Panty-type absorbent article

Abstract

A pant-type absorbent article (1) having an absorbent main body (10) provided with an absorbent core (11), wherein the pant-type absorbent article has a crotch elastic region (ER) defined by a crotch elastic member (40) provided on a non-skin side of the absorbent core (11), and has left and right direction elastic members (24-26), does not have a portion in which the crotch elastic region (ER) and the left and right direction elastic members (24-26) overlap in a longitudinal direction, and has, in a region (IFR) that overlaps the absorbent core (11) when viewed in a thickness direction and overlaps the crotch elastic region (ER) in the longitudinal direction, a non-existing portion (75) in which an adhesive does not exist in a sheet member (23) provided on a most non-skin side, the length of the non-existing portion (75) in the longitudinal direction and the left and right direction is 1 / 2 or more of the length of the crotch elastic region (ER) in the longitudinal direction and the left and right direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to absorbent articles in the form of underwear. Background Technology

[0002] Previously, it was known that in underwear-type absorbent articles (e.g., underwear-type diapers) that have an absorbent body and a waist member arranged to cover the front and back of the absorbent body from the non-skin side, an elastic member (crotch elastic member) that stretches along the long side of the absorbent body is provided to improve the fit of the absorbent body at the crotch. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a technology related to diapers (absorbent articles) that has a leg elastic body 7A that stretches along the width direction and a central elastic body 60 (equivalent to the crotch elastic member) that stretches along the long side direction. The contraction of the central elastic body 60 prevents the absorbent body 40 from moving away from the wearer's skin, thereby improving the wearing comfort.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2010-279612 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The problem the invention aims to solve

[0007] In absorbent garments with such a crotch elastic member, wrinkles easily form in the crotch area due to the contraction of the crotch elastic member. However, there is a concern that if wrinkles that should not exist in underwear form in the crotch area and are visually identifiable, the user (wearer) may easily perceive the difference from underwear, thus creating a sense of disharmony. Additionally, there is a concern that the wearer may feel as if they are wearing diapers rather than underwear, thus creating psychological distress.

[0008] The present invention was made in view of the aforementioned problems, and its object is to provide an absorbent article of the underwear type having a crotch elastic member and appearing like underwear.

[0009] Solution for solving the problem

[0010] The main invention for achieving the above-mentioned objective is an underwear-type absorbent article, which, in its unfolded and extended state, has intersecting long side directions, left-right directions, and thickness directions, and has an absorbent body with an absorbent core. The underwear-type absorbent article is characterized by having a crotch elastic region defined by a crotch elastic member located on a non-skin side closer to the absorbent core and extending and contracting along the long side direction, and having left-right elastic members extending continuously from one end to the other in the left-right direction. In the long side direction, there is no overlap between the crotch elastic region and the left-right elastic members. The overlapping portion, in the region that overlaps with the absorbent core when viewed along the thickness direction and with the crotch elastic region in the long side direction, has a non-existent portion in the sheet member disposed on the non-skin side of the sheet member disposed more closely than the crotch elastic member, where no adhesive is present in the sheet member disposed on the non-skin side, the length of the non-existent portion in the long side direction being more than 1 / 2 of the length of the crotch elastic region in the long side direction, or the length of the non-existent portion in the left-right direction being more than 1 / 2 of the length of the crotch elastic region in the left-right direction.

[0011] Other features of the invention will become clear from the description in this specification and the accompanying drawings.

[0012] The effects of the invention

[0013] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an absorbent article of the underwear type that has a crotch elastic member and looks like underwear. Attached Figure Description

[0014] Figure 1 This is a front view obtained by observing the underwear-type disposable diaper 1 from the ventral side.

[0015] Figure 2 This is a top view of the underwear-type disposable diaper 1 in its unfolded and extended state.

[0016] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A schematic cross-sectional view of the underwear-type disposable diaper 1 at the CC position.

[0017] Figure 4 of Figure 4 A is a top view obtained by observing the absorbent body 10 from the skin side. Figure 4 of Figure 4 B is a schematic cross-sectional view at the center value CL along the long side of the absorbent body 10.

[0018] Figure 5 of Figure 5 A and Figure 5 Figure B illustrates the connection between the absorbent body 10 and the waist member 20 (outer member 20).

[0019] Figure 6 of Figure 6 A and Figure 6 Figure B illustrates the relationship between the main body joint 70 and the folds formed in the crotch area of ​​the diaper 1.

[0020] Figure 7 This diagram illustrates the relationship between the main body joint 70 and the folds formed in the crotch area of ​​the diaper 1.

[0021] Figure 8 It is Figure 5 The diagram shows an enlarged sectional view of B.

[0022] Figure 9 These are the top view and sectional view of the modified diaper 1 in an unfolded and extended state.

[0023] Figure 10 These are three-view drawings illustrating the structure of the diaper 2 according to the second embodiment.

[0024] Figure 11 These are three-view drawings illustrating the structure of the diaper 3 according to the third embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0025] Based on the description in this specification and the accompanying drawings, at least the following matters are clear.

[0026] (Method 1)

[0027] An absorbent underwear-type garment, in its unfolded and extended state, has intersecting long side directions, left-right directions, and thickness directions, and has an absorbent body with an absorbent core. The garment is characterized by having a crotch elastic region defined by a crotch elastic member located on a non-skin side of the absorbent core and extending along the long side direction, and having left-right elastic members extending continuously from one end to the other in the left-right direction. In the long side direction, there is no overlap between the crotch elastic region and the left-right elastic members. In the region that overlaps with the absorbent core when viewed in the thickness direction and with the crotch elastic region in the long side direction, there is a non-existent portion of the sheet member disposed on the non-skin side of the sheet member disposed at the non-skin side where no adhesive is present. The length of the non-existent portion in the long side direction is more than 1 / 2 of the length of the crotch elastic region in the long side direction, or the length of the non-existent portion in the left-right direction is more than 1 / 2 of the length of the crotch elastic region in the left-right direction.

[0028] According to Method 1, the crotch elastic area does not intersect with the left-right elastic members, allowing the stretching force along the long side to reliably act on the absorbent core, thereby improving the fit of the crotch area. Furthermore, in the crotch fit area of ​​the absorbent core, which is easily affected by the contraction of the crotch elastic area, there is a portion (non-existent portion) of a sheet member located on the non-skin side of the sheet member, which is positioned at the closest point to the non-skin side, and a portion of the sheet member adjacent to the skin side of this sheet member that is not joined. Therefore, when the crotch elastic area contracts, the effect of this contraction is less likely to be transmitted to the sheet member closest to the non-skin side in the non-existent portion, and wrinkles are less likely to form on the non-skin side. Thus, it is possible to achieve a crotch-type absorbent article where wrinkles are not noticeable and the appearance is similar to underwear.

[0029] (Method 2)

[0030] In the underwear-type absorbent article described in Method 1, in the portion that overlaps with the crotch elastic area when viewed along the thickness direction, there is a central adhesive portion in which an adhesive is provided on the sheet member located on the non-skin side.

[0031] According to Method 2, in the portion of the absorbent underwear-type garment that overlaps with the crotch elastic area, the folds formed in the absorbent core due to the elasticity of the crotch elastic area are easily transmitted to the waistband member (the sheet member located on the non-skin side) and the folds are visually identifiable on the surface of the waistband member. This allows the user to easily recognize a good fit in the crotch area.

[0032] (Method 3)

[0033] In the underwear-type absorbent article described in Method 1 or Method 2, the entire portion of the sheet member located on the non-skin side that overlaps with the crotch elastic region in the left-right direction has the portion containing the central adhesive.

[0034] According to Method 3, in the case of an absorbent underwear-type garment where the absorbent core contracts along its long side due to the elasticity of the crotch elastic area, the folds are transferred to the waist member (a sheet member located on the non-skin side) across the entire area of ​​the crotch elastic area in the left-right direction. Therefore, the folds formed in the area of ​​the crotch that overlaps with the crotch elastic area are more visually identifiable, easily giving the user an impression of a good fit.

[0035] (Method 4)

[0036] In any of the underwear-type absorbent articles described in methods 1 to 3, the entire portion of the sheet member located on the non-skin side that overlaps with the crotch elastic region in the long side direction has the portion containing the central adhesive.

[0037] According to Method 4, in the case of an absorbent underwear-type garment where the absorbent core contracts along its long side due to the elasticity of the crotch elastic area, the folds are transferred to the waist member (the sheet member located on the non-skin side) along the entire long side of the crotch elastic area. Therefore, the folds formed in the area overlapping the crotch elastic area are more visually identifiable, giving the user a better impression of fit.

[0038] (Method 5)

[0039] In the underwear-type absorbent articles described in any of the methods 1 to 4, the non-skin portion is located in the sheet member disposed on the side closest to the skin, adjacent to the two outer sides of the portion where the central adhesive is present in the left-right direction.

