in Fig. 6B, the diaper pant 100P may include a first gripping area 801a including a first accessible opening 802a and a second gripping area 801b, the first gripping area including a first accessible opening 802.b in the first belt 106. The first accessible opening 802a and the second accessible opening 802b may be positioned between the outer edge 107a and the inner edge 107b of the first belt 106. The first accessible opening 802a and the second accessible opening 802b may also be positioned in the central region 106c of the first belt 106 and may be positioned between the first longitudinal edge 128, the second longitudinal edge 130 of the chassis 102, and the first side edge 144 of the chassis 102. In addition, the first fastener component 707a may be positioned adjacent to the first accessible opening 802a, and the second fastener component 707a may be positioned adjacent to the second accessible opening 802a. The first frangible path 700a may include a first tear region 813a extending from the first accessible opening 802a to the first distal end 808a and a second tear region 813b extending from the first accessible opening 802a to the first proximal end 810a. The second frangible path 700b may include a first tear region 813a extending from the second accessible opening 802b to the second distal end 808b and a second tear region 813b extending from the second accessible opening 802b to the second proximal end 810b.

[0125] It should be understood that the frangible path 700 may include one or more functional areas. In turn, the frangible path may include a transition area that may operatively connect these areas to help promote the propagation of a tear from one area to another area along the frangible path 700. The lines of weakness in the transition areas may have specific lengths and / or angles relative to the lateral centerline and row spacing to help provide the desired material failure propagation when, for example, removing the product from the wearer. It should be understood that the lengths, angles, and spacings in the transition areas may be different from the lengths, angles, and spacings in adjacent lines of weakness.

[0126] For example, as shown in FIG. 6B , the first tear region 813a of the first frangible path 700a may include a first initial tear region 815a extending from the first accessible opening 802a to the first transition region 817a. In addition, the first tear region 813a of the first frangible path 700a may include a first secondary tear region 819a extending from the first transition region 817a to the first distal end 808a. The first tear region 813a of the first frangible path 700a may also include a second initial tear region 815b extending from the first accessible opening 802a to the second transition region 817b. In addition, the first tear region 813a of the first frangible path 700a may include a second secondary tear region 819b extending from the second transition region 817b to the first proximal end 810a. The first transition region 817a may operatively connect the first initial tear region 815a with the first secondary tear region 819a to help promote the propagation of tearing from the first initial tear region 815a to the first secondary tear region 819a along the first frangible path 700a. Continuing to refer to FIG. 6B , the first tear region 813a of the second frangible path 700b may include a first initial tear region 815a extending from the second accessible opening 802b to the first transition region 817a. In addition, the first tear region 813a of the second frangible path 700b may include a second tear region 819a extending from the first transition region 817a to the second distal end 808b. The first tear region 813a of the second frangible path 700b may also include a second initial tear region 815b extending from the second accessible opening 802b to the second transition region 817b. In addition, the first tear region 813a of the second frangible path 700b may include a second secondary tear region 819b extending from the second transition region 817b to the second proximal end 810b. The second transition region 817b may operatively connect the second initial tear region 815b with the second secondary tear region 819b to help promote the propagation of tearing from the second initial tear region 815b to the second secondary tear region 819b along the second frangible path 700b.

[0127] The accessible opening 802 can help a caregiver or wearer approach and / or grasp the fastener component 707 in the gripping area 801 with a finger or thumb. The caregiver or user can then pull the gripping area 801 to begin tearing the first tape 106 on the frangible path 700. In some configurations, the tear line can propagate laterally outward from the central area 106c of the first tape 106 toward the distal end 808 and the proximal end 810 simultaneously along the first tear area 813a and the second tear area 813b. As discussed in more detail below, the diaper pants 100P can also be configured so that the tear line propagating along the first tear area 813a and the tear line propagating along the second tear area 813b can reach the distal end 808 and the proximal end 810, respectively, at the same time or approximately at the same time. It should also be understood that some diaper pants 100P herein can be configured to include a frangible path 700 that extends through or around the fastener component 707 without an accessible opening. The user may then pinch and / or pull the tape where frangible path 700 is located at or near fastener component 707 to initiate the tearing process along frangible path 700 .

[0128] As shown in FIG. 6B , the frangible path 700 can be configured to extend laterally inward from the distal end 808 and / or the proximal end 810. Subsequently, a portion of the frangible path 700 can extend to define an angle of less than 90 degrees relative to the outer edge 107a and / or the inner edge 107b of the first band 106. A portion of the frangible path can extend to define an angle of less than about 90 degrees, or less than about 80 degrees, or less than about 75 degrees, or less than about 65 degrees, or less than about 45 degrees, or less than about 35 degrees, or less than about 25 degrees relative to the outer edge 107a and / or the inner edge 107b of the first band 106. Therefore, the frangible path can define a total length that is greater than the longitudinal length LT1 of the first band 106 and / or the longitudinal length LT2 of the second band 108 discussed above with reference to FIGS. 2C to 2E .

[0129] As described above, the first elastic belt 106 and / or the second belt 108 can be relatively easily torn along the frangible path 700, such as when the diaper pants 100P is removed from the wearer. In addition, the first belt 106 can be separated along the first frangible path 700a and the second frangible path 700b to define a first belt area 831, a second belt area 832, and a third belt area 833, which are laterally positioned between the first belt area 831 and the second belt area 832.

[0130] Referring now to FIGS. 6A and 6B , when removing the diaper pants 100P from the wearer, the user can grasp the first belt 106 in the gripping area 801 by inserting one or more fingers and / or thumbs into the accessible opening 802 to grasp a portion of the first belt 106 and the fastener component 707. For example, referring to FIGS. 6B and 6C , the caregiver can insert a finger or thumb into the first accessible opening 802a and grasp the first belt 106 and the first fastener component 707a with the first hand. The relative second hand of the caregiver can be used to help stabilize the wearer. For example, the relative second hand of the caregiver can apply a holding force or a stabilizing force to the wearer at the central area 106c of the first belt 106. Then, the first hand of the user can apply a pulling force Fp outwardly away from the wearer on the first gripping area 801a of the first belt 106, thereby tearing the first belt 106 along the first breakable path 700a, as shown in FIG. 6C .

[0131] 6C, a pulling force Fp (generally indicated by arrows) may be applied to the first gripping region 801a in a direction generally toward the first end region 106a of the first strap 106 and / or outwardly away from the first strap 106 and the wearer. When the force Fp is applied, the first tear line 705a and the second tear line 705b may propagate simultaneously along the first tear region 813a and the second tear region 813b, respectively. The first tear line 705a may partially pass through and adjacent to the first fastener component 707a along the first tear region 813a of the first frangible path 700a from the first accessible opening 802a in the longitudinal and lateral directions, and then propagate in a direction D1, which is generally laterally and longitudinally outwardly from the central region 106c of the first strap 106, and toward the first distal end 808a in the first end region 106a of the first strap 106. At the same time, the second tear line 705b can partially pass through the second tear area 813b of the first frangible path 700a in the longitudinal and lateral directions from the first accessible opening 802a and propagate adjacent to the first fastener component 707a in the direction D2, which is generally laterally outward and longitudinally inward from the central area 106c of the first band 106 and toward the first proximal end 810a in the first end area 106a of the first band 106.

[0132] In some configurations, the first tear line 705a can propagate from the first accessible opening 802a along the first initial tear region 815a of the first frangible path 700a to the first transition region 817a. From the first transition region 817a, the first tear line 705a can then propagate along the first secondary tear region 819a to the first distal end 808a. In addition, the second tear line 705b can propagate from the first accessible opening 802a along the second initial tear region 815b of the first frangible path 700a to the second transition region 817b. Then, the second tear line 705b can propagate from the second transition region 817b along the second secondary tear region 819b to the first proximal end 810a. As discussed in more detail below, the first frangible path 700a can be configured so that the first tear line 705a and the second tear line 705b can reach the first distal end 808a and the first proximal end 810a respectively at or about the same time.

[0133] As shown in FIG. 6D , the first tape 106 can be separated along the first frangible path 700a to define the first tape region 831. For example, once the first tear line 705a passes through the first distal end 808a and the second tear line 705b passes through the first proximal end 810a, the first tape region 831 can be formed. As shown in FIG. 6D , the first edge 831a of the first tape region 831 is formed by tearing the first frangible path 700a. In addition, the first edge 833a of the third tape region 833 discussed in more detail below is also formed by tearing the first frangible path 700a. The first tape region 831 can extend from the first edge 831a of the first tear line 705a and the second tear line 705b to the first side seam 178 or the first longitudinal side edge 111a of the first tape 106. In addition, the first tape region 831 can include the first fastener component 707a. As described below, the first tape region 831 can include all or a portion of the first fastener component 707a.

[0134] By tearing the first belt 106 along the first breakable path 700a to define the first belt area 831, the user can tear the first belt 106 along the second breakable path 700b to define the second belt area 832. Now referring to Figures 6D and 6E, the caregiver can insert a finger or thumb through the second accessible opening 802b and grasp the first belt 106 and the second fastener component 707b with the first hand. The relative second hand of the caregiver can be used to help stabilize the wearer. For example, the relative second hand of the caregiver can apply a holding force or a stabilizing force to the wearer at the center area 106c of the first belt 106. Then, the first hand of the user can apply a pulling force Fp outwardly away from the wearer on the second gripping area 801b of the first belt 106, thereby tearing the first belt 106 along the second breakable path 700b, as shown in Figure 6E.

[0135] 6E, a pulling force Fp (generally indicated by arrows) is applied to the second gripping region 801b in a direction generally toward the second end region 106b of the first tape 106 and / or outwardly away from the first tape 106. When the pulling force Fp is applied, the first tear line 705a and the second tear line 705b can propagate simultaneously along the first tear region 813a and the second tear region 813b, respectively. The first tear line 705a can partially pass through and adjacent to the second fastener component 707b along the first tear region 813a of the second frangible path 700b from the second accessible opening 802b in the longitudinal and lateral directions, and then propagate in a direction D1 that is laterally and longitudinally outwardly from the central region 106c of the first tape 106 and toward the second distal end 808b in the second end region 106b of the first tape 106. At the same time, the second tear line 705b can partially pass through the second tear area 813b of the second frangible path 700b from the second accessible opening 802b in the longitudinal and lateral directions and propagate adjacent to the second fastener component 707b in the direction D2, which is laterally outward and longitudinally inward from the central area 106c of the first band 106 and toward the second proximal end 810b in the second end area 106b of the first band 106.

