Underpants-type absorbent article

Abstract

Provided is an underpants-type absorbent article which, while using an absorbent core having good absorption and retention properties, reduces discomfort when worn and the influence on the appearance after wearing clothes, and enables a wearer to actually feel ease of wearing. The underpants-type absorbent article is provided with: an exterior member; and an absorbent main body which is positioned further toward the skin side than the exterior member and which has an absorbent core containing pulp fibers and a highly absorbent polymer, the weight per unit area of the pulp fibers in the absorbent core being greater than the weight per unit area of the highly absorbent polymer, the absorbent core being provided at least at a first position, and the absorbent main body being provided at a second position, the maximum thickness from the non-skin side surface of the exterior member to the skin side surface of the absorbent body at the first position is smaller than the maximum thickness of the exterior member at the second position and larger than the maximum thickness of the exterior member at the third position.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] Previously, absorbent articles such as disposable diapers in the form of underwear (shorts type) were known. Regarding such absorbent articles, technical solutions have been proposed to improve the fit of the absorbent article by making the absorbent body thinner. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses an absorbent article in which the absorbent body is made thinner by using an absorbent core containing a highly absorbent polymer (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "SAP") and not containing pulp fibers as the absorbent body.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2021-104151 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The problem the invention aims to solve

[0007] However, in SAP pads, there is sometimes a time delay before the SAP absorbs and retains the excrement (i.e., the rate of excrement absorption and retention decreases). Furthermore, in the case of sanitary napkins, which are underwear-type absorbent products, the excrement, such as menstrual blood, can adhere to the SAP and hinder its absorption and retention. Therefore, from the perspective of excrement absorption and retention, SAP pads are not suitable for use as absorbent cores in sanitary napkins.

[0008] Therefore, by using an absorbent core formed by incorporating SAP into liquid-absorbent fibers such as pulp fibers as the absorbent body, the decrease in the rate of absorption and retention of the aforementioned excretory fluid can be suppressed. However, corresponding to the increase in the thickness of the absorbent body, the discomfort during wear increases, and the absorbent body becomes more noticeable when clothing is worn over underwear-type absorbent items. On the other hand, if the absorbent body is made thin from the beginning, the wearer may sometimes feel uneasy about whether the underwear-type absorbent item will tear when, for example, the underwear-type absorbent item is pulled up and worn.

[0009] In other words, while making the absorbent core thinner, it is difficult to simultaneously achieve the following: reduce discomfort when wearing the garment, minimize the impact on the appearance of the garment after wearing it, and ensure that the wearer actually feels ease of wearing it, all while using an absorbent core with good absorption retention performance.

[0010] The present invention was made in view of the aforementioned problems, and its object is to reduce discomfort during wearing, the impact on the appearance of the clothes after wearing, and the ease of wearing for the wearer while using an absorbent core with good absorption and retention performance.

[0011] means for solving problems

[0012] The main technical solution for achieving the above objective is an absorbent underwear-type garment, which has a waist opening and a pair of leg openings. When in an unfolded and extended state, the absorbent underwear-type garment has intersecting length, left-right, and thickness directions. The garment is characterized by comprising: an outer casing; and an absorbent body located closer to the skin than the outer casing, having an absorbent core comprising pulp fibers and a highly absorbent polymer. The weight per unit area of ​​the pulp fibers in the absorbent core is greater than the weight per unit area of ​​the highly absorbent polymer. When viewed along the thickness direction in the unfolded and extended state, a position 10 mm from the center of the absorbent underwear-type garment in the length direction and 10 mm from both ends of the absorbent core in the left-right direction is designated as the first position. The second position is defined as the two midpoints of a range obtained by dividing the portion of the outer body component that forms the waist opening into four equal parts in the left and right directions at a distance of 10 mm from both ends of the portion forming the waist opening into the outer body component. The third position is defined as the innermost range of a range obtained by dividing the portion of the front body component that forms the waist opening into the outer body component at a distance of 10 mm from the left and right ends of the portion forming the waist opening into the outer body component and which does not overlap with the absorbent body in the left and right directions. At this time, the absorbent core is at least located at the first position. In the natural state, the maximum thickness of the outer body component from the non-skin side to the skin side of the absorbent body at the first position is smaller than the maximum thickness of the outer body component at the second position and larger than the maximum thickness of the outer body component at the third position.

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

[0014] Invention Effects

[0015] According to the present invention, in the absorbent underwear type, it is possible to reduce discomfort during wearing and the impact on the appearance after wearing clothes while using an absorbent core with good absorption and retention performance, and to make the wearer actually feel the ease of wearing. Attached Figure Description

[0016] Figure 1 This is a schematic perspective view of the sanitary napkin 1 according to this embodiment.

[0017] Figure 2 This is a top view of a sanitary napkin 1 in its unfolded and elongated state, viewed from the thickness direction.

[0018] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the AA section.

[0019] Figure 4A This is a top view of the absorbent body 10 in its elongated state.

[0020] Figure 4B This is a cross-sectional view of the absorbent body 10 in its elongated state.

[0021] Figure 5 This diagram illustrates the situation where the wearer checks the thickness of the absorbent core 11 portion before wearing the sanitary napkin 1.

[0022] Figure 6 This diagram illustrates the situation where the wearer pulls up the sanitary napkin 1 to put it on.

[0023] Figure 7 In Figure 7 Figure A illustrates the measurement positions of each thickness in a top view of a sanitary napkin 1 in its unfolded and elongated state, as viewed from the thickness direction.

[0024] Figure 7 In Figure 7 B is a cross-sectional view of the central position CL of a sanitary napkin 1 in its natural state.

[0025] Figure 8 This is a diagram illustrating the situation where a wearer holds a sanitary napkin 1 taken out of its packaging.

[0026] Figure 9 This diagram illustrates the measurement positions of each thickness in a top view obtained by observing a sanitary napkin 1 in its natural state along the direction from the ventral side to the dorsal side.

[0027] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0028] 1. Sanitary napkin (underwear type absorbent); 1a. Waist opening; 1b. Leg opening; 10. Absorbent body; 11. Absorbent core; 12. Top sheet; 13. Bottom sheet; 13a. Liquid-proof sheet; 13b. Hydrophobic sheet; 18. Core pack; 20. Outer components; 20f. Front outer components; 20b. Back outer components; 21. Non-skin side sheet; 22. Skin side sheet; 23. Skin side sheet; 26. Waist elastic component; 27. Separate area of ​​non-skin side sheet; 40. Side joint; 40f. Side joint (front side); 40b, Lateral joint (rear side); 50, Crotch elastic member; 50eb, Rear end; 60, Leak-proof wall part; 61, Leak-proof wall elastic member; 62, Erecting part; 66, End fixing part (leak-proof wall end fixing part); 66f, Front end fixing part; 66b, Rear end fixing part; 70, High-density part; CL, Central position; FL, Part 1; ML, Part 2; M1, Position 1; M2, Position 2; M3, Position 3; M4, Position 4; M5, Position 5; M6, Position 6; M7, Position 7. Detailed Implementation

[0029] Based on the description in this specification and the accompanying drawings, at least the following matters become clear.

[0030] (Method 1)

[0031] An absorbent underwear-type garment includes a waist opening and a pair of leg openings. When in an extended and unfolded state, the garment has intersecting length, lateral, and thickness directions. The garment is characterized by comprising: an outer casing; and an absorbent body located closer to the skin than the outer casing, having an absorbent core comprising pulp fibers and a highly absorbent polymer. The weight per unit area of ​​the pulp fibers in the absorbent core is greater than the weight per unit area of ​​the highly absorbent polymer. When viewed along the thickness direction in the extended and unfolded state, a position 10 mm from the center of the garment's length direction and from both ends of the absorbent core in the lateral direction is designated as the first position. Positions 1 and 2 are defined as follows: positions 10 mm from the outer casing in the length direction and 10 mm from the outer casing. The second position is defined as the two central portions of the range obtained by dividing the portion constituting the waist opening portion of the waist opening portion into four equal parts in the left and right directions at a distance of 10 mm from the left and right ends of the portion constituting the pair of leg opening portions of the outer member in the direction inwards towards the outer member, and which does not overlap with the absorbent body. The third position is defined as the inner portion of the range obtained by dividing the portion constituting the pair of leg opening portions of the outer member into two equal parts in the left and right directions. At this time, the absorbent core is at least located in the first position. In the natural state, the maximum thickness of the outer member at the first position from the non-skin side to the skin side of the absorbent body is smaller than the maximum thickness of the outer member at the second position, and larger than the maximum thickness of the outer member at the third position.