[0040] According to the absorbent underwear of method 5, when the elastic area of ​​the crotch contracts, wrinkles form at the portion of the waistband where the central adhesive is present, which is joined to the absorbent body. Conversely, wrinkles are less likely to form at the portions on either side of the central adhesive portion that are not joined to the absorbent body (the non-existent portions). Therefore, good fit can be observed in the crotch area, and wrinkles are less noticeable overall.

[0041] (Method 6)

[0042] In any of the methods 1 to 5, in the panty-type absorbent article, in the left-right direction, there are two adhesive portions on both sides where the adhesive is provided on the sheet member located on the side closest to the skin, located further outward than the non-adhesive portions adjacent to the two outer sides of the central adhesive portion.

[0043] According to the absorbent underwear of method 6, by providing adhesive-containing portions on both sides in the left-right direction of the non-existent portion, it is possible to suppress the situation where, at both ends in the left-right direction of the absorbent body, the waistband (inner layer) partially rolls up or wrinkles. This improves the fit of the absorbent underwear in the crotch area, especially around the legs, and allows it to appear like underwear when worn.

[0044] (Method 7)

[0045] In the underwear-type absorbent articles described in any of the methods 1 to 6, in the direction of the long side, there are no non-existent portions on both outer sides of the portion where the central adhesive is present.

[0046] According to Method 7, the absorbent underwear is securely joined to the waistband in the area (front and back) on the outer side of the crotch elastic area along the long side. This prevents the outermost layer of the waistband from floating to the non-skin side when worn, making it easy for the absorbent underwear to look like underwear.

[0047] (Method 8)

[0048] In any of the methods 1 to 7, the underwear-type absorbent article has a sheet member disposed adjacent to the skin side of the crotch elastic member in the thickness direction, and a portion of the sheet member disposed at the non-skin side that is not joined.

[0049] According to the absorbent underwear of method 8, when the elastic area in the crotch contracts along the long side, wrinkles easily form on the sheet member on the skin side. On the other hand, since the sheet member on the skin side and the sheet member on the non-skin side of the sheet member on the skin side are not joined to each other (non-existent portion), the transfer of wrinkles formed on the skin side sheet member to the non-skin side sheet member can be suppressed. Therefore, wrinkles are less likely to form on the waistband, allowing the absorbent underwear to appear like underwear when worn.

[0050] (Method 9)

[0051] In any of the methods 1 to 8, the absorbent core has a narrowed portion in the central part of the long side direction that is narrower in the left-right direction than at both ends of the long side direction, and the position where the width of the narrowed portion in the left-right direction is narrowest in the long side direction overlaps with the crotch elastic area.

[0052] According to Method 9, in the crotch area of ​​the absorbent core, where wrinkles are prone to form, the width of the absorbent core (narrowing section) is the narrowest. Therefore, compared to the case where wrinkles form in areas where the absorbent core is wider, the wrinkles are less likely to become excessively large and less noticeable. Consequently, it is easy to make the absorbent core appear like underwear when worn.

[0053] (Method 10)

[0054] In the underwear-type absorbent articles described in any of the methods 1 to 9, the average unit area weight of the first sheet member disposed on the non-skin side of the crotch elastic member in the thickness direction is different from the average unit area weight of the second sheet member disposed on the non-skin side of the first sheet member.

[0055] According to the absorbent underwear-type garment of method 10, by layering a first sheet member and a second sheet member with different unit area weights in the thickness direction, it is easy to suppress the situation where wrinkles formed on the first sheet member are directly transmitted to the second sheet member. As a result, wrinkles in the crotch area become less noticeable, making it easier to make the appearance look like underwear.

[0056] (Method 11)

[0057] In the underwear-type absorbent articles described in any of the methods 1 to 10, the average unit area weight of the second sheet component is greater than the average unit area weight of the first sheet component.

[0058] According to the absorbent underwear-type garment of method 11, since the stiffness of a sheet member with a larger unit area weight is generally higher than that of a sheet member with a smaller unit area weight, by placing a second sheet member with a larger unit area weight on the non-skin side, it is easier to suppress the formation of large wrinkles on the non-skin side. As a result, wrinkles in the crotch area become less noticeable, making it easier to make the appearance resemble underwear.

[0059] (Method 12)

[0060] In the underwear-type absorbent articles described in any of the methods 1 to 11, the average fiber width of the fibers constituting the first sheet member is different from the average fiber width of the fibers constituting the second sheet member.

[0061] According to method 12, the absorbent underwear-type garment, the sheet material with a larger average fiber width is less prone to bending and crease formation, thus easily suppressing the situation where creases formed on the skin-side of the first sheet material are directly transmitted to the non-skin-side of the second sheet material. Consequently, creases in the crotch area become less noticeable, making it easier to achieve an appearance similar to underwear.

[0062] (Method 13)

[0063] In the underwear-type absorbent articles described in any of the methods 1 to 12, the fiber orientation direction of the first sheet member and the fiber orientation direction of the second sheet member intersect each other.

[0064] According to the absorbent underwear-type garment of method 13, there is a high probability that the stretchability of the first sheet member along the long side and the stretchability of the second sheet member along the long side are different, and there is also a high probability that the ease of wrinkle formation when the elastic area in the crotch contracts along the long side is different. Therefore, even if wrinkles are formed in the first sheet member, the possibility that the formed wrinkles will be directly transmitted to the second sheet member can be reduced. As a result, wrinkles in the crotch area become less noticeable, making it easier to make the appearance look like underwear.

[0065] (Method 14)

[0066] In the absorbent underwear-type articles described in any of the methods 1 to 13, a plurality of crotch elastic members are provided at intervals in the left-right direction. Each plurality of crotch elastic members has a first crotch elastic member and a second crotch elastic member disposed adjacent to the outer side of the first crotch elastic member in the left-right direction. The force required for the first crotch elastic member to extend by a unit length in the long side direction is greater than the force required for the second crotch elastic member to extend by a unit length in the long side direction.

[0067] According to the absorbent underwear-type garment of method 14, the elasticity of the crotch area decreases towards the outer edges in the left-right direction. Therefore, when the crotch area contracts along its long side, the folds formed towards the outer edges in the left-right direction become smaller. As a result, the folds in the crotch area become less noticeable, making it easier to make the garment look like underwear.

[0068] (Method 15)

[0069] In the underwear-type absorbent articles described in any of the methods 1 to 14, the sheet member of the absorbent body disposed on the non-skin side is discontinuous in the left-right direction at the central and side portions.

[0070] According to the absorbent underwear of method 15, even if wrinkles form in the central sheet member (elastic member cover) in the left-right direction due to the contraction of the elastic area in the crotch, the effect of these wrinkles is not easily transmitted from the central sheet member to the sheet members (side panels) on both sides. That is, wrinkles are not easily formed in the sheet members (side panels) on both sides. As a result, the range of wrinkles formed in the waistband is not easily extended in the left-right direction, and the wrinkles are not easily noticeable in the crotch area. Therefore, it is easy to make the absorbent underwear of method 15 look like underwear.

[0071] (Method 16)

[0072] In any of the methods 1 to 15, the absorbent underwear-type material in which the absorbent body is disposed on the sheet member closest to the non-skin side, and which overlaps with the crotch elastic member at its central portion in the left-right direction, has portions at both ends in the left-right direction without adhesive.

[0073] According to the absorbent underwear of method 16, even if wrinkles form in the sheet member (elastic member cover) in the central part of the left and right direction due to the contraction of the elastic area in the crotch, the effect of the wrinkles can be suppressed from spreading outward in the left and right directions by the dry edges (the parts without adhesive) on both sides. Therefore, the range of wrinkles formed in the waist member is less likely to expand further in the left and right directions, and the wrinkles are less noticeable in the crotch area. Thus, it is easy to make the absorbent underwear of this type appear like underwear.

[0074] ===First Implementation Method===

[0075] Hereinafter, the absorbent underwear of the present invention will be described using the disposable diaper 1 (hereinafter also referred to as "diaper 1") as an example. However, the absorbent underwear of the present invention is not limited to the above-described case, and can also be used as sanitary napkins, menstrual underwear, etc.

[0076] <Basic Structure of Underwear-Type Disposable Diaper 1>

[0077] Figure 1 This is a front view obtained by observing the underwear-type disposable diaper 1 from the ventral side. Figure 2 This is a top view of the underwear-type disposable diaper 1 in its unfolded and extended state. Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A schematic cross-sectional view of the underwear-type disposable diaper 1 at the CC position.

[0078] The unfolded state of the underwear-type disposable diaper 1 (diaper 1) refers to the state in which the diaper 1 is opened and unfolded in a flat manner by separating the pair of side joints 5 located on both sides of the diaper 1. Furthermore, the stretched state of the diaper 1 refers to the state in which the diaper 1 is stretched to the point where the wrinkles of the diaper 1 are no longer visually discernible. Specifically, this means that the diaper 1 is stretched to the point where the dimensions of each component constituting the diaper 1 (e.g., the top sheet 12, inner sheet 23, etc., described later) are the same as or close to the dimensions of a single component.

[0079] like Figure 1 As shown, diaper 1 has mutually orthogonal vertical, horizontal, and front-back directions (in... Figure 1The design (which runs through the paper) includes a waist opening (BH) and a pair of leg openings (LH). The upper side in the vertical direction corresponds to the waist opening (BH), and the lower side in the vertical direction corresponds to the crotch side. Furthermore, the front side in the front-back direction corresponds to the wearer's abdomen, and the back side in the front-back direction corresponds to the wearer's back.

[0080] In addition, Figure 2 In the unfolded state shown, diaper 1 has intersecting long side directions, left-right directions, and thickness directions (in... Figure 2 (The center is the direction that runs through the paper). Furthermore... Figure 2 The left and right directions in the unfolded state are the same as Figure 1 In the underwear-style state, the left and right directions are the same. Additionally, in the unfolded state, the long side follows the same direction as the up and down direction in the underwear-style state. Furthermore, one side of the long side corresponds to the front (abdomen), and the other side corresponds to the back (back). Also, as... Figure 3 As shown, the direction in which the materials constituting diaper 1 are layered is defined as the thickness direction. The side in the thickness direction that comes into contact with the wearer's skin is defined as the skin side, and the opposite side is defined as the non-skin side.

[0081] The diaper 1 has an absorbent body 10 and an outer member 20 located on the non-skin side of the absorbent body 10. Details will be described later. The absorbent body 10 and the outer member 20 are joined in the thickness direction using an adhesive such as a hot-melt adhesive. Alternatively, covers 31 and 32 may be provided to cover the two ends of the absorbent body 10 along its long side from the skin side (see [reference]). Figure 3 Therefore, it is possible to suppress the edge of the absorbent body 10 from being pressed against the wearer and the opening of the absorbent body 10.

[0082] The outer layer 20 is located at the wearer's waist when the diaper 1 is worn; hereinafter, the outer layer 20 will also be referred to as the "waistline component 20". Additionally, as... Figure 2 As shown, in the unfolded and extended state of the diaper 1, the portion of the waist member 20 that is forward (abdominal) from the center position CL along the long side of the diaper 1 is referred to as the "front waist part 20f", and the portion of the waist member 20 that is backward (back) from the center position CL along the long side of the diaper 1 is referred to as the "back waist part 20b". The diaper 1 from Figure 2 The unfolded state shown is achieved by folding the front waist section 20f and the rear waist section 20b, which are opposite each other in the thickness direction (front-back direction), by means of a pair of side joints 5 on both sides in the left-right direction, thus forming... Figure 1 The diaper 1 is an underwear-type diaper as shown. Furthermore, as a joining method based on the side joint 5, examples include joining methods based on heat fusion, ultrasonic welding, and adhesives.

[0083] (Absorbent subject 10)

[0084] Figure 4 A is a top view obtained by observing the absorbent body 10 from the skin side. Figure 4 B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the absorbent body 10 at its central position CL along its long side. The absorbent body 10 includes: an absorbent core 11 that absorbs and retains excretory fluids such as urine; a liquid-permeable top sheet 12 (e.g., nonwoven fabric) disposed on the skin side of the absorbent core 11; a liquid-impermeable back sheet 13 (e.g., a resin film such as polyethylene or polypropylene) disposed on the non-skin side of the absorbent core 11; a liquid-permeable middle sheet 15 (e.g., nonwoven fabric) disposed between the top sheet 12 and the absorbent core 11; a pair of side sheets 16; and an elastic member cover sheet 17.

[0085] The absorbent core 11 absorbs and retains excretory fluids such as urine. Alternatively, the surface of the absorbent core 11 may be covered by a liquid-permeable core-covering sheet 18 (e.g., thin cotton paper). The absorbent core 11 is formed by shaping a liquid-absorbing raw material such as water-retaining fibers or highly absorbent polymers (so-called SAP) into a predetermined shape. In this embodiment, for example... Figure 4 As shown in Figure A, it has a roughly hourglass shape, narrowing inwards from the center along its long side towards the left and right. However, the planar shape of the absorbent core 11 is not particularly limited; for example, it can be shaped to appear rectangular when viewed from the side. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the width (maximum width) of the absorbent body 10 in the left and right direction is approximately equal to the width (maximum width) of the absorbent core 11 in the left and right direction.

[0086] A pair of leak-proof wall portions 60 are provided on both sides of the absorbent body 10 in the left-right direction, along the long side direction. For example... Figure 4 As shown in Figure B, the portions of the side panel 16 extending from the non-skin-side side of the back panel 13 are bent at multiple points, forming leak-proof wall portions 60 on the skin-side side of the top panel 12. A leak-proof wall elastic member 61 (e.g., elastic band) is installed on the leak-proof wall portion 60 in a state extending along its long side. When the diaper 1 is worn, the leak-proof wall portion 60 can stand upright towards the wearer's skin due to the elasticity of the leak-proof wall elastic member 61, thus blocking excrement.

[0087] Furthermore, the absorbent body 10 has a crotch elastic member 40 that can stretch and extend along its long side at its central portion in the left-right direction and on the non-skin side in the thickness direction, which is closer to the absorbent core 11 than the absorbent core 11. Specifically, in this embodiment, the crotch elastic member 40 is installed between the back sheet 13 and the elastic member cover 17 in a state that extends along the long side in the thickness direction. The back sheet 13 is located on the non-skin side of the absorbent core 11, and the elastic member cover 17 is located on the non-skin side of the back sheet 13. However, the crotch elastic member 40 only needs to be located on the non-skin side of the absorbent core 11. For example, it can also be located on the non-skin side of the absorbent core 11 between the core cover sheet 18 (absorbent core 11) and the back sheet 13.

[0088] exist Figure 4 In A, five crotch elastic members 41 to 45 are arranged at intervals along the long side in the central part of the absorbent body 10 (absorbent core 11) in the left-right direction. Hereinafter, the area defined by these five crotch elastic members 40 (41 to 45) will be referred to as the "crotch elastic area ER". That is, as... Figure 4 As indicated by the diagonal line sloping upwards to the right in section A, the area enclosed by the crotch elastic member 41 located on the far side in the left-right direction and the crotch elastic member 45 located on the far side in the left-right direction is called the crotch elastic region ER. However, the number and arrangement of the crotch elastic members 40 are not limited to this.

[0089] When wearing diaper 1, the elasticity of the crotch elastic member 40 (crotch elastic area ER) allows the central area of ​​the absorbent core 11 in the left-right direction to deform in three dimensions and fit the crotch and excretion opening in a way that protrudes towards the skin, thereby achieving good absorbency and fit.

[0090] Additionally, the region that overlaps with the absorbent core 11 when viewed along the thickness direction of the absorbent body 10 and with the crotch elastic region ER along the long side is called the "crotch fitting region IFR". Figure 4 In A, the area enclosed by the positions of the front and rear ends of the crotch elastic region ER along its long side and the contours (periphery) of both sides of the absorbent core 11 in the left and right directions, and represented by a diagonal line sloping downward to the right, is called the crotch fitting region IFR.

[0091] (Waist component 20)

[0092] The waist component 20 (external component 20) is a sheet component that narrows inward from the center along its long side to the left and right sides. For example... Figure 2 and Figure 3As shown, the waist member 20 has an outer abdominal layer 21, an outer dorsal layer 22, an inner layer 23, waist elastic members 24 and 25, and a hip elastic member 26.

[0093] The outer ventral layer 21, the outer dorsal layer 22, and the inner layer 23 can be exemplified as soft sheet materials such as non-woven fabric. The inner layer 23 is a sheet material that forms the shape of the waist member 20 and extends from the front (ventral) side to the rear (dorsal) side in the long side direction. The outer ventral layer 21 is disposed on the non-skin side of the inner layer 23 and is disposed in a portion of the front waist part 20f. The outer ventral layer 21 overlaps with the side joint 5 in the long side direction, and its length in the long side direction is the same as that of the side joint 5 (see reference). Figure 2 The dorsal outer layer 22 is disposed on the non-skin side of the inner layer 23 and in a portion of the lower back 20b. The dorsal outer layer 22 overlaps with the side joint 5 in the long direction and extends downward toward the crotch side of the side joint 5 in a portion. In the unfolded state of the diaper 1, the ventral outer layer 21 and the dorsal outer layer 22 are separated in the long direction, and the inner layer 23 is exposed to the outside as the non-skin side of the diaper 1.

[0094] The waist elastic members 24 and 25 and the hip elastic member 26 are elastic members that stretch and contract in the left-right direction, and examples include elastic bands. Figure 2 As shown, the waist elastic members 24 and 25 overlap with the side joint 5 in the long side direction. Hereinafter, the waist elastic member located in the front waist portion 20f will be referred to as the ventral waist elastic member 24, and the waist elastic member 25 located in the rear waist portion 20b will be referred to as the dorsal waist elastic member 25. The hip elastic member 26 is located on the lower crotch side (lower side in the vertical direction) in the long side direction than the side joint 5. In this embodiment, there are two hip elastic members 26, but this number is not particularly limited.

[0095] In addition, Figure 2 In this diaper, the buttock elastic member 26 is cut off at the center in the left-right direction and is arranged without overlapping the absorbent core 11. This prevents the absorbent core 11 from contracting in the left-right direction due to the elasticity of the buttock elastic member 26. Therefore, when wearing the diaper 1, the absorbent core 11 can fit against the wearer's buttocks over a large area, easily achieving good fit and absorbency. However, the buttock elastic member 26 may not necessarily be cut off at the center; it may be continuously arranged from one end in the left-right direction to the other.

[0096] The waist elastic member 24 is arranged vertically between the inner layer 23 and the abdominal outer layer 21 and is installed in an extended state along the left and right directions. The waist elastic member 25 and the hip elastic member 26 are arranged vertically between the inner layer 23 and the back outer layer 22 and are installed in an extended state along the left and right directions. The waist member 20 conforms to the wearer's waist and hips through the stretchability along the left and right directions exhibited by these elastic members 24, 25, and 26. In the diaper 1, the waist elastic members 24 and 25 (and in cases where the hip elastic member 26 is also present) are provided continuously from one end to the other in the left and right directions. Hereinafter, these elastic members 24 and 25 (26) will also be collectively referred to as "left and right direction elastic members".

[0097] <Regarding the appearance of Diaper 1>

[0098] In the diaper 1 of this embodiment, it is explained that by providing a crotch elastic member 40 (crotch elastic area ER) at the central portion in the left-right direction of the absorbent body 10, the fit at the wearer's crotch area is improved. That is, when the stretching force along the long side direction based on the crotch elastic member 40 (crotch elastic area ER) acts on the absorbent core 11, the central portion in the left-right direction of the absorbent core 11 is lifted towards the skin and deformed into a convex shape, and is pushed upward towards the wearer's crotch area (excretion opening such as the vagina), thereby facilitating a close fit.

[0099] In particular, in diaper 1, the crotch elastic region ER (crotch elastic member 40) and the left-right elastic members (waist elastic members 24, 25 and hip elastic member 26) do not overlap. That is, the stretching force along the long side based on the crotch elastic region ER and the stretching force along the left-right direction based on the left-right elastic members do not easily interfere with each other. Therefore, the IFR in the crotch fitting area is more likely to act on the stretching force along the long side based on the crotch elastic region ER. As a result, the fit of the absorbent core 11 at the crotch can be improved.

[0100] On the other hand, when the absorbent core 11 contracts along its long side due to the elasticity of the crotch elastic region ER (crotch elastic member 40), wrinkles easily form in the contracted area along the left-right direction. Such wrinkles are not easily formed when wearing regular underwear, so users (wearers) who visually recognize diapers 1 with wrinkles in the crotch area (crotch fit area IFR) can easily distinguish them from underwear. Furthermore, the wearer may feel more like they are wearing a diaper than underwear, potentially causing psychological distress.

[0101] Therefore, the diaper 1 is designed to ensure a good fit based on the elasticity of the crotch elastic area ER, and to make the folds formed in the crotch area less noticeable, thus giving it an appearance similar to underwear when worn. Specifically, by adjusting the joint (body joint 70 described later) of the absorbent body 10 and waist member 20 stacked in the thickness direction, the folds formed in the absorbent body 10 (absorbent core 11) are less likely to be transmitted to the waist member 20 on the non-skin side. As a result, the folds become less noticeable when the diaper 1 is viewed from the non-skin side. The following is a detailed description of the structure used to make the folds less noticeable in the crotch area of ​​the diaper 1.

[0102] Figure 5 A and Figure 5 Figure B illustrates the connection between the absorbent body 10 and the waist member 20 (outer member 20). Figure 5 A is a top view of the absorbent main body 10 and waist component 20 in their unfolded and elongated state. Figure 5 B means Figure 5 A schematic cross-sectional view of A taken from the direction of arrow A1-A1.

[0103] The absorbent body 10 and the waist member 20 are joined together by a body joint 70 formed by an adhesive such as a hot melt adhesive. The body joint 70 is located on the non-skin side of the absorbent body 10 or the skin side of the waist member 20. Figure 5 The area represented by the diagonal line sloping downwards to the right of A is formed by applying adhesive. Examples of adhesive application patterns include so-called Ω patterns, spiral patterns, etc.

[0104] like Figure 5 As shown in Figure A, the main body joint 70 is provided over approximately the entire area of ​​the absorbent main body 10 (absorbent core 11). On the other hand, in Figure 5 The area inside the outline of the main body joint 70 (indicated by the diagonal line) of A, and on both sides of the crotch elastic area ER in the left-right direction, has blank portions without adhesive. These portions without adhesive are designated as non-existent portions 75. In other words, in the diaper 1, there are portions (non-existent portions 75) where the absorbent main body 10 and the waist member 20 are not joined to each other.

[0105] exist Figure 5In section B, the sheet member (inner layer 23) located on the non-skin side of the elastic member 40 (elastic area ER) has a non-existent portion 75. That is, in diaper 1, the inner layer 23, which constitutes the layer on the non-skin side of the waist member 20, and the absorbent body 10, which is adjacent to the skin side of the inner layer 23, are not joined to each other at the non-existent portion 75.

[0106] When a diaper 1 with such a structure is worn, if the absorbent core 11 contracts along its long side due to the elasticity (contraction) of the crotch elastic region ER, the effect of this contraction is also transmitted via the main body joint 70 to the waist member 20 (inner layer 23) which is joined on the non-skin side. On the other hand, in the non-existent portion 75, the effect of the contraction of the absorbent core 11 is not easily transmitted to the waist member 20 (inner layer 23). Therefore, wrinkles are less likely to form in the portion of the inner layer 23 that overlaps with the non-existent portion 75 on the non-skin side of the crotch elastic region ER.

[0107] Figure 6 A and Figure 6 Figure B illustrates the relationship between the main body joint 70 and the folds formed in the crotch area of ​​the diaper 1. First, Figure 6 A, as a comparative example, shows the case where the non-existent portion 75 is not formed. That is, it shows the case where the main body joint 70 (with adhesive) is formed in the entire crotch-fitting area of ​​the IFR (see reference). Figure 6 (See the diagram below A). Figure 6 In case A, when the absorbent core 11 contracts along its long side due to the elasticity of the crotch elastic region ER, multiple wrinkles are formed in the crotch-fitting area IFR of the absorbent core 11. Furthermore, the contraction of the crotch elastic region ER is also transmitted to the joined inner layer sheet 23 (waist member 20) via the main body joint 70, thus forming multiple wrinkles in the area of ​​the inner layer sheet 23 (waist member 20) that overlaps with the crotch-fitting area IFR. As a result, as... Figure 6 As shown in the upper part of A, several large folds are easily visually identifiable in the crotch area (infrared crotch area) of diaper 1, making it easy for the wearer to identify the difference between diaper 1 and underwear and creating a sense of disharmony.

[0108] In contrast, Figure 6 B shows the formation of... Figure 5 The case of the absence of portion 75 described herein. That is, it shows the case where at least a portion of the crotch-fitting area IFR (both sides in the left-right direction of the crotch elastic area ER) is not provided with adhesive. Figure 6In case B, when the absorbent core 11 contracts along its long side due to the elasticity of the crotch elastic region ER, it is in harmony with... Figure 6 Similarly, multiple wrinkles are formed in the crotch-fitting area IFR of the absorbent core 11. Furthermore, unlike the case where the effect of shrinkage based on the crotch elastic region ER is transmitted to the joined inner layer 23 (waistline member 20) via the main body joint 70, the effect of shrinkage is less likely to be transmitted to the inner layer 23 (waistline member 20) in the non-existent portion 75. That is, wrinkles are less likely to form in the area of ​​the waistline member 20 overlapping with the non-existent portion 75. As a result, as... Figure 6 Like B, in the crotch area of ​​diaper 1 (the crotch-fitting area IFR), the portions on both sides of the crotch elastic area ER in the left and right directions (the non-existent portions 75) are similar to... Figure 6 Compared to case A, the folds are smaller and fewer in number, and the folds in the crotch area are less noticeable. As a result, diaper 1 looks similar to underwear when worn, making it less likely for the wearer to feel uncomfortable.

[0109] At this time, if the size of the non-existent portion 75 is small relative to the crotch elastic region ER, the effect of contraction based on the crotch elastic region ER can easily be transmitted to the inner layer sheet 23 (waistline member 20) on the non-skin side, potentially forming large wrinkles in the waistline member 20. Therefore, in this embodiment, by making the non-existent portion 75 a certain size or larger, the situation where the effect of contraction based on the crotch elastic region ER is excessively transmitted to the inner layer sheet 23 (waistline member 20) is suppressed. Specifically, the non-existent portion 75 is set such that the length of the non-existent portion 75 in the long side direction is more than 1 / 2 of the length of the crotch elastic region ER in the long side direction, or the length of the non-existent portion 75 in the left-right direction is more than 1 / 2 of the length of the crotch elastic region ER in the left-right direction. Figure 5 In the middle, there is a non-existent portion 75 that is larger than half the length in the long side direction and half the length in the left and right directions of the elastic region ER of the lower crotch.

[0110] In this way, in diaper 1, the crotch elastic region ER does not intersect with the left and right elastic members (24, 25, 26), allowing the stretching force along the long side to reliably act on the absorbent core 11, thereby improving the fit of the crotch area. Furthermore, in the crotch fit area IFR of the absorbent core 11, which is easily affected by the contraction of the crotch elastic region ER, a portion of a sheet member (inner layer 23) located on the non-skin side of the sheet member (which is located closer to the skin than the crotch elastic member) is not joined (non-existent portion 75). Therefore, when the crotch elastic region ER contracts, the effect of the contraction of the crotch elastic region ER is not easily transmitted to the inner layer 23 on the non-skin side in the non-existent portion 75, and wrinkles are less likely to form on the non-skin side of the waist member 20. Thus, diaper 1 can be made so that wrinkles in the crotch area are not noticeable and it looks like underwear.

[0111] In addition, it is also possible to form a non-existent portion 75 over a larger area. For example, it is assumed that when viewed along the thickness direction, the absorbent body 10 and the waist member 20 (inner layer 23) are not joined to each other in the entire area overlapping with the crotch fitting area IFR, thereby making the wrinkles of the waist member 20 less noticeable. Figure 7 This diagram illustrates the relationship between the main body joint 70 and the folds formed in the crotch area of ​​the diaper 1, and serves as a second comparative example showing the case where the IFR (Integrated Flange) is absent in the entire crotch area.

[0112] exist Figure 7 In the case where the absorbent core 11 contracts along its long side due to the elasticity of the crotch elastic region ER, as in Figure 6 As described in section A, multiple wrinkles are formed in the crotch-fitting area IFR of the absorbent core 11. On the other hand, no adhesive is provided in the crotch-fitting area IFR (non-existent portion 75), and the absorbent body 10 and the waist member 20 are not bonded to each other throughout the entire crotch-fitting area IFR. Therefore, the wrinkles formed in the absorbent core 11 do not extend to the non-skin side of the crotch-fitting area IFR, and wrinkles are difficult to form on the non-skin side of the waist member 20. That is, wrinkles are also difficult to visually identify in the area overlapping with the crotch elastic area ER. Thus, there is a concern that if wrinkles are not visually identified at all in the crotch area (crotch-fitting area IFR), the user (wearer) may feel uneasy about the fit at the crotch area or worry about the possibility of leakage.

[0113] In contrast, in the diaper 1 of this embodiment, in the portion overlapping the crotch elastic region ER when viewed along the thickness direction, an adhesive is provided on the sheet member (inner layer 23) located on the non-skin side. That is, on the non-skin side of the crotch elastic region ER, the waist member 20 (inner layer 23) and the absorbent body 10 are joined together by the body joint 70. Therefore, at least in the portion overlapping the crotch elastic region ER, the folds formed in the absorbent core 11 (absorbent body 10) based on the elasticity of the crotch elastic region ER are easily transmitted to the waist member 20 (inner layer 23) on the non-skin side, and the folds are visually identifiable on the surface of the waist member 20. As a result, it is easy for the user (wearer) to recognize that the diaper 1 has a good fit in the crotch area.

[0114] Furthermore, the portion of the main body joint 70 where adhesive is provided in the central part in the left-right direction, overlapping with the crotch elastic region ER, will be referred to as the "central adhesive-containing portion 70c". Figure 5 A and Figure 5 In section B, the portion sandwiched between a pair of non-existent portions 75, 75 in the left-right direction (the portion surrounded by a dotted line in the center of the left-right direction) is called the central adhesive portion 70c, where the waist member 20 (inner layer sheet 23) and the absorbent body 10 are joined together. Additionally, the portion of the body joint 70 that is adjacent to the outer left-right side of the non-existent portions 75 in the left-right direction (the portion surrounded by a dotted line on both sides of the left-right direction) is also called the "two-sided adhesive portions 70s".

[0115] At this point, a portion 70c of the central adhesive is positioned to overlap with the entire lower crotch elastic area ER in the left-right direction (see reference). Figure 5 A). That is, in the entire portion overlapping the crotch elastic region ER in the left-right direction, an adhesive is provided on the sheet member (inner layer 23) located on the side closest to the skin. Therefore, when the absorbent core 11 forms folds along its long side due to the elasticity of the crotch elastic region ER, the effect of these folds is transmitted to the waist member 20 (inner layer 23) throughout the entire area of ​​the crotch elastic region ER in the left-right direction. As a result, the folds formed in the crotch elastic region ER are more easily visually identifiable in the crotch area (crotch fit area IFR) of the diaper 1, easily leaving the user with an impression of good fit.

[0116] Similarly, the central adhesive portion 70c is positioned to overlap with the entire crotch elastic area ER in the long-side direction (see reference). Figure 5A). That is, in the entire portion overlapping the crotch elastic region ER in the long side direction, an adhesive is provided on the sheet member (inner layer 23) located on the side closest to the skin. Therefore, when the absorbent core 11 forms pleats in the long side direction due to the elasticity of the crotch elastic region ER, these pleats are transmitted to the waist member 20 (inner layer 23) in the entire area of ​​the crotch elastic region ER in the long side direction. As a result, the pleats formed in the crotch elastic region ER are more easily visually identifiable in the crotch area (crotch fit area IFR) of the diaper 1, giving the user a good impression of fit.

[0117] Additionally, in diaper 1, there are two non-adhesive portions 75 adjacent to the outer sides of the central adhesive portion 70c in the left-right direction, where no adhesive is provided. For example, in... Figure 6 As explained in section B, when the crotch elastic region ER contracts, wrinkles are less likely to form in the portions of the waist member 20 (inner layer 23) that are joined to the absorbent body 10 at the central adhesive portion 70c, compared to the portion where wrinkles form at the central adhesive portion 70c where wrinkles do not form at the absorbent body 10 (non-adhesive portions 75). Therefore, good fit can be observed in the crotch area (crotch fit region IFR), and wrinkles are less noticeable overall.

[0118] Furthermore, in diaper 1, the width of each of the two non-existent portions 75 located on the outer sides of the central adhesive-containing portion 70c in the left-right direction is greater than half the width of the crotch elastic region ER. Therefore, the area of ​​the portions (non-existent portions 75) on both sides of the crotch elastic region ER that are less prone to wrinkling is sufficiently large. Thus, even if wrinkles are formed in the crotch area (crotch fitting area IFR), the wrinkles can be prevented from becoming too noticeable, and the appearance of diaper 1, similar to that of underwear, is not easily damaged.

[0119] In addition, in the left-right direction, there are also two adhesive-containing portions 70s on both outer sides of the non-existent portion 75 (refer to...). Figure 5A). That is, the absorbent body 10 has portions at both ends in the left-right direction that engage with the waist member 20 (inner layer 23) (adhesive-coated portions 70s on both sides). There is a concern that if there are large portions at both ends in the left-right direction of the absorbent body 10 that do not engage with the waist member 20 (non-existent portions 75), when the diaper 1 is worn, wrinkles or roll-ups of the inner layer 23 may easily occur at these ends, resulting in poor fit. In contrast, by providing adhesive-coated portions 70s on both sides in the left-right direction of the non-existent portions 75, the rolling up or wrinkling of the inner layer 23 near the ends in the left-right direction of the absorbent body 10 can be suppressed. As a result, the fit of the diaper 1 at the crotch area, especially around the legs (leg opening LH), can be improved, and the appearance when worn can resemble that of underwear.

[0120] Furthermore, in the longitudinal direction, no non-existent portion 75 is provided on either side (front and rear) of the central adhesive-containing portion 70c. That is, the absorbent body 10 is bonded to the waist member 20 (inner layer 23) using adhesive from the front end to the rear end in the longitudinal direction at its central portion in the left-right direction. In the region (front and rear) further outward than the crotch elastic region ER in the longitudinal direction, stretching along the longitudinal direction is less likely to occur, and wrinkles are less likely to form in the absorbent core 11 when the crotch elastic region ER contracts. Therefore, even if the absorbent body 10 and the waist member 20 (inner layer 23) are bonded in this region, wrinkles are less likely to form in the waist member 20. Conversely, when the absorbent body 10 and the waist member 20 (inner layer 23) are not joined in the region outside the crotch elastic region ER along the long side (front and back sides) (in the case of a non-existent portion 75), the inner layer 23 will separate from the waist member 20 and float towards the skin in the thickness direction, easily creating an uncomfortable, non-fitting appearance like a diaper. In the diaper 1, the absorbent body 10 and the waist member 20 (inner layer 23) are firmly joined in the region outside the crotch elastic region ER along the long side (front and back sides), thereby suppressing the floating of the waist member 20 (inner layer 23) during wear and making it easier to make the appearance look like underwear.

[0121] Figure 8 It is Figure 5 The diagram shows an enlarged cross-sectional view of B. It includes sections where, in the thickness direction of diaper 1, a sheet member (back sheet 13) adjacent to the skin side of the crotch elastic member 40 (crotch elastic region ER), and a sheet member (inner sheet 23) located at the central position CL in the long side direction, at the non-skin side in the thickness direction, are not joined to each other. Figure 8In the non-adhesive portion 75, the inner sheet 23 and the back sheet 13 are not bonded to each other.

[0122] In diaper 1, the back sheet 13 and the elastic member cover 17 are bonded together by an adhesive applied to the surface of the crotch elastic member 40. Therefore, when the crotch elastic area ER contracts along its long side, wrinkles easily form on the back sheet 13 on the skin side, in addition to the elastic member cover 17 on the non-skin side. On the other hand, by having a portion (non-existent portion 75) where the back sheet 13 and the inner layer 23 disposed on its non-skin side are not bonded together in the thickness direction, the transmission of wrinkles formed on the back sheet 13 to the inner layer 23 on the non-skin side can be suppressed. Thus, wrinkles are less likely to form on the waist member 20 (inner layer 23), at least at the central position CL in the long side direction. Therefore, the diaper 1 can appear like underwear when worn.

[0123] Furthermore, even if wrinkles form on the back panel 13 due to the contraction of the elastic crotch area ER along its long side, the presence of non-existent portions 75 on both sides of the elastic crotch area ER in the left-right direction prevents the effect of the wrinkles from extending beyond the non-existent portions 75 to the left-right side. This suppresses the formation of wrinkles over a larger area in the crotch area, making it easier for the diaper 1 to appear like underwear when worn.

[0124] Furthermore, the side panels 16 and elastic member covers 17 in the sheet components constituting the absorbent body 10 are both located on the non-skin side, but these sheets 16 and 17 are configured as independent sheet components. In other words, in the sheet components of the absorbent body 10 located on the non-skin side, the elastic member covers 17 located in the center and the side panels 16 located on both sides are discontinuous in the left-right direction. With such a structure, even if wrinkles form in the elastic member covers 17 due to the contraction of the crotch elastic region ER, the effect of these wrinkles is not easily transmitted from the elastic member covers 17 to the side panels 16. That is, even if the crotch elastic region ER contracts, wrinkles are not easily formed in the side panels 16. As a result, the range of wrinkles formed in the waist member 20 of the diaper 1 is not easily expanded in the left-right direction, and the wrinkles are less noticeable in the crotch area. Therefore, it is easy to make the appearance of the diaper 1 when worn look like underwear.

[0125] Furthermore, the elastic member cover 17 of the absorbent body 10, located in the sheet member closest to the non-skin side and overlapping the crotch elastic region ER in the central portion in the left-right direction, has portions at both ends in the left-right direction without adhesive material. Figure 8In the left-right direction, the two ends 17e of the elastic member cover 17 overlap with the non-adhesive portion 75, and these two ends 17e become so-called dry edges without adhesive. With such a structure, even if wrinkles are formed in the elastic member cover 17 due to the contraction of the elastic area ER in the crotch, the dry edges (two ends 17e) on both sides in the left-right direction can be used to suppress the effect of wrinkles from spreading outward in the left-right direction. As a result, the range of wrinkles formed in the waist member 20 of the diaper 1 is not easily extended in the left-right direction, and the wrinkles are not easily noticeable in the crotch area. Therefore, it is easy to make the appearance of the diaper 1 when worn look like underwear.

[0126] In addition, the absorbent core 11 of the diaper 1 has a narrowed portion 11c in the central part along the long side, which is narrower in the left and right directions compared to the two ends along the long side (see reference). Figure 4 A). By having the narrowed portion 11c, when the diaper 1 is worn, the edges of both ends of the absorbent core 11 are less likely to interfere with the wearer's crotch area and between the legs (groin area), thus improving the fit.

[0127] Furthermore, in the diaper 1, a crotch elastic region ER is provided at the narrowest part in the left-right direction of the absorbent core 11. In other words, in the long side direction, at the position where the width of the narrowed portion 11c is narrowest in the left-right direction ( Figure 4 The 11n of A overlaps with the crotch elastic region ER. This illustrates that when the crotch elastic region ER contracts when the diaper 1 is worn, wrinkles easily form in the crotch fitting region IFR. However, in this embodiment, the width of the absorbent core 11 (narrowing portion 11c) is the narrowest in the crotch fitting region IFR where wrinkles easily form. Therefore, compared to the case where wrinkles form in a wider area of ​​the absorbent core 11, the wrinkles are less likely to become excessively large and less noticeable. Thus, it is easy to make the diaper 1 appear like underwear when worn.

[0128] Additionally, in diaper 1, at least two sheet members are provided on the non-skin side in the thickness direction of the crotch elastic member 40 (crotch elastic area ER). Figure 8 In this configuration, an elastic member cover 17 (designated as the first sheet member) is provided adjacent to the non-skin side of the elastic member 40, and an inner layer sheet 23 (designated as the second sheet member) is also provided on the non-skin side of the elastic member cover 17. Preferably, the average weight per unit area of ​​the first sheet member and the average weight per unit area of ​​the second sheet member are different. Furthermore, the weight per unit area (g / m²) 2 () is an indicator that represents the weight per unit area.

[0129] Among sheet materials with different unit area weights, there are often differences in stiffness and thickness, and the ease with which wrinkles form is also relatively high. Therefore, by stacking a first sheet material (skin side) and a second sheet material (non-skin side) with different unit area weights in the thickness direction, it is easy to suppress the possibility that wrinkles formed in the first sheet material will be directly transmitted to the second sheet material. For example, even if wrinkles form on the elastic cover 17 (first sheet material) on the skin side when the elastic area ER in the crotch of the diaper 1 is contracted, the possibility that the formed wrinkles will be directly transmitted to the inner layer 23 (second sheet material) on the non-skin side can be reduced. As a result, wrinkles in the crotch area become less noticeable, and the appearance of the diaper 1 can easily resemble that of underwear.

[0130] At this point, it is preferable that the weight per unit area of ​​the second sheet member on the non-skin side is greater than that of the first sheet member on the skin side. Generally, sheet members with a larger weight per unit area tend to have higher stiffness than those with a smaller weight per unit area. Therefore, by placing a sheet member with a larger weight per unit area on the non-skin side, it is easier to suppress the formation of large wrinkles on the non-skin side. Consequently, wrinkles at the crotch area become less noticeable, making it easier for the diaper 1 to appear like underwear.

[0131] Furthermore, it is preferable that the average fiber width of the fibers constituting the first sheet member (e.g., the elastic member cover 17) is different from the average fiber width of the fibers constituting the second sheet member (e.g., the inner layer 23). Generally, fibers with a larger average fiber width are less prone to bending and crease formation. Therefore, by layering the first and second sheet members with different average fiber widths, it is easier to suppress the possibility of wrinkles formed by the first sheet member being directly transmitted to the second sheet member. For example, even if wrinkles form on the skin-side elastic member cover 17 (first sheet member) when the elastic area ER in the crotch of the diaper 1 contracts, the likelihood of these wrinkles being directly transmitted to the non-skin-side inner layer 23 (second sheet member) can be reduced. Thus, wrinkles in the crotch area become less noticeable, making the diaper 1 appear more like underwear.

[0132] Furthermore, the average fiber width can be measured as a fiber width value, for example, using a fiber size analyzer [kajaaniFiberLab° fiber properties (off-line)] manufactured by Metso Automation.

[0133] Furthermore, it is preferable that the fiber orientation direction of the first sheet member (e.g., the elastic member cover 17) and the fiber orientation direction of the second sheet member (e.g., the inner layer 23) intersect each other. For example, in diaper 1, the fiber orientation direction of the first sheet member (elastic member cover 17) is along the long side direction, and the fiber orientation direction of the second sheet member (inner layer 23) is along the left-right direction, and they intersect each other. In this case, there is a higher probability that the elasticity of the first sheet member along the long side direction and the elasticity of the second sheet member along the long side direction are different, and there is also a higher probability that the ease of wrinkle formation when the elastic area ER in the crotch contracts along the long side direction is also different. Therefore, even if wrinkles are formed in the first sheet member, the possibility that the formed wrinkles will be directly transmitted to the second sheet member can be reduced. As a result, wrinkles in the crotch area become less noticeable, and it is easy to make the diaper 1 look like underwear.

[0134] Furthermore, fiber orientation is a concept comprised of the fiber orientation angle and orientation intensity. For example, the fiber orientation direction can be determined using the following method: First, the sheet component to be measured is cut to a predetermined size and placed still with its long side direction (or left-right direction) known. Using a microscope (e.g., a scanning electron microscope such as the JCM-5100 manufactured by Nippon Electron Co., Ltd.), a magnified image is taken from a direction perpendicular to the measurement surface of the sample and printed, thus tracing the fibers onto a transparent PET sheet. The magnified image is an image magnified to a level that allows measurement of 10 or more fibers, for example, a magnification of 50x to 300x. The image is imported into a computer and binarized using Nexus NewQube (standalone version) image processing software manufactured by Nexus Corporation. Using Fiber Orientation Analysis 8.13 Single, a fiber orientation analysis program, the orientation angle and orientation intensity are obtained from the binarized image. The orientation angle is the angle at which the fiber orientation is highest, and the orientation intensity is the strength at that orientation angle. The closer the orientation angle is to 90°, the more oriented the fiber is relative to its long side (or left-right direction). Furthermore, a higher orientation intensity indicates a more consistent fiber orientation. An orientation intensity of 1.05 or higher is considered oriented. The measurement is repeated several times (e.g., 3-5 times), and the average value is calculated.

[0135] Furthermore, one of the multiple crotch elastic members 40 (41-45) defining the crotch elastic region ER of the diaper 1 is designated as the first crotch elastic member, and the elastic member adjacent to the outer side of the first crotch elastic member in the left-right direction is designated as the second crotch elastic member. For example, if the crotch elastic member 43 located in the center in the left-right direction is designated as the first crotch elastic member, the crotch elastic members 42 and 44 adjacent to the outer side in the left-right direction become the second crotch elastic members. In this case, it is preferable that the force required to extend the first crotch elastic member by a unit length in the long side direction is greater than the force required to extend the second crotch elastic member by a unit length in the long side direction. That is, it is preferable that the stress of the multiple crotch elastic members 41-45 is smaller as they move towards the outer side in the left-right direction.

[0136] With this structure, the elastic force in the crotch elastic region ER weakens towards the outer edges in the left-right direction. Therefore, when the crotch elastic region ER contracts along its long side, the folds formed are smaller towards the outer edges in the left-right direction. Furthermore, in the area further outward in the left-right direction than the crotch elastic region ER (the area overlapping with the non-existent portion 75), the folds become even less noticeable (see reference). Figure 6 B). This makes it easy to make diaper 1 look like underwear.

[0137] The force required to elongate the crotch elastic member by a unit length along its long side can be measured, for example, as follows. First, a back sheet 13 and an elastic member cover 17, in a manner encompassing the entire crotch elastic region ER, are cut to accommodate the crotch elastic members 40 (41-45). Then, for each of the multiple crotch elastic members 40, a test piece with a predetermined width (e.g., at a position of 1.0 mm) is obtained from both sides of the crotch elastic member 40 in the left-right direction, resulting in a test piece with a width of approximately 2 mm centered on the crotch elastic member 40. Next, for the test piece in its natural state, the two ends in the long side direction are clamped using the chucks of a known tensile testing machine (e.g., a universal testing machine manufactured by Instron), and the distance Lc between the two chucks is adjusted to 100 mm. From this state, the distance Lc is increased at a predetermined speed (100 mm / min), causing the test piece to elongate by a predetermined length. For example, the test piece is elongated to 0.9 times its maximum elongation. In other words, the length of the test piece along its long side is stretched to 0.9 times its original length. Then, the test piece is contracted back to its original length. This cycle is repeated twice, and in the second cycle, the force (N) required to stretch the test piece to 0.8 times its maximum length is measured. This measurement is repeated a predetermined number of times (e.g., 3 times), and this force is defined as the stretching force (contraction force) of the test piece.

[0138] (A variation of Diaper 1)

[0139] Diaper 1 can also be deformed as shown below. Figure 9 These are top and cross-sectional views of the modified diaper 1 in its unfolded and extended state. In the modified diaper 1, the arrangement of the multiple crotch elastic members 40 (41-45) constituting the crotch elastic region ER differs from the embodiment described above. Specifically, in the modified diaper 1, the multiple crotch elastic members 40 (41-45) are arranged in the thickness direction at a distance greater than that of the absorbent core 11 (core covering sheet 18, in...) Figure 9 (Not shown in the diagram) The part is on the non-skin side and closer to the skin side than the back piece 13. Additionally, in the modified diaper 1, the elastic member cover 17 is not provided. Other structures are the same as in... Figure 5 The diaper 1 described in the document is the same.

[0140] In this modified diaper 1, the absorbent body 10 and the waist member 20 are also joined together by the body joint 70. Furthermore, there are non-adhesive portions 75 on both outer sides of the crotch elastic region ER in the left-right direction. That is, in a state where the innermost non-skin side of the sheet member located on the non-skin side of the crotch elastic member 40 (crotch elastic region ER) is not joined to the skin-side adjacent back sheet 13 at the non-existent portion 75. Therefore, even if the back sheet 13 forms wrinkles along its long side due to the expansion and contraction of the crotch elastic region ER, the effect of these wrinkles is not easily transmitted to the non-skin side of the inner sheet 23 in the non-existent portion 75, and the wrinkles become less noticeable in the crotch area (crotch fit area IFR) of the waist member 20. Thus, it is easy to make the modified diaper 1 appear like underwear.

[0141] ===Second Implementation Method===

[0142] In the second embodiment, an underwear-type diaper 2 (hereinafter also referred to as "diaper 2") with a structure that differs from that in the first embodiment will be described. Figure 10 These are three-view drawings illustrating the structure of the diaper 2 according to the second embodiment.

[0143] The diaper 2 of the second embodiment has an absorbent body 10 for liquid absorption and a waist member 20 disposed on the non-skin side of the absorbent body 10. However, the structure of the waist member 20 in the diaper 2 is different from that of the diaper 1 of the first embodiment. Specifically, in the waist member 20 of the diaper 2, an outer layer 27 is provided on the non-skin side of the inner layer 23. The outer layer 27 is a sheet material that is continuous from one end (front side) to the other end (back side) in the long side direction, and is equivalent to a sheet material member formed by integrating the ventral outer layer 21 and the dorsal outer layer 22 of the diaper 1. The structure other than the outer layer 27 is basically the same as that of the diaper 1.

[0144] In diaper 2, the absorbent body 10 and the waist member 20 are joined together using the same body joint 70 as diaper 1. Furthermore, there are non-adhesive portions 75 on both outer sides of the crotch elastic region ER in the left-right direction. When it is assumed that the inner layer 23 and outer layer 27 in the waist member 20 of diaper 2 are joined together and integrated, the outer layer 27 (inner layer 23) on the non-skin side of the sheet member located closer to the skin than the crotch elastic member 40 (crotch elastic region ER) is not joined to the adjacent elastic member cover 17 on the skin side at the non-skin portion 75. Therefore, even when the elastic member cover 17 forms pleats along its long side due to the expansion and contraction of the crotch elastic region ER, the effect of these pleats is not easily transmitted to the outer layer 27 (inner layer 23) on the non-skin side in the non-existent portion 75, and the pleats also become less noticeable in the crotch portion (crotch fitting area IFR) of the waist member 20. As a result, it is easy to make the diaper 2 look like underwear.

[0145] Alternatively, it can be configured such that, in the case where the inner layer 23 and outer layer 27 of the waistband member 20 of the diaper 2 are not integrated, the outer layer 27 located on the non-skin side of the sheet member further from the crotch elastic member 40 (crotch elastic region ER) and the inner layer 23 adjacent to the skin side of the outer layer 27 are not joined. That is, it can also be configured such that the outer layer 27 has a non-adhesive portion (not shown), in which the inner layer 23 and outer layer 27 are not joined. For example, even if the elastic member cover 17 forms wrinkles along its long side due to the expansion and contraction of the crotch elastic region ER, and the effect of these wrinkles is transmitted to the inner layer 23, in the non-existent portion, the wrinkles are not easily transmitted from the inner layer 23 to the outer layer 27, so wrinkles are not easily formed on the outer layer 27. Therefore, in this case, the folds in the crotch area (in the crotch fitting area IFR) of the waist member 20 become less noticeable, making it easy for the diaper 2 to look like underwear.

[0146] ===Third Implementation Method===

[0147] In the third embodiment, an underwear-type diaper 3 (hereinafter also referred to as "diaper 3") with a structure that differs from that of the first and second embodiments will be described. Figure 11 These are three-view drawings illustrating the structure of the diaper 3 according to the third embodiment.

[0148] The diaper 3 of the third embodiment has an absorbent body 10 for liquid absorption and a waist member 20 disposed on the non-skin side of the absorbent body 10. However, in the diaper 3, the waist member 20 is divided into a front side (abdominal side) and a back side (dorsal side), and is composed of two members: a front waist part 20f and a back waist part 20b. That is, the diaper 3 is a panty-type absorbent article with a three-piece structure as follows: the front waist part 20f and the back waist part 20b are arranged at intervals along their long sides, and the absorbent body 10 is disposed between the front waist part 20f and the back waist part 20b.

[0149] In the absorbent body 10 of diaper 3, such as Figure 11 As shown in the A3-A3 cross-sectional view, a plurality of crotch elastic members 40 are provided on the skin side of the back sheet 13, which is closer to the non-skin side of the absorbent core 11 in the thickness direction and extends along the long side. The crotch elastic region ER is defined by these plurality of crotch elastic members 40. In addition, the side sheet 16 continues from one side to the other in the left-right direction (see reference). Figure 11 (A3-A3 sectional view), the left and right leak-proof wall portions 60 are formed by a side piece 16. Apart from this, the structure is roughly the same as the structure of the absorbent body 10 of the diaper 1.

[0150] Furthermore, the front waist section 20f of the diaper 3 has an outer abdominal layer 21, an inner abdominal layer 23f located on the skin side of the outer abdominal layer 21 and having a shape substantially the same as the outer abdominal layer 21, and a plurality of waist elastic members 24 located between the outer abdominal layer 21 and the inner abdominal layer 23f. Similarly, the back waist section 20b of the diaper 3 has a back outer layer 22, an inner back layer 23b located on the skin side of the back outer layer 22 and having a shape substantially the same as the back outer layer 22, and a plurality of waist elastic members 25 and a hip elastic member 26 located between the back outer layer 22 and the back inner back layer 23b.

[0151] In the crotch area (in-crotch contact area IFR) of the diaper 3, the non-skin side of the absorbent body 10 forms the outermost layer. That is, in the crotch area (in-crotch contact area IFR) of the diaper 3, the side piece 16 of the absorbent body 10 is a sheet member disposed on the non-skin side. Furthermore, the side piece 16 and the back piece 13 adjacent to its skin side are joined together by an inner layer joint 80 formed by an adhesive such as a hot-melt adhesive. The inner layer joint 80 is formed by... Figure 11 In the top view, adhesive is applied to the area indicated by the diagonal line sloping downwards to the right, thus forming the structure. On the other hand, there is a pair of non-adhesive portions 85 on both sides of the crotch elastic region ER in the left-right direction. That is, the side piece 16 and the back piece 13 are not joined to each other in the non-adhesive portions 85.

[0152] When the diaper 3 is worn, the back panel 13 contracts along its long side due to the elasticity of the crotch elastic region ER (crotch elastic member 40), forming folds in the back panel 13. These folds in the back panel 13 are transmitted to the side panel 16 on the non-skin side via the inner layer joint 80, but in the non-existent portion 85, the folds in the back panel 13 are not easily transmitted to the side panel 16. Therefore, folds are less likely to form in the area of ​​the side panel 16 that overlaps with the non-existent portion 85 when viewed along the thickness direction. That is, folds are not easily visually discernible in the crotch area (crotch fit area IFR), thus making it easy for the diaper 3 to appear like underwear.

[0153] ===Others===

[0154] 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 altered without departing from its spirit, and that the present invention includes its equivalents.

[0155] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0156] 1. Diaper (First embodiment, panty-type disposable diaper, panty-type absorbent article); 2. Diaper (Second embodiment); 3. Diaper (Third embodiment); 5. Side joint; 10. Absorbent body; 11. Absorbent core; 11c. Narrowing part; 12. Top piece; 13. Back piece; 15. Middle piece; 16. Side piece; 17. Elastic member cover piece; 18. Core covering piece; 19. Leg pleat elastic member; 20. Waist member (outer member); 20f. Front waist part; 20b. Back waist part; 21. Abdominal outer layer piece; 22. Back outer layer piece; 23. Inner layer piece; 23f. Abdominal inner layer piece; 2 3b. Back inner layer; 24. Waist elastic member (abdominal side); 25. Waist elastic member (back side); 26. Hip elastic member; 27. Outer layer; 31. Cover piece; 32. Cover piece; 40. Crotch elastic member; 41-45. Crotch elastic member; 60. Leak-proof wall part; 61. Leak-proof wall elastic member; 70. Main body joint; 70c. Central adhesive part; 70s. Side adhesive parts; 75. Non-adhesive part; 80. Inner layer joint; 85. Non-adhesive part; BH. Waist opening; LH. Leg opening; CL. Central position (long side direction); ER. Crotch elastic area.

Claims

1. An absorbent article in the form of underwear, which, in its unfolded and extended state, has intersecting long sides, left-right directions, and thickness directions, and has an absorbent body with an absorbent core, characterized in that, This underwear-type absorbent article has a crotch elastic region defined by a crotch elastic member located on the non-skin side of the absorbent core and stretching along the long side. It also has a left-right elastic member that extends continuously from one end to the other in the left-right direction. Along the long side, there is no overlap between the lower crotch elastic region and the left-right elastic member. In the region that overlaps with the absorbent core when viewed along the thickness direction and with the crotch elastic region in the long side direction, there is a portion of the sheet member located on the non-skin side of the sheet member disposed further away from the crotch elastic member, where no adhesive is present. The length of the non-existent portion in the long side direction is more than 1 / 2 of the length of the crotch elastic region in the long side direction, or the length of the non-existent portion in the left-right direction is more than 1 / 2 of the length of the crotch elastic region in the left-right direction.

2. The absorbent underwear-type garment according to claim 1, characterized in that, In the portion that overlaps with the crotch elastic region when viewed along the thickness direction, there is a central adhesive portion in which adhesive is provided on the sheet member located on the non-skin side.

3. The absorbent underwear-type garment according to claim 2, characterized in that, The portion of the sheet member located on the non-skin side that overlaps with the crotch elastic region in the left-right direction has the central adhesive portion.

4. The absorbent underwear-type garment according to claim 2, characterized in that, The portion of the sheet member located on the non-skin side that overlaps with the crotch elastic region along the long side has the central adhesive portion.

5. The absorbent underwear-type garment according to claim 2, characterized in that, The non-existent portion is located on both outer sides of the central adhesive portion in the left-right direction within the sheet member located on the non-skin side.

6. The absorbent underwear-type garment according to claim 5, characterized in that, In the left-right direction, there are two adhesive portions on the sides of the sheet member where the adhesive is provided, located further outward than the non-adhesive portions adjacent to the two outer sides of the central adhesive portion.

7. The absorbent underwear-type garment according to claim 2, characterized in that, Along the long side, there are no non-existent portions on either side of the central adhesive portion.

8. The absorbent underwear-type article according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, The underwear-type absorbent article has a sheet member disposed adjacent to the skin side of the crotch elastic member in the thickness direction, and a portion of the sheet member disposed on the non-skin side that is not joined.

9. The absorbent underwear-type article according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, The absorbent core has a narrowed portion in the central part along the long side, which is narrower in the left-right direction compared to the two ends along the long side. In the long side direction, the narrowest position in the left-right direction of the narrowed portion overlaps with the crotch elastic region.

10. The absorbent underwear-type article according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, The average unit area weight of the first sheet member disposed on the non-skin side of the crotch elastic member in the thickness direction is different from the average unit area weight of the second sheet member disposed on the non-skin side of the first sheet member.

11. The absorbent underwear-type article according to claim 10, characterized in that, The average weight per unit area of ​​the second sheet component is greater than that of the first sheet component.

12. The absorbent underwear-type article according to claim 10, characterized in that, The average fiber width of the fibers constituting the first sheet component is different from the average fiber width of the fibers constituting the second sheet component.

13. The absorbent underwear-type article according to claim 10, characterized in that, The fiber orientation directions of the first sheet component and the second sheet component intersect each other.

14. The absorbent underwear-type article according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, The crotch elastic members are arranged in multiple intervals in the left-right direction. The plurality of said crotch elastic members include a first crotch elastic member and a second crotch elastic member disposed adjacent to the outer side of the first crotch elastic member in the left-right direction. The force required to extend the first crotch elastic member by a unit length along the long side is greater than the force required to extend the second crotch elastic member by a unit length along the long side.

15. The absorbent underwear-type article according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, The sheet member of the absorbent body, located on the non-skin side, is discontinuous in the left-right direction at the central and side portions.

16. The absorbent underwear-type article according to claim 15, characterized in that, The absorbent body is disposed in the sheet member closest to the non-skin side, and the sheet member that overlaps with the crotch elastic member in the central part in the left-right direction has a portion at both ends in the left-right direction without adhesive.

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