[0136] In some configurations, the first tear line 705a can propagate from the second accessible opening 802b along the first initial tear region 815a of the second frangible path 700b to the first transition region 817a. Then, the first tear line 705a can propagate from the first transition region 817a along the first secondary tear region 819a to the second distal end 808b. In addition, the second tear line 705b can propagate from the second accessible opening 802b along the second initial tear region 815b of the second frangible path 700b to the second transition region 817b. Then, the second tear line 705b can propagate from the second transition region 817b along the second secondary tear region 819b to the second proximal end 810b. As discussed in more detail below, the second frangible path 700b can be configured so that the first tear line 705a and the second tear line 705b can reach the second distal end 808b and the second proximal end 810b respectively at the same time or approximately at the same time.

[0137] As shown in FIG. 6F , the first tape 106 can be separated along the second frangible path 700b to define a second tape region 832 and a third tape region 833. For example, once the first tear line 705a passes through the second distal end 808b and the second tear line 705b passes through the second proximal end 810b, the second tape region 832 can be formed. As shown in FIG. 6F , the first edge 832a of the second tape region 832 is formed by tearing the second frangible path 700b. In addition, the second edge 833b of the third tape region 833 is also formed by tearing the second frangible path 700b. The second tape region 832 can extend from the first edge 832a of the first tear line 705a and the second tear line 705b to the second longitudinal side edge 111b of the first tape 106. In addition, the second tape region 832 can include a second fastener component 707b. The third tape region 833 can extend laterally between the first edge 833a and the second edge 833b and can remain connected to the base structure 102.

[0138] Although the tearing process is described above with reference to FIGS. 6A to 6F , i.e., the first tape 106 is torn along the first frangible path 700a before the first tape is torn along the second frangible path 700b, it should be understood that the tearing of the first tape 106 along the frangible path 700 may occur in a variety of different orders and in different ways. For example, before the first tape 106 is torn along the first frangible path 700a to define the first tape region 831, the first tape 106 may be torn along the second frangible path 700b to define the second tape region 832. In another example, the first tape 106 may be torn along the first frangible path 700a and the second frangible path 700b simultaneously to define the first tape region 831, the second tape region 832, and the third tape region 833.

[0139] Once the first belt 106 is torn along the frangible path 700 to define the first belt area 831, the second belt area 832 and the third belt area 833, the diaper pant 100P can be removed from the wearer in a manner similar to conventional tape diapers. After being removed from the wearer, the diaper pant 100P can be placed in a disposal configuration.

[0140] As described above, the frangible path 700 can be configured so that the first tear line 705a and the second tear line 705b can propagate simultaneously or approximately simultaneously to reach the distal end 808 and the proximal end 810, respectively. This simultaneous tear propagation and tear termination can help provide a convenient and confident diaper pants removal experience for the caregiver. As described above, when one of the first tear line 705a or the second tear line propagates through the distal end 808 or the proximal end 810, respectively, significantly ahead of the other tear line, the pulling force required to complete the tearing can be reduced. Then, the reduction in force may make the caregiver believe that the tearing is complete, and stop the tearing process before completion. Therefore, the caregiver may need to initiate a second tearing action to complete the tearing process.

[0141] As described above, the frangible path 700 may include separate lines of weakness 704. In some configurations, the sum of the lengths of the lines of weakness 704 of the first tear region 813a may be equal to or substantially equal to the sum of the lengths of the lines of weakness 704 of the second tear region 813b. In some configurations, the sum of the lengths of the lines of weakness 704 of the first tear region 813a may be different from the sum of the lengths of the lines of weakness 704 of the second tear region 813b. The sum of the lengths of the lines of weakness 704 of the first tear region 813a may differ from the sum of the lengths of the lines of weakness 704 of the second tear region 813b by about 1% to about 10%.

[0142] As described above, the frangible path 700 can be configured with a first tear region 813a and a second tear region 813b, wherein the first tear line 705a and the second tear line 705b propagate through the distal end 808 and the proximal end 810, respectively. In some configurations, the frangible path 700 can be configured with a first tear region 813a and a second tear region 813b, wherein the first tear line 705a or the second tear line 705b can propagate through the distal end 808 or the proximal end 810, respectively, before the other.

[0143] It should be understood that the frangible path 700 can be configured with an accessible opening 802, a first tear region 813a, and a second tear region 813b arranged such that the lengths of the first tear region and the second tear region can be unequal or substantially equal, as shown in Figures 7A, 7B, and 7B1. For example, as discussed in more detail below, the frangible path shown in Figures 7A and 7B can be configured to operate using a two-step tearing process that includes a first step of tearing the tape along the first initial tear region 815a and the second initial tear region 815b to the first transition region 817a and the second transition region 817b, and then subsequently simultaneously tearing the first secondary tear region 819a and the second secondary tear region 819b from the first transition region 817a and the second transition region 817b to the distal end 808 and the proximal end 810, respectively.

[0144] Referring now to FIGS. 7A and 7B , when removing the diaper pants 100P from the wearer, the user can grasp the first belt 106 in the gripping area 801 by inserting one or more fingers and / or thumbs into the accessible opening 802 to grasp a portion of the first belt 106 and the fastener component 707. For example, referring to FIGS. 7B and 7C , a caregiver can insert a finger or thumb into the first accessible opening 802a and grasp the first belt 106 and the first fastener component 707a with a first hand. The caregiver's opposite second hand can be used to help stabilize the wearer. The user's first hand can then apply an initial tear force Fit (generally represented by a curved arrow) on the first gripping area 801a of the first belt 106 outwardly away from the wearer, thereby starting to tear the first belt 106 along the first initial tearing area 815a and the second initial tearing area 815b, as shown in FIG. 7C . When the initial tear force Fit is applied, the first tear line 705a can propagate from the accessible opening 802 along the first initial tear region 815a in the longitudinal and lateral directions around the first fastener component 707a, and then propagate to the first transition region 817a, as shown in Figures 7C and 7D. In addition, the second tear line 705b can propagate from the accessible opening 802 along the second initial tear region 815b to the second transition region 817b in the lateral direction.

[0145] 7D and 7E, once the first initial tear region 815a and the second initial tear region 815b are completely separated, a tensile force Fp (generally indicated by arrows) may be applied to the first gripping region 801a in a direction generally toward the first end region 106a of the first belt 106 and / or outwardly away from the first belt 106 and the wearer. When the tensile force Fp is applied, the first tear line 705a and the second tear line 705b may propagate simultaneously along the first secondary tear region 819a and the second secondary tear region 819b, respectively. The first tear line 705a may propagate from the first transition region 817a along the first secondary tear region 819a of the first frangible path 700a in a direction D1 that is generally laterally and longitudinally outwardly from the central region 106c of the first belt 106 and toward the first distal end 808a in the first end region 106a of the first belt 106. At the same time, the second tear line 705b can propagate from the second transition region 817b along the second secondary tear region 819b of the first frangible path 700a in a direction D2 that is generally laterally outward and longitudinally inward from the central region 106c of the first tape 106 and toward the first proximal end 810a in the first end region 106a of the first tape 106. The second frangible path 700b can be configured such that the first tear line 705a and the second tear line 705b can reach the second distal end 808b and the second proximal end 810b, respectively, at or about the same time.

[0146] It should be understood that the frangible path 700 can be configured in a variety of different ways, with different regions having different lengths. It should also be understood that the belt can include one or more substrates, and the frangible path can extend through each of the one or more substrates, and the frangible paths extending through two or more substrates forming the belt can be aligned so that the frangible path of the first substrate is aligned with the frangible path of the second substrate. Alternatively, the frangible paths extending through the two or more substrates forming the belt can be misaligned or partially aligned so that at least a portion of the frangible path of the first substrate is offset from the frangible path of the second substrate.

[0147] 8A to 8D show various exemplary embodiments of diaper pants 100P with different breakable paths 700. As shown in FIG. 8A, the breakable path 700 may include a first breakable path 700a and a second breakable path 700b. Each of the first breakable path 700a and the second breakable path 700b may include a first tear region 813a and a second tear region 813b. Transition regions 817a, 817b may join the first tear region 813a and the second tear region 813b. Each of the first tear region 813a and the second tear region 813b may form a path angle β relative to the lateral centerline of the belt 126a. The path angle β of the first tear region 813a and the path angle α of the second tear region 813b may be the same or different. As shown in FIG. 8A, the path angle β of the first tear region 813a is less than the path angle α of the second tear region 813b. In addition, the length of the first tear region 813a may be greater than or less than the length of the second tear region 813b. Alternatively, the length of the first tear region 813a may be substantially the same as the length of the second tear region 813b. The diaper pant 100P may also include a fastener component 707, as previously described. The fastener component 707 may be positioned so that a portion of the breakable path 700 surrounds a portion of the fastener component 707, and the fastener component 707 may be positioned so that the distance from the center of mass of the fastener component 707 to the outer edge 107a of the belt is not equal to the distance from the center of mass of the fastener component 707 to the inner edge 107b of the belt, where the distance is the shortest straight-line distance between these features.