[0032] According to Method 1, the absorbent underwear uses a pulp fiber-based material as its absorbent core, enabling it to quickly absorb and retain excretory fluids. In absorbent underwear with such a core, the maximum thickness of the portion located in the wearer's crotch area is smaller than the maximum thickness of the outer components near the waist opening, thus reducing discomfort when stored in the crotch area. Furthermore, the absorbent body is less noticeable when clothing is worn over the absorbent underwear. Conversely, because the maximum thickness of the outer components near the waist opening is greater than the maximum thickness of the portion located in the wearer's crotch area, the wearer can easily grasp and pull up the outer components near the waist opening when wearing the absorbent underwear. Moreover, because the maximum thickness of the outer components near the pair of leg openings in the front section is smaller than the maximum thickness of the portion located in the wearer's crotch area, the outer components near the pair of leg openings in the front section are less likely to become an obstacle during the wearer's pulling action on the absorbent underwear. Therefore, in absorbent underwear, it is possible to reduce discomfort during wear and the impact on the appearance of the garment while using an absorbent core with good absorption and retention performance, and to make the wearer feel easy to wear.

[0033] (Method 2)

[0034] According to the underwear-type absorbent article of method 1, the weight of the highly absorbent polymer in the absorbent core divided by the total weight of the pulp fiber and the highly absorbent polymer is 20% or less.

[0035] According to Method 2, since the proportion of the superabsorbent polymer in the absorbent core is relatively small, the wearer of the underwear-type absorbent item is less likely to feel the granular texture of the superabsorbent polymer when in contact with the absorbent body, which makes the wearer think that the discomfort is lower when wearing the underwear-type absorbent item.

[0036] (Method 3)

[0037] According to embodiment 1 or embodiment 2, the absorbent underwear-type article has a pair of leak-proof wall portions, which are disposed on both sides of the absorbent body in the left-right direction along the length direction and stand upright towards the skin. Each of the pair of leak-proof wall portions has: a leak-proof wall elastic member that extends and retracts along the length direction; and an upright portion that stands upright towards the skin based on the elasticity of the leak-proof wall elastic member. In its natural state, the minimum thickness of the upright portion is smaller than the maximum thickness of the outer member at the third position.

[0038] According to the method 3, when the underwear-type absorbent garment is pulled up and worn, the elastic member of the leak-proof wall stretches and contracts, making it easy to pull up the underwear-type absorbent garment while the leak-proof wall part fits against the wearer's groin area. In addition, since the minimum thickness of the raised part of the leak-proof wall part is smaller than the maximum thickness of the outer members near the openings of the pair of leg openings, discomfort when wearing the underwear-type absorbent garment can be further reduced.

[0039] (Method 4)

[0040] According to the underwear-type absorbent article of method 3, the outer component has a skin side panel and a non-skin side panel. When viewed along the thickness direction in the unfolded and extended state, a separate area of ​​the non-skin side panel, in which the skin side panel and the non-skin side panel are not overlapped, is provided at the center of the underwear-type absorbent article in the length direction and at a position further outward in the left-right direction than the absorbent body. In the natural state, the maximum thickness of the non-skin side panel in the separate area of ​​the non-skin side panel is smaller than the minimum thickness of the raised portion.

[0041] According to the absorbent underwear of method 4, a separate non-skin-sensitive side panel with a thickness that minimizes discomfort to the wearer is formed in the crotch area as a pleated section. Furthermore, by covering the outer sides of the absorbent body in the left and right directions with the pleated section, the absorbent underwear of method 4 can have an appearance similar to underwear. Additionally, when the absorbent underwear of method 4 is pulled up and worn, the pleated section slides against the wearer's skin, making it easy for the wearer to pull up the absorbent underwear of method 4.

[0042] (Method 5)

[0043] According to any one of embodiments 1 to 4, the underwear-type absorbent article includes a crotch elastic member disposed at a position closer to the non-skin side than the absorbent core, which stretches and extends along the length direction, and at least a portion of the crotch elastic member is disposed at a position closer to the back side than the center of the underwear-type absorbent article in the length direction. When viewed along the thickness direction in the unfolded and extended state, when the position where the crotch elastic member overlaps with the absorbent core is designated as the fourth position, the maximum thickness at the fourth position from the non-skin side of the outer member to the skin side of the absorbent body is smaller in the extended state than the maximum thickness of the outer member at the second position, and larger in the natural state than the maximum thickness of the outer member at the second position.

[0044] According to the absorbent underwear of method 5, the elastic member in the crotch also stretches on the back side, thereby improving the ease of pulling up the absorbent underwear on the back side. Furthermore, in the unfolded and extended state conceived when pulling up the absorbent underwear, the maximum thickness of the portion of the absorbent body along the cleft of the wearer's buttocks is smaller than the maximum thickness of the outer member near the waist opening, thus reducing discomfort when pulling up the absorbent underwear. Additionally, in the natural state conceived after wearing the absorbent underwear, the portion of the absorbent body along the cleft of the wearer's buttocks enters the cleft of the buttocks, thus reducing the impact on the appearance after wearing clothing and suppressing leakage of excretory fluid into the gap behind the buttocks.

[0045] (Method 6)

[0046] According to any one of embodiments 1 to 5, in the absorbent article of the underwear type, when viewed in the natural state along the direction from the abdominal side to the back side of the absorbent article, at least the absorbent body is folded at a fold position located at the center of the length direction of the absorbent article in the unfolded and extended state, the abdominal portion of the outer member is stacked with the back portion of the outer member, a position 10 mm away from the lowest end of the absorbent article in the length direction and 10 mm away from both ends of the absorbent core in the left-right direction is designated as the 5th position, and a position 10 mm away from the upper end of the portion of the outer member constituting the waist opening is designated as the 6th position. At this time, in the natural state, the maximum thickness at the 5th position from the non-skin side of the abdominal side of the absorbent article to the non-skin side of the back side is smaller than the combined thickness of the maximum thickness of the abdominal portion of the outer member and the maximum thickness of the back portion of the outer member at the 6th position.

[0047] According to Method 6, for example, when the underwear-type absorbent item is taken out of the packaging, the wearer can actually feel that the absorbent core is relatively thin when holding the underwear-type absorbent item in their hand.

[0048] (Method 7)

[0049] According to any one of embodiments 1 to 6, the absorbent article of the underwear type has a skin side panel and a non-skin side panel. When viewed along the thickness direction in the unfolded and extended state, there is a layered area where the skin side panel and the non-skin side panel overlap, which is located on the ventral side of the central portion of the length direction of the absorbent article of the underwear type. When the position where the layered area overlaps with the absorbent body and is located at a distance of 10 mm from both ends of the absorbent core in the left-right direction is designated as the 7th position, in the natural state, the maximum thickness from the non-skin side of the outer member to the skin side of the absorbent body at the 7th position is smaller than the maximum thickness of the outer member at the 2nd position.

[0050] According to Method 7, since the maximum thickness of the central part of the abdominal side of the absorbent underwear, which has the greatest impact on the appearance after wearing clothes, is smaller than the maximum thickness of the outer garment near the waist opening, the impact on appearance can be further suppressed even when wearing clothes, making it easier to pull up the absorbent underwear.

[0051] (Method 8)

[0052] The absorbent article of the underwear type according to any one of methods 1 to 7, wherein the absorbent article of the underwear type has a pair of lateral joints where the ventral portion of the outer member and the dorsal portion of the outer member are joined to each other at their respective ends in the left-right direction, and in the natural state, the length from the lower end of the pair of lateral joints to the lower end of the absorbent article of the underwear type in the vertical direction is smaller than the length of each of the pair of lateral joints in the vertical direction.

[0053] According to the method 8, in the vertical direction of the absorbent article, the length of the conspicuous part of the absorbent body below the pair of side joints is smaller than the length of each of the pair of side joints. Therefore, the absorbent article can have the appearance of underwear, and thus it is easy to pull up the absorbent article.

[0054] (Method 9)

[0055] According to any one of embodiments 1 to 8, in the underwear-type absorbent article, when viewed along the thickness direction in the unfolded and extended state, when the eighth position is defined as the inner part of a range obtained by dividing the rear portion into two equal parts in the left and right directions at a distance of 10 mm from the left and right ends of the portions of the outer member that constitute the pair of leg openings inward toward the inner side of the outer member and which does not overlap with the absorbent body, in the natural state, the maximum thickness of the outer member at the eighth position is smaller than the maximum thickness at the first position from the non-skin side of the outer member to the skin side of the absorbent body, and larger than the maximum thickness of the outer member at the third position.

[0056] According to the absorbent underwear of method 9, by maintaining the upward pull on the back of the wearer while making the back part of the outer member 20 thicker than the abdominal part of the outer member 20, a sense of security can be provided when the sanitary napkin 1 covers the area outside the buttocks.

[0057] (Implementation Method)

[0058] As an example of an absorbent article of the present invention, an absorbent article of the underwear type (shorts type) will be described, specifically an absorbent article of the underwear type (shorts type) 1 (hereinafter also simply referred to as "sanitary napkin 1"). Furthermore, absorbent articles of the underwear type (shorts type) also include absorbent articles of the underwear type (shorts type) diapers, etc.

[0059] <Basic Structure of Sanitary Napkins>

[0060] Figure 1 This is a schematic perspective view of the sanitary napkin 1 according to this embodiment. Figure 2 This is a top view of a sanitary napkin 1 in its unfolded and elongated state, viewed from the thickness direction. Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the AA section. Furthermore, in Figure 2 The lateral joint 40, described later, should not be shown in the cross-section at position AA, but... Figure 3 For the sake of explanation, the positions of the side joints 40 are referred to as side joints 40f and side joints 40b.

[0061] The "unfolded state" of sanitary napkin 1 refers to the state in which it is unfolded. Figure 1 The side joint 40 of the sanitary napkin 1 in the panty-like state is untied and separated into the front outer part 20f and the back outer part 20b, which will be described later. The sanitary napkin 1 is opened in the vertical direction and unfolded on the plane.

[0062] In addition, the “stretched state” of sanitary napkin 1 refers to the state in which the sanitary napkin 1 as a whole (the whole product) is stretched to a wrinkle-free state by stretching the various elastic components of sanitary napkin 1 (such as the crotch elastic component 50, waist elastic component 26, etc., described later). Specifically, it means that the sanitary napkin 1 is stretched to a state in which the size of each component constituting sanitary napkin 1 (such as the non-skin side sheet 21, skin side sheet 22, 23, etc., described later) is the same as or close to the size of the individual component.

[0063] Furthermore, the "natural state" of sanitary napkin 1 refers to the state of sanitary napkin 1 after being placed for a predetermined time. For example, the sanitary napkin 1 in its product state is removed from the packaging, and the front outer part 20f or the rear outer part 20b of the outer packaging component 20 is pulled to the left and right to make the outer packaging component 20 "extended state". After maintaining this extended state for 15 seconds, the pulling of the sanitary napkin 1 is released and it is placed on a flat surface such as a table. The state after being placed flat on the surface for 5 minutes is defined as the natural state of sanitary napkin 1.

[0064] Figure 1 This indicates the state of the sanitary napkin 1 before it is set to the unfolded state (specifically, before the side joint 40 is unfastened) (hereinafter referred to as the "panty-type state"). For example... Figure 1 As shown, the sanitary napkin 1 in its panty-like configuration has mutually orthogonal "vertical," "lateral," and "front-back" directions. Additionally, in... Figure 1 It also has such Figure 3 The direction in which the components are stacked is the "thickness direction". In the up-down direction, the side that becomes the wearer's waist side when the sanitary napkin 1 is worn is designated as the "upper side", and the side that becomes the wearer's crotch side is designated as the "lower side". Similarly, in the front-back direction, the side that becomes the wearer's abdomen side when worn is designated as the "front side", and the side that becomes the wearer's back side is designated as the "back side". Furthermore, in the thickness direction, the side that contacts the wearer's skin when the sanitary napkin 1 is worn is designated as the "skin side", and the opposite side is designated as the "non-skin side".

[0065] In addition, sanitary napkin 1 Figure 2 The unfolded and stretched state shown has mutually orthogonal "length direction", "left-right direction", and "thickness direction". The "length direction" is along the vertical direction of the sanitary napkin 1 in its panty-like state, and the "left-right direction" is along the left-right direction of the sanitary napkin 1 in its panty-like state. The "thickness direction" is as described above. Figure 3 The direction in which the components are stacked is shown.

[0066] The sanitary napkin 1 of this embodiment has an absorbent body 10 with liquid absorbency to absorb menstrual blood and other excrement, and an outer casing 20 disposed overlappingly on the non-skin side of the absorbent body 10.

[0067] (Absorbent subject 10)

[0068] Figure 4A This is a top view of the absorbent body 10 in its elongated state. Figure 4B This is a cross-sectional view of the absorbent body 10 in its elongated state. (Example) Figure 4A As shown, the absorbent body 10 is approximately rectangular in shape when viewed from above, with its length along the vertical direction of the sanitary napkin 1. Figure 4A As shown, the absorbent body 10 has an absorbent core 11 along its length direction (vertical direction). Figure 4B As shown, the absorbent body 10 also has a top sheet 12 disposed on the skin side of the absorbent core 11 and a bottom sheet 13 disposed on the non-skin side of the absorbent core 11. However, the absorbent body 10 may also have other sheet members. For example, the absorbent body 10 may also have a second sheet between the top sheet 12 and the absorbent core 11 in the thickness direction. In addition, a crotch elastic member 50, described later, is provided on the non-skin side of the absorbent core 11.

[0069] The absorbent core 11 is a component that absorbs and retains liquids such as menstrual blood, and is formed, for example, from liquid-absorbent fibers such as pulp fibers mixed with a superabsorbent polymer (SAP). The mixing ratio of pulp fibers and superabsorbent polymer in the absorbent core 11 will be described later.

[0070] In this embodiment, the outer peripheral surface of the absorbent core 11 is covered by a liquid-permeable core sheet 18 made of cotton paper, non-woven fabric, or the like. However, the core sheet 18 may not necessarily be provided.

[0071] The top sheet 12 is a liquid-permeable sheet component that can come into contact with the wearer's skin when worn, such as being formed from hydrophilic hot-air nonwoven fabric, spunbond nonwoven fabric, etc.

[0072] The substrate 13 is formed by a double-layer structure, which includes a liquid-impermeable sheet 13a for preventing leakage of menstrual blood and other liquids absorbed by the absorbent core 11 to the outside, and a hydrophobic sheet 13b disposed on the non-skin side of the liquid-impermeable sheet 13a. For example, a resin film can be used as the liquid-impermeable sheet 13a, and spunbond nonwoven fabric can be used as the hydrophobic sheet 13b.

[0073] Additionally, a pair of leak-proof wall portions 60, 60 are provided along the length of both sides of the absorbent body 10 in the left-right direction. The leak-proof wall portions 60 are equivalent to so-called three-dimensional pleats. When wearing the sanitary napkin 1, these leak-proof wall portions 60 rise from both sides of the absorbent body 10 towards the wearer's skin to prevent leakage of menstrual blood and other excretory fluids to the outside of the absorbent body 10. The leak-proof wall portions 60 have a leak-proof elastic member 61 and a raised portion 62. The leak-proof elastic member 61 is, for example, an elastic band, which is an elastic member that stretches and contracts along its length. The raised portion 62 is a member that rises towards the skin based on the elasticity of the leak-proof elastic member 61. Figure 4B As shown, in the sanitary napkin 1 of this embodiment, the stand-up portion 62 is formed by folding back the two sides of the bottom sheet 13, which is provided in such a way that it covers the absorbent core 11 from the non-skin side, towards the skin side and bending at multiple points. The leak-proof elastic member 61 is installed on the stand-up portion 62 in a state of elongation along the length direction. When wearing the sanitary napkin 1, the stand-up portion 62 stands up towards the skin side based on the elasticity of the leak-proof elastic member 61, thereby conforming to the wearer's groin area. In addition, when the sanitary napkin 1 is pulled up to wear, the leak-proof elastic member 61 stretches, thereby making it easy to pull the sanitary napkin 1 up so that the leak-proof portion 60 conforms to the wearer's groin area.

[0074] In addition, such as Figure 4A As shown, when the absorbent body 10 is in an extended state, the leak-proof elastic member 61 is positioned laterally than the outermost end 11es of the absorbent core 11 in the left-right direction. That is, when viewed along the thickness direction, the leak-proof elastic member 61 is positioned so as not to overlap with the more rigid absorbent core 11. By positioning the leak-proof elastic member 61 in a less rigid region laterally than the absorbent core 11, the elasticity of the leak-proof elastic member 61 in the leak-proof wall portion 60 is less likely to be interfered with by the absorbent core 11, and the leak-proof wall portion 60 can easily deform freely. Therefore, when wearing the sanitary napkin 1, the leak-proof wall portion 60 easily rises towards the skin and more easily conforms to the wearer's groin area. However, when the absorbent body 10 is in an extended state, the leak-proof elastic member 61 can also be positioned on the outermost end 11es of the absorbent core 11, or laterally than the outermost end 11es of the absorbent core 11.

[0075] Additionally, leak-proof wall portion 60 is provided at both ends along its length to secure the leak-proof wall portion 60 to the skin side of the top plate 12. The leak-proof wall portion 66 is also referred to as "end fixing portion 66". The end fixing portion 66 is formed of an adhesive such as a hot melt adhesive. Figure 4AIn the sanitary napkin 1, the front end of the leak-proof wall portion 60 is fixed to the skin side of the top sheet 12 by a pair of front end fixing portions 66f, 66f. Similarly, the rear end of the leak-proof wall portion 60 is fixed to the skin side of the top sheet 12 by a pair of rear end fixing portions 66b, 66b. When wearing the sanitary napkin 1, the portion of the leak-proof wall portion 60 that is not fixed to the top sheet 12 in the longitudinal direction between the front end fixing portion 66f and the rear end fixing portion 66b separates from the skin side of the top sheet 12 and stands upright towards the skin, thereby closely adhering to the wearer's groin area.

[0076] Furthermore, in the sanitary napkin 1 of this embodiment, when the absorbent body 10 is in an extended state, the end fixing portions 66 (66f, 66b) are positioned in the left-right direction at a position further outward than the outermost end 11es of the absorbent core 11. That is, when viewed along the thickness direction, the end fixing portions 66 are positioned so as not to overlap with the relatively stiff absorbent core 11. Additionally, as described above, when wearing the sanitary napkin 1, the leak-proof wall portion 60 stands upright towards the skin between the front end fixing portion 66f and the rear end fixing portion 66b. That is, in the length direction, the rear end of the front end fixing portion 66f and the front end of the rear end fixing portion 66b become the starting point for the standing up of the leak-proof wall portion 60. Because the end fixing portions 66, which serve as the starting point for standing up, are positioned in a region with lower stiffness further outward than the absorbent core 11, the movement of the leak-proof wall portion 60 when standing up is less likely to be disturbed. Therefore, when wearing the sanitary napkin 1, the leak-proof wall 60 easily stands up towards the skin and fits more easily to the wearer's groin area. However, when the absorbent body 10 is in an extended state, the end fixing parts 66 (66f, 66b) can also be arranged on the outermost end 11es of the absorbent core 11, or they can be arranged in the left-right direction at a position inside the outermost end 11es of the absorbent core 11.

[0077] In addition, such as Figure 2As shown, in the length direction, at least a portion of the front end fixing portion 66f is located further forward than the rear end waist elastic member 26. That is, when viewed along the thickness direction, at least a portion of the waist elastic member 26 overlaps with the front end fixing portion 66f. With this structure, when wearing the sanitary napkin 1, in the portion overlapping with the waist elastic member 26, the front end fixing portion 66f is pressed against the skin side by the elastic force of the waist elastic member 26. Therefore, at the front end of the leak-proof wall portion 60, the front end fixing portion 66f easily fits flatly against the wearer's skin (abdomen), and misalignment or gaps between it and the skin are less likely to occur when the leak-proof wall portion 60 is upright. Consequently, the fit of the leak-proof wall portion 60 is further improved in the wearer's groin area, reducing the likelihood of side leakage of urine or other substances in the area near the excretion opening on the wearer's abdomen. However, in the length direction, the front end fixing part 66f can also be located further back than the rear waist elastic member 26.

[0078] In addition, the end fixing part 66 is provided at a predetermined distance from the leak-proof wall elastic member 61 in the left-right direction (see reference). Figure 4A That is, a predetermined gap is formed between the end fixing portion 66 and the leak-proof elastic member 61 in the left-right direction. When the leak-proof portion 60 is raised towards the skin, the portion with the leak-proof elastic member 61 becomes the raised tip, which contacts the wearer's groin. Assuming that the end fixing portion 66 is provided overlapping the leak-proof elastic member 61, the stiffness of the raised tip of the leak-proof portion 60 (the portion with the leak-proof elastic member 61) increases due to the adhesive forming the end fixing portion 66, which may cause discomfort or unpleasantness in the wearer's groin due to a hard touch. In contrast, in the sanitary napkin 1, the gap between the leak-proof elastic member 61 and the end fixing portion 66 acts as a dry edge, thereby preventing the raised tip of the leak-proof portion 60 from hardening. Therefore, when wearing the sanitary napkin 1, the skin contact of the raised tip of the leak-proof portion 60 in the wearer's groin becomes soft, which can suppress the situation that causes discomfort or unpleasantness to the wearer. However, the end fixing part 66 may also be provided in the left-right direction without being separated from the leak-proof wall elastic member 61.

[0079] In addition, such as Figures 2 to 4B As shown, in this embodiment, the crotch portion of the absorbent body 10 is provided with a plurality of crotch elastic members 50 that extend and retract along the length direction (vertical direction). The crotch elastic members 50 are, for example, made of elastic bands and are positioned on the non-skin side of the absorbent core 11 in a state of elongation along the length direction (vertical direction). Figure 4B(Between the liquid-impermeable sheet 13a and the hydrophobic sheet 13b). In the sanitary napkin 1 of this embodiment, five crotch elastic members 50 are provided at predetermined intervals in the left-right direction, but the number of crotch elastic members 50 can be appropriately adjusted. The elongation ratio of the crotch elastic members 50 is preferably set to about 1.4 to 3.3 times. Furthermore, the elongation ratio is represented by the value obtained by dividing the length of the elastic member in the elongated state by the length of the elastic member in the natural state. By pre-setting the elongation ratio of the crotch elastic members 50 to a relatively strong ratio, the absorbent core 11 with relatively high stiffness contracts from the non-skin side in the thickness direction and deforms convexly towards the skin side, so that the absorbent body 10 can easily conform to the wearer's body when wearing the sanitary napkin 1. That is, by utilizing the elasticity exhibited by the crotch elastic members 50 to pull the absorbent body 10 towards the wearer's skin side, the absorbent body 10 can easily fit tightly against the wearer's crotch area, making it less likely for menstrual blood and other excretory fluids to leak. However, the crotch elastic member 50 may not be provided in the sanitary napkin 1.

[0080] Furthermore, in the sanitary napkin 1 of this embodiment, in the longitudinal direction (vertical direction), the rear end 50eb of the crotch elastic member 50 is located further back than the central position CL of the sanitary napkin 1 (see reference). Figure 2 That is, the crotch elastic member 50 is disposed across the central position CL in the length direction, and at least a portion of the crotch elastic member 50 is disposed at a position further back (back side) than the central position CL in the length direction of the sanitary napkin 1. Therefore, as a whole, the crotch elastic member 50 can easily exert an elastic force over a large range in the front and back across the crotch area, and when wearing the sanitary napkin 1, it is easy to reliably ensure the fit of the absorbent body 10 in the crotch area. In addition, when wearing the sanitary napkin 1, the crotch elastic member 50 also stretches on the back side, thereby improving the ease of pulling the sanitary napkin 1 up on the back side.

[0081] Furthermore, a high-density portion 70 is provided in the absorbent body 10, which is formed by compression processing, etc., of at least the absorbent core 11 and the top sheet 12 in the thickness direction. Figure 4A In the absorbent body 10, a pair of high-density portions 70, formed by multiple point-like compression portions intermittently arranged along the length direction and forming a curved (dashed line) shape, are provided in the left-right direction. In the absorbent body 10, the portion with the high-density portion 70 has a higher density than other portions, allowing the absorbent core 11 to easily bend and deform in three dimensions using this high-density portion 70 as a bending base point. That is, the linear high-density portion 70 functions like a hinge, allowing the planar absorbent core 11 to easily deform in accordance with the contours of the wearer's body, enabling the absorbent body 10 to easily conform to the wearer's crotch area.

[0082] Furthermore, in sanitary napkin 1, at least one strip is disposed between a pair of high-density portions 70, 70 spaced apart in the left-right direction (in Figure 4A The crotch elastic member 50 (three in total) is located between the high-density portions 70 and the absorbent core 11. Excessive contraction of the crotch elastic member 50 is suppressed in the portion of the absorbent core 11 where the stiffness is increased due to the high-density portions 70, thus preventing the absorbent core 11 from being forcefully pressed against the crotch area. Furthermore, by utilizing the elasticity of the crotch elastic member 50 located between the pair of high-density portions 70, 70, the area between the pair of high-density portions 70, 70 easily deforms towards the skin, allowing it to easily conform closely to the wearer's crotch area and excretory openings such as the vagina. This further improves the fit of the absorbent body 10.

[0083] In addition to the high-density portion 70, a compression portion formed by compressing the absorbent core 11 in the thickness direction may also be provided (in Figure 2 (Not shown in the figure). For example, a compression portion different from the high-density portion 70 is provided at the end of the absorbent core 11 in the longitudinal direction, thereby making it easier to control the thickness of the absorbent core 11. That is, when wearing the sanitary napkin 1, even if the absorbent core 11 deforms laterally towards the skin due to the elasticity of the crotch elastic member 50, the other compression portion (not shown) at the end of the absorbent core 11 in the longitudinal direction will be used to suppress the increase in the thickness of the absorbent core 11, thereby preventing the absorbent core 11 from being pressed forcefully against the skin or the breathability from decreasing, making it less likely for the wearer to experience discomfort.

[0084] (External components 20)

[0085] The outer component 20 is an outer body composed of multiple sheet components, including at least non-skin side sheet 21, skin side sheets 22, 23 and multiple waist elastic components 26, 26… (see reference) Figure 2 and Figure 3 In the following description, the portion of the outer component 20 that is forward (ventral) of the central position CL in the longitudinal direction is also referred to as the front outer component 20f, and the portion that is backward (back) of the central position CL is also referred to as the rear outer component 20b. The front outer component 20f is the part that contacts the ventral side of the wearer's body when wearing the sanitary napkin 1, and is equivalent to the "front part" of the sanitary napkin 1. The rear outer component 20b is the part that contacts the back side of the wearer's body when wearing the sanitary napkin 1, and is equivalent to the "back part" of the sanitary napkin 1.

[0086] The non-skin side sheet 21 is a non-stretchable sheet member disposed on the non-skin side of the sanitary napkin 1, and is continuously arranged from the front to the back in the length direction. The non-skin side sheet 21 is formed, for example, of spunbond nonwoven fabric, SMS nonwoven fabric, etc. In this embodiment, such as... Figure 2As shown in the top view, the non-skin side panel 21 has a shape that narrows inward in the left-right direction from the central portion (including the portion at the central position CL) along its length. Additionally, as... Figure 3 As shown, the outer component 20 can also have a structure of three or more layers locally by folding back the non-skin side piece 21 at its end in the length direction.

[0087] Skin side sheet 22 is a sheet member that is layered on the skin side of non-skin side sheet 21 on the front (ventral) side in the longitudinal direction, and is formed of the same non-woven fabric as non-skin side sheet 21. Skin side sheet 23 is a sheet member that is layered on the skin side of non-skin side sheet 21 on the back (dorsal) side in the longitudinal direction, and is formed of the same non-woven fabric as non-skin side sheet 21.

[0088] The waist elastic member 26, for example, is formed of elastic bands, and multiple members are arranged at predetermined intervals in the vertical direction between the non-skin side panel 21 and the skin side panel 22 (23), and are installed in a state of elongation in the horizontal direction. The elasticity of the waist elastic member 26 in the horizontal direction allows the outer garment member 20 to fit the wearer's waist.

[0089] The waist elastic member 26 can be installed using an adhesive such as a hot melt adhesive. For example, the waist elastic member 26 can be installed by applying a hot melt adhesive to the waist elastic member 26 and elongating it at a predetermined elongation ratio, and then clamping the waist elastic member 26 in place using the non-skin side piece 21 and the skin side piece 22 (23). That is, the non-skin side piece 21 and the skin side piece 22 (23) are joined together with adhesive through the waist elastic member 26. Alternatively, the waist elastic member 26 can be installed by applying adhesive to the non-skin side piece 21 and the skin side piece 22 (23) instead of applying adhesive to the waist elastic member 26 side.

[0090] Sanitary napkin 1 from Figure 2 The extended and stretched state shown is such that the skin-side surfaces of the front outer garment 20f (front body part) and the rear outer garment 20b (rear body part) are folded together in the longitudinal direction (front-to-back direction) with the central position CL in the longitudinal direction as the folding position. In this folded state, the left and right ends 40f, 40f of the overlapping front outer garment 20f and the left and right ends 40b, 40b of the rear outer garment 20b are joined using known joining methods such as sealing welding, thereby forming a side joint 40. Thus, the folded outer garment members 20 (20f and 20b) are connected in a ring shape on the front (ventral) and rear (dorsal) sides, forming a shape as shown in the figure. Figure 1 The shown features a waist opening 1a and a pair of leg openings 1b, 1b, thus forming a panty-shaped sanitary napkin 1.

[0091] As described above, the outer casing 20 of the sanitary napkin 1 is constructed by stacking multiple sheet components in the thickness direction. Figure 3 In this structure, the outer component 20 is formed by stacking two sheet components: a non-skin side sheet 21 and a skin side sheet 22 (skin side sheet 23). Furthermore, the outer component 20 has a portion with a larger number of stacked sheet components and a portion with a smaller number of stacked sheet components. Figure 3 In the middle, a non-skin side piece 21 is arranged along the entire length direction, and skin side pieces 22 (skin side pieces 23) are stacked on the non-skin side piece 21 at the front and rear ends along the length direction. That is to say, the outer component 20 is composed of a piece of component in the middle part along the length direction, and is composed of two or more piece of component at both ends along the length direction.

[0092] Thus, the portion of the sheet member with fewer stacked sheets in the central part along the length direction is designated as part 1, FL. Furthermore, the portion located further outward (near the end) along the length direction than part 1, FL, and with more stacked sheets than part 1, FL, is designated as part 2, ML. For example... Figure 3 As shown, in the sanitary napkin 1 of this embodiment, a non-skin side sheet 21 is provided in the first portion FL located in the center of the length direction. Furthermore, at least two sheet members, a non-skin side sheet 21 and a skin side sheet 22, are provided in the second portion ML, which is located forward of the first portion FL in the length direction. Similarly, at least two sheet members, a non-skin side sheet 21 and a skin side sheet 23, are provided in the second portion ML, which is located backward of the first portion FL in the length direction. Alternatively, a structure may be constructed in which two sheet members are stacked in the first portion FL and three or more sheet members are stacked in the second portion ML.

[0093] The second part ML, located at the front and rear ends of the outer component 20 along its length, is the part that is pulled diagonally upward during the wearing action of the sanitary napkin 1. Therefore, by making the number of stacked sheets of the second part ML more than that of the first part FL, the strength of the second part ML is increased, thereby suppressing the possibility of the outer component 20 breaking when it is pulled diagonally upward.

[0094] In addition, Figure 3 In this structure, the non-skin side panel 21 is folded back at both ends along its length, thereby locally reducing the number of laminated panels in the second part ML to three. Based on this structure, the strength of the front and rear ends of the outer component 20 along its length is further enhanced, making the outer component 20 less prone to breakage.

[0095] In addition, such as Figure 3As shown, the first part FL overlaps with the central position CL of the sanitary napkin 1 in the length direction. Therefore, the first part FL in the outer component 20, which is located near the central position CL of the crotch when wearing the sanitary napkin 1, does not become too stiff and easily maintains softness, thus improving the fit of the crotch area.

[0096] Furthermore, in the region forward of the central position CL along the length direction, the boundary between the first part FL and the second part ML is located further back than the rear end 40fb of the side joint 40f provided on the front outer part 20f (refer to...). Figure 3 Similarly, in the region further back than the central position CL in the length direction, the boundary between the first part FL and the second part ML is located further forward than the front end 40bb of the lateral joint 40b located in the rear direction in the length direction (see reference). Figure 3 Therefore, the outer member 20 is composed of a second part ML with a larger number of laminated sheet members in the entire area of ​​the portion overlapping the side joint 40f (40b) in the length direction. Therefore, when the outer member 20 is pulled diagonally upward, the second part ML with a larger number of laminated sheet members is formed in the entire area of ​​the portion where force is easily applied, making the outer member 20 less prone to breakage. In addition, in the first part FL, which is located behind (front) the rear end 40fb (front end 40bb) of the side joint 40f (40b), the number of laminated sheet members constituting the outer member 20 is smaller, and the stiffness is reduced. Therefore, the outer member 20 can more easily conform to the contours of the wearer's crotch area.

[0097] In addition, the two ends of the lower crotch elastic member 50 in the longitudinal direction are located at positions overlapping with the second part ML (see reference). Figure 3 The crotch elastic member 50 is stably supported at both ends by a high-rigidity second part ML within the outer member 20, which is located at both ends along its length. This effectively prevents the crotch elastic member 50 from completely detaching due to damage to the outer member 20 or disengagement. This also facilitates the application of the stretching force of the crotch elastic member 50 to the absorbent body 10 (absorbent core 11). Consequently, when wearing the sanitary napkin 1, the absorbent core 11 is pulled towards the wearer's skin and deformed into a convex shape at the portion where the crotch elastic member 50 is located, thus easily adhering to the wearer's crotch area. Furthermore, even when the absorbent body 10 absorbs menstrual blood and other excretions, increasing its weight, the crotch elastic member 50 supports it, preventing sagging. This also helps prevent a decrease in the fit of the crotch area.

[0098] like Figure 2As shown, a region consisting only of non-skin side sheets 21, but not overlapping skin side sheets 22 and 23, is located at the center of the sanitary napkin 1 along its length (i.e., the first part FL) and on the outer side in the left-right direction beyond the absorbent body 10. This region is sometimes referred to below as the non-skin side sheet isolated region 27. Furthermore, in Figure 2 For convenience, a shading line has been applied to the non-skin side panel area 27. This non-skin side panel area 27 is located in the wearer's crotch area and is designated as the pleated portion of the sanitary napkin 1. By covering the outer sides of the absorbent body 10 in the left and right directions, the pleated portion (non-skin side panel area 27) allows the sanitary napkin 1 to have an underwear-like appearance. Furthermore, when the sanitary napkin 1 is pulled up and worn, the pleated portion slides against the wearer's skin, making it easy for the wearer to pull up the sanitary napkin 1. However, the non-skin side panel area 27 may not be provided on the sanitary napkin 1.

[0099] <Regarding the mixing ratio of pulp fiber and highly absorbent polymer in absorbent core 11>

[0100] As described above, the absorbent core 11 of the sanitary napkin 1 is formed from liquid absorbent fibers such as pulp fibers mixed with superabsorbent polymer (SAP). In the sanitary napkin 1 of this embodiment, the mixing ratio of pulp fibers in the absorbent core 11 is greater than the mixing ratio of SAP. Specifically, the weight per unit area of ​​pulp fibers is greater than the weight per unit area of ​​SAP. That is, in the sanitary napkin 1 of this embodiment, a material mainly composed of pulp fibers is used as the absorbent core 11. Therefore, compared with, for example, using SAP sheets as the absorbent core, the absorbent body 10 can quickly absorb and retain excrement.

[0101] Furthermore, in the sanitary napkin 1 of this embodiment, the value obtained by dividing the weight of SAP in the absorbent core 11 by the total weight of the pulp fiber and the SAP (hereinafter referred to as the SAP ratio) is 20% or less. Because the SAP ratio in the absorbent core 11 is relatively small, the wearer of the sanitary napkin 1 is less likely to feel the grainy texture of SAP when in contact with the absorbent body 10, resulting in less discomfort when wearing the sanitary napkin 1. However, as long as the weight per unit area of ​​pulp fiber is greater than the weight per unit area of ​​SAP, the SAP ratio can also be greater than 20%.

[0102] <Regarding the thickness of sanitary napkin 1>

[0103] In the sanitary napkin 1 of this embodiment, the absorbent core 11 with good absorption retention performance described above is used, and the absorbent body 10 is made thin. In addition, by forming the sanitary napkin 1 such that the thickness of each position of the sanitary napkin 1 including the absorbent body 10 has a predetermined size relationship between each position, it is possible to reduce discomfort when wearing it, the impact on the appearance after wearing clothes, and to make the wearer actually feel the ease of wearing it.

[0104] Furthermore, the location where the wearer identifies the thickness of the sanitary napkin 1 varies depending on the scenario in which the sanitary napkin 1 is used. This is because, although the thickness of the sanitary napkin 1 is usually determined by the wearer through holding it between their fingers or through contact with their skin (e.g., the skin around the thighs), the location where the sanitary napkin 1 is held or the location in contact with the skin differs depending on the scenario in which the sanitary napkin 1 is used. Therefore, before explaining the thickness of the sanitary napkin 1 at each location and their size relationships according to this embodiment, the measurement location and method for the thickness of the sanitary napkin 1 will be explained based on examples of various scenarios in which the sanitary napkin 1 is used.

[0105] (Scenes before wearing sanitary napkin 1)

[0106] Figure 5 This diagram illustrates the situation where the wearer checks the thickness of the absorbent core 11 portion before wearing the sanitary napkin 1.

[0107] Before wearing sanitary napkin 1, the wearer takes sanitary napkin 1 out of the packaging containing sanitary napkin 1 and identifies that the absorbent body 10 is relatively thin when holding sanitary napkin 1 in their hand. For example, as Figure 5 As shown, the wearer confirms the thickness by pinching the crotch area of ​​the sanitary napkin 1 taken out of the packaging with their fingers, thereby identifying that the absorbent core 11 of the sanitary napkin 1 is relatively thin. Specifically, when confirming the thickness of the absorbent core 11 of the sanitary napkin 1, the wearer pinches the portion of the absorbent core 11 located in the crotch area (more specifically, the central position CL) with their fingers, near both ends in the left-right direction, to confirm the thickness.

[0108] (Scene involving pulling up sanitary napkin 1 and wearing it)

[0109] Figure 6 This diagram illustrates the situation where the wearer pulls up the sanitary napkin 1 to put it on.

[0110] When wearing sanitary napkin 1, the wearer holds the outer component 20 near the waist opening 1a of the upper side of the sanitary napkin 1 and pulls it upwards. At this time, the wearer feels the thickness of the outer component 20 near the waist opening 1a. Therefore, assuming that the wearer feels that the thickness of the outer component 20 near the waist opening 1a, which is approximately the same as the thickness of the absorbent core 11, is also relatively small, the wearer may sometimes feel uneasy about whether the sanitary napkin 1 will tear when pulling it upwards to wear it.

[0111] Furthermore, when wearing sanitary napkin 1, the outer components 20 near the leg openings 1b, 1b are pulled up simultaneously with the wearer's legs. Therefore, assuming the outer components 20 near the leg openings 1b, 1b are relatively thick, they will become an obstacle during the pulling action, making it difficult for the wearer to pull up the sanitary napkin 1. In addition, especially when holding the outer components 20 near the waist opening 1a of the front part, the wearer's thighs are prone to friction with the outer components 20. Therefore, if the outer components 20 are relatively thick, it will give the wearer a strong impression that they will become an obstacle during the pulling action.

[0112] In the sanitary napkin 1 of this embodiment, the following is used: Figure 5 The description of "maximum thickness of the portion located in the wearer's crotch area" and its use Figure 6 The description of the "maximum thickness of the outer component 20 near the waist opening 1a" and the "maximum thickness of the outer component 20 near the pair of leg openings 1b, 1b" has a predetermined size relationship, which can reduce discomfort when wearing, the impact on the appearance after wearing the clothes, and make the wearer actually feel the ease of wearing.

[0113] (Measurement locations and methods for various thicknesses of sanitary napkin 1)

[0114] The following is a detailed description of the measurement locations and methods for measuring the various thicknesses of sanitary napkin 1.

[0115] Figure 7 Figure A illustrates the measurement positions of each thickness in a top view of a sanitary napkin 1 in its unfolded and elongated state, as viewed from the thickness direction. Figure 7 B is a cross-sectional view of the central position CL of a sanitary napkin 1 in its natural state.

[0116] like Figure 7 As shown in Figure A, when a sanitary napkin 1 is viewed unfolded and stretched in the thickness direction, the position M1 is defined as the first position M1, located at the center CL in the length direction of the sanitary napkin 1 and 10 mm away from both ends of the absorbent core 11 in the left and right directions. Figure 7In diagram A, for convenience, the first position M1 is indicated by a circle, but it is actually located at the central position CL and at a distance of 10 mm from both ends of the absorbent core 11 in the left-right direction. Furthermore, the first position M1 corresponds to the measurement position described above as "the portion located in the wearer's crotch area." Additionally, the absorbent core 11 is at least located at the first position M1. This allows for the measurement of the thickness of the portion including the absorbent core 11.

[0117] Furthermore, the position M2 is defined as the position located 10 mm away from both ends of the portion constituting the waist opening 1a of the outer member 20 in the longitudinal direction, and located in the center of the two ranges obtained by dividing that position into four equal parts in the left-right direction. When the sanitary napkin 1 is viewed from the thickness direction in its unfolded and extended state, the ends of the portions constituting the waist opening 1a of the outer member 20 (front outer part 20f and rear outer part 20b) are respectively lines along the left-right direction. Additionally, as... Figure 7 As shown by the dashed line A, the second position M2 is located on a line parallel to this line and 10 mm from the center position CL in the length direction. Furthermore, the second position M2 corresponds to the measurement position of the aforementioned "external component 20 near the waist opening 1a".

[0118] Furthermore, the third position M3 is defined as a position located 10 mm inward from the left and right ends of the portions forming a pair of leg openings 1b, 1b of the outer member 20 in the front part, at a distance that does not overlap with the absorbent body 10, and further within the range obtained by dividing this position into two equal parts in the left and right directions. When the sanitary napkin 1 is viewed from the thickness direction in its unfolded and extended state, the ends of the portions forming a pair of leg openings 1b, 1b of the outer member 20 are along the lines of the respective edges of the pair of leg openings 1b, 1b. Therefore, as... Figure 7 As shown by the dashed line A, the third position M3 is located on a line parallel to this line and 10 mm from both ends of the line in the length direction. Furthermore, the third position M3 is the measurement position corresponding to the aforementioned "external component 20 near the pair of leg openings 1b, 1b in the front part".

[0119] The maximum thickness of the sanitary napkin 1 at positions M1, M2, and M3 is measured, and the relationship between the magnitudes of each maximum thickness is determined. Furthermore, positions M1, M2, and M3 are set as described above for the sanitary napkin 1 in its unfolded and stretched state, while the measurement of each maximum thickness is performed for the sanitary napkin 1 in its natural state.

[0120] The maximum thickness can be measured using well-known methods. For example, it can be measured using a Peacock dial thickness gauge or an equivalent instrument. In this embodiment, the above-mentioned equipment is used for measurement. Specifically, a measuring pressure of approximately 60 gf is applied using a probe with a diameter of 50 mm. For the thickness at each location, the thickness is measured three times, and the maximum value is taken as the "maximum thickness". The same method can be used for the thickness measurement described later. In addition, five pieces are evaluated using the product sealed in the package or the same product produced on the same production day, and their average value is taken as the maximum thickness.

[0121] (Regarding the relationship between the maximum thicknesses)

[0122] In the sanitary napkin 1 of this embodiment, in its natural state, the maximum thickness of the outer component 20 from the non-skin side to the skin side of the absorbent body 10 at the first position M1 is smaller than the maximum thickness of the outer component 20 at the second position M2, and larger than the maximum thickness of the outer component 20 at the third position M3.

[0123] In the sanitary napkin 1 of this embodiment, since the maximum thickness of the portion located in the wearer's crotch area is smaller than the maximum thickness of the outer member 20 near the waist opening 1a of the front part, discomfort when stored in the crotch area is reduced, and the absorbent body 10 is less conspicuous in terms of appearance when clothing is worn over the sanitary napkin 1. Conversely, since the maximum thickness of the outer member 20 near the waist opening 1a is greater than the maximum thickness of the portion located in the wearer's crotch area, the wearer can easily grasp the outer member 20 near the waist opening 1a and pull it upwards when wearing the sanitary napkin 1. In addition, since the maximum thickness of the outer member 20 near the waist opening 1a is greater than the maximum thickness of the portion located in the wearer's crotch area, after wearing the sanitary napkin 1, the portion of the outer member 20 near the waist opening 1a tends to remain above the wearer's waistline, thereby easily supporting the entire sanitary napkin 1.

[0124] Furthermore, the thicknesses of the sanitary napkin 1 in this embodiment are measured in its natural state. Therefore, when the waist elastic member 26, which is stretched in the stretched state, contracts, the outer member 20 deforms into a wrinkled, uneven shape as the waist elastic member 26 contracts, in the natural state when the maximum thickness of the outer member 20 near the waist opening 1a (the maximum thickness of the outer member 20 at the second position M2) is measured. In addition, by appropriately setting the amount of contraction of the waist elastic member 26, the maximum thickness of the outer member 20 near the waist opening 1a (the maximum thickness of the outer member 20 at the second position M2) can be made greater than the maximum thickness of the portion located in the wearer's crotch area (the maximum thickness from the non-skin side of the outer member 20 to the skin side of the absorbent body 10 at the first position M1) in the natural state.

[0125] Furthermore, since the maximum thickness of the outer components 20 near the pair of leg openings 1b, 1b in the front part is smaller than the maximum thickness of the portion located in the wearer's crotch area, the outer components 20 near the pair of leg openings 1b, 1b are less likely to become an obstacle during the wearer's pulling action on the sanitary napkin 1. Additionally, since the maximum thickness of the outer components 20 near the pair of leg openings 1b, 1b is smaller than the maximum thickness of the portion located in the wearer's crotch area, the portion of the outer components 20 near the pair of leg openings 1b, 1b is less noticeable in appearance when the garment is worn.

[0126] Therefore, in the sanitary napkin 1 of this embodiment, while using an absorbent core with good absorbency and retention performance, it is possible to reduce discomfort when wearing it, the impact on the appearance after wearing clothes, and make the wearer actually feel the ease of wearing it.

[0127] (Regarding the thickness relationship of other parts)

[0128] like Figure 7 As shown in Figure B, in its natural state, the minimum thickness MT of the raised portion 62 of the leak-proof wall 60 is smaller than the maximum thickness of the outer member 20 at the third position M3. Since the minimum thickness of the raised portion 62 of the leak-proof wall 60 is smaller than the maximum thickness of the outer member 20 near the pair of leg openings 1b, 1b, discomfort when wearing underwear-type absorbent items can be further reduced.

[0129] In addition, such as Figure 7 A and Figure 7 As shown in Figure B, in its natural state, the maximum thickness of the non-skin side panel 21 in the non-skin side panel individual area 27 is smaller than the minimum thickness of the raised portion 62. Therefore, the non-skin side panel individual area 27, which is provided as a pleated portion, can be formed with a thickness that is unlikely to cause discomfort to the wearer.

[0130] like Figure 7As shown in Figure A, when the sanitary napkin 1 is viewed in its unfolded and stretched state from the thickness direction, the position where the crotch elastic member 50 overlaps with the absorbent core 11 is designated as the fourth position M4. The fourth position M4 is the measurement position corresponding to the portion along the cleft of the wearer's buttocks.

[0131] The maximum thickness at position 4 (M4), from the non-skin side of the outer component 20 to the skin side of the absorbent body 10, is smaller in the stretched state than the maximum thickness of the outer component 20 at position 2 (M2), and larger in the natural state than the maximum thickness of the outer component 20 at position 2 (M2). In the unfolded and stretched state when the sanitary napkin 1 is pulled up, since the maximum thickness of the portion of the absorbent body 10 along the cleft of the wearer's buttocks is smaller than the maximum thickness of the outer component 20 near the waist opening 1a, discomfort when pulling up the sanitary napkin 1 can be reduced. Furthermore, in the natural state after wearing the sanitary napkin 1, since the portion of the absorbent body 10 along the cleft of the wearer's buttocks enters the cleft of the buttocks, the impact on the appearance after wearing clothing can be reduced, and leakage of excrement into the gap behind the buttocks can be suppressed.

[0132] (Scene about taking sanitary napkin 1 out of the packaging)

[0133] Figure 8 This is an illustration depicting a wearer holding a sanitary napkin 1 taken out of its packaging. Figure 9 This diagram illustrates the measurement positions of each thickness in a top view obtained by observing a sanitary napkin 1 in its natural state along the direction from the ventral side to the dorsal side.

[0134] When the wearer takes the sanitary napkin 1 out of the packaging, they hold the outer component 20 near the upper side of the sanitary napkin 1 and the waist opening 1a with their hand while the front outer part 20f and the back outer part 20b are overlapping. In other words, the wearer feels the thickness of the outer component 20 near the waist opening 1a when the front outer part 20f and the back outer part 20b are overlapping.

[0135] like Figure 9 As shown, in its natural state, when viewed along the direction from the ventral side to the dorsal side of the sanitary napkin 1, at least the absorbent body 10 is composed of, as Figure 7The sanitary napkin 1, as shown in Figure A, is folded at the central position CL along its length in its unfolded and extended state. At this time, the front outer part 20f (the ventral side portion of the outer part 20) and the rear outer part 20b (the back side portion of the outer part 20) are stacked. The position M5 is defined as a position 10 mm away from the bottommost end 1c of the sanitary napkin 1 along its length and 10 mm away from both ends of the absorbent core 11 in the left and right directions. The position M6 is defined as a position 10 mm away from the end of the portion of the outer part 20 that forms the waist opening 1a, in the downward direction.

[0136] In its natural state, the maximum thickness at position 5 (M5) from the non-skin side of the ventral side to the non-skin side of the dorsal side of the sanitary napkin 1 is smaller than the combined maximum thickness of the front outer portion 20f (the ventral portion of the outer component 20) and the rear outer portion 20b (the dorsal portion of the outer component 20) at position 6 (M6). Therefore, for example, when the sanitary napkin 1 is removed from the packaging, the wearer can actually feel that the absorbent body 10 is thinner when holding the sanitary napkin 1, for example, in their hand.

[0137] (Regarding the thickness of other parts of sanitary napkin 1)

[0138] like Figure 7 As shown in Figure A, when a sanitary napkin 1 is viewed unfolded and stretched in the thickness direction, the area on the abdominal side closer to the center of the sanitary napkin 1 in the length direction, where the skin side panel 22 and the non-skin side panel 21 overlap, is defined as the overlapping area. Furthermore, the overlapping area is... Figure 3 The second part ML on the front side is shown. Additionally, the position where this laminated region overlaps with the absorbent body 10 (… Figure 7 The position shown in FT in A, and the position that is 10mm away from both ends of the absorbent body 10 in the left and right directions, is set as position 7 M7.

[0139] In its natural state, the maximum thickness at position 7 (M7) from the non-skin side of the outer component 20 to the skin side of the absorbent body 10 is smaller than the maximum thickness of the outer component 20 at position 2 (M2). Therefore, the central abdominal portion of the sanitary napkin 1, which has the greatest impact on the appearance after wearing clothing (… Figure 7 The maximum thickness of the outer component 20 near the waist opening 1a is smaller than that of the position shown in FT in A, so even if clothes are worn, the impact on appearance can be further suppressed, and it is easier to pull up the sanitary napkin 1.

[0140] In addition, such as Figure 9As shown, in its natural state, the length 41L from the lower end 40c of the pair of side joints 40 to the lower end 1c of the sanitary napkin 1 in the vertical direction is smaller than the length 40L of each of the pair of side joints 40 in the vertical direction. Since the length of the conspicuous portion of the absorbent body 10 below the pair of side joints 40 in the vertical direction of the sanitary napkin 1 is smaller than the length of each of the pair of side joints 40, the sanitary napkin 1 can have an underwear-like appearance and is easier to pull up.

[0141] like Figure 7 As shown, the position M8 is defined as the innermost part of the range obtained by dividing the rear portion into two equal parts in the left and right directions at a distance of 10 mm from the left and right ends of the portions forming a pair of leg openings 1b, 1b of the outer member 20 in the inward direction, and at a position that does not overlap with the absorbent body 10. At this time, the maximum thickness of the outer member 20 at position M8 is smaller than the maximum thickness from the non-skin side of the outer member 20 to the skin side of the absorbent body 10 at position M1, and larger than the maximum thickness of the outer member 20 at position M3.

[0142] Therefore, by making the maximum thickness of the outer components 20 near the pair of leg openings 1b, 1b in the back part smaller than the maximum thickness of the portion located in the wearer's crotch area, the upward pull on the wearer's back can be maintained. In addition, by making the maximum thickness of the outer components 20 near the pair of leg openings 1b, 1b in the back part larger than the maximum thickness of the outer components 20 near the pair of leg openings 1b, 1b in the front part, the wearer can feel reassured that the area covered beyond the buttocks is covered when wearing the sanitary napkin 1.

[0143] Furthermore, the measurement methods for positions 4 (M4) to 7 (M7) are the same as those for positions 1 (M1) to 3 (M3) as described above.

[0144] ===Others====

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

Claims

1. An absorbent underwear-type garment, comprising a waist opening and a pair of leg openings, wherein, when in an unfolded and extended state, the absorbent underwear-type garment has intersecting length directions, left-right directions, and thickness directions, characterized in that, This absorbent underwear-type garment comprises: an outer casing; and an absorbent body located closer to the skin than the outer casing, having an absorbent core comprising pulp fibers and a highly absorbent polymer, wherein the weight per unit area of ​​the pulp fibers in the absorbent core is greater than the weight per unit area of ​​the highly absorbent polymer. When viewed along the thickness direction in the unfolded and stretched state, a position 10 mm from the center of the absorbent underwear-type garment in the length direction and from both ends of the absorbent core in the left-right direction is designated as the first position. A position 10 mm from both ends of the portion of the outer casing constituting the waist opening in the length direction is designated as the first position in the left-right direction. The position of the two central portions of the range obtained by dividing the upper part into four equal parts is designated as the second position. The position of the inner portion of the range obtained by dividing the front part into two equal parts in the left and right directions at a distance of 10 mm from the left and right ends of the portions of the outer component that constitute the pair of leg openings inward towards the outer component and at a position that does not overlap with the absorbent body is designated as the third position. At this time, the absorbent core is provided at least in the first position. In the natural state, the maximum thickness of the outer component from the non-skin side to the skin side of the absorbent body at the first position is smaller than the maximum thickness of the outer component at the second position and larger than the maximum thickness of the outer component at the third position.

2. The absorbent underwear-type garment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The value obtained by dividing the weight of the highly absorbent polymer in the absorbent core by the total weight of the pulp fiber and the highly absorbent polymer is less than 20%.

3. The absorbent underwear-type garment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The underwear-type absorbent article has a pair of leak-proof wall portions, which are provided on both sides of the absorbent body in the left-right direction along the length direction and stand upright towards the skin. Each of the pair of leak-proof wall portions has: a leak-proof wall elastic member that stretches and contracts along the length direction; and an upright portion that stands upright towards the skin based on the stretching and contraction of the leak-proof wall elastic member. In the natural state, the minimum thickness of the upright portion is smaller than the maximum thickness of the outer member at the third position.

4. The absorbent underwear-type garment according to claim 3, characterized in that, The outer component has skin-side panels and non-skin-side panels. When viewed along the thickness direction in the unfolded and extended state, a separate area of ​​non-skin-side panels, where the skin-side panels and non-skin-side panels are not overlapped, is provided at the center of the length direction of the underwear-type absorbent article and at a position further outward in the left-right direction than the absorbent body. In its natural state, the maximum thickness of the non-skin side sheet in the individual region of the non-skin side sheet is smaller than the minimum thickness of the raised portion.

5. The absorbent underwear-type garment according to claim 1, characterized in that, This underwear-type absorbent article has a crotch elastic member located on the non-skin side of the absorbent core, which stretches and extends along the length direction. At least a portion of the crotch elastic member is located on the back side of the central part of the underwear-type absorbent article along the length direction. When viewed along the thickness direction in the unfolded and stretched state, with the position where the crotch elastic member overlaps with the absorbent core designated as the fourth position, the maximum thickness at the fourth position from the non-skin side of the outer component to the skin side of the absorbent body is smaller in the stretched state than the maximum thickness of the outer component at the second position, and larger in the natural state than the maximum thickness of the outer component at the second position.

6. The absorbent underwear-type garment according to claim 1, characterized in that, When viewed in its natural state along the direction from the abdomen to the back of the absorbent underwear, at least the absorbent body is folded at a fold position located at the center of the length direction of the absorbent underwear in its unfolded and extended state. The abdomen portion of the outer garment component is stacked with the back portion of the outer garment component. The position 5 is defined as a position 10 mm from the bottom of the absorbent underwear in the length direction and 10 mm from both ends of the absorbent core in the left-right direction. The position 6 is defined as a position 10 mm from the upper end of the portion of the outer garment component that forms the waist opening. At this time, in its natural state, the maximum thickness at the 5th position from the non-skin side of the abdomen to the non-skin side of the back of the absorbent underwear is smaller than the combined thickness of the maximum thickness of the abdomen portion of the outer garment component and the maximum thickness of the back portion of the outer garment component at the 6th position.

7. The absorbent underwear-type garment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The outer component has a skin side panel and a non-skin side panel. When viewed along the thickness direction in the unfolded and extended state, it has a layered area that is closer to the abdomen than the central portion of the length direction of the underwear-type absorbent article, and the skin side panel and the non-skin side panel overlap. When the position where the layered area overlaps with the absorbent body and is 10 mm away from both ends of the absorbent core in the left-right direction is designated as the 7th position, in the natural state, the maximum thickness from the non-skin side of the outer component to the skin side of the absorbent body at the 7th position is smaller than the maximum thickness of the outer component at the 2nd position.

8. The absorbent underwear-type garment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The absorbent underwear has a pair of lateral joints where the ventral portion of the outer garment and the dorsal portion of the outer garment meet each other at their respective ends in the left-right direction. In its natural state, the length from the lower end of the pair of lateral joints to the lower end of the absorbent underwear in the vertical direction is smaller than the length of each of the pair of lateral joints in the vertical direction.

9. The absorbent underwear-type garment according to claim 1, characterized in that, When viewed along the thickness direction in the unfolded and elongated state, if the position of the rear body portion located 10 mm away from the left and right ends of the portion constituting the pair of leg openings of the outer member in the direction inward towards the inner side of the outer member, and which does not overlap with the absorbent body, is defined as the 8th position, in the natural state, the maximum thickness of the outer member at the 8th position is smaller than the maximum thickness from the non-skin side of the outer member to the skin side of the absorbent body at the 1st position, and larger than the maximum thickness of the outer member at the 3rd position.

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