Absorbent article

Abstract

The utility model provides a kind of absorbent article for inhibiting the scattering of pulp fiber in the absorbent body that core covering sheet and pulp fiber are folded together.The absorbent article has mutually orthogonal front-rear direction, width direction (W) and thickness direction (T), and the absorbent body (30) that core covering sheet (37) and pulp fiber are folded together, and the pulp fiber is laminated in core covering sheet (37).Core covering sheet and pulp fiber are folded at the first absorption fold line located at the outer side edge of the width direction of the absorbent body and the second absorption fold line located at the other outer side edge of the width direction of the absorbent body in a manner that the pulp fiber is located at the inner side of the thickness direction, and the folded parts overlap each other.The outer side part (31) located at the outer side of the thickness direction in the folded part of the absorbent body is provided with an extended area (RE), and in the extended area, the core covering sheet (37) extends in the width direction compared with the pulp fiber.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to an absorbent article having an absorbent body formed by folding together a laminate of absorbent materials and a core covering sheet. Background Technology

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses an absorbent article comprising an absorbent body formed by folding together a laminate of absorbent material and a core-covering sheet. In Patent Document 1, the absorbent body is folded inwards in the width direction on both sides, and the folded portions are stacked. The overlapping area of ​​the folded portions is located closer to the center than the side edges in the width direction of the absorbent body. This increases the absorption capacity of bodily fluids in the center of the absorbent body in the width direction. Furthermore, creases formed by folding the core-covering sheet and absorbent material together are formed on both sides of the absorbent body in the width direction. Creases formed by folding the core-covering sheet and absorbent material together tend to have higher stiffness than creases formed by folding the core-covering sheet alone. Therefore, the absorbent article easily maintains its shape when subjected to lateral force in the width direction.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2006-297073 Utility Model Content

[0006] However, the following problems exist with the aforementioned absorbent materials.

[0007] The outer portions of the two sides of the core-cover sheet and absorbent material, which are arranged in a folded state on the outer side of the absorbent body, are exposed to the outer surface of the absorbent body. During wear, the absorbent body is easily pushed along its thickness direction due to body pressure, etc. At this time, there is a concern that the absorbent material is exposed beyond the core-cover sheet in the outer portions exposed to the outer surface of the absorbent body. Because the absorbent material is exposed to the outside compared to the core-cover sheet, there is a concern that fibers such as pulp and highly absorbent polymers may scatter.

[0008] This invention was made in view of the problem that aims to suppress the scattering of absorbent material in an absorbent body formed by folding the absorbent material and the core-coating sheet together.

[0009] An absorbent article comprises mutually orthogonal front-back direction, width direction, and thickness direction, and an absorbent body formed by folding a core-covering sheet and pulp fibers together, the pulp fibers being stacked on the core-covering sheet. The core-covering sheet and the pulp fibers are folded at a first absorbent crease located at an outer edge in the width direction of the absorbent body and a second absorbent crease located at another outer edge in the width direction of the absorbent body, with the folded portions overlapping each other. An extension region is provided on the outer side of the folded portion of the absorbent body located on the outer side in the thickness direction, in which the core-covering sheet extends in the width direction relative to the pulp fibers.

[0010] An absorbent article comprises mutually orthogonal front-back direction, width direction, and thickness direction, and an absorbent body formed by folding a core-covering sheet and fibers together, wherein the fibers are stacked on the core-covering sheet, and the core-covering sheet and the fibers are folded inward in the width direction on both sides of the absorbent body such that the fibers are located inside the thickness direction, the folded portions overlap each other, and an extension region is provided on the outer side of the folded portion of the absorbent body located outside the thickness direction, in which the core-covering sheet extends in the width direction relative to the fibers, and the fibers on the outer side abut against the core-covering sheet on the inner side of the folded portion located inside the thickness direction.

[0011] An absorbent article comprises an absorbent body formed by folding a core cover and fibers together in mutually orthogonal front-back, width, and thickness directions, and a liquid-impermeable backing sheet, wherein the fibers are laminated on the core cover, and the backing sheet is positioned on the non-skin side of the absorbent body. The core cover and the fibers are folded inward in the width direction on both sides of the absorbent body such that the fibers are located inside the thickness direction, and the folded portions overlap each other. An extension region is provided on the outer side of the folded portion of the absorbent body located outside the thickness direction, in which the core cover extends in the width direction relative to the fibers, and an adhesive region with an adhesive for bonding the absorbent body and the backing sheet extends across the outer edge of the extension region in the width direction.

[0012] Preferably, the fibers of the absorbent consist only of short fibers with a length of 0.5 mm or more and a length of 60 mm or less.

[0013] Preferably, the fibers on the outer side abut against the core-covered sheet on the inner side of the folded portion located in the thickness direction.

[0014] Preferably, the core-covered sheet on the inner side extends outward in the width direction relative to the fibers on the inner side.

[0015] Preferably, the absorbent article has a pair of side regions located on both sides of the absorbent in the width direction of the region into which the absorbent is divided into four equal parts, and a pair of central regions located between the pair of side regions and separated by a width center that is the center of the absorbent in the width direction, wherein the overlapping regions of the folded portions are arranged across the pair of central regions.

[0016] Preferably, the two outer edges of the core-covered sheet in the width direction and the two outer edges of the pulp fiber in the state before the absorber is folded are disposed in the pair of central regions in the state after the absorber is folded.

[0017] Preferably, the absorbent is not provided with a highly absorbent polymer.

[0018] Preferably, the length of the protruding region in the width direction is longer than the average fiber length of the fibers of the absorbent.

[0019] Preferably, the length in the width direction of the protruding region is longer than the thickness of the fiber in the outer portion.

[0020] Preferably, the core-covering sheet in the folded portion, located on the inner side in the thickness direction, has a folded-back area that is folded back towards the outer side.

[0021] Preferably, the length in the width direction of the area where the folded portions overlap is longer than the length in the width direction of the folded-back area.

[0022] Preferably, an adhesive region with adhesive is provided on the outer edge of the extended region in the width direction, and the absorbent is bonded to an outer member overlapping the absorbent via the adhesive region.

[0023] Preferably, the absorbent article has an absorbent bonding area with an adhesive for bonding the fibers and the core-covering sheet, the absorbent bonding area spanning the absorbent creases on both sides of the absorbent body in the width direction.

[0024] Preferably, the absorbent article has a fastening portion disposed on the non-skin side of the absorbent article for fastening the absorbent article to a wearable article. The fastening portions are respectively disposed on both sides of a width center that is the center of the width direction of the absorbent body, and at least a portion of the protruding area overlaps with the area between the fastening portions located on both sides separated by the width center.

[0025] Preferably, on both sides of the absorbent in the width direction, a pressing region is continuously formed throughout the front-back direction of the absorbent, which is formed by pressing the absorbent along the thickness direction. The pressing regions are respectively disposed on both sides of a width center that is the center of the absorbent in the width direction. At least a portion of the protruding region overlaps with the region located between the pressing regions in the width direction.

[0026] Preferably, the absorbent article has: a top sheet that covers the absorbent on the skin side and is disposed on the skin-side surface of the absorbent article; and an embossed portion formed by compressing the top sheet and the absorbent along the thickness direction, wherein at least a portion of the embossed portion overlaps with the protruding area.

[0027] Preferably, the embossed portion extends across the outer edge of the protruding region in the width direction. Attached Figure Description

[0028] Figure 1 This is a top view of the absorbent article as described in the embodiment, viewed from the skin side.

[0029] Figure 2 This is a top view of the absorbent article as described in the embodiment, viewed from the non-skin side.

[0030] Figure 3 It is along Figure 1 The cross-sectional view shown along line AA.

[0031] Figure 4 This is a top view of the absorbent obtained from the skin side.

[0032] Figure 5 It is along Figure 4 The sectional view shown is along the BB line.

[0033] Figures 6A to 6J This is a diagram showing a modified example of an absorber.

[0034] Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating a method for manufacturing an absorbent article according to an embodiment.

[0035] Figures 8A to 8CThis is a diagram illustrating a method for manufacturing an absorbent article according to an embodiment.

[0036] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0037] 1. Absorbent material; 10. Top sheet; 30. Absorbent body; 30C. Absorbent continuum; 31. Outer side; 32. Inner side; 35. Laminate; 37. Core-covered sheet; 37C. Sheet continuum; 40. Embossed section; 61. Central fixation section (fixation section); 351. Fiber; AR. Bonded area; CW. Width center; FL30. Absorbent crease; FL31. First absorbent crease; FL32. Second absorbent crease; L. Front-back direction; P1, erection base point; P2, bending base point; RC, central area; RE, extension area; RF, fold-back area; RL, stacking area; RP, pushing area; RS, side area; S100, absorbent formation process; S110, stacking process; S120, bending process; S121, erection process; S122, folding process; T, thickness direction; T1, skin side; T2, non-skin side; W, width direction. Detailed Implementation

[0038] (1) Overview of the implementation method

[0039] Based on the description in this specification and the accompanying drawings, at least the following matters become clear.

[0040] The utility model of Method 1 is an absorbent article. The absorbent article comprises an absorbent body formed by folding a laminate and a core-covering sheet together in mutually orthogonal front-back, width, and thickness directions. The laminate is formed by laminating absorbent materials containing fibers. The core-covering sheet and the laminate are folded inward in the width direction on both sides of the absorbent body such that the laminate is inward in the thickness direction, and the folded portions overlap each other. An extension region is provided on the outer side of the folded portion of the absorbent body located on the outer side in the thickness direction, in which the core-covering sheet extends out in the width direction relative to the laminate.