[0148] As shown in FIG8B , the frangible path 700 may include a single tear region 813. The tear region 813 may extend between the outer edge 107a and the inner edge 107b of the belt. As shown in FIG8B , the frangible path 700 may have a path angle β relative to the lateral centerline 126a of the belt. Each of the first frangible path 700a and the second frangible path 700b may form a path angle relative to the lateral centerline 126a, and each of these path angles may be the same or different. The diaper pants 100P may also include a fastener component 707. The fastener component 707 may be positioned adjacent to the frangible path 700. The frangible path 700 may intersect a portion of the fastener component 707. The fastener component 707 may be positioned so that the fastener component 707 does not overlap with the lateral centerline 126a of the belt. The centroids of fastener components 707 may be positioned such that the distance between the centroids of fastener components 707 is closer to the first outer edge 107a of the strap or the inner edge 107b of the strap, where the distance is the shortest straight-line distance between these features.

[0149] As shown in FIG8C, the frangible path 700 may include a first frangible path 700a and a second frangible path 700b. Each of the first frangible path 700a and the second frangible path 700b may include a first tear region 813a and a second tear region 813b. The transition region 817 may join the first tear region 813a and the second tear region 813b. Each of the first tear region 813a and the second tear region 813b may form a path angle β relative to the lateral centerline of the belt 126a. The path angle β of the first tear region 813a and the path angle α of the second tear region 813b may be different. As shown in FIG8C, the path angle β of the first tear region 813a is greater than the path angle α of the second tear region 813b. The path angle β of the first tear region 813a is about 90 degrees relative to the lateral centerline of the belt, and the path angle α of the second tear region 813b is less than 90 degrees relative to the lateral centerline of the belt. In addition, the length of the first tear region 813a may be less than the length of the second tear region 813b. The diaper pant 100P may also include a fastener component 707, as previously described. The fastener component 707 may be positioned so that a portion of the frangible path 700 intersects the fastener component 707, and the fastener component 707 may be positioned so that the distance from the centroid of the fastener component 707 to the outer edge 107a of the belt is not equal to the distance from the centroid of the fastener component 707 to the inner edge 107b of the belt, where the distance is the shortest straight-line distance between these features.

[0150] 8A to 8C, the diaper pant 100P can include an accessible opening 802. The accessible opening 802 can be positioned at an angle relative to the lateral centerline of the belt. The accessible opening 802 can be positioned adjacent to the fastener component, or can be disposed on at least a portion of the fastener component.

[0151] As previously described, with reference to Fig. 6C, Fig. 7D, Fig. 7E and Fig. 8A to Fig. 8C, a pulling force Fp may be applied in a direction generally toward the first end region 106a of the first belt 106 and / or outwardly away from the first belt 106 and the wearer. When force Fp is applied, the first tear line 705a and the second tear line 705b may propagate along the first tear region 813a and the second tear region 813b, respectively. Alternatively, when force Fp is applied, the tear line may propagate along the tear region 813. However, due to the direction in which the pulling force is applied, the tear may propagate along an unexpected tear direction UTD, as shown in Fig. 8D. An unexpected tear direction UTD refers to any tear of the belt except along the frangible path when the user attempts to tear along the frangible path. It should be understood that such tearing may occur in one or more layers of the belt. If the tear propagates in an unexpected tear direction UTD, rather than propagating along the frangible path, this will have an adverse effect on the removal of the absorbent article. For example, if a portion of the tear extends into a portion of the belt, rather than along the frangible path, the caregiver may perceive or feel the change in force, and therefore may stop the tearing action, assuming that the tear along the tear area is complete. Upon realizing that the tear is incomplete, the caregiver may have to re-grip the belt and complete the tearing of the incompletely torn frangible path in a separate step. The start, stop and restart of this tearing process may require the user to use both hands, and may require additional time to complete the removal of the product from the wearer. In another example, if the tear propagates in an unexpected tearing direction, the caregiver may not be able to complete the tearing to remove the absorbent product in a manner similar to a tape-type absorbent product, or alternatively, during removal, the caregiver will be forced to remove the absorbent product from the wearer's legs, resulting in the contents of the absorbent product being unfixed and close to the wearer's skin. Therefore, it is important to design the frangible path so that the tear does not propagate along the unexpected tearing direction UTD, but propagates along the frangible path.

[0152] Referring to Figures 9A to 9C, the frangible path 700 may extend in a first path direction FPD, and the tearing force FT may be in a second direction. The first path direction FPD may be different from the tearing force FT in the second direction. Alternatively, the first path direction FPD may be the same as the tearing force FT in the second direction. When the first path direction FPD is different from the tearing force FT in the second direction, the tearing is more likely to propagate along the unexpected tearing direction UTD. As previously mentioned, due to the characteristics of the material, the substrate (also referred to herein as material) with the frangible path may be weaker in one or more directions. For example, the frangible path may extend through at least a portion of the nonwoven material. The nonwoven material may include a plurality of fibers oriented in the fiber orientation direction, and has a bonding pattern that holds the fibers together to form a nonwoven. When the tearing force FT includes a force component in the weakest direction of the material extending through it parallel to or substantially parallel to the frangible path, the path tearing strength needs to be sufficiently less than the material tearing strength to prevent tearing in the unexpected tearing direction. 9A to 9C show various examples of a frangible path 700 having a frangible path direction and a tear force FT having a direction, and the tear force FT having a horizontal tear force FT H and vertical tear force FT V Because the tear force FT has a directional component that is substantially parallel to the direction of the weakest material or the direction of the weakest substrate, the tear may more easily propagate outside the frangible path.

[0153] In order to prevent one or more layers of the tape and / or substrate from tearing in an unintended tear direction, it has been found that the tear strength of each substrate should be greater than the tear strength of the frangible path. The difference between the tear strength of the substrate and the tear strength of the frangible path is such that when a user tears the tape along the frangible path, the tear remains on the frangible path.

[0154] The characteristics of the belt determine the material tear strength. The belts 106, 108 may include one or more substrates, such as a first substrate 162 and / or a second substrate 164, and may be composed of various materials. As previously described, the first and / or second belts may include a first substrate 162 and / or a second substrate 164 made of a material such as a plastic film; an open-cell plastic film; a woven or nonwoven web of the following fibers: a natural material (e.g., wood fiber or cotton fiber), a synthetic fiber (e.g., polyolefin, polyamide, polyester, polyethylene, or polypropylene fiber), or a combination of natural and / or synthetic fibers; or a coated woven or nonwoven web. In some configurations, the first and / or second belts may include a first substrate 162 and / or a second substrate 164 of a nonwoven web containing synthetic fibers, and may include a stretchable nonwoven. The type of material used for the one or more substrates of the belt will affect the material tear strength. It should also be understood that the belt may include a single substrate, or the belt may include two or more substrates.

[0155] In addition, nonwoven tapes are manufactured using various techniques, in which fibers are usually laid on a carrier, and one or more bonding patterns are used to fix the fibers of the substrate. The direction in which the carrier moves, i.e., the machine direction MD on which the fibers are laid, is the direction in which most of the fibers of the substrate are oriented, referred to herein as the fiber orientation direction. Therefore, the fiber orientation direction is substantially parallel to the machine direction MD. The shape and frequency of bonding on the entire substrate also affect the strength of the tape. Therefore, taking into account the characteristics of the fiber orientation direction and the bonding pattern, the tape can be stronger along certain axes. Exemplary bonding patterns in various configurations are described in U.S. Patent Publications 2017 / 0000663, 2014 / 0088535, 2016 / 0324698, and 2016 / 0101003; and U.S. Patents 9,993,369, 10,028,866, and 9,408,761, all of which are incorporated herein by reference. Generally, the larger the open area, the larger the area without bonding, and the lower the material strength. The substrate, which may be the outer garment facing surface, the inner wearer facing surface, or an intermediate layer of a belt, may include a plurality of fibers having a denier of less than about 1.5, or less than about 1.3, or less than about 1.2, or less than about 1, specifically reciting all 0.1 increments within the above ranges and all ranges therein or thereby formed.

[0156] In addition, the band and the one or more substrates that form the band separately may have a basis weight. Generally, the higher the basis weight of the substrate and / or band, the greater the tear strength of the band and / or substrate. Each substrate layer may have a basis weight that provides sufficient tear strength. The basis weight of one or more substrates can be optimized to achieve the desired tear strength and desired softness and breathability. In other words, the higher the basis weight of one or more substrates, the greater the rigidity of one or more substrates. Therefore, the basis weight can be selected so that it provides the necessary strength for the substrate during use and is soft and comfortable to the wearer's skin. The basis weight of the band can be less than about 60gsm, or less than about 50gsm, or less than about 45gsm, or, less than about 40gsm, or less than about 35gsm, or less than about 30gsm, or less than about 25gs, or less than about 20gsm, specifically enumerating all 0.1 increments in the above range and all ranges formed therefrom or therefrom. The basis weight of the band is the sum of the basis weights of each substrate layer used to form the band, and the substrate layer can be one or more substrates. The basis weight of the substrate may be less than about 30 gsm, or less than about 25 gsm, or less than about 20 gsm, or less than about 15 gsm, or less than about 10 gsm, or less than about 8 gsm, or from about 6 gsm to about 30 gsm, or from about 8 gsm to about 20 gsm, or from about 8 gsm to about 11 gsm, specifically reciting all 0.1 increments within the above ranges and all ranges formed therein or thereby.

[0157] It should be understood that the substrate may include a softness enhancing additive to increase the softness of the substrate. Therefore, a material with a higher basis weight can be used to achieve greater strength, and a softness enhancing additive can be used to give the substrate softness. The softness enhancing additive can be added to the composition in pure form, diluted and / or as a masterbatch, for example in polyolefin polymers, such as polypropylene, polystyrene, low-density polyethylene, high-density polyethylene or propylene-alpha-olefin copolymers. The composition suitable for making the fiber described herein comprises one or more softness enhancing additives, which can be present in an amount of 0.01% to 10%, or 0.05% to 5%, or 0.3% to 1%, or 0.01% to 1%, or 0.2% to 0.5% by fiber weight, specifically enumerating all 0.1% increments in the above range and all ranges formed therefrom or therefrom. The example of softness enhancing additives in various configurations is disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 9,993,369, which is incorporated herein by reference. The softness enhancing additive can be on one side, such as the surface of the belt facing the clothes or on the surface facing the wearer. The softness-enhancing additive may be present in varying amounts on each of the garment-facing surface of the belt and the wearer-facing surface of the belt.

[0158] At least a portion of the frangible path 700 may be at a path angle β relative to the lateral centerline of the elastic bands 126a, 126b, through which the frangible path may extend. The frangible path angle β may be less than 90 degrees, or less than 85 degrees, or less than 75 degrees, or less than 65 degrees, or less than 45 degrees, or less than 35 degrees, or less than 25 degrees, or less than 15 degrees, specifically reciting all 0.1 degree increments within the above ranges and all ranges formed therein or thereby. The frangible path angle β may be 0 degrees to 85 degrees, or about 15 degrees to about 75 degrees, or about 30 degrees to about 60 degrees, or about 30 degrees to about 45 degrees, or about 0 degrees to about 45 degrees, specifically reciting all 0.1 degree increments within the above ranges and all ranges formed therein or thereby. For example, as shown in Figures 8A to 8D, the frangible path 700 may include one or more frangible paths, such as a first frangible path 700a and a second frangible path 700b. Each of the first frangible path 700a and the second frangible path 700b may form a path angle β relative to the lateral centerline of the first elastic band 126a. Figures 9A to 9C show examples of frangible paths 700 having frangible path angles β relative to the lateral centerline 126a. It should be understood that the frangible path angles may apply to the entire frangible path, or one or more portions of the frangible path may have frangible path angles as described herein.

[0159] Additionally or alternatively, at least a portion of the frangible path 700 may be at a path angle α relative to the fiber orientation direction 720 of the substrate through which the frangible path extends. As previously described, the fiber orientation direction 720 is the direction in which the majority of the fibers are oriented, which is substantially parallel to the machine direction in which the fibers are laid during the production process. The frangible path angle α may be less than 90 degrees, or less than 80 degrees, or less than 75 degrees, or less than 65 degrees, or less than 45 degrees, or less than 35 degrees, or less than 25 degrees, or less than 15 degrees, specifically reciting all 0.1 degree increments within the above ranges and all ranges formed therein or thereby. The frangible path angle α may be from 0 to 85 degrees, or from about 15 to about 75 degrees, or from about 30 to about 60 degrees, or from about 30 to about 45 degrees, or from about 0 to about 45 degrees, specifically reciting all 0.1 degree increments within the above ranges and all ranges formed therein or thereby. For example, Figures 9D-9E show examples of frangible paths 700 having a frangible path angle α relative to the fiber orientation direction 720. The fiber orientation direction may be substantially parallel to the lateral centerline 126a of the belt, or angled relative to the lateral centerline of the belt. In general, the greater the frangible path angle α relative to the fiber orientation direction 720, the more likely a tear will propagate in an unintended tear direction, and therefore, the greater the difference between the path tear strength and the material tear strength to prevent the tear from propagating in an unintended tear direction.

[0160] It has been found that in order to prevent tearing in the unintended tear direction UTD, the tear strength of the one or more substrates forming the tape (referred to herein as the material tear strength) must be greater than the tear strength of the frangible path (referred to herein as the path tear strength). In other words, the path tear strength must be less than the material tear strength. More specifically, according to the trapezoidal tear strength test method disclosed herein, the difference between the path tear strength and the material tear strength may be greater than about 2N, or greater than about 3N, or greater than about 5N, or greater than about 8N, or greater than about 10N, or greater than about 15N, or greater than about 20N, or about 4N to about 30N, or about 4N to about 25N, or about 5N to about 20N, or about 10N to about 20N, or about 15N to about 20N, specifically listing all 0.1N increments within the above ranges and all ranges therein or formed thereby. Generally, the greater the difference between the path tear strength and the material tear strength, the less likely it is that the tear will propagate in the unintended tear direction. However, strength must be balanced with softness and other material properties so that the substrate can be used comfortably against the wearer's skin. Each of the material tear strength and the path tear strength can allow the belt to maintain the appropriate position of the absorbent article during use, the path tear strength to maintain the closure of the belt during use, and the frangible path to be easily opened during the removal of the diaper pants. According to the Trapezoidal Tear Strength Test Method, the path tear strength can be greater than about 2N, or greater than about 3N, or greater than about 5N, or greater than about 10N, or greater than about 15N, or about 2N to about 20N, or about 2N to about 16N, or about 5N to about 10N, or about 6N to about 8N, specifically reciting all 0.1N increments in the above ranges and all ranges formed therein or thereby. According to the trapezoidal tear strength test method, the material tear strength may be greater than about 2N, or greater than about 4N, or greater than about 6N, or greater than about 8N, or greater than about 12N, or greater than about 20N, or greater than about 25N, or greater than about 30N, or about 4N to about 40N, or about 7N to about 25N, or about 8N to about 20N, or about 8N to about 15N, or about 8N to about 10N, specifically listing all 0.1N increments within the above ranges and all ranges formed therein or thereby. It should be understood that, as previously described, the frangible path may include one or more tearing regions. Figure 10 graphically illustrates the difference between the material tear strength and the path tear strength, each of which can be calculated using the trapezoidal tear strength test method. It should also be understood that the belt may include one or more substrate layers and one or more elastomers. The elastomer is cut in the region of the frangible path so as not to interfere with the tearing along the frangible path.

[0161] The difference between material tear strength and path tear strength can also be described with reference to the basis weight of one or more materials used in the belt. Generally, the higher the basis weight of the material, the stronger the material. Materials with higher basis weights can result in a greater difference between material tear strength and path tear strength. However, generally, materials with higher basis weights also increase material stiffness, reduce air permeability, and require more raw materials to manufacture. Therefore, by normalizing material tear strength and path tear strength by basis weight, it can be determined which materials or substrates can be strong enough to stop or prevent tearing in an unintended tear direction while balancing the properties of the material, such as softness, air permeability, and raw material usage. It has been found that the following parameters result in a substrate containing a frangible path that tears along the frangible path and minimizes the possibility of tearing propagating in an unintended tear direction. The material tear strength divided by the basis weight of the substrate or band (referred to herein as the material basis weight) is greater than 0.2N / gsm, or greater than about 0.3N / gsm, or greater than about 0.4N / gsm, or about 0.2N / gsm to about 0.4N / gsm, or about 0.3N / gsm to about 0.5N / gsm, specifically enumerating all 0.01N / gsm increments in the above ranges and all ranges formed therein or thereby. It should be understood that this includes each substrate layer or band alone, including all substrate layers. It should also be understood that each substrate layer may have a different basis weight, and therefore, the value of the material tear strength divided by the basis weight is also different. In addition, it has been found that the path tear strength divided by the material basis weight is greater than about 0.05N / gsm to less than about 0.15N / gsm to achieve tearing of a given material along a frangible path. In addition, the difference between the material tear strength and the path tear strength is referred to herein as tear strength Δ. The tear strength delta divided by the basis weight of the material should be greater than 0.2 N / gsm, or greater than about 0.3 N / gsm, or from about 0.2 N / gsm to about 0.4 N / gsm (specifically reciting all 0.01 N / gsm increments within the above ranges and all ranges therein or formed therefrom) to have a substrate that is strong enough to resist tearing in an unintended tear direction and is preferred by consumers, which can be due in part to softness or breathability.

[0162] In addition to having sufficient tear strength, the belt can also be soft so that the diaper pants are comfortable to wear. According to the softness test method herein, the belt may include one or more surfaces having an average TS7 value of about 10 dBV 2 rms or less, or about 7dB V 2 rms or less, or about 5dB V 2 rms or less, or about 1dB V 2 rms to about 10dBV 2 rms, or about 2dB V 2 rms to about 8dB V2 rms, specifically recited for all 0.1 dB V 2 Additionally or alternatively, the belt may include one or more surfaces having an average TS750 value of about 75 dB V according to the Softness Test Method herein. 2 rms or less, or about 50dB V 2 rms or less, or about 25dB V 2 rms or less, or about 15dB V 2 rms or less, or about 10dB V 2 rms to about 100dB V 2 rms, or about 10dB V 2 rms to about 80dB V 2 rms, or about 15dB V 2 rms to about 75dB V 2 rms, specifically recited for all 0.1 dB V 2 According to the Softness Test Method herein, the substrate of the belt may include one or more surfaces having an average TS750 value of about 11 dB V2 rms or less, or about 10 dB V 2 rms or less, or about 5dB V 2 rms or less, or about 1dB V 2 rms to about 11dB V 2 rms, or about 1.5dB V 2 rms to about 6dB V 2 rms, or about 2dB V 2 rms to about 4dBV 2 rms, specifically recited for all 0.1 dB V 2 rms increment. Lower TS7 and TS750 values ​​indicate higher softness, which is highly desirable in absorbent articles. Consumers may find absorbent articles with high TS7 and TS750 values ​​to be uncomfortable and / or scratchy or otherwise undesirable.

[0163] The following are several exemplary embodiments. The data of Examples 1 to 10 are included in Table 1 below. Each of Examples 1 to 10 includes a substrate having a frangible path at a path angle of 35 degrees relative to the machine direction MD or fiber orientation direction of the substrate. As shown in Table 1, each substrate in Examples 1 to 10 has a basis weight and has certain material properties. The path tear strength and material tear strength of each of the substrate and the frangible path are generated using the trapezoidal tear strength test method disclosed herein. Examples 1 to 10 include bonding patterns as shown in Figures 11A to 11B and Figures 12A to 12B.

[0164] As described herein, material tear strength divided by basis weight, easy path tear strength divided by basis weight, and Δ (i.e., material tear strength minus easy path tear strength) divided by basis weight can be used to determine which substrates have sufficient strength while balancing other properties of the substrate, such as stiffness, breathability, and raw material usage. By increasing the basis weight to a relatively high level, product softness, skin comfort, and cost are all negatively affected. By normalizing the difference between material tear strength and path tear strength to basis weight, the material has a desired tear strength, making it less likely that the substrate will tear in an unintended tear direction, and is soft and breathable enough to be used in diaper pants 100P.

[0165] Example 1 includes a substrate with a relatively high basis weight of 30 gsm, indicating a strong material. The material tear strength is sufficiently greater than the path tear strength, so the substrate is unlikely to tear in an unintended tear direction. However, the Δ tear strength (i.e., the difference between the material tear strength and the path tear strength) of Example 1 divided by the basis weight is less than 0.185 N / gms, and therefore, the substrate is less than 0.2 N / gsm and is not preferred. Such a substrate may be too hard, costly to produce, and not preferred by consumers when in contact with the skin. Each of Examples 2 to 7 has a material tear strength (Δ greater than 2N) that is sufficiently greater than the path tear strength, so these substrates are unlikely to tear in an unintended tear direction. In addition, the tear strength Δ of each of Examples 2 to 7 divided by the basis weight is about 0.2 N / gsm, indicating that these materials will not tear in an unintended tear direction and are relatively cost-effective, soft, and consumer-preferred materials for contact with the skin. In addition, the material tear strength of Examples 2 to 7 divided by the basis weight is about 0.3 N / gsm, indicating that the substrate has sufficient strength based on the basis weight of the material. Examples 8 and 9 include substrates having a material tear strength of about 2N greater than the path tear strength. However, the material tear strength divided by the basis weight of each of Examples 8 and 9 is less than 0.3 N / gm, and the tear strength delta is less than 0.2 N / gsm, indicating that these substrates do not have sufficient tear strength when normalized by basis weight and may tear in an unintended tear direction. Example 10 includes a substrate having a relatively low basis weight, and the difference between the material tear strength and the path tear strength is less than 2N. Due to the minimal difference between the material and path tear strengths, the substrate of Example 10 may tear in an unintended tear direction. In addition, due to the relatively low basis weight, the substrate of Example 10 does not have sufficient strength.

[0166] In summary, those substrates having a material tear strength and a path tear strength difference of at least 2N, more preferably at least 3N; and a material tear strength divided by basis weight of at least 0.2N / gsm, more preferably at least 0.3N / gsm; and a Δ divided by basis weight of at least 0.2N / gsm, more preferably at least 0.3N / gsm, have sufficient strength to avoid tearing in an unintended tear direction when the user tears along a breakable path to remove or inspect the contents of the diaper pants, and have desired properties such as softness, breathability, and intentional raw material usage.

[0167]

[0168] With reference to various aspects of the above-described figures, it should be understood that the gripping area 801 and the accessible opening 802 can be located at various locations in the first end region 106a, the second end region 106b, and / or the central region 106c of the first strap 106. The gripping area 801 and the accessible opening 802 can be positioned between the first longitudinal side edge 111a, the second longitudinal side edge 111b, the outer edge 107a, and the inner edge 107b of the first strap 106. For example, the first accessible opening 802a and / or the second accessible opening 802b can be positioned completely laterally between the first longitudinal edge 128 and the second longitudinal edge 130 of the chassis 102. In some configurations, the first accessible opening 802a can be positioned laterally between the first longitudinal side edge 128 of the chassis 102 and the first longitudinal side edge 111a of the first strap 106 and / or the first side seam 178. In some configurations, the second accessible opening 802b can be positioned laterally between the second longitudinal side edge 130 of the chassis 102 and the second longitudinal side edge 111b of the first tape 106 and / or the second side seam 180. In some configurations, the first accessible opening 802a and / or the second accessible opening 802b can be positioned longitudinally between the first side edge 144 of the chassis 102 and the inner edge 107b of the first tape 106, and / or can be positioned longitudinally between the first side edge 144 of the chassis 102 and the outer edge 107a of the first tape 106. In some configurations, the first accessible opening 802a can extend through the first longitudinal edge 128 and / or the first lateral edge 144 of the chassis 102, and / or the second accessible opening 802b can extend through the second longitudinal edge 130 and / or the first lateral edge 144 of the chassis 102.

[0169] It should also be understood that the accessible opening 802 can be located in various positions relative to the fastener component 707. For example, in some configurations, the accessible opening 802 can be positioned longitudinally between the fastener component 707 and the outer edge 107a of the first strap 106. In some configurations, the accessible opening 802 can be positioned longitudinally between the fastener component 707 and the inner edge 107b of the first strap 106. In some configurations, the accessible opening 802 can be positioned laterally inboard of the fastener component 707. It should also be understood that more than one accessible opening 802 can be positioned adjacent to the fastener component 707. As discussed in more detail below, the accessible opening 802 can also be configured to extend partially or completely through the fastener component 707, and can divide the fastener component 707 into two or more portions.

[0170] As described above, the accessible opening 802 may include a slit and / or an opening in the first band 106, and may be curved and / or straight. It should be understood that the accessible opening 802 may also be oriented in various ways. For example, the accessible opening 802 may be oriented approximately vertically relative to the outer edge 107a and / or the inner edge 107b of the first band 106. In some configurations, the accessible opening 802 may be oriented approximately parallel to the outer edge 107a and / or the inner edge 107b of the first band 106. In some configurations, the accessible opening 802 may include a slit extending along a line in a lateral direction to define an angle of about 0 degrees to about 45 degrees relative to the outer edge 107a and / or the inner edge 107b of the first band 106, specifically enumerating all 1 degree increments within the above range and all ranges formed therein or thereby. In some configurations, the accessible opening 802 can define a length dimension within the range of about 5 mm to about 50 mm, specifically reciting all 0.1 mm increments therein and all ranges formed therefrom.

[0171] As described above, the diaper pants 100P may include one or more fastener components 707, which are suitable for being refastenedly connected to at least one other component of the diaper pants 100P in the disposal configuration. It should be understood that the fastener component 707 can be configured in various shapes and sizes and can be located in various positions relative to other components of the diaper pants 100P. The fastener component 707 may include a lateral centerline that is substantially parallel to the lateral centerline 126a of the first elastic belt 106 and / or the lateral centerline 126b of the second elastic belt 108 and / or the lateral centerline 126c of the chassis 102. The fastener component 707 may include a longitudinal centerline that is substantially parallel to the longitudinal centerline 124a of the first elastic belt 106 and / or the longitudinal centerline 124b of the second elastic belt 108 and / or the longitudinal centerline 124c of the chassis 102.

[0172] As shown in Fig. 8AA1, in some configurations, the fastener component 707 can be positioned on and connected to the wearer-facing surface 115b of the first elastic belt 106 and / or the second elastic belt 108 in the area where the first elastic belt 106 and / or the second elastic belt 108 overlap the chassis 102. In some configurations, the fastener component 707 can be sandwiched between the second substrate 164 of the first elastic belt 106 or the second elastic belt 108 and the backsheet 136 of the chassis 102. In some configurations, as shown in Fig. 8AA1, the fastener component 707 includes a hook 715 protruding from a base 717, and the hook 715 extends from the first belt 106 toward the backsheet 136. The fastener component 707 can be configured as a separate discrete element that can be connected to the wearer-facing surface 115b of the first belt 106 in a variety of ways. For example, as shown in Figure 13, adhesive 716 can connect the base 717 of fastener component 707 to the wearer-facing surface 115b of first band 106. It should be understood that in addition to or in place of adhesive, fastener component 707 can be connected to first band 106 by mechanical bonding. It should be understood that substrate 717 can be constructed in various ways. For example, substrate 717 may include a thermoplastic film. In some configurations, substrate 717 may include a laminate with various layers bonded together, such as disclosed in U.S. Patent Publication 2021 / 0045931 A1. For example, substrate 717 may include a thermoplastic film layer bonded to a nonwoven layer. It should be understood that these layers can be bonded together in various ways, such as using adhesive, mechanical bonding and / or extrusion bonding. In some configurations, fastener component 707 may be formed integrally by the material of first band 106, such as shown in Figure 14, or may be formed integrally by the material and attached to the first band.

[0173] A portion of the chassis 102 may overlap the wearer-facing inner surface 115b of the first belt 106 to define a chassis overlap region 850. Thus, the chassis overlap region 850 may extend laterally between the first longitudinal edge 128 and the second longitudinal edge 130 of the chassis 102, and longitudinally between the first lateral edge 144 of the chassis 102 and the inner edge 107b of the first belt 106. To help prevent the fastener component 707 from contacting the wearer's skin when the diaper pant 100P is worn, the fastener component 707 may be positioned on and connected to the wearer-facing surface 115b of the first elastic belt 106 and / or the wearer-facing surface 117b of the second elastic belt 108 in the contact structure overlap region 850 where the first elastic belt 106 and / or the second elastic belt 108 overlap the chassis 102. For example, the fastener component 707 may be sandwiched between the wearer-facing surface 115b of the first belt 106 and the chassis 102. In some configurations, the fastener component 707 can be sandwiched between the second substrate 164 of the first elastic band 106 or the second elastic band 108 and the backsheet 136 of the chassis 102. In some configurations, the fastener component 707 can be positioned laterally between the first longitudinal side edge 128 and the second longitudinal side edge 130 of the chassis 102. The fastener component 707 can also be positioned longitudinally between the first side edge 144 of the chassis 102 and the inner edge 107b of the first band 106. The fastener component 707 can be positioned adjacent to the frangible path 700. The accessible opening 802 can be considered as a portion of the frangible path 700 and can be positioned adjacent to the fastener component 707. Therefore, the frangible path 700 can partially surround the fastener component 707. In some configurations, the frangible path 700 can extend through the fastener component 700, effectively dividing the fastener component 707 into a first fastener portion and a second fastener portion. As described above, when the frangible path is torn, the first fastener portion is separated from the second fastener portion. When the tearing operation is completed, the first tape region 831 and the second tape region 832 will include the first fastener portion, and the third tape region 833 will include the second fastener portion that was separated from the corresponding first fastener portion during the tearing of the frangible path 700.

