Manufacturing plant for producing a closure system, closure system and hygiene products

Abstract

Manufacturing plant for manufacturing a locking system (10), wherein the manufacturing plant is set up to carry out a manufacturing process, wherein a fixing element (16) is supplied to a carrier part (12) with projecting locking elements (14) arranged on its front (12') and to its rear (12'''), characterized by that the fixing part (16) has a material component (17) whose melting temperature is higher than a melting temperature of at least one material component (13, 13') of the support part (12), in particular by at least 5 K, or which is not meltable, in particular is not a thermoplastic, that the support part (12) and the fixing part (16) are permanently connected to each other at at least one connection point (20), and that the connection point (20) is created at least partially by fusing a material component (13, 13') of the support part (12) and a material component (17, 18) of the fixing part (16) and / or at least partially by enclosing a non-fused material component (13, 13', 15, 17, 18) of one part (12, 16), in particular of the fixing part (16), by a material component (13, 13', 15, 17, 18) of the other part (12, 16), in particular of the support part (12).

Description

Background of the invention

[0001] The invention relates to a manufacturing system for producing a closure system, wherein a carrier part with projecting closure elements arranged on its front side is supplied with a locking element on its rear side. The invention further relates to a closure system with a carrier part carrying closure elements and a locking element, and to a hygiene product with such a closure system.

[0002] To create a fastening system, particularly an adhesive fastening system, a carrier part with protruding fastening elements often needs to be connected to a fixing element. The fixing element can serve as a support structure for the carrier part during use of the fastening system. Furthermore, the fixing element can be used to connect the carrier part and fixing element assembly to other components. An example of such a structure is the adhesive fastener of a diaper, where a fixing element is attached to a diaper ear, or where the diaper ear itself serves as the fixing element, and where the fixing element is, in turn, connected flat to a carrier part which has fastening elements. When the diaper is put on, the fastening elements can be hooked onto a counterpart.

[0003] A well-known method for manufacturing a closure system consisting of a carrier part and a fixing part involves selectively welding the two parts together, for example, using an ultrasonic welding process. By locally melting or plasticizing the materials of the carrier part and the fixing part, a metallurgical bond can be created between the two parts at the weld points.

[0004] EP 3 408 067 B1 and EP 2 815 733 A1 each describe methods for manufacturing closure systems, wherein a carrier part, which has closure elements arranged in rows, is welded to a fixing part by means of an ultrasonic welding process. The respective carrier part is joined to the respective fixing part in a continuous process, particularly along weld lines. The weld lines are applied between adjacent rows of closure elements. Both the carrier part and the fixing part must be weldable.

[0005] This requirement can have disadvantages. For example, in the aforementioned example of the diaper's adhesive closure, it might be desirable for the diaper ear to also serve as the fastening element, thus eliminating the need for a separate fastening component. However, this is countered by the fact that the diaper ear may not be entirely made of a weldable material due to other requirements, such as increased elasticity or absorbency.

[0006] EP 4 548 891 A1 and EP 3 271 134 B1 describe methods for forming closure elements on a substrate. In these methods, a substrate can be softened using a sonotrode and partially introduced into cavities of a mold to form the closure elements. The substrate can consist of materials or material components with different melting properties. EP 3 271 134 B1 describes how this allows one material component of the substrate, for example, a nonwoven fabric, to remain unaffected during the manufacturing process of the closure elements, while another material component is plasticized, with the formed closure elements being essentially formed from this latter material component. The unaffected material component can be embedded within the plasticized material component during this process. Object of the invention

[0007] One objective of the invention is to improve the manufacture or manufacturability of closure systems. Description of the invention

[0008] This problem is solved according to the invention by a manufacturing plant for producing a closure system according to claim 1, a closure system according to claim 12 and a hygiene article according to claim 21. The dependent claims and the description represent preferred embodiments. Manufacturing plant according to the invention

[0009] The task is thus solved by a manufacturing system for producing a locking system. The manufacturing system is set up to carry out a manufacturing process described below, in which a locking element is fed to a carrier part with protruding locking elements. The locking elements are already present on the carrier part during the joining of the locking element and the carrier part. The carrier part may therefore have been manufactured in an upstream production process and, if necessary, temporarily stored and / or transported. The locking elements are arranged on a front side of the carrier part. The locking element is fed to the carrier part on its rear side, which faces away from the front side (with the locking elements).