[0041] According to this method, since the laminated absorbent and the core-covering sheet are folded together, the stiffness of the creases in the absorbent is easily increased. Therefore, when the absorbent article is subjected to lateral force in the width direction, it is easy to maintain the shape of the absorbent. In addition, since the folded parts of the absorbent overlap each other, the absorption capacity of bodily fluids can be locally increased. Furthermore, a protruding area is provided on the outer side of the absorbent, on the outer surface side, in which the core-covering sheet protrudes relative to the laminate. The outer core-covering sheet covers the laminate that overlaps in the thickness direction and extends outward in the width direction beyond the laminate. The outer laminate is covered by the outer core-covering sheet and is not exposed on the outer surface of the absorbent. Therefore, the spillage of absorbent material can be suppressed. In addition, since the protruding area is provided, even when the laminate is pushed by body pressure, etc., the exposure of absorbent material can be suppressed, and the spillage of absorbent material can also be suppressed.

[0042] According to a preferred embodiment, the utility model of embodiment 2 can have the following features compared to embodiment 1: The absorbent material contains only short fibers with a length of 0.5 mm or more and 60 mm or less. For a laminate containing only short fibers, compared to a laminate containing long fibers, the orientation of the fibers tends to become random, facilitating the diffusion of bodily fluids in various directions. This makes it easier to suppress regional imbalances in the diffusion of bodily fluids within the laminate, allowing for easy introduction and diffusion of bodily fluids in any region. Furthermore, for a laminate containing only short fibers, compared to a laminate containing long fibers, there are fewer interlacing points, reducing force transmission. Therefore, in the event of localized deformation of the laminate, it is easier to suppress the expansion of this deformation into the entire laminate, thus maintaining the shape of the absorbent.

[0043] According to a preferred embodiment, the utility model of embodiment 3, in the utility model of embodiment 1 or embodiment 2, may have the following features. The outermost layer of the laminate abuts against the innermost core-covering sheet located on the inner side in the thickness direction of the folded portion. The area where the folded portions overlap is a region where the absorbent is thicker and easily ensures the absorption capacity of bodily fluids. In this region where the folded portions overlap, the outermost layer of the laminate abuts against the innermost core-covering sheet, thus a core-covering sheet is disposed between the outermost and innermost layers. Compared to a structure where the laminates abut against each other, the friction at the boundary between the inner and outer portions is reduced, and the inner and outer portions can easily slide at this boundary. Therefore, when the absorbent is pushed by body pressure, deformation can be absorbed by the relative movement of the inner and outer portions, and the twisting or breakage of the absorbent can be suppressed. In addition, since the core-coated sheet divides the laminate in the thickness direction, the deformation of the laminate on one side of the division is not easily transmitted to the laminate on the other side. It is easy to maintain the shape of the laminate as a whole as an absorber, which can reduce the distortion of the absorber.

[0044] According to a preferred embodiment, the utility model of embodiment 3, based on embodiment 4, may have the following features: The core-covering sheet of the inner portion may extend in the width direction relative to the laminate of the inner portion. According to this embodiment, the core-covering sheet also extends relative to the laminate in the inner portion, thus facilitating the placement of the core-covering sheet between the laminates and easily maintaining the folded shape of the absorbent. Consequently, even under pressure from body pressure, deformation of the absorbent is easily suppressed, and its shape is easily maintained.

[0045] According to a preferred embodiment, for the utility model of embodiment 5, the utility model of any one of embodiments 1 to 4 may have the following features: It has a pair of side regions located on both sides of the absorbent in the width direction of the region into which the absorbent is divided into four equal parts, and a pair of central regions located between the pair of side regions and disposed across a width center that is the center of the absorbent in the width direction. The overlapping areas of the folded portions are arranged across the pair of central regions. The pair of central regions are areas where excrement is easily guided. Since the folded portions are arranged across both sides of the central regions, the absorption capacity in the areas where excrement is easily guided can be ensured.

[0046] According to a preferred embodiment, the utility model of embodiment 5, in relation to embodiment 6, may have the following features: The two outer edges of the core-covered sheet in the width direction and the two outer edges of the laminate, in the state before the absorbent is folded, are disposed within the pair of central regions. According to this embodiment, since the two outer edges of the core-covered sheet in the width direction and the two outer edges of the laminate are located within the central regions, the thickness and absorption capacity of the central regions can be higher than those of the side regions. Therefore, even when a large amount of bodily fluid is discharged, the bodily fluid can be introduced into the central region and diffused in the front-back direction.

[0047] According to a preferred embodiment, for the utility model of embodiment 7, the utility model of any one of embodiments 1 to 6 may have the following features: A superabsorbent polymer is disposed on the outer portion of the laminate. Because a protruding area is provided on the outer portion, even if the absorbent polymer of the outer portion of the laminate scatters, the absorbent polymer can be covered by a core-coating sheet, thus suppressing the scattering of the superabsorbent polymer from the absorbent body. The outer portion is located on the outer side of the absorbent body. Therefore, the superabsorbent polymer disposed on the outer portion swells easily and retains body fluids more effectively.

[0048] According to a preferred embodiment, for the utility model of embodiment 8, in any of embodiments 1 to 7, the following feature may be present: the length in the width direction of the protruding region is longer than the average fiber length of the fibers of the laminate. According to this embodiment, even if the fibers scatter from the laminate, the fibers can be covered in the protruding region by a core-covered sheet, thus preventing fiber exposure.

[0049] According to a preferred embodiment, for the utility model of embodiment 9, the utility model of any one of embodiments 1 to 8 may have the following features: The absorbent material has a highly absorbent polymer. The length in the width direction of the protruding region is longer than the average diameter of the highly absorbent polymer after being immersed in physiological saline for 60 minutes and then drained for 15 minutes. According to this embodiment, even if the highly absorbent polymer scatters from the laminate, the highly absorbent polymer can be covered in the protruding region with a core-coated sheet, thus preventing exposure of the highly absorbent polymer.

[0050] According to a preferred embodiment, for the utility model of embodiment 10, the utility model of any one of embodiments 1 to 9 may have the following feature: the length in the width direction of the protruding region is longer than the thickness of the laminate in the outer portion. According to this embodiment, even if the laminate in the outer portion is flattened due to body pressure, the core-covered sheet of the protruding region can cover the laminate, preventing fiber exposure.

[0051] According to a preferred embodiment, for the utility model of embodiment 11, the utility model of any one of embodiments 1 to 10 may have the following feature: The core covering sheet located on the inner side of the folded portion in the thickness direction has a folded-back area that is folded back towards the outer side. According to this embodiment, since the core covering sheets can be arranged overlapping each other between the inner and outer laminates, external forces can be absorbed by the sliding of the core covering sheets against each other, and the desired folded state of the absorbent body can be maintained.

[0052] According to a preferred embodiment, for the utility model of embodiment 12, the following feature may be present in the utility model of embodiment 11: the length in the width direction of the area where the folded portions overlap is longer than the length in the width direction of the folded-back area. According to this embodiment, it is easier to achieve the effect of ensuring the deformability of the absorbent and the diffusion of bodily fluids in the forward and backward directions based on the folded-back area, and suppressing the scattering of absorbent material by utilizing the area where the folded portions overlap.

[0053] According to a preferred embodiment, for the utility model of embodiment 13, the utility model of any one of embodiments 1 to 12 may have the following features: An adhesive region with adhesive is provided at the outer edge of the protruding region in the width direction. The absorbent is bonded to an outer member overlapping the absorbent via the adhesive region. According to this embodiment, the adhesive region extends across the outer edge of the protruding region, bonding the absorbent and the outer member via the adhesive region, thereby preventing the outer edge of the protruding region from lifting. Thus, the protruding region can continuously cover the laminate, and the shedding of absorbent material can be suppressed.

[0054] According to a preferred embodiment, the utility model of embodiment 14, in any of embodiments 1 to 13, may have the following features: An absorbent adhesive region is provided, which has an adhesive for bonding the laminate and the core-covering sheet. The absorbent adhesive region spans absorbent creases on both sides of the absorbent body in the width direction. According to this embodiment, when the absorbent body is pushed along the thickness direction due to body pressure, deformation can be absorbed while maintaining the opposing surfaces of the laminate and the core-covering sheet. Since the laminated state of the absorbent body can be maintained and the gap between the core-covering sheet and the laminate can be suppressed, leakage of bodily fluids can be suppressed.

[0055] According to a preferred embodiment, for the utility model of embodiment 15, the utility model of any one of embodiments 1 to 14 may have the following features: It has a fixing portion disposed on the non-skin side of the absorbent article for fixing the absorbent article to a garment. The fixing portions are respectively disposed on both sides of a width center that serves as the center of the width direction of the absorbent. At least partially, the protruding area overlaps with the area sandwiched between the fixing portions on both sides of the width center. The area sandwiched between the fixing portions on both sides of the width center is not fixed to the garment and is easily deformed into a convex shape towards the skin side with the left and right fixing portions as base points. When this area is deformed into a convex shape, the shedding of absorbent material can be suppressed because the protruding area covers the laminate.

[0056] According to a preferred embodiment, for the utility model of embodiment 16, the utility model of any one of embodiments 1 to 15 may have the following features: On both sides of the absorbent in the width direction, pressing regions are continuously formed throughout the front-back direction of the absorbent, forming a pressing region that pushes the absorbent along the thickness direction. The pressing regions are respectively disposed on both sides of a width center that is the center of the absorbent in the width direction. At least a portion of the protruding region overlaps with a region sandwiched by the pressing regions in the width direction. The pressing regions, formed by pressing the absorbent along the thickness direction, have higher stiffness than portions where no pressing regions are formed. By providing pressing regions with higher stiffness on the sides of the absorbent, the twisting of the sides of the absorbent can be suppressed, and the shape of the absorbent can be maintained. Furthermore, the pressing regions are continuously formed in the front-back direction. At least a portion of the protruding regions are disposed between these pressing regions. Since when the absorbent deforms into a convex shape with the left and right pressing regions as base points, the protruding regions cover the laminate in the convexly deformed region, thus suppressing the scattering of absorbent material.

[0057] According to a preferred embodiment, for the utility model of embodiment 17, the utility model of any one of embodiments 1 to 16 may have the following features. The absorbent article has: a top sheet that covers the skin side of the absorbent body and is disposed on the skin side surface of the absorbent article; and an embossed portion formed by compressing the top sheet and the absorbent body along the thickness direction. At least a portion of the embossed portion overlaps with the protruding area. According to this embodiment, the protruding area is pressed by the embossed portion, which can suppress the protruding area from lifting. Thus, the protruding area can continuously cover the laminate, and the shedding of absorbent material can be suppressed.

[0058] According to a preferred embodiment, for the utility model of embodiment 18, the utility model of embodiment 17 may have the following feature: The embossed portion extends across the outer edge of the protruding region in the width direction. By having the embossed portion extend across the outer edge of the core-covered sheet in the protruding region in the width direction, the outer edge of the core-covered sheet is less likely to float up, thus more effectively suppressing the scattering of absorbent material from the protruding region.

[0059] The utility model of embodiment 19 is a method for manufacturing an absorbent article. The method includes an absorbent body forming step, in which an absorbent continuous body is formed by folding together a continuous sheet of core-covered sheet in the front-back direction of the absorbent article and a laminate containing fibrous absorbent material. The absorbent body forming step includes: a lamination step, in which fibrous absorbent material is laminated onto the continuous sheet to arrange the laminate; and a bending step, in which the continuous sheet and the laminate are folded together with a pair of absorbent creases separating along the front-back direction and in a width direction orthogonal to the front-back direction as reference points, so that the laminate is folded inward in the thickness direction. In the bending step, the portions folded with reference points to the pair of absorbent creases are arranged overlapping each other. In the absorbent body forming step, an extension region is formed on the outer side of the folded portion of the absorbent continuous body located on the outer side in the thickness direction, in which the core-covered sheet extends outward in the width direction relative to the laminate. For absorbent articles obtained by this manufacturing method, since the laminate and the core-covering sheet are folded together, the stiffness of the creases in the absorbent body is easily increased. Therefore, when the absorbent article is subjected to lateral force in the width direction, it is easy to maintain the shape of the absorbent body. In addition, the folded parts of the absorbent body overlap each other, thus locally increasing the absorption capacity of bodily fluids. Furthermore, a protruding area is provided on the outer side. The outer side of the laminate is covered by the outer side core-covering sheet and is not exposed on the outer surface of the absorbent body. Therefore, the shedding of absorbent material can be suppressed. In addition, since the protruding area is provided, even when the laminate is pushed by body pressure, the exposure of absorbent material can be suppressed, and the shedding of absorbent material can be prevented.

[0060] According to a preferred embodiment, the utility model of embodiment 19, for embodiment 20, may have the following features. The bending process includes: an erection step, in which the two outer sides of the sheet continuous and the laminate in the width direction are erected at an erection base point; and a folding step, in which, after the erection step, the two outer sides of the sheet continuous and the laminate are folded at a bending base point located outside the width direction from the erection base point. In the bending process, the sheet continuous and the laminate are folded together, therefore, compared to a process where only the sheet continuous is folded, the folded area is thicker. By having an erection step S121 and a folding step S122, it is possible to first erect at the erection base point and then fold at the bending base point. The absorbent body with thickness can be folded in stages, making it easy to fold stably in the desired shape.

[0061] According to a preferred embodiment, for the utility model of embodiment 21, the utility model of embodiment 19 or 20 may have the following features: In the bending process, after starting to bend one outer portion of the sheet continuity and the laminate in the width direction, the other outer portion of the sheet continuity and the laminate in the width direction is folded. According to this embodiment, compared with a structure that folds both sides of the sheet continuity and the laminate simultaneously, it is easier to suppress twisting during folding and easier to stably fold the absorbent body at the desired position.

[0062] According to a preferred embodiment, for the utility model of embodiment 22, the utility model of any one of embodiments 19 to 21 may have the following features. In the bending process, the outermost sheet continuous on the side that is folded first, and the other outermost portion of the sheet continuous and the laminate in the width direction are folded together. According to this embodiment, by folding the sheet continuous on one outermost portion together with the other outermost portion, a fold-back area can be formed on the sheet continuous on one outermost portion. Therefore, the fold-back area can be formed by folding both sides of the sheet continuous and the laminate without performing a separate process for forming the fold-back area.

[0063] (2) Absorbent article of the embodiment

[0064] Hereinafter, the absorbent article 1 according to the embodiments will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, in the following description of the drawings, the same or similar parts will be labeled with the same or similar reference numerals. However, it should be noted that the drawings are schematic diagrams, and the proportions of the dimensions may differ from the actual figures. Therefore, specific dimensions should be determined by referring to the following description. Additionally, the drawings may include parts with different dimensional relationships or proportions. Furthermore, in the sectional views, the constituent components are shown separately for ease of explanation, but in the actual product, the constituent components are joined together.

[0065] The absorbent article 1 can be a sanitary napkin, panty liner, incontinence pad, fecal pad, disposable diaper, or panty-type sanitary napkin, etc. The absorbent article 1 can be used as an adornment for clothing such as underwear, or it can be used without being adornment for clothing. In this embodiment, the absorbent article 1 is a sanitary napkin. Furthermore, in the following description of the accompanying drawings, the same or similar reference numerals are used to label the same or similar parts.

[0066] Figure 1 This is a top view of absorbent material 1 taken from the skin side (T1). Figure 2 This is a top view of the absorbent article 1 of the embodiment, viewed from the non-skin side (T2). Figure 3 It is along Figure 1The cross-sectional view shown along line AA. Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view of the absorbent body. Here, "skin side" corresponds to the skin facing the wearer during use. "Non-skin side" corresponds to the side facing away from the wearer's skin during use. The absorbent article 1 has mutually orthogonal front-back direction L, width direction W, and thickness direction T. In the front-back direction L of the absorbent article 1, the side that abuts against the user's lower abdomen is called the "front side," and the side that abuts against the user's buttocks is called the "rear side." The thickness direction T extends along the skin side T1 and the non-skin side T2.

[0067] Furthermore, in this invention, the outer portion refers to the part occupying a certain range in the width direction W, including the outer edge in the width direction W. The outer edge refers to the outer edge in the width direction W. Additionally, the outer edge of a constituent member occupying a certain range in the front-rear direction is an edge obtained by connecting all points located on the outer side of the constituent member in the width direction throughout the constituent member. In this invention, the inner portion refers to the part occupying a certain range in the width direction W, including the inner edge in the width direction W. The inner edge refers to the inner edge in the width direction W. Additionally, the inner edge of a constituent member occupying a certain range in the front-rear direction W is an edge obtained by connecting all points located on the inner side of the constituent member in the width direction throughout the constituent member. Furthermore, in this invention, the front end and rear end are portions occupying a certain range in the front-rear direction L, including edges in the front-rear direction L. The front edge and rear edge are edges in the front-rear direction L. The outer end includes the front end and the rear end, and the outer edge includes the front edge and the rear edge. Furthermore, the inner side is an edge that includes an inner edge and extends along the front-rear direction L. The outer edge is an edge that includes the outer edge and extends along the front-back direction L. Furthermore, in this specification, the term "along the front-back direction L" refers to a direction having an angle of less than 45° relative to the front-back direction L, and the term "along the width direction W" refers to a direction having an angle of less than 45° relative to the width direction W.

[0068] The absorbent article 1 has a front region S1, a rear region S2, and a crotch region S3. The crotch region S3 is positioned in the crotch of the garment when the absorbent article 1 is installed, and is positioned between the wearer's legs. The front region S1 is located forward of the crotch region S3. The front edge of the front region S1 defines the front edge of the absorbent article 1. The rear region S2 is located rearward of the crotch region S3. The rear edge of the rear region S2 defines the rear edge of the absorbent article 1. Regarding the crotch region S3, in absorbent articles with wings 5, it can be the region where the wings 5 ​​are provided; in absorbent articles with a narrowing portion that narrows inward in the width direction, it can be the region where the narrowing portion is provided. Alternatively, the crotch region S3 can be the central region among the regions that divide the absorbent article into three equal parts along the front-back direction L.

[0069] The absorbent article 1 has at least an absorbent body 30, a top sheet 10, and a bottom sheet 20. The absorbent article 1 may be elongated. The top sheet 10 is a sheet that covers the skin side T1 of the absorbent body 30 and is disposed on the skin side T1 of the absorbent article 1. The top sheet 10 abuts against the wearer's skin. The top sheet 10 is a liquid-permeable sheet. The top sheet 10 may also be a structure in which a single sheet covers the entire skin surface of the absorbent article 1, as in this embodiment, or it may have a central sheet covering the center of the absorbent body 30 in the width direction W, and side sheets disposed on the outer side of the central sheet in the width direction W. The absorbent article 1 may also have a second sheet 25 disposed between the top sheet 10 and the absorbent body 30.

[0070] The absorbent article 1 may have an embossed portion 40 formed by compressing at least the top sheet 10 and the absorbent body 30 along the thickness direction T. The embossed portion 40 can be formed by compressing at least the top sheet 10 and the absorbent body 30, and may also be formed by compressing other components (e.g., the second sheet 25). The embossed portion 40 may be arranged linearly or intermittently. The embossed portion 40 of this embodiment has linearly arranged linear embossed portions and intermittently arranged dotted embossed portions. The embossed line portion may have an annular first embossed line portion 411, a second embossed line portion 412, and a curved third embossed line portion 413. The first embossed line portion 411 is configured to span a front region S1, a crotch region S3, and a rear region S2. The second embossed line portion 412 is disposed inside the first embossed line portion 411 and extends along the width direction W. The third embossed line portion 413 is disposed behind the first embossed line portion 411 and protrudes rearward. Alternatively, the dotted embossed portion may be circular (including elliptical) when viewed from above, having a first dotted embossed line portion 421 disposed inside the first embossed line portion 411 and a second dotted embossed line portion 422 disposed outside the first embossed line portion 411 along the width direction W.

[0071] The backing sheet 20 is a liquid-impermeable sheet disposed at a position closer to the skin side (T2) than the absorbent 30. The backing sheet 20 is a liquid-impermeable sheet. The backing sheet 20 can be made of polyethylene sheet, laminated nonwoven fabric mainly composed of polypropylene, breathable resin film, or sheet formed by bonding a breathable resin film to a nonwoven fabric such as spunbond or spunlace.

[0072] The absorbent article 1 may have a fixing portion disposed on the non-skin side T2 of the absorbent article 1 for securing the absorbent article 1 to the wearable article. The fixing portion is disposed on the non-skin side T2 of the backing sheet 20. The fixing portion is an area with an adhesive for bonding with the wearable article, or an area with a mechanical hook for engaging with the wearable article. The fixing portion is covered by a peel-off sheet or a single packaging sheet (not shown) before use. The fixing portion may have a central fixing portion 61 and wing fixing portions 62, the central fixing portion 61 being disposed in the area overlapping with the absorbent body 30, and the wing fixing portion 62 being disposed on the wing 5. The wing 5 extends outward in the width direction W relative to the absorbent body 30 and is disposed on the non-skin side T2 of the wearable article during use. The central fixing portion 61 constitutes the "fixing portion" of this utility model. The central fixing portion 61 may extend along the front-rear direction L and be disposed with spacing in the width direction W. The central attachment portion 61 can be disposed on both sides of a width center CW that is the center of the width direction W of the absorbent 30. The width center CW is an imaginary line that passes through the center of the width direction W of the absorbent 30 and extends in the front-back direction L. The width center CW can also coincide with an imaginary line that passes through the center of the width direction W of the absorbent article 1 and extends in the front-back direction L.

[0073] The absorbent 30 comprises at least a laminate 35 formed by laminating absorbent material including fibers 351, and a core-covering sheet 37. In this embodiment, the absorbent 30 is formed by folding the laminate 35 and the core-covering sheet 37 together. The laminate 35 is formed by laminating absorbent material. Examples of absorbent material include hydrophilic fibers 351, pulp, and superabsorbent polymers (SAP) 352. The absorbent material may contain at least fibers 351, but may also include SAP 352. The core-covering sheet 37 is a sheet disposed overlapping the laminate 35. Furthermore, the structure of the absorbent 30 will be described in detail later.

[0074] The core-covering sheet 37 can be exemplified by thin cotton paper or non-woven fabric. By using the core-covering sheet 37, the fibers 351 can be irregularly arranged in the planar direction, thereby suppressing the planar transmission of forces applied to the absorbent 30. As a result, the deformation of the absorbent becomes localized, and the overall deformation of the absorbent can be suppressed. Furthermore, since the fibers 351 are irregularly arranged in the planar direction, bodily fluids can be introduced into the non-skin side T2 without excessive diffusion in the planar direction.

[0075] Alternatively, in the absorber 30, a pressing region RP can be continuously formed along the front-to-back direction L of the absorber 30, which pushes the absorber 30 along the thickness direction T. Figure 4 In the diagram, a slash is used to indicate the pressing area RP. The pressing area RP is located in... Figure 3 The middle part is omitted, and it is shown in Figure 5 Unlike the embossed portion 40, only the absorbent body 30 is compressed in the pressing region RP. The pressing region RP can be provided intermittently by linear or dotted pressing portions, or it can be provided in a planar manner by pressing portions within a certain range. In this embodiment, the pressing region RP is provided in a planar manner on both sides of the absorbent body 30 in the width direction W. The pressing regions RP are respectively disposed on both sides separated from the width center CW.

[0076] The absorbent article 1 of this embodiment is configured to suppress the spillage of absorbent material in the absorbent body 30, which is formed by folding absorbent material and core-covering sheet 37 together. Next, the structure for suppressing the spillage of absorbent material in the absorbent body 30 will be described in detail. The core-covering sheet 37 and the laminate 35 constituting the absorbent body 30 are folded inward in the width direction W on both sides of the absorbent body 30 such that the laminate 35 is closer to the inside of the thickness direction T than the core-covering sheet 37, and the folded portions overlap each other. As a result, an absorbent crease FL30, formed by folding the core-covering sheet 37 and the laminate 35 together, is formed on the outer edge of the absorbent body 30. The absorbent crease FL30 has a first absorbent crease FL31 on one side of the width direction W and a second absorbent crease FL32 on the other side of the width direction W. The absorbent crease FL30 is formed by folding the laminate 35 and the core covering sheet 37 together, and therefore its stiffness is easily increased compared to a crease formed by folding only the core covering sheet 37. Therefore, for the absorbent body 30 of this embodiment, it is easy to maintain the shape of the absorbent body 30 when the absorbent article 1 is subjected to a force from the side in the width direction W.

[0077] The folded portions of the absorbent 30 overlap each other. That is, the portion folded by the first absorption crease FL31 and the portion folded by the second absorption crease FL32 overlap in the thickness direction T. The folded and overlapping portions of the absorbent 30 have an outer portion 31 located outside the thickness direction T of the absorbent 30 and an inner portion 32 located inside the thickness direction T of the absorbent 30. In this embodiment, the outer portion 31 is provided in the portion folded by the first absorption crease FL31, and the inner portion 32 is provided in the portion folded by the second absorption crease FL32. The overlapping region RL of the folded portions is, in other words, the region where the outer portion 31 and the inner portion 32 overlap. In the overlapping region RL, the absorbent 30 is thicker than the region where the folded portions do not overlap. As a result, the absorption capacity of body fluid can be locally increased in the overlapping region RL.

[0078] In the stacked region RL, it is sufficient to overlap with at least one of the stacked body 35 and the core-covering sheet 37. In the outer portion 31, at least the core-covering sheet 37 needs to be disposed, and the stacked body 35 may also be disposed there. In the inner portion 32, at least one of the core-covering sheet 37 and the stacked body 35 needs to be disposed. In the stacked region RL of this embodiment, the regions formed by stacking the core-covered sheet 37 folded by the first absorption crease FL31, the core-covered sheet 37 folded by the second absorption crease FL32, and the laminate 35, the regions formed by stacking the core-covered sheet 37 folded by the first absorption crease FL31, the laminate 35, the core-covered sheet 37 folded by the second absorption crease FL32, and the regions formed by stacking the core-covered sheet 37 folded by the first absorption crease FL31, the laminate 35, and the core-covered sheet 37 folded by the second absorption crease FL32 are arranged adjacent to each other in the width direction W. Therefore, even within the stacked region RL, the thickness at the center in the width direction W is thicker than the sides.

[0079] The length of the lamination region RL in the width direction W only needs to be shorter than the entire width of the absorbent 30 in the width direction W, but preferably it can be less than 60% of the width of the absorbent 30 in the width direction W, and more preferably it can be less than 50% of the width of the entire area of ​​the absorbent 30 in the width direction W. According to this structure, the thickness and absorption capacity in a local area of ​​the absorbent 30 in the width direction W can be increased, and the absorption capacity of bodily fluids can be ensured without increasing the thickness throughout the entire area of ​​the absorbent 30. Furthermore, the length of the lamination region RL in the width direction W can be less than 30 mm, preferably less than 20 mm. The lamination region RL can be continuously formed throughout the entire area of ​​the absorbent 30 in the front-back direction L.

[0080] An extension region RE is provided in the outer portion 31, in which the core-covering sheet 37 extends in the width direction W relative to the laminate 35. The extension region RE is the area in which the core-covering sheet 37 extends in the direction away from the absorbent crease FL30 relative to the laminate 35. The core-covering sheet 37 of the outer portion 31 covers the outer side of the laminate 35 overlapping in the thickness direction T in the thickness direction T, and extends beyond the laminate 35 in the width direction W. The laminate 35 of the outer portion 31 is covered by the core-covering sheet 37 of the outer portion 31 and is not exposed to the outer surface of the absorbent 30. As a result, the scattering of absorbent material in the outer portion 31 can be suppressed. In addition, since the extension region RE is provided, even if the laminate is pushed by body pressure, etc., the exposure of absorbent material can be suppressed, and the scattering of absorbent material can be suppressed. The extension region RE can be continuously formed throughout the entire area in the front-back direction L of the absorbent 30.

[0081] The absorbent material fibers 351 may consist only of short fibers with a length of 0.5 mm or more and 60 mm or less. That is, the absorbent material fibers 351 may not contain long fibers longer than 60 mm. For a laminate containing only short fibers, compared to a laminate containing long fibers, the fiber orientation tends to become random, facilitating the diffusion of bodily fluids in various directions. This suppresses uneven diffusion of bodily fluids within the laminate 35, maintaining diffusion throughout the entire area of ​​the laminate 35. Furthermore, for a laminate 35 containing only short fibers, compared to a laminate containing long fibers, there are fewer fiber interlacing points, reducing force transmission. Therefore, in the event of localized deformation of the laminate 35, it is easier to suppress the deformation from spreading to the entire laminate 35, and easier to maintain the shape of the absorbent 30. Moreover, the structure of the absorbent material containing only short fibers can include absorbent materials other than fibers, such as short fibers and SAP.

[0082] The fiber length in this invention can be measured using the following method. The product is disassembled, and the target fibers are extracted. At this time, a portion unaffected by embossing, adhesives, cutting, etc., is extracted to prepare a sample. In the case of pulp fibers, the average fiber length of the pulp fibers refers to the length-weighted average fiber length (l) obtained by measuring the centerline fiber length (Cont). The length-weighted average fiber length is measured using a fiber quality analyzer [Kajaani FiberLab fiber properties (off-line)] manufactured by Metso Automation as the L(l) value. Furthermore, this is also the method recommended in JIS P 8226-2 (Standard for Pulp - Fiber Length Measurement Method Based on Engineering Automated Analysis - Non-polarized Light Method). Additionally, the average fiber length of fibers other than pulp fibers is measured according to Appendix A of JIS L1015:2010, "A7.1 Measurement of Fiber Length," specifically "A7.1.1 Method A (Standard Method) - Method for Measuring the Length of Each Fiber on a Graduated Glass Plate."

[0083] The structure of the absorber 30 is not limited to the structure of this embodiment, and variations can also be exemplified. Figures 6A to 6JThe absorber 30 is shown as a modified example, and more specifically, a modified example of the stacking arrangement of the outer portion 31 and the inner portion 32 is shown. In this embodiment, the stacking region RL is the area where at least one of the stacked body 35 and the core-covering sheet 37 in the outer portion 31 overlaps with at least one of the stacked body 35 and the core-covering sheet 37 in the inner portion 32. Therefore, the region with the most layers in the stacking region RL becomes the area where both the stacked body 35 and the core-covering sheet 37 in the outer portion 31 overlap with both the stacked body 35 and the core-covering sheet 37 in the inner portion 32 (for example, referring to the embodiment). Figure 5 and variations thereof Figure 6A , Figure 6B and Figure 6J ).

[0084] Preferably, in the stacked region RL, the stacked body 35 of the outer portion 31 and the stacked body 35 of the inner portion 32 can overlap (e.g., referring to the embodiment). Figure 5 and variations thereof Figure 6A , Figure 6B , Figure 6C and Figure 6J By overlapping the laminates 35, the thickness of the laminated region RL can be increased, and the absorption capacity of the laminated region RL can also be improved.

[0085] The laminate 35 of the outer portion 31 can abut against the core-covering sheet 37 of the inner portion 32. The laminated region RL is a region where the absorbent 30 is relatively thick and easily ensures the absorption capacity of body fluid. In the laminated region RL, since the laminate 35 of the outer portion 31 abuts against the core-covering sheet 37 of the inner portion 32, the core-covering sheet 37 is disposed between the laminate 35 of the outer portion 31 and the laminate 35 of the inner portion 32. Compared with the structure where the laminates 35 abut against each other, the friction at the boundary between the inner portion 32 and the outer portion 31 is reduced, and the inner portion 32 and the outer portion 31 can slide easily at this boundary. Therefore, when the absorbent 30 is pushed by body pressure, deformation can be absorbed by the relative movement of the inner portion 32 and the outer portion 31, and the twisting or breakage of the absorbent 30 can be suppressed. In addition, since the core-covered sheet 37 divides the laminate 35 in the thickness direction, the deformation of the laminate 35 on the divided side is not easily transmitted to the laminate 35 on the other side, and it is easy to maintain the shape of the laminate 35 as a whole as the absorber 30, which can reduce the distortion of the absorber 30.

[0086] Furthermore, the manner in which the laminate 35 of the outer portion 31 abuts against the core-covered sheet 37 of the inner portion 32 can be shown in the embodiment. Figure 5 and variations thereof Figure 6A , Figure 6B , Figure 6D and Figure 6JIt is sufficient that at least a portion of the laminate 35 on the outer side 31 abuts against the core-covering sheet 37 on the inner side 32. However, it is preferable that it be as described in the embodiment. Figure 5 and variations thereof Figure 6A , Figure 6D and Figure 6J As shown, the entire area of ​​the laminate 35 of the outer portion 31 abuts against the core-covered sheet 37 of the inner portion 32.

[0087] For example, variations Figures 6D to 6I As shown, in the stacked region RL, the stacked body 35 of the outer portion 31 and the stacked body 35 of the inner portion 32 may not overlap. In the case where the stacked body 35 of the outer portion 31 and the stacked body 35 of the inner portion 32 do not overlap, at least one of the stacked body 35 of the inner portion 32 and the core covering sheet 37 overlaps with the core covering sheet 37 of the outer portion.

[0088] Preferably, the core-covered sheet 37 of the inner portion 32 extends in the width direction W relative to the laminate 35 of the inner portion 32 (for example, see the embodiment). Figure 5 and variations Figures 6D to 6F According to this method, the core-covering sheet 37 can be used to maintain the boundary between the inner portion 32 and the outer portion 31 for the laminate 35 in the inner portion 32, and the folded shape of the absorbent 30 can be easily maintained. Therefore, even when compressed by body pressure, the deformation of the absorbent 30 can be easily suppressed, and its shape can be easily maintained. Furthermore, the length of the core-covering sheet 37 extending in the width direction W relative to the laminate 35 can be longer than the thickness of the laminate 35 in the inner portion 32. According to this method, even when the laminate 35 in the inner portion 32 is flattened by body pressure, the extended core-covering sheet 37 can cover the laminate 35, preventing the exposure of the fibers 351.

[0089] Furthermore, known methods can be used to address the thickness in this invention. For example, in evaluating the thickness, the sample is frozen using liquid nitrogen, and the object portion is cut in a cross-section. The cut surface is then imaged using a digital microscope VHX-100 (lens VH-Z20R + variable illumination accessory VH-K20) manufactured by Keyence Corporation, with a measurement area of ​​20mm x 20mm, and the cross-section of the object portion of the sample is measured.

[0090] It can be, as in the variant example. Figure 6A , Figure 6G and Figure 6J As shown, the outer edge of the core-covered sheet 37 of the inner portion 32 coincides with the outer edge of the laminate 35 of the inner portion 32. Alternatively, as in the modified example, it can also be... Figure 6B , Figure 6C , Figure 6Hand Figure 6I As shown, the outer edge of the core-covering sheet 37 of the inner portion 32 does not extend beyond the outer edge of the laminate 35 of the inner portion 32, thus not covering at least a portion of the laminate 35 of the inner portion 32. Furthermore, in the manner in which the core-covering sheet 37 of the inner portion 32 does not extend beyond the laminate 35 of the inner portion 32, it is preferable that, as in the modified example… Figure 6B , Figure 6C and Figure 6H As shown, the outer portion 31 covers the laminate 35 that extends beyond the core-covering sheet 37 in the inner portion 32. By covering the laminate 35 of the inner portion 32 with the outer portion 31, the shedding of the absorbent material in the inner portion 32 can be suppressed.

[0091] It can be, as in the variant example. Figure 6J As shown, the core-covering sheet 37 of the inner portion 32 is provided with a folded-back region RF that is folded back towards the outer portion 31. The folded-back region RF is the area where the core-covering sheet 37 of the inner portion 32 is folded outward in the thickness direction T (opposite to the laminate 35). The folded-back region RF may also be located in the area covered by the outer portion 31 (inner side in the width direction W than the outer edge of the protruding region RE), or it may extend outward in the width direction W relative to the outer portion 31 (outer side in the width direction W than the outer edge of the protruding region RE). By providing the folded-back region RF, the core-covering sheet 37 can be arranged overlapping each other between the laminate 35 of the inner portion 32 and the laminate 35 of the outer portion 31, so that external forces can be absorbed by the sliding of the core-covering sheets 37 against each other, and the desired folded state of the absorber 30 can be maintained.

[0092] The folded-back region RF can be continuously formed over the entire area of ​​the core-covered sheet 37 in the front-rear direction L. In the case where the core-covered sheet 37 is made of thin cotton paper, the diffusivity of the core-covered sheet 37 in the planar direction is higher than that of the laminate 35. Therefore, by continuously providing the folded-back region RF in the front-rear direction L, the overlapping area of ​​the core-covered sheets 37 extends in the front-rear direction L, and the body fluid can be diffused in the front-rear direction L using this area, thus retaining the body fluid over a larger area of ​​the absorbent body 30.

[0093] The foldback region RF can be located within the stacked region RL. Even if the body fluid diffuses extensively via the foldback region RF, the outer portion 31 can cover this area, promoting the diffusion and retention of the body fluid within the absorbent body 30. The length of the width direction W of the stacked region RL can be longer than the length of the width direction W of the foldback region RF. According to this method, it is easier to achieve the effect of ensuring the deformability of the absorbent body 30 and the diffusion of the body fluid in the forward and backward directions L based on the foldback region RF, and suppressing the scattering of absorbent material using the stacked region RL. In this embodiment, the foldback region RF is disposed within the stacked region RL, and its length in the width direction W is 5 mm. Alternatively, in this embodiment, the length of the width direction W of the stacked region RL is 20 mm.

[0094] The absorbent article 1 has a pair of side regions RS located on both sides of the absorbent body 30 in the width direction W, and a pair of central regions RC located between the side regions RS and separated by the width center CW. A stacked region RL can be configured across the pair of central regions RC. The pair of central regions RC are areas that are easily positioned opposite the discharge port and facilitate the guidance of excrement. Because the stacked region RL is configured in this area where excrement is easily guided, the absorption capacity in this area is ensured.

[0095] Furthermore, the layered area RL can be positioned within the central area RC, or it can extend beyond the central area RC and be positioned within the side area RS. The layered area RL can be positioned separately from the outer edge (absorbent crease FL30) of the side area RS. The outer edge (absorbent crease FL30) of the side area RS easily comes into contact with the leg during wear. By reducing the thickness of the portion that comes into contact with the leg, discomfort during wear can be suppressed. Additionally, the layered area RL can be positioned across the width center CW. The length of the layered area RL in the width direction W is not particularly limited, but it can be, for example, 5 mm or more, preferably 10 mm or more. Furthermore, the length of the layered area RL in the width direction W can be less than half the length of the absorbent core in the width direction W, preferably 30 mm or less.

[0096] Before the absorber 30 is folded, the two outer edges 37E of the core-covering sheet 37 in the width direction W and the two outer edges 35E of the laminate 35 can be arranged within a pair of central regions RC. Since the two outer edges 37E of the core-covering sheet 37 in the width direction W and the two outer edges 35E of the laminate 35 are located within the central regions RC, the thickness and absorption capacity of the central regions RC can be higher than those of the side regions RS. Therefore, even when a large amount of body fluid is discharged, the body fluid can be introduced into the central regions RC and diffused along the front-to-back direction L.

[0097] Alternatively, the laminate 35 may contain not only fibers 351 but also SAP 352. Preferably, SAP 352 may be disposed on the outer portion 31 of the laminate 35. Since the outer portion 31 has a protruding area RE, even if the SAP 352 of the laminate 35 on the outer portion 31 is scattered, the core-covering sheet 37 can be used to cover the SAP 352, thus suppressing the scattering of SAP 352 from the absorbent body 30. The outer portion 31 is located on the outer side of the absorbent body 30. Therefore, the SAP 352 disposed on the outer portion 31 is easy to swell and more easily retains body fluids.

[0098] In the absorbent 30 of this embodiment, the core-covering sheet 37 and the laminate 35 are bent toward the non-skin side T2 with the absorption crease FL30 as the base point. Therefore, the laminate region RL is located in the non-skin side T2 region of the absorbent 30. According to this structure, even if the skin side T1 of the absorbent article 1 rubs against the skin, the shape of the laminate region RL can be easily maintained. However, in a modified example, the core-covering sheet 37 and the laminate 35 may be bent toward the skin side T1 with the absorption crease FL30 as the base point. That is, the laminate region RL may be located in the skin side T1 region of the absorbent 30. This can increase the absorption capacity in the skin side T1 region of the absorbent 30 and improve the absorption of body fluids. Furthermore, by providing a layered region RL in the skin-side T1 region of the absorber 30 and configuring SAP352 in the outer side 31, the retention capacity of body fluids in the area of ​​the absorber 30 close to the skin can be improved, and the rewetting of the previously introduced body fluids can be suppressed.

[0099] The length of the width direction W of the protruding region RE can be longer than the average fiber length of the fibers 351 in the laminate 35. According to this structure, even if the fibers 351 scatter from the laminate 35, the core-covered sheet 37 can cover the fibers 351 in the protruding region RE, preventing the fibers 351 from being exposed. The length of the width direction W of the protruding region RE is preferably 1 mm or more, and the maximum length of the width direction W of the protruding region RE can be 5 mm.

[0100] The length of the width direction W of the protruding region RE can be longer than the average diameter of the superabsorbent polymer after immersion in saline for 60 minutes and followed by 15 minutes of draining. According to this method, even if the superabsorbent polymer scatters from the laminate 35, the superabsorbent polymer can be covered in the protruding region RE by the core-coating sheet 37, thus preventing exposure of the superabsorbent polymer.

[0101] For measuring the average diameter of SAP particles after immersion in physiological saline for 60 minutes and then draining for 15 minutes, refer to "JISK 7223-1996 Test Method for Water Absorption of Superabsorbent Resins" and proceed in the following order. First, under conditions of 20°C, 60% relative humidity, and 1 atm (101.325 kPa) pressure (e.g., in a laboratory maintaining these conditions), disassemble the product placed in a package and remove the SAP, thus preparing the SAP. If the amount of SAP in one package is insufficient, collect products from the same manufacturing date or batch for preparation. Place the SAP in a predetermined container and invert it, shaking it at least 10 times to ensure uniform mixing of the SAP particles. Accurately weigh 1.00 g of the mixed SAP using a spatula or similar tool and place it in a separately prepared nylon mesh bag. Nylon mesh bags can be made by overlapping two 200mm x 200mm square nylon meshes, and then heat-sealing the three sides of the squares 5mm from the ends of the nylon meshes to form a bag shape with only one side of the square open. For example, 250-mesh nylon mesh (N-No. 250HD) manufactured by NBC Industries can be used as the nylon mesh.

[0102] After placing the SAP into a nylon mesh bag, heat-seal the opening of the bag to prevent spillage. Then, add 100 ml of physiological saline to a beaker, ensuring the nylon mesh bag containing the SAP is in contact with the bottom of the beaker, thus immersing the SAP in the saline solution. Next, to prevent the SAP and the nylon mesh from completely sealing together, use clips or similar means to secure one side of the nylon mesh bag to the edge of the beaker. Leave it in this position for 60 minutes.

[0103] The physiological saline used was prepared by placing a 3-liter beaker on an electronic balance, zeroing it, adding 3000.0g of ion-exchanged water to 27.0g of sodium chloride (primary reagent), and stirring with a stir bar until the sodium chloride was visually identifiable as dissolved. After 60 minutes, the nylon mesh bags containing SAP were removed from the beaker and suspended in the air for 15 minutes to drain, with the upper center of the nylon mesh bag held in place by clamps (e.g., 5mm from the top of the nylon mesh bag and 50mm from both sides). Then, after 15 minutes, 20 SAPs were removed and their diameters were measured. The average diameter was defined as "the average diameter of the hyperabsorbent polymer in the width direction W of the extended region RE after 60 minutes of immersion in physiological saline and 15 minutes of draining."

[0104] The length of the width direction W of the protruding region RE can be longer than the thickness of the laminate 35 in the outer portion 31. According to this method, even if the laminate 35 in the outer portion 31 is flattened due to body pressure, the core covering sheet 37 of the protruding region RE can be used to cover the laminate 35, and the exposure of the fibers 351 can be prevented.

[0105] like Figure 3 As shown, an adhesive region AR can be provided with adhesive on the outer edge of the extension region RE in the width direction W. The absorbent 30 can be bonded to an outer member overlapping the absorbent 30 via the adhesive region. The outer member is a member that abuts against the absorbent 30 and is bonded via the adhesive region; in this embodiment, it is the substrate 20. According to this method, the adhesive region AR extends across the outer edge of the extension region RE, and the absorbent 30 and the outer member are bonded via the adhesive region AR, thereby preventing the outer edge of the extension region RE from lifting. As a result, the extension region RE can continuously cover the laminate 35, and the shedding of absorbent material can be suppressed.

[0106] like Figure 5 As shown, an absorbent bonding region 30AR can be provided, which has an adhesive for bonding the laminate 35 and the core-covering sheet 37. The absorbent bonding region 30AR can span the absorbent creases 30FL on both sides of the absorbent body 30 in the width direction W. The absorbent bonding region 30AR is provided between the laminate 35 and the core-covering sheet 37. According to this structure, in the region extending inward from the absorbent creases 30FL in the width direction W, the absorbent bonding region 30AR has two overlapping layers. When the absorbent body is pushed along the thickness direction T due to body pressure, deformation can be absorbed by the relative movement of the inner and outer parts, and deformation can be absorbed while maintaining the opposing surfaces of the laminate and the core-covering sheet. The laminated state of the absorbent body can be maintained, and the gap between the core-covering sheet 37 and the laminate 35 can be suppressed, thus suppressing the leakage of body fluids.

[0107] like Figure 3 As shown, at least a portion of the protruding region RE can overlap with the region RG sandwiched between the central fasteners 61 on both sides of the width center CW. The region RG sandwiched between the central fasteners 61 on both sides of the width center CW is not fixed to the garment and is easily deformed into a convex shape towards the skin side T1 with the left and right central fasteners 61 as the base points. When this region is deformed into a convex shape, the shedding of absorbent material can be suppressed because the laminate 35 is covered by the protruding region RE.

[0108] At least a portion of the core-covering sheet 37 of the inner portion 32 can also be configured to overlap with the region RG sandwiched by the central fixing portion 61. Due to the presence of the core-covering sheet 37, the inner portion 32 and the outer portion 31 can easily slide at this boundary, making the absorber 30 more easily deformable. In addition, at least a portion of the folded-back region RF of the deformed example can also be configured to overlap with the region RG sandwiched by the central fixing portion 61. The creases of the core-covering sheet 37 in the folded-back region RF can support the convex deformation of the absorber 30.

[0109] As described above, a pressing region RP can be provided in the absorber 30. At least a portion of the protruding region RE can overlap with a region RPG sandwiched by the pressing region RP in the width direction W. The pressing region RP is formed by pressing the absorber 30 along the thickness direction T and has higher stiffness compared to the portion where the pressing region RP is not formed. By providing the pressing region RP with higher stiffness on the side of the absorber 30, the twisting of the side of the absorber 30 can be suppressed, and the shape of the absorber 30 can be maintained. In addition, the pressing region RP is formed continuously in the front-back direction. At least a portion of the protruding region RE is disposed between the pressing regions RP. Thus, when the absorber 30 deforms into a convex shape with the left and right pressing regions RP as reference points, the laminate 35 is covered by the protruding region RE in the convexly deformed area, thereby suppressing the scattering of absorbent material.

[0110] The stiffness of the pressing region RP can be higher than the stiffness of the region RPG sandwiched by the pressing region RP. Because the pressing region RP has higher stiffness, deformation of the absorbent body under lateral forces can be suppressed, maintaining the shape of the absorbent body. Furthermore, the stacked region RL can be disposed within the region RPG sandwiched by the pressing region RP. That is, the pressing region RP and the stacked region RL can be separated in the width direction W. According to this structure, the thickness of the absorbent body in the stacked region RL can be maintained, and the introductory properties of body fluids can be maintained within the stacked region RL. In this structure, the stiffness of the pressing region RP can be higher than the stiffness of the stacked region RL. Deformation of the absorbent body relative to external forces from the sides of the absorbent body can be suppressed, and the introductory properties of body fluids based on the stacked region RL can be maintained.

[0111] The stiffness of the absorbent in this invention can be measured according to Japanese Industrial Standard JIS L1913:2010 General Nonwoven Fabric Test Method 6.7.4, the Göllley method. The sample is obtained by peeling off unwanted layers other than the absorbent. This can be done by heating with a hair dryer or cooling in a refrigerator to facilitate peeling, but care must be taken not to affect the stiffness. Next, a 12.5mm × 38mm shape is cut from a predetermined area of ​​the absorbent using scissors or a punch to obtain a sample. Since areas affected by embossing or other stiffness-related factors must be avoided, any size can be used. The sample is then measured using the Göllley method.

[0112] As described above, embossed portions (dot embossing and line embossing) 40 can be provided on the absorbent article 1. At least a portion of the embossed portion 40 can overlap with the protruding region RE. According to this method, the protruding region RE is pressed down by the embossed portion 40, which can suppress the protruding region RE from floating. As a result, the protruding region RE can be used to continuously cover the laminate 35, and the shedding of absorbent material can be suppressed.

[0113] The embossed section 40, positioned across the width center CW and extending along the front-rear direction L, can be positioned further outward in the width direction W than the outer edge of the layered region RL. This embossed section, positioned across the width center CW and extending along the front-rear direction L, is the portion of the first embossed section 411 extending along the front-rear direction L in this embodiment. When the absorbent article 1 is worn and subjected to an inward force toward the width direction W, the area sandwiched by the first embossed section easily deforms into a convex shape toward the skin side T1, with the first embossed section 411 extending along the front-rear direction L as its base point. Since the layered region RL is positioned in the area deformed into a convex shape toward the skin side T1 with the first embossed section 411 as its base point, it is easier for the relatively thick layered region RL to come into contact with the body, thereby improving the fit to the body and the absorption of bodily fluids.

[0114] The embossed portion 40 can extend beyond the outer edge of the protruding region RE in the width direction W. The embossed portions arranged to extend beyond the outer edge of the protruding region RE in the width direction W are the portion extending in the width direction W of the first line embossed portion 411, the second line embossed portion 412, and the third line embossed portion 413 in this embodiment. According to this method, because the embossed portion 40 extends beyond the outer edge of the core-covered sheet 37 in the protruding region RE in the width direction W, the outer edge of the core-covered sheet 37 is less likely to float up, and the scattering of absorbent material from the protruding region RE can be more effectively suppressed.

[0115] (3) Method for manufacturing the absorbent article according to the embodiment

[0116] Next, refer to Figure 7 and Figures 8A to 8CAn embodiment of a method for manufacturing an absorbent article for producing the above-described absorbent article will be described. Figure 7 This is a schematic perspective view of the apparatus used in the process of manufacturing an absorbent article. Figures 8A to 8C yes Figure 7 A schematic cross-sectional view of the absorbent continuum in the process shown. The method for manufacturing an absorbent article according to the embodiment includes an absorbent forming step S100 for forming the absorbent 30. For processes other than the absorbent forming step S100, processes of known methods for manufacturing absorbent articles can be used.

[0117] In the absorbent forming process S100, an absorbent continuous 30C is formed by folding together a sheet continuous 37C, in which the core-covered sheet 37 is continuous in the front-back direction L of the absorbent article 1, and a laminate 35 formed by laminating absorbent material including fibers 351. Figure 7 The MD shown indicates the conveying direction, and the absorbent continuous body 30C is manufactured sequentially along the conveying direction MD. The front-to-back direction L of the absorbent article 1 is along the conveying direction MD, and the sheet continuous body 37C is continuous along the conveying direction MD. The absorbent body forming process S100 includes at least a lamination process S110 and a bending process S120.

[0118] In the lamination process S110, an absorbent material containing fibers 351 is laminated onto a sheet continuous 37C to form a laminate 35. Figure 8A Therefore Figure 7 The schematic cross-sectional view of the absorber continuum 30C along the intersecting direction CD (orthogonal to the conveying direction MD) with the CC line as the reference shows the absorber continuum 30C in the lamination process S110. In the lamination process S110, the sheet continuum 37C and the laminate 35 are laminated along the thickness direction T without being folded.

[0119] In the bending process S120, the sheet continuous body 37C and the laminate 35 are folded together with a pair of absorbent creases FL30 that are separated along the front-back direction L and in the width direction W as the base point. Figure 8B The upper part is Figure 7 A schematic cross-sectional view of the absorbing continuum 30C along the intersecting direction CD, with the DD line as the reference, shows the absorbing continuum 30C in the bending process S120. Additionally, Figure 8B The lower half is Figure 7 A schematic cross-sectional view of the absorbing continuum 30C along the intersecting direction CD, with the EE line as the reference, and Figure 8C Therefore Figure 7The schematic cross-sectional views of the absorbent continuum 30C along the intersecting direction CD, with the FF line as the reference, all show the absorbent continuum 30C in the bending process S120. In the bending process S120, the portions folded with a pair of absorbent creases FL30 as base points are arranged to overlap each other. Because the absorbent body 30 manufactured in this way folds the laminate 35 and the core covering sheet 37 together, the stiffness of the absorbent creases FL30 is easily increased. Therefore, when the absorbent article is subjected to lateral force in the width direction, it is easy to maintain the shape of the absorbent body. Furthermore, because the folded portions of the absorbent body overlap each other, the absorption capacity of bodily fluids can be locally increased.

[0120] In the absorbent forming process S100, an extension region RE is formed on the outer side 31 of the folded portion of the absorbent 30, located outside the thickness direction T. In this extension region RE, the sheet continuous 37C extends in the width direction W relative to the laminate 35. Specifically, in the lamination process S110, the laminate 35 is positioned on the inner side of the outer edge of the portion that is to become the outer side of the sheet continuous 37C, closer to the cross direction. At this time, the distance between the laminate 35 and the outer edge of the sheet continuous 37C is adjusted by considering the thickness of the laminate 35 and the displacement of the laminate 35 based on the bending process. By covering the laminate with a core-covered sheet on the outer side, the laminate is less likely to be exposed on the outer surface of the absorbent. Therefore, the scattering of absorbent material can be suppressed. Furthermore, since the extension region RE is provided, even if the laminate 35 is pushed due to body pressure, the exposure of absorbent material can be suppressed, thus preventing the scattering of absorbent material.

[0121] The bending process S120 may include: a standing process S121, in which the two outer sides of the sheet continuous 37C and the laminate 35 in the width direction W are stood up at a standing base point P1; and a folding process S122, in which, after the standing process S121, the sheet continuous 37C and the laminate 35 are folded at a bending base point P2 located on the outer side of the width direction W, which is further out than the standing base point P1. Figure 8B The upper part represents the absorption continuum 30C in the erection process S121. Figure 8B The lower half and Figure 8C This refers to the absorption continuum 30C in the folding process S122.

[0122] The erection process S121 can be performed, for example, by a Seurat roller 120. The rotation axis of the Seurat roller 120 is orthogonal to the conveying direction MD and along the cross direction CD. The end edge of the Seurat roller 120 in the cross direction CD is positioned inside the cross direction CD, compared to the outer edge of the sheet continuity 37C and the outer edge of the laminate 35. That is, the length of the Seurat roller 120 in the cross direction CD is shorter than the length in the width direction of the sheet continuity 37C and the length in the width direction of the laminate 35. The Seurat roller 120 is positioned from the laminate 35 side ( Figure 7 The upper side of the pusher presses the outer sides of the laminate 35 and the sheet continuous 37C, while simultaneously conveying the laminate 35 and the sheet continuous 37C along the conveying direction MD. As a result, the end edge of the cross direction CD of the Seller roller 120 becomes the standing base point P1, and the two outer sides of the sheet continuous 37C and the laminate 35 in the width direction stand up.

[0123] The folding process S122 can be performed, for example, by a selenoplate 140. The selenoplate 140 may have a pair of guides 141 and 142 that are separated in the cross direction CD. In the selenoplate 140, the two outer sides of the sheet continuity 37C and the laminate 35, which are erected with the erection base point P1 as the base point, are folded at the bending base point P2 using the guides 141 and 142. The bending base point P2 of the folding process S122 can form an absorbing crease FL30.

[0124] In the bending process S120 of this embodiment, the sheet continuity 37C and the laminate 35 are folded together, so the thickness of the folded area is greater than that of the process where only the sheet continuity 37C is folded. By having a standing process S121 and a folding process S122, it is possible to first stand the sheet at the standing base point P1 and then fold it at the bending base point P2. The relatively thick absorbent body 30 can be folded in stages, making it easy to fold stably in the desired shape. In addition, since the bending base point P2 is located on the outer side of the width direction W than the standing base point P1, it is easy to fold stably at the position of the desired absorbent crease FL30 even if the laminate 35 has thickness.

[0125] In the bending process S120, after starting to bend one outer portion of the sheet continuity 37C and the laminate 35 in the width direction W, the other outer portion of the sheet continuity 37C and the laminate 35 in the width direction W can be bent. For example, the guide 141 of the selenoplate 140 is first brought into contact with one outer portion of the sheet continuity 37C and the laminate 35 in the width direction W, and then the guide 142 of the selenoplate 140 is brought into contact with the other outer portion of the sheet continuity 37C and the laminate 35 in the width direction W. This allows the starting times of folding on one side and the other side to be different. According to this method, compared to a structure in which both outer portions of the sheet continuity 37C and the laminate 35 are folded simultaneously, it is easier to suppress twisting during folding and easier to stably fold the absorbent body at the desired position.

[0126] In the bending process S120, the outer side of the sheet continuous 37C on the side that is folded first can be folded together with the other outer side of the sheet continuous 37C and the laminate 35 in the width direction W. Figure 8C The diagram illustrates a state where, when the sheet continuity 37C and the laminate 35 are folded along their width direction W, the sheet continuity 37C on the side that was folded first is folded together. The sheet continuity 37C on the side that was folded first is folded back towards the outside of the absorber, forming a folded-back region RF. According to this method, by folding one outer sheet continuity and the other outer sheet together, a folded-back region is formed on one outer sheet continuity, folded back towards the absorber crease side. Therefore, the folded-back region RF can be formed by folding both outer sheets of the sheet continuity 37C and the laminate 35 without performing a separate process for forming the folded-back region.

[0127] The present invention has been described in detail above using the embodiments described above. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described in this specification. The present invention can be implemented as modifications and variations without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention as defined by the claims. Therefore, the description in this specification is for illustrative purposes only and does not have any limiting meaning for the present invention.

[0128] Industrial availability

[0129] An absorbent article is provided that can suppress the scattering of absorbent material in an absorbent body formed by folding absorbent material and core-coating sheet together.

Claims

1. An absorbent article comprising mutually orthogonal front-back direction, width direction, and thickness direction, and an absorbent body formed by folding a core-covering sheet and pulp fibers together, the pulp fibers being laminated on the core-covering sheet, characterized in that, The core-coated sheet and the pulp fibers are folded at a first absorption crease located at one outer edge in the width direction of the absorbent and a second absorption crease located at another outer edge in the width direction of the absorbent, with the pulp fibers positioned inside the absorbent fibers in the thickness direction, and the folded portions overlapping each other. An extension region is provided on the outer side of the folded portion of the absorbent, located on the outer side in the thickness direction, in which the core-covered sheet extends in the width direction relative to the pulp fibers.

2. The absorbent article according to claim 1, characterized in that, The absorbent article has a pair of side regions located on both sides of the absorbent in the width direction, in a region that divides the absorbent into four equal parts along the width direction, and a pair of central regions located between the pair of side regions and separated by a width center that is the center of the absorbent in the width direction. The areas where the folded portions overlap each other are configured across the pair of central regions.

3. The absorbent article according to claim 2, characterized in that, The two outer edges of the core-covered sheet in the width direction and the two outer edges of the pulp fiber in the state before the absorber is folded are arranged in the pair of central regions in the state after the absorber is folded.

4. An absorbent article comprising mutually orthogonal front-back direction, width direction, and thickness direction, and an absorbent body formed by folding a core-covering sheet and fibers together, the fibers being laminated on the core-covering sheet, characterized in that, The core-covering sheet and the fibers are folded inward in the width direction on both sides of the absorber, with the fibers located inside the thickness direction, and the folded portions overlap each other. The outer portion of the folded part of the absorbent, located on the outer side in the thickness direction, has a protruding area in which the core-covering sheet extends out in the width direction relative to the fibers. The fibers on the outer side abut against the core-covering sheet on the inner side of the folded portion located in the thickness direction.

5. An absorbent article comprising an absorbent body formed by folding a core-covering sheet and fibers together in mutually orthogonal front-back, width, and thickness directions, and a liquid-impermeable backing sheet, wherein the fibers are laminated on the core-covering sheet, and the backing sheet is disposed at a position closer to the non-skin side than the absorbent body, characterized in that, The core-covering sheet and the fibers are folded inward in the width direction on both sides of the absorber, with the fibers located inside the thickness direction, and the folded portions overlap each other. The outer portion of the folded part of the absorbent, located on the outer side in the thickness direction, has a protruding area in which the core-covering sheet extends out in the width direction relative to the fibers. The adhesive region, which has an adhesive that bonds the absorber and the substrate, spans the outer edge of the protruding region in the width direction.

6. The absorbent article according to any one of claims 1, 4, and 5, characterized in that, The absorber contains only short fibers of 0.5 mm or more and 60 mm or less.

7. The absorbent article according to any one of claims 1, 4, and 5, characterized in that, The fibers on the outer side abut against the core-covering sheet on the inner side of the folded portion located in the thickness direction.

8. The absorbent article according to claim 7, characterized in that, The core-covered sheet on the inner side extends in the width direction relative to the fibers on the inner side.

9. The absorbent article according to any one of claims 1, 4, and 5, characterized in that, The absorbent is not provided with a superabsorbent polymer.

10. The absorbent article according to any one of claims 1, 4, and 5, characterized in that, The length of the protruding region in the width direction is longer than the average fiber length of the fibers of the absorber.

11. The absorbent article according to any one of claims 1, 4, and 5, characterized in that, The length of the protruding region in the width direction is longer than the thickness of the fiber in the outer portion.

12. The absorbent article according to any one of claims 1, 4, and 5, characterized in that, The core-covering sheet in the inner portion of the folded portion, located on the inner side in the thickness direction, has a folded-back area that is folded back towards the outer side.

13. The absorbent article according to claim 12, characterized in that, The length of the area in the width direction of the region where the folded portions overlap is longer than the length of the width direction of the folded-back region.

14. The absorbent article according to any one of claims 1, 4, and 5, characterized in that, An adhesive region is provided with adhesive on the outer edge of the protruding region in the width direction. The absorbent is bonded to the outer member overlapping the absorbent via the adhesive area.

15. The absorbent article according to any one of claims 1, 4, and 5, characterized in that, The absorbent article has absorbent bonding areas with an adhesive that bonds the fibers and the core-covered sheet together. The absorbent bonding area spans the absorbent creases on both sides of the absorbent body in the width direction.

16. The absorbent article according to any one of claims 1, 4, and 5, characterized in that, The absorbent article has a fastening portion disposed on the non-skin side of the absorbent article for securing the absorbent article to a garment. The fixing portions are respectively disposed on both sides of the width center, which is the center of the width direction of the absorber. At least a portion of the protruding area overlaps with the area between the fixed portions located on both sides separated by the center of the width.

17. The absorbent article according to any one of claims 1, 4, and 5, characterized in that, On both sides of the absorbent in the width direction, a pressing region is continuously formed throughout the front-back direction of the absorbent, which pushes the absorbent along the thickness direction. The pushing regions are respectively disposed on both sides of the width center, which is the center of the width direction of the absorber. At least a portion of the protruding region overlaps with the region located between the pushing regions in the width direction.

18. The absorbent article according to any one of claims 1, 4, and 5, characterized in that, The absorbent article has: A top sheet that covers the absorbent on the skin side and is disposed on the skin-side surface of the absorbent article; and The embossed section is formed by compressing the top sheet and the absorbent body along the thickness direction. At least a portion of the embossed portion overlaps with the protruding area.

19. The absorbent article according to claim 18, characterized in that, The embossed portion extends across the outer edge of the protruding area in the width direction.

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