[0174] Both the breakable path 700 and the accessible opening 802 can extend through the fastener component, effectively dividing the fastener component 707 into a first fastener portion and a second fastener portion. The accessible opening 802 can include a slit oriented generally in the longitudinal direction. In addition, the accessible opening 802 extends through the fastener component 707 and can be completely positioned within the periphery of the fastener component. It should be understood that such a slit can be straight and / or curved. In some configurations, the longitudinally extending accessible opening 802 can be limited to a length dimension within the range of about 10 mm to about 30 mm, specifically enumerating all 0.1 mm increments within the above range and all ranges formed therefrom or thereby. In addition, in some configurations, the longitudinally extending accessible opening 802 can also be bent to extend laterally within the range of about 2 mm to about 20 mm, specifically enumerating all 0.1 mm increments within the above range and all ranges formed therefrom or thereby.

[0175] In another configuration, the diaper pants 100P may include a fastener component 707 that is joined to the wearer-facing surface 115b of the first belt 106 at a position overlapping the longitudinal centerline 124c of the chassis 102. The longitudinal centerline of the fastener component 707 may coincide with or be close to the longitudinal centerline 124c of the chassis 102. The frangible path 700 may separate the fastener component 707 into a first fastener component and a second fastener component of substantially similar size and geometry. The accessible opening 802 may be disposed at or near the longitudinal inner edge of the fastener component 707. The frangible path 700 may extend longitudinally and laterally to the waist edge 121 and the inner edge 107b of the first belt 106 outside the lateral edges of the fastener component 707. A caregiver or wearer may approach and grasp the fastener component 707 through the accessible opening 802, and then separate the frangible path 700 into the first fastener component and the second fastener component.

[0176] The components of the absorbent articles described herein may be at least partially composed of bio-based content, as described in U.S. Patent Application No. 2007 / 0219521A1. For example, the superabsorbent polymer component may be bio-based via its derivation from bio-based acrylic acid. Bio-based acrylic acid and its production method are disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2007 / 0219521 and U.S. Patents 8,703,450, 9,630,901 and 9,822,197. Other components such as nonwovens and film components may contain bio-based polyolefin materials. Bio-based polyolefins are further discussed in U.S. Patent Application Publication Nos. 2011 / 0139657, 2011 / 0139658, 2011 / 0152812 and 2016 / 0206774 and U.S. Patent No. 9,169,366. Exemplary bio-based polyolefins for use in the present disclosure include those available under the name SHA7260™ 、SHE150 ™ or SGM9450F ™ The polymers obtained (all available from Braskem SA).

[0177] The absorbent article component may comprise a biobased content value of, for example, from about 10% to about 100%, from about 25% to about 100%, from about 40% to about 100%, from about 50% to about 100%, from about 75% to about 100%, or from about 90% to about 100%, as measured using ASTM D6866-10 Method B.

[0178] The components of the absorbent articles described herein can be recycled for other uses, whether or not they are (at least partially) formed of recyclable materials. Examples of recyclable absorbent article materials are nonwovens, films, fluff pulp, and superabsorbent polymers. The recycling process can sterilize the absorbent articles using an autoclave, and then the absorbent articles can be shredded and separated into different by-product streams. Exemplary by-product streams may include plastics, superabsorbent polymers, and cellulose fibers, such as pulp. These by-product streams can be used to produce fertilizers, manufacture plastic products, paper products, viscose, building materials, pets, or absorbent pads on hospital beds and / or other uses. More details about absorbent articles that are conducive to recycling, designs of recycling-friendly diapers, and designs of recycling-friendly and bio-based component diapers are disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2019 / 0192723, published on June 27, 2019.

[0179] Test Method

[0180] Trapezoidal tear strength test method

[0181] The trapezoidal tear strength test method is used to characterize the tear strength of a single substrate (which may be a nonwoven substrate) and a laminate (with and without a breakable path). The method is based on ASTM D5733-99, which is incorporated herein by reference. The method is particularly suitable for the trap tear MD shown in Figure 3 of ASTM D5733-99, where the tear propagation is generally in the longitudinal machine direction of the material being tested. In particular, the trapezoidal tear strength test method can be performed strictly in the MD direction or in a direction specified by a rotation angle relative to the MD.

[0182] Sample identification and preparation

[0183] Substrates and laminates, whether or not there is a frangible path, are typically cut from the finished product as tapes. The side seams are first separated by hand, and then the tape portions are separated from the chassis, optionally using a separation aid such as a cryogenic freezing spray. The constituent substrates may be further cut from the laminate via an additional step in which the substrate layer of the laminate and any elastomeric or other elements present are separated, again optionally using a separation aid such as a cryogenic freezing spray. In some cases, substrates and laminates available as rolls, whether or not there is a frangible path, may be directly tested.

[0184] For substrates and laminates available as rolls and tested without a frangible path, at least six specimens are prepared as described and discussed in Section 7 of ASTM D5733-99 for the Trap Tear MD specimens. Substrates and laminates that are part of the finished product are separated from the article and similar sampling is performed. Generally, the MD direction of the tape substrate and laminate is in the transverse, lateral direction of the finished product, which is the assumption unless there is clear evidence to the contrary, in which case an alternative MD is noted. The specimens are then prepared as described and discussed in Section 7 of ASTM D5733-99 for the Trap Tear MD specimens, and these specimens are considered to be at 0° to the MD axis. Use multiple articles as needed to collect the required number of specimens.

[0185] In the case of a non-zero rotation of the trapezoid out of the MD direction, the sample preparation of the substrate and laminate is the same. In this case, the non-zero rotation angle is recorded and the tear strength results are reported subsequently.

[0186] If the frangible path is to be interrogated on a substrate or laminate on a roll or obtained from a finished product, the frangible path is first identified and inspected. A portion of the frangible path of interest is identified. A trapezoidal specimen as shown in Figure 2 of ASTM D5733-99 is then cut so that the frangible path extends generally vertically on the trapezoid (along the 75 mm dimension) and is generally centered horizontally so that the notch at the top of the trapezoid represents the start of a tear along the frangible path. Six specimens are prepared in this manner.

[0187] Tension Tester Use and Reporting

[0188] For samples of interest, the prepared specimens were mounted in a tensile tester and stretched as described in ASTM D5733-99, Section 10. The crosshead speed was 8.5 mm / s.

[0189] All samples of the substrate or laminate sample (with or without a frangible path) are tested and for each sample tested, a graph of the load in Newtons (N) versus the crosshead displacement (mm) is plotted. Typically, these graphs will contain an initial region where the load increases, a plateau where the force fluctuates to some extent but generally neither increases nor decreases, and an abrupt endpoint that may represent a complete break separation. For each sample, the load is averaged over the plateau region (starting from the beginning of the plateau or at 6 mm of crosshead displacement, whichever is greater, and ending at the end of the plateau region), and this is the tear force for the sample, recorded to the nearest 0.01 N. The average (arithmetic mean) of the tear force for all samples is calculated and reported as the path tear strength for those samples with a frangible path and the material tear strength for those samples without a frangible path. The path tear strength and material tear strength are reported in Newtons to the nearest 0.01 N. For those samples with a frangible path, the angle relative to the MD at which the tear is performed is also reported.

[0190] Softness test method

[0191] The TS7 and TS750 values ​​were measured using an EMTEC Tissue Softness Analyzer ("Emtec TSA") (Emtec Electronic GmbH, Leipzig, Germany) connected to a computer running the Emtec TSA software (version 3.19 or equivalent). According to Emtec, the TS7 value is related to the actual material softness, while the TS750 value is related to the felt smoothness / roughness of the material. The Emtec TSA consists of a rotor with a vertical blade that rotates on the test sample at a defined and calibrated rotational speed (set by the manufacturer) and a contact force of 100 mN. The contact between the vertical blade and the test piece generates vibrations that produce sound that is recorded by a microphone within the instrument. The recorded sound file is then analyzed by the Emtec TSA software.

[0192] Sample preparation

[0193] Substrate and laminate are usually cut from finished product as band.First separate side seam by hand, then separate band part from infrastructure, optionally use separation assistance such as cryogenic freezing spray etc..Can further cut off composition substrate from laminate via additional step, in this additional step, the substrate layer of laminate and any elastomer or other element present are separated, again optionally use separation assistance such as cryogenic freezing spray etc..In some cases, can directly test substrate and laminate available as coil, whether or not there is easy break path.Prepare test sample by cutting square or circular sample from finished product.Test sample is cut into length and width (or if circular diameter) is about 90mm, and the size of not more than about 120mm.If finished product has discrete section of elastic region (that is, elastic region is shorter than nonwoven surface layer in one or more dimensions), then cut out a group of straight line sample with length of 76mm ± 3mm in main stretching direction and width of 100mm ± 3mm in vertical direction from product component, and elastic region is centered in straight line sample. The test samples were selected to avoid creases or folds within the test area unless they were inherent to the sample, such as wrinkles. Eight substantially similar replicate samples were prepared for testing. All samples were equilibrated for at least 1 hour under TAPPI standard temperature and relative humidity conditions (23°C ± 2°C and 50% ± 2%) before TSA testing, which was also conducted under TAPPI conditions.

[0194] Test procedures

[0195] The instrument was calibrated using a 1-point calibration method with Emtec reference standards ("ref. 2 sample") according to the manufacturer's instructions. If these reference samples are no longer available, use appropriate reference samples provided by the manufacturer. The instrument was calibrated according to the manufacturer's recommendations and instructions so that the results were comparable to those obtained when using a 1-point calibration method with Emtec reference standards ("ref. 2 sample").

[0196] Mount the test sample into the instrument and ensure that the sample is properly clamped into the TSA instrument with its first surface facing up. For samples with discrete sections of elastic area, ensure that the elastic area is centered under the Emtec vertical blade and then test according to the manufacturer's instructions. Upon completion, the software will display the values ​​for TS7 and TS750. Record each of these values ​​to the nearest 0.01dB V 2 rms. The test strip was then removed from the instrument and discarded. The test was performed on the first surface of four replicates and then on the second surface of another four replicates.

[0197] Average the TS7 and TS750 values ​​from the four test results for the first surface (using a simple numerical average); also average the TS7 and TS750 values ​​from the four test results for the second surface. Report the average and standard deviation of the individual TS7 and TS750 values ​​for the first and second surfaces on a particular test sample to the nearest 0.01 dB V 2 rms.

[0198] Average decitex (Dtex)

[0199] The average decitex method is used to calculate the average decitex of elastic fibers present in the entire article or in a sample of interest extracted from the article on a length-weighted basis. The decitex value is the mass grams of fibers present in 10,000 meters of the material in a relaxed state. The decitex value of elastic fibers or elastic laminates containing elastic fibers is usually reported by the manufacturer as part of the specifications of the elastic fibers or elastic laminates including elastic fibers. If available, the average decitex will be calculated according to these specifications. Alternatively, if these specified values ​​are unknown, the decitex value of a single elastic fiber is measured as follows: the cross-sectional area of ​​the fiber in a relaxed state is determined by a suitable microscopy technique (such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM)), the composition of the fiber is determined by Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, and then the literature value of the density of the composition is used to calculate the mass grams of fibers present in 10,000 meters of fiber. The decitex value provided by the manufacturer or experimentally measured for individual elastic fibers removed from the entire article or from a sample extracted from the article is used in the expression below, where the length-weighted average of the decitex values ​​between the elastic fibers present is determined.

[0200] If known, the length of the elastic fibers present in the article or a sample extracted from the article is calculated based on the overall dimensions of the article or sample having these and the elastic fiber pre-strain ratio associated with the components of the article or sample, respectively. Alternatively, 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 can be performed, for example, using gentle heating to soften the adhesive, using a low temperature spray (e.g., Quick-Freeze, Miller-Stephenson Company, Danbury, CT) or using an appropriate solvent that will remove the adhesive but will not swell, change or destroy the elastic fibers. The length of each elastic fiber in its relaxed state is measured and recorded in millimeters (mm), accurate to mm.

[0201] Calculate the average decimal point

[0202] The relaxed length L present in an absorbent article or a sample extracted from an absorbent article i and fiber dtexi Individual elastic fibers f (obtained from manufacturer's specifications or measured experimentally) i For each of the absorbent articles or samples taken from the absorbent articles, the average cup decote of the absorbent article is defined as:

[0203]

[0204] Where n is the total number of elastic fibers present in the absorbent article or in a sample taken from the absorbent article. Report the average decitex to the nearest whole decitex value (g / 10000m).

[0205] If the dtex value of any individual fiber is not known from the specification, it is determined experimentally as described below, and the resulting fiber dtex value(s) are used in the above formula to determine the average dtex.

[0206] Experimental determination of the decitex value of fibers

[0207] For each of the elastic fibers removed from the absorbent article or the sample taken from the absorbent article according to the above procedure, each elastic fiber L in its relaxed state k The length of each elastic fiber was measured and recorded in millimeters (mm) to the nearest mm. Each elastic fiber was analyzed by FT-IR spectroscopy to determine its composition and its density Determine according to available literature value.Finally, analyze each fiber by SEM.Use sharp blade to cut the fiber vertically in three roughly equal positions along its length, to produce the clean cross section for SEM analysis.The three fiber segments exposed with these cross sections are mounted on the SEM sample holder in a relaxed state, sputter-coated with gold, introduced into SEM for analysis, and imaged with a resolution sufficient to clearly illustrate the fiber cross section.The fiber cross section is oriented to be as perpendicular as possible to the detector, to minimize any tilt deformation in the measured cross section.The fiber cross section can vary in shape, and some fibers can be composed of multiple individual filaments.In any case, determine the area of ​​each of the three fiber cross sections (for example, using the diameter of circular fibers, the major and minor axes of elliptical fibers and the image analysis of more complex shapes), and record in micrometer square (μm 2 ) as the unit of the three regions of elastic fiber a k Average value, accurate to 0.1μm 2 The measured decitex of the kth elastic fiber is d k Calculated by the following formula:

[0208]

[0209] where d k In grams (per 10,000 m of calculated length), a k In μm2 As units, and In grams per cubic centimeter (g / cm 3 ) is used as the unit. For any elastic fiber analyzed, the experimentally determined L k and d k The value is then used in the above expression for average dtex.

[0210] Average strand spacing

[0211] 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 to the nearest 0.5 mm and then divide by the number of strands in the segment - 1

[0212] Average strand spacing = d / (n-1), where n>1

[0213] Report, accurate to 0.1mm.

[0214] Average prestrain

[0215] The average pre-strain of the specimen is measured using a load cell on a constant rate of extension tensile tester (a suitable instrument is MTS Insight using Testworks 4.0 software, available from MTS Systems Corp., Eden Prairie, MN), with the force measured within 1% to 90% of the load cell's limit. The article is conditioned at 23°C ± 2°C and 50% ± 2% relative humidity for 2 hours prior to analysis and subsequently tested under the same environmental conditions.

[0216] Program the tensile tester to perform elongation at break after the initial gauge length adjustment. First raise the grips at a rate of 10 mm / min until a force of 0.05 N is achieved. Set the current gauge length to the adjusted gauge length. Raise the grips at a rate of 100 mm / min until the sample breaks (force drops 20% after maximum peak force). Return the grips to their original position. Obtain force and extension data at a rate of 100 Hz throughout the experiment.

[0217] The nominal gauge length is set to 40 mm using a calibrated caliper block and the grips are zeroed. The sample is inserted into the upper grip so that the middle of the test strip is positioned 20 mm below the grip. The sample can be folded perpendicular to the pull axis and placed in the grip to achieve this position. After the grips are closed, excess material can be trimmed. The sample is inserted into the lower grip and the lower grip is closed. Again, the strip can be folded and then trimmed after the grips are 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.

[0218] Constructed from the data, force (N) versus elongation (mm). The average pre-strain is calculated based on the bend in the curve corresponding to the extension to which the nonwoven in the elastic component is engaged. Two lines are drawn, corresponding to the area of ​​the curve before the bend (mainly the elastic component) and the area after the bend (mainly the nonwoven). Read the extension where these two lines intersect, and calculate the % pre-strain based on the extension and the corrected measured length. Recorded as % pre-strain 0.1%. Calculate the arithmetic mean and average pre-strain of three replicate samples of each elastomeric laminate, accurate to 0.1%.

[0219] combination

[0220] A1. An absorbent article, the absorbent article comprising: a base structure, the base structure comprising a top sheet, a back sheet and an absorbent core located between the top sheet and the back sheet, the base structure comprising a longitudinally extending first side edge and a longitudinally extending second side edge, the longitudinally extending second side edge being laterally separated from the first side edge by a first end edge and a second end edge longitudinally separated from the first end edge; a first band, the first band being joined to a portion of the base structure, wherein the first band comprises a first substrate, wherein the first substrate comprises a first breakable path, wherein at least a portion of the first breakable path extends from a lateral centerline of the first band at a path angle of less than 90 degrees, wherein the first substrate has a material tear strength and a material basis weight according to a trapezoidal tear strength test method, wherein the first breakable path has a path tear strength according to the trapezoidal tear strength test method, wherein the material tear strength of the first substrate is greater than the path tear strength of the first breakable path, and wherein the material tear strength of the first substrate is at least 2N greater than the path tear strength of the first breakable path.

[0221] A2. The absorbent article of paragraph A1, wherein the material tear strength of the first substrate divided by the material basis weight is greater than 0.2 N / gsm.

[0222] A3. An absorbent article according to paragraph 1, wherein the material tear strength of the first substrate divided by the material basis weight is greater than 0.3 N / gsm.

[0223] A4. An absorbent article according to any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the first frangible path has a path angle of about 0 degrees to about 75 degrees relative to the lateral centerline of the first belt.

[0224] A5. The absorbent article of paragraph A4, wherein the path angle is from about 15 degrees to about 45 degrees relative to the lateral centerline of the first belt.

[0225] A6. An absorbent article according to any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the material basis weight is from about 8 gsm to about 30 gsm.

[0226] A7. The absorbent article of paragraph A1, wherein the first belt comprises a second substrate having a second breakable path, wherein the first substrate and the second substrate are joined to form the first belt.

[0227] A8. An absorbent article according to paragraph A7, wherein the second substrate has a second material tear strength according to the trapezoidal tear strength test method, wherein the second substrate has a second material basis weight, and wherein the second material tear strength divided by the second material basis weight is greater than 0.2 N / gsm.

[0228] A9. The absorbent article of paragraph A7, wherein the first breakable path and the second breakable path are aligned.

[0229] A10. The absorbent article of paragraph A8, wherein the material basis weight and the second material basis weight are different.

[0230] A11. The absorbent article of paragraph A1, wherein the difference between the material tear strength and the path tear strength is the tear strength Δ, and wherein the tear strength Δ divided by the material basis weight is greater than 0.2 N / gsm.

[0231] A12. The absorbent article of paragraph A11, wherein the tear strength Δ divided by the material basis weight is greater than 0.3 N / gsm.

[0232] B1. An absorbent article, the absorbent article comprising: a base structure, the base structure comprising a top sheet, a back sheet and an absorbent core located between the top sheet and the back sheet, the base structure comprising a first side edge extending longitudinally and a second side edge extending longitudinally, the second side edge extending longitudinally being laterally separated from the first side edge by a first end edge and a second end edge longitudinally separated from the first end edge; a first band, the first band being joined to a portion of the base structure and having a longitudinal centerline and a lateral centerline, the lateral centerline being substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal centerline, wherein the first band comprises a breakable path, wherein at least a portion of the breakable path extends from the lateral centerline of the first band at a path angle of less than 90 degrees, wherein the first band has a material tear strength and a material basis weight according to a trapezoidal tear strength test method, wherein the breakable path has a path tear strength according to the trapezoidal tear strength test method, wherein the material tear strength of the first band is at least 2N greater than the path tear strength of the first breakable path.

[0233] B2. An absorbent article according to paragraph B1, wherein the material tear strength divided by the material basis weight is greater than 0.2 N / gsm.

[0234] B3. The absorbent article of paragraph B1, wherein the path tear strength divided by the material basis weight is greater than 0.05 N / gsm and less than 0.15 N / gsm.

[0235] B4. The absorbent article of paragraph B1, wherein the difference between the material tear strength and the path tear strength is the tear strength Δ, and wherein the tear strength Δ divided by the material basis weight is greater than 0.2 N / gsm.

[0236] B5. The absorbent article of paragraph B4, wherein the tear strength Δ divided by the material basis weight is greater than 0.3 N / gsm.

[0237] B6. An absorbent article according to any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the path angle is from about 15 degrees to about 75 degrees relative to the lateral centerline of the first belt.

[0238] B7. The absorbent article of paragraph B1, wherein the first belt comprises a first substrate, and wherein the first substrate is a nonwoven.

[0239] B8. An absorbent article according to paragraph B7, wherein the nonwoven is made of a plurality of fibers, wherein a majority of the plurality of fibers include a fiber orientation direction.

[0240] B9. An absorbent article according to paragraph B8, wherein the fiber orientation direction is substantially parallel to the lateral centerline of the first band.

[0241] C1. An absorbent article, the absorbent article comprising: a base structure, the base structure comprising a top sheet, a back sheet and an absorbent core located between the top sheet and the back sheet, the base structure comprising a longitudinally extending first side edge and a longitudinally extending second side edge, the longitudinally extending second side edge being laterally separated from the first side edge by a first end edge and a second end edge longitudinally separated from the first end edge; a first belt, the first belt comprising an inner surface facing the wearer and an outer surface facing the clothes, the first belt further comprising a laterally extending inner edge and a laterally extending outer edge, the outer edge being positioned longitudinally outside the inner edge; a breakable path, the breakable path being located at the first A tape wherein the frangible path extends between an inner edge and an outer edge of a first tape, wherein the first tape has a material tear strength according to the Trapezoidal Tear Strength Test Method and a first tape basis weight, wherein the frangible path has a path tear strength according to the Trapezoidal Tear Strength Test Method, wherein the tear strength of the first tape divided by the substrate basis weight is greater than 0.2 N / gsm, wherein the tear strength of the frangible path divided by the first basis weight is greater than 0.05 N / gsm and less than 0.15 N / gsm, and wherein the difference between the material tear strength and the path tear strength is a tear strength Δ, and wherein the tear strength Δ divided by the material basis weight is greater than 0.2 N / gsm.

[0242] C2. The absorbent article of paragraph C1, wherein the first belt comprises a longitudinal centerline and a lateral centerline, and wherein at least a portion of the frangible path extends from the lateral centerline of the first belt at a path angle of less than 90 degrees.

[0243] C3. The absorbent article of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the outer garment-facing surface of the first belt comprises polyethylene.

[0244] C4. An absorbent article according to any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the outer garment-facing surface of the first belt comprises a material comprised of polypropylene-polyethylene side-by-side bicomponent fibers.

[0245] C5. An absorbent article according to any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the material comprises a softness-enhancing additive.

[0246] C6. The absorbent article of paragraph C1, wherein the outer garment-facing surface of the first belt comprises a material having curled fibers.

[0247] C7. The absorbent article of paragraph C1, wherein the outer garment-facing surface of the first belt comprises a carded nonwoven material.

[0248] C8. An absorbent article according to any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the outer garment-facing surface of the first belt comprises a material having a plurality of fibers having an average size of less than 1.5 denier.

[0249] C9. An absorbent article according to paragraph C1 or C2, wherein the outer garment-facing surface of the first belt comprises a material having a plurality of water-sprayed fibers.

[0250] C10. An absorbent article according to paragraph C1 or C2, wherein the first belt includes a first substrate and a second substrate, wherein the first substrate forms an outer surface facing the garment and the second substrate forms an inner surface facing the garment, wherein each of the first substrate and the second substrate has a material tear strength according to the trapezoidal tear strength test method, and wherein the second substrate has a material tear strength different from that of the first substrate.

[0251] C11. The absorbent article of paragraph C1 or C2, wherein the basis weight of the first belt is less than 45 gsm.

[0252] C12. The absorbent article of paragraph C11, wherein the basis weight of the first belt is less than 40 gsm.

[0253] D1. An absorbent article comprising: a chassis comprising a topsheet, a backsheet, and an absorbent core positioned between the topsheet and the backsheet, the chassis comprising a longitudinally extending first side edge and a longitudinally extending second side edge, the longitudinally extending second side edge being laterally separated from the first side edge by a first end edge and a second end edge longitudinally separated from the first end edge; a first band joined to a portion of the chassis and having a longitudinal centerline and a lateral centerline, the lateral centerline being substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal centerline, wherein the first band comprises a first substrate and a frangible path, wherein the first substrate of the first band comprises a nonwoven having a majority of fibers oriented in a fiber orientation direction, wherein the frangible path has a path angle, wherein the path angle of at least a portion of the frangible path is less than 90 degrees to the fiber orientation direction, wherein the first substrate has a tear strength according to a trapezoidal tear strength test method and a substrate basis weight, wherein the frangible path has a tear strength according to the trapezoidal tear strength test method, and wherein the tear strength of the first substrate is greater than the tear strength of the frangible path.

[0254] D2. An absorbent article according to paragraph D1, wherein the path angle is from about 0 degrees to about 75 degrees relative to the fiber orientation direction.

[0255] D3. An absorbent article according to paragraph D1, wherein the path angle is from about 15 degrees to about 60 degrees relative to the fiber orientation direction.

[0256] D4. An absorbent article according to paragraph D1, wherein the path angle is from about 15 degrees to about 45 degrees relative to the fiber orientation direction.

[0257] D5. An absorbent article according to any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the material tear strength of the first substrate divided by the material basis weight is greater than 0.2 N / gsm.

[0258] D6. An absorbent article according to any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the path tear strength divided by the material basis weight is greater than 0.05 N / gsm and less than 0.15 N / gsm.

[0259] D7. An absorbent article according to any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the difference between the material tear strength and the path tear strength is at least 4N.

[0260] D8. An absorbent article according to paragraph D7, wherein the difference between the material tear strength and the path tear strength is at least 6N.

[0261] D9. An absorbent article according to any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the path tear strength is greater than 8N.

[0262] D10. An absorbent article according to any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the fiber orientation direction is substantially parallel to the tensile force.

[0263] The dimensions and values ​​disclosed herein should not be understood as being strictly limited to the exact numerical values ​​cited. Instead, unless otherwise indicated, each such dimension is intended to represent the stated value and a functionally equivalent range around that value. For example, a dimension disclosed as "40 mm" is intended to mean "about 40 mm".

[0264] Unless expressly excluded or otherwise limited, each document cited herein, including any cross-referenced or related patent or patent application and any patent application or patent to which this application claims priority or the benefit of, is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. The citation of any document is not an admission that it is prior art to any of the present invention disclosed or claimed herein, or an admission that it, by itself or in combination with any one or more of the references, proposes, suggests, or discloses any such invention. In addition, to the extent that any meaning or definition of a term in this invention conflicts with any meaning or definition of the same term in a document incorporated by reference, the meaning or definition assigned to that term in this invention shall govern.

[0265] Although specific embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various other changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Therefore, it is intended that all such changes and modifications within the scope of the present invention be covered in the appended claims.

Claims

1. An absorbent article, comprising: a chassis comprising a topsheet, a backsheet, and an absorbent core positioned between the topsheet and the backsheet, the chassis comprising a longitudinally extending first side edge and a longitudinally extending second side edge laterally separated from the first side edge by a first end edge and a second end edge longitudinally separated from the first end edge; a first tape joined to a portion of the chassis, wherein the first tape comprises a first substrate, wherein the first substrate comprises a first frangible path, wherein at least a portion of the first frangible path extends from a lateral centerline of the first belt at a path angle of less than 90 degrees, wherein the first substrate has a material tear strength according to the Trapezoidal Tear Strength Test Method and a material basis weight, wherein the first frangible path has a path tear strength according to the Trapezoidal Tear Strength Test Method, wherein the material tear strength of the first substrate is greater than the path tear strength of the first frangible path, and The material tear strength of the first substrate is at least 2N greater than the path tear strength of the first breakable path.

2. The absorbent article according to claim 1, wherein the material tear strength of the first substrate divided by the material basis weight is greater than 0.2 N / gsm.

3. The absorbent article of claim 1, wherein the material tear strength of the first substrate divided by the material basis weight is greater than 0.3 N / gsm.

4. The absorbent article of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the first frangible path has a path angle of about 0 degrees to about 75 degrees relative to the lateral centerline of the first belt.

5. The absorbent article of claim 4, wherein the path angle is from about 15 degrees to about 45 degrees relative to the lateral centerline of the first belt.

6. The absorbent article of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the material basis weight is from about 8 gsm to about 30 gsm.

7. The absorbent article of claim 1, wherein the first belt comprises a second substrate having a second breakable path, wherein the first substrate and the second substrate are joined to form the first belt.

8. The absorbent article of claim 7, wherein the second substrate has a second material tear strength according to the Trapezoidal Tear Strength Test Method, wherein the second substrate has a second material basis weight, and wherein the second material tear strength divided by the second material basis weight is greater than 0.2 N / gsm.

9. The absorbent article of claim 7, wherein the first breakable path and the second breakable path are aligned.

10. The absorbent article of claim 8, wherein the material basis weight and the second material basis weight are different.

11. The absorbent article of claim 1, wherein the difference between the material tear strength and the path tear strength is a tear strength Δ, and wherein the tear strength Δ divided by the material basis weight is greater than 0.2 N / gsm.

12. The absorbent article of claim 11, wherein the tear strength Δ divided by the material basis weight is greater than 0.3 N / gsm.

13. The absorbent article according to claim 1, wherein the difference between the material tear strength and the path tear strength is at least 6N.

14. The absorbent article according to any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the path tear strength is greater than 8N.

15. The absorbent article of claim 1, wherein the first substrate is a nonwoven.

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