[0010] The fixing element comprises a material component whose melting point is higher than the melting point of at least one material component of the support element, in particular by at least 5 K, or which is non-meltable, in particular not a thermoplastic. In embodiments, the fixing element may comprise a material component whose melting point is at least 15 K, preferably at least 40 K, higher than the melting point of at least one material component of the support element.

[0011] The support element and the fixing element are permanently joined at at least one connection point. Therefore, once joined, the support element and the fixing element cannot be separated from each other without damage. The connection point is created at least partially by fusing a material component of the support element and a material component of the fixing element, and / or at least partially by enclosing an unmelted material component of one part, particularly the fixing element, with a material component of the other part, particularly the support element.

[0012] The manufacturing plant according to the invention can be used in particular to produce a closure system according to the invention as described below.

[0013] Material components of the fixing element and the support element are defined as those material components that define the fixing element and the support element, respectively, in their unconnected state. The fixing element and / or the support element may each consist of a single material. In this case, the fixing element and / or the support element each contain only one material component. Alternatively, the fixing element and / or the support element may consist of a composite material. In this case, the fixing element and / or the support element each contain multiple material components. If several fusible material components are present in the fixing element or support element, the comparison of melting temperatures focuses particularly on the material component of the fixing element with the lowest melting temperature and / or the material component of the support element with the highest melting temperature.

[0014] A material component of the fixing element with a melting point of at least 300°C, and in particular at least 400°C, is considered non-meltable for the purposes of the present invention. This is because conventional material components of the support element, for example polypropylene or polyethylene, have melting points of less than 200°C. Temperatures of 300°C and above are therefore not achievable in practice when joining the two parts, especially since the entire support element would regularly melt. Accordingly, material components of the fixing element that decompose at temperatures of at least 300°C, and in particular at least 400°C, without melting beforehand, are also considered non-meltable.

[0015] At the joint, a metallurgical bond between several material components can be created by melting (conventional welding). In the joint obtained by melting, the material of the carrier part was temporarily partially melted or plasticized; preferably, the material of the fixing part was also temporarily partially melted or plasticized. Alternatively or additionally, a mixing of material components can also take place, whereby one of the material components of the carrier part was melted or plasticized, and a material component of the fixing part was at least partially embedded in the melted or plasticized material, for example, by flow.After the molten / plasticized material component solidifies, a positive-locking connection exists between the material components, with one material component at least partially enclosing the other. Such a connection, created by enclosing a material component that is not or not completely molten, can also exhibit material-bonded properties, particularly if the higher-melting-point material component has been superficially molten. In particular, the strength of this connection can be largely achieved through the positive-locking engagement of the molten material component of the anchoring part with the molten material component of the supporting part.

[0016] Depending on the nature of the part, several material components can be involved in creating the joint. For example, the carrier part may have two thermoplastic material components, both of which can be melted to create the joint. Furthermore, after the joint has been created, several material components of one part may be completely or partially encased by the material of the other part.

[0017] Preferably, the aforementioned joining principles can be combined to create the joint. For example, the fixing element can comprise a thermoplastic material component that is melted and a non-thermoplastic material component.

[0018] Preferably, the support part and the fixing part are heated to create the connection point, in particular whereby a material component of the support part is brought into a plastic or molten state.

[0019] Heating can preferably be achieved by transmitting high-frequency mechanical vibrations, for example from a sonotrode, to the support and fixing components, thereby generating frictional heat. Alternatively or additionally, heating can be achieved using radiant energy, for example from a laser, or convective heat input, for example from a hot air blower.

[0020] In particular, multi-stage heating is conceivable. For example, the support part can first be preheated and then further heated and melted in certain areas during or immediately before the creation of the connection point.

[0021] In some embodiments, only the support part can be heated directly, while the fixing part is heated only indirectly by the heated support part.

[0022] Preferably, the higher-melting-point material component of the fixing element is not brought into a plastic or molten state during heating. This ensures that a positive-locking connection exists between the molten / plasticized material component of the carrier part and the material component of the fixing element after the molten or plasticized material component of the carrier part has solidified.

[0023] Preferably, the support part and the fixing part are pressed against each other to create the connection point. This results in a particularly strong connection.

[0024] In some embodiments, it may be sufficient to melt one or more material components of the carrier part and, if applicable, the fixing part, and to bring the two parts into contact to create a connection. For example, if the carrier part is melted on its back side over a portion of the thickness of its carrier layer using a hot air blower, it may be sufficient to bring the carrier part into contact with the fixing part to create the connection. Preferably, however, the process of creating the connection is supported by applying contact pressure between the carrier part and the fixing part, at least in the area of ​​the connection to be created. This ensures a reliable and sufficiently strong formation of the connection.

[0025] Preferably, the manufacturing process according to the invention is carried out in a continuous process, wherein at least one web of carrier material is joined with at least one web of fixing material, and these webs are joined together. Optionally, one or more (parallel) continuous joints in the web direction and / or several joints spaced apart from each other in the web direction can be produced. If necessary, the locking system or multiple locking systems can then be separated from the resulting composite web. Preferably, the feed rate along the path direction is at least 70 m / min, preferably at least 100 m / min, more preferably at least 150 m / min, particularly preferably at least 300 m / min, and most preferably at least 500 m / min. The feed rate refers to the speed at which the carrier section or carrier section and the fixing section or fixing section move relative to the tools used during the joining process. If the feed is not uniform, the feed rate refers to an average feed rate. This averaging is performed, in particular, over the time required to produce a locking system.

[0026] The support element and the fixing element can be used to create the connection between an anvil and a sonotrode. This enables particularly efficient manufacturing. Furthermore, sufficiently strong connections can be reliably produced.

[0027] The sonotrode can generate vibrations in the ultrasonic range. In conjunction with the anvil opposite the sonotrode, these vibrations can be transmitted to the support part and / or the fixing part, which can be locally melted or plasticized by the resulting frictional heat. The anvil and / or the sonotrode can be, in particular, cylindrical or block-shaped (i.e., with a flat effective surface).

[0028] Implementing the process as an ultrasonic welding method enables reliable joint production and high process speeds. Alternatively, as already mentioned, the process can be carried out using a laser or a hot air blower.

[0029] A thermoplastic material component of the support part and / or the fixing part may, for example, include polyolefins, polyesters and / or polyamides.

[0030] During the manufacturing of the locking system, the carrier part and the fixing part can be considered components of the manufacturing plant.

[0031] Preferably, the support part has at least one energy direction transmitter protruding from the back of the support part before the connection point is created.

[0032] The energy direction indicator can taper from the rear of the carrier part, in particular to a point. A distal end of the tapered energy direction indicator pointing away from the rear of the carrier part can be designed as a point, a sharp edge, or a thin ridge. In alternative designs, the tapered energy direction indicator can be knob-shaped, frustoconical, or rounded (as a horizontal half-cylinder).

[0033] When the carrier part and the fixing part are joined to create the connection point, the energy direction sensor is the first component to come into contact with the fixing part. The connection point can then be formed in a controlled manner from a defined area using the energy direction sensor.

[0034] If the process is implemented as an ultrasonic joining method, the energy direction transmitter can focus ultrasonic energy (vibrational energy), thereby achieving efficient melting or plasticization of at least one of the parts to be joined at the corresponding joint point. This allows for a high degree of integration between the materials to be joined in a short time, regardless of the joining principle (material bond, form-fit).

[0035] The locking elements and the energy direction sensor are arranged on opposite sides of the carrier layer of the carrier part. The carrier part, comprising the carrier layer, the locking elements, and the at least one energy direction sensor, can be monolithic.

[0036] The locking elements and the energy direction sensor can comprise the same material component, preferably thermoplastic. In particular, in one embodiment, the locking elements and the energy direction sensor of the carrier part are made of the same material. Such a carrier part can be manufactured particularly efficiently. The locking elements and the energy direction sensor can advantageously be monolithic.

[0037] Alternatively, the locking elements and the energy direction transmitter can have different material components, in particular, they can be made of different materials. The melting point of the material component or material of the energy direction transmitter can be lower than the melting point of the material component or material of the locking elements.

[0038] In this case, the carrier component comprises more than one material component. In particular, it can be advantageous within the process if the different material components exhibit different melt flow behavior. For example, if the material of the energy direction transmitter has a lower viscosity than the material of the closure elements and / or the carrier layer, even if the respective melting temperature is only slightly exceeded, the energy direction transmitter can achieve a comparatively high degree of integration between the carrier component and the fixing element when creating the joint. This is especially true if the joint is primarily based on the embedding of unmelted material from the fixing element into material from the carrier component (positive locking principle).

[0039] Regardless of the presence of an energy direction transmitter, the carrier part can have at least two material components, one of which has a comparatively low viscosity in the molten state and advantageously may also have a lower melting point than the other material component of the carrier part (or alternatively, a melting point approximately equal to that of the other material component). For example, the back side of the carrier part can be formed mainly of this more free-flowing material component (with or without an energy direction transmitter). The closure elements can be formed mainly of the less free-flowing material component.

[0040] In a preferred embodiment, the fixing element comprises exclusively non-meltable material, in particular exclusively non-meltable fibrous material, for example, cotton and / or hemp fibers. In this case, the connection is formed entirely according to the positive locking principle. A connection between a thermoplastic material of the carrier part and a non-thermoplastic material of the fixing element can be formed in a straightforward manner. A particular advantage is, firstly, that the fixing element can be selected based on preferred properties without weldability requirements limiting the material selection for the fixing element. Secondly, the same tools used for conventional welding of the carrier part and fixing element can also be used to create the connection.

[0041] Preferably, several connection points are introduced between immediately adjacent locking elements of the carrier part, particularly without damaging the locking elements. By introducing connection points into the gaps between immediately adjacent locking elements, a reliable connection between the carrier part and the fixing element can be created without impairing the adhesive strength of the carrier part through the connection process.

[0042] Alternatively or additionally, several connection points can be introduced, in particular where at least one of the connection points impairs at least one locking element. Specifically, a locking element of the carrier part can be completely destroyed by the introduction of a connection point. If only a limited number of connecting elements are impaired at a given connection point, the loss of adhesion of the carrier part caused by the joining process can be limited to an acceptable level. At the same time, the process does not need to be carried out with excessive precision, since the exact positioning of the connection points relative to the locking elements is not critical in this variant. Furthermore, the material from the destroyed locking element incorporated into the connection point can contribute to the formation of a stable bond. Inventive locking system

[0043] The problem is also solved by a locking system comprising a carrier part with projecting locking elements arranged on its front side and a locking element arranged on the rear side of the carrier part. The locking element has a material component whose melting point is higher than the melting point of at least one material component of the carrier part, in particular by at least 5 K, or which is non-meltable, in particular not a thermoplastic. The carrier part and the locking element are permanently (i.e., not detachable without damage) connected to each other at at least one connection point. At the connection point, a material component of the carrier part and a material component of the locking element are at least partially fused together and / or a material component of one part, in particular the locking element, is enclosed by a material component of the other part, in particular the carrier part.

[0044] In embodiments, the fixing part can have a material component whose melting temperature is at least 15 K, particularly preferably at least 40 K, above a melting temperature of at least one material component of the support part.

[0045] The fixing part may contain one or more non-thermoplastic material components, in particular it may consist entirely of non-thermoplastic material.

[0046] The connection point can encompass the entire contact surface between the support part and the fixing part. This creates a particularly strong connection.

[0047] Alternatively, the connection point can encompass a portion of the contact surface. This can be advantageous for manufacturing, particularly increasing production speed. Multiple, locally confined connection points are also beneficial for the flexibility of the closure system.

[0048] In a connection obtained by fusion, the material of the carrier part was temporarily partially melted; preferably, the material of the fixing part was also temporarily partially melted.

[0049] For a joint created by enclosing material components, one or more material components of one part are embedded in the material of the other part. The material components of one part can be completely or partially surrounded by the material of the other part. The embedded material components were generally not completely melted; a superficial melting of the embedded material components is possible and may be desirable for an additional degree of material bonding.

[0050] The locking system can be manufactured, in particular, using the manufacturing process or the manufacturing plant according to the invention described above. The locking system can have the features described in the explanation of the manufacturing plant or the process.

[0051] As mentioned above, the material components of the fixing part and the material components of the support part are defined as those components that formed the fixing part or the support part in its unconnected state, or that are present away from the connection point. The fixing part and / or the support part may each consist of a single material. In this case, the fixing part and / or the support part each contain only one material component. Alternatively, the fixing part and / or the support part may consist of a composite material. In this case, the fixing part and / or the support part each contain several material components. For the comparison of melting temperatures, the material component of the fixing part with the lowest melting temperature and / or the material component of the support part with the highest melting temperature are then considered.

[0052] The closure system according to the invention provides reliable fixation of the carrier part to the fixing part and can be manufactured efficiently. Materials or material components of the parts can be flexibly selected to achieve desired properties of the closure system (for example, elasticity, feel, recyclability, cost-effectiveness, or absorbency).

[0053] Preferably, the fixing element can comprise a thermoplastic material component and a non-thermoplastic material component. In this way, the connection principles described above (material bonding, form-fitting) can be combined to create the connection point. This can result in a particularly strong and reliable connection between the carrier part and the fixing element.

[0054] Preferably, the locking element, in particular the higher-melting-point or non-melting-point material component of the locking element, can include an additive for modifying at least one property of the locking system. The additive can be, for example, a dye, a lubricant, an antibacterial additive, a conductivity-modifying additive, or a surface-modifying additive.

[0055] Preferably, the higher-melting or non-melting material component of the fixing element may comprise an elastomer and / or an organic fiber material, in particular a natural fiber material. Alternatively or additionally, the non-thermoplastic material component of the fixing element may comprise a mineral filler, in particular in the form of a fiber material. Cotton or hemp fibers are preferably used as the natural fiber material.

[0056] A non-thermoplastic material component of the fixing part, which has fibers (filaments), can in particular support the formation of a form-fitting connection with a thermoplastic material component of the carrier part.

[0057] Preferably, the higher melting or non-melting material component of the sealing element is selected in such a way that the closure system can be advantageously influenced, for example with regard to elasticity, feel, recyclability, absorbency, appearance and / or raw material costs.

[0058] Preferably, the fixing element, in particular the higher-melting or non-melting material component of the fixing element, can comprise filaments, especially in the form of a nonwoven or woven material. For example, the fixing element can consist of a nonwoven, woven, or knitted fabric comprising thermoplastic and non-thermoplastic fibers. Alternatively or additionally, the fixing element can comprise bicomponent fibers having thermoplastic and non-thermoplastic components.

[0059] Preferably, the closure system, in particular the carrier part, can have two thermoplastic material components with different melt flow behavior. In particular, the carrier part can have a material component on the back side whose melt flow behavior differs from that of another material component that forms the closure elements.

[0060] For example, the backing material could be polyethylene (PE), while the closure element material could be polypropylene (PP). The carrier layer of the carrier part could, in particular, consist of either polyethylene or polypropylene. Regardless of its polymer structure, polyethylene generally has a lower melting point and, after melting, higher flowability than common polypropylene forms. Compared to polyethylene, polypropylene exhibits, in particular, higher stiffness and greater fatigue strength. By appropriately distributing the material components, robust closure elements can be created, while at the connection point, the advantages of the more flowable polyethylene can be utilized, resulting in a high degree of integration between the carrier part and the fixing element at the connection point.

[0061] The material component on the back of the carrier part can be a continuous layer, forming the entire back surface. Alternatively, the material component on the back surface can be present in certain areas; for example, energy direction indicators made of a different material than the closure elements may have been present before joining. After joining, the material of the energy direction indicators is distributed locally or over a larger area on the back surface or at the joint.

[0062] In embodiments, the support part can have a thermoplastic material component and a non-thermoplastic material component, in particular wherein the non-thermoplastic material component has a mineral filler, and / or an organic fiber material, and / or an elastomer, and / or an additive for modifying at least one property of the closure system.

[0063] Examples of suitable additives include the substances mentioned above (dyes, lubricants, etc.).

[0064] The non-thermoplastic component of the carrier part can contribute to a reliable bond at the connection point by displacing the molten or plasticized thermoplastic component into the bonding element. Adding the non-thermoplastic component to the carrier part can also lead to cost savings. For example, a carrier part can contain calcium carbonate as a filler, particularly up to a volume fraction of 30%. This can reduce the raw material costs of the carrier part and simultaneously promote a reliable bond with the bonding element.

[0065] Preferably, the locking elements each have a head that projects in at least one radial direction beyond a stem of the locking element, in particular wherein the head projects radially (i.e., in all radial directions) over the entire circumference of the stem. The radial direction refers to a vertical direction along the respective stem. The locking elements can be, for example, in the form of hooks, mushrooms, palms, or hyperboloids.

[0066] The locking elements are suitable for interlocking with a counterpart, for example, a nonwoven fabric. In particular, the locking elements can be suitable for interlocking with the fixing element. Accordingly, the locking system can be detachably fixed to itself or to another similar locking system in various embodiments. Inventive hygiene product

[0067] The invention also relates to a hygiene article, in particular in the form of a diaper, with a closure system in one of the embodiments described above.

[0068] The fastening part can form a diaper ear. In other words, the fastening part can be the diaper ear of the diaper.

[0069] Alternatively, the fixing part can be a tab, which in turn can be attached to a diaper ear.

[0070] Typically, the diaper ear is attached to or formed part of the main diaper body. In particular, the diaper ear may be monolithic with the main body.

[0071] The hygiene product is easy to manufacture. The carrier part of the closure system is reliably fixed to the fastening element, and the material, particularly of the fastening element, can be selected based on preferred properties. Specifically, it allows a carrier part to be attached directly to an elastic and absorbent diaper ear, which is not weldable or only partially weldable, using conventional welding tools.

[0072] Further features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the description, the claims, and the drawings. According to the invention, the features mentioned above and those further elaborated can each be used individually or in any suitable combination. The embodiments shown and described are not to be understood as an exhaustive list, but rather serve as examples for illustrating the invention. Brief description of the drawing

[0073] The invention is illustrated in the drawing and described with reference to exemplary embodiments. The drawing shows: Fig. 1 a cutaway side view of a locking system according to the invention; Fig. 2 a perspective view of a manufacturing plant according to the invention in the form of an ultrasonic welding plant for the production of a closure system according to the invention or for carrying out a manufacturing process; Fig. 3 a diagram illustrating the process of one embodiment of the manufacturing process; Fig. 4 a cross-sectional view of a first closure system according to the invention which is in production; Fig. 5 a cross-sectional view of a second closure system according to the invention which is in production; Fig. 6 a cross-sectional view of a third closure system according to the invention which is in production; Fig. 7 a cross-sectional view of a fourth closure system according to the invention which is in production; Fig. 8 a hygiene article according to the invention in the form of a diaper with two closure systems according to the invention; Fig. 9 a further hygiene article according to the invention in the form of a diaper with two closure systems according to the invention. Detailed description of the invention and drawing

[0074] Elements that appear multiple times in the figures of the drawing may only be partially labelled with reference symbols to ensure better clarity.

[0075] Fig. Figure 1 shows a cutaway side view of a locking system 10 according to the invention. The locking system 10 comprises a locking element 16 and a support element 12 attached thereto. Locking elements 14 are arranged on a front face 12' of the support element 12. In the present embodiment, the locking elements 14 are formed monolithically with a support layer 12'' of the support element 12. The locking elements 14 each have a head 14' and a stem 14'', with the head 14' projecting radially beyond the stem 14''. Here, the locking elements 14 are, by way of example, shaped in a hyperboloid form.

[0076] The support part 12 comprises a thermoplastic material component 13, from which it is essentially formed. The support part 12 may also contain a non-thermoplastic material component 15, in particular a mineral filler (in Fig. 1 (symbolically represented by dots), for example, calcium carbonate. The mass fraction of the filler in the material of the carrier part 12 can, for example, be 20%.

[0077] The fixing element 16 comprises a material component 17 that does not melt when the melting temperature of the thermoplastic material component 13 of the carrier element 12 is reached. In particular, the material component 17 of the fixing element 16 can be non-thermoplastic. If the material component 17 of the fixing element 16 is thermoplastic, it has a melting temperature at least 5 K higher than that of the thermoplastic material component 13 of the carrier element 12. For example, the non-thermoplastic material component 17 of the fixing element 16 can consist of cotton fibers.

[0078] In addition to the non-meltable material component 17, the fixing element 16 can have a thermoplastic material component 18 which has a melting temperature in the range (e.g., + / - 3 K) of the melting temperature of the material component 13 of the carrier element 12. The thermoplastic material component 18 can also contain fibers.

[0079] The fixing element 16 is arranged on a rear side 12''' of the carrier element 12. The carrier element 12 and the fixing element 16 are connected to each other at connection points 20. At least part of each connection results from a positive fit between the non-thermoplastic / higher-melting-point material component 17 and the thermoplastic material component 13 of the carrier element 12, which flowed around or was mixed with the material component 17 when the connection points 20 were formed. If the fixing element 16 has a thermoplastic material component 18 with a similar melting point to the thermoplastic material component 13 of the carrier element 12, part of the respective connection can result from a fusion of the thermoplastic material components 13 and 18.

[0080] In the illustrated embodiment, the connection points 20 are arranged such that they lie between or next to the locking elements 14. The locking elements 14 were therefore not affected during the creation of the connection points 20. In further embodiments, some locking elements 14 may have been destroyed during the creation of connection points 20 (not shown in detail). The amount of material from a destroyed locking element 14 can be particularly advantageous in forming a connection point 20 (since a larger amount of the material from the carrier part 12 is available for creating the connection with the material of the fixing part 16).

[0081] Apart from the connection points 20, the support part 12 and the fixing part 16 can lie loosely against each other.

[0082] Fig. Figure 2 schematically shows a perspective, partial view of an ultrasonic welding system 22, which has a first welding tool and a second welding tool. One of the welding tools is a sonotrode 26, while the other welding tool is an anvil 24. The sonotrode 26 is designed here as a rotatable, cylindrical sonotrode 26 with a smooth circumferential surface. The sonotrode 26 and the anvil 24 act to produce a respective joint 20 (see Figure 2). Fig. 1) together. Connection points 20 are in Fig. 2 not shown in detail.

[0083] Fig. Figure 2 shows a band-shaped fixing element 16 and two band-shaped support elements 12, which are brought together and joined in a machine direction MD. Dashed lines indicate that the resulting closure system 10 or the resulting composite web can be divided into several closure systems 10 by cutting.

[0084] The anvil 24 has discrete projections 24' for creating the connection points 20. These projections 24' allow for the creation of spaced-apart connection points 20. Depending on the design of the anvil 24 and the support part 12, and their relative positioning, the projections 24' can be positioned between locking elements 14 (see figure) when connecting the support parts 12 to the fixing part 16. Fig. 1) intervene. Alternatively or additionally, individual locking elements 14 or some adjacent locking elements 14 can be struck by one of the projections 24' and incorporated into the connection point 20.

[0085] The ultrasonic welding system 22 is suitable for carrying out a process 100 (compare Fig. 3), in which a positive-locking connection can be created at one of the connection points 20 between materials of the carrier part 12 and the fixing part 16 without a material component 17 (see Fig. 1) the fixing part 16 is thereby melted or plasticized. The ultrasonic welding system 22 is equally suitable for producing conventional welded joints between thermoplastic materials or thermoplastic material components 13, 18 (see Fig. 1) suitable with similar melting temperatures. One of the advantages of method 100 is that materials which cannot normally be joined by welding can nevertheless be reliably joined together. A known ultrasonic welding system 22 can be used for this purpose without requiring extensive modifications to it.

[0086] By means of the in Fig. According to the principle described in point 2, particularly high process speeds can be achieved when carrying out method 100. For example, a feed rate of carrier parts 12 and fixing part 16 in the machine direction MD can be more than 250 m / min.

[0087] Fig. Figure 3 shows a diagram illustrating the process of method 100. Step 102 involves joining a carrier part 12 with a fixing part 16. In step 104, the carrier part 12 and the fixing part 16 are joined by heating and preferably pressing them together. During heating, a material component 13 of the carrier part 12 is melted or plasticized and mixed with an unmelted material component 17 of the fixing part 16. In step 106, a joint 20 is formed by solidifying the previously melted material component 13, thereby creating, among other things, a positive fit between the material components 13 and 17. Additionally, a material bond can be established between the material components 13 and 18.

[0088] Fig. Figure 4 shows a cross-sectional view of a closure system 10 according to the invention which is in production. Closure elements 14 of a carrier part 12 are designed in an exemplary hyperboloid shape.

[0089] Energy direction sensors 28 are arranged on a rear side 12''' of the carrier part 12. The energy direction sensors 28 project beyond the rear side 12''' of the carrier part 12 and, in the example of Fig. 4 a triangular cross-section with an at least approximately pointed distal end. On the rear side 12''', the energy direction sensors 28 and a support layer 12'' of the support part 12 can enclose a defined angle.

[0090] The energy direction transmitters 28 can extend linearly along the rear side 12''' (into the plane of representation), regardless of their cross-sectional shape. Fig. 4 into).

[0091] In the illustrated embodiment, the locking elements 14, the carrier layer 12'' and the energy direction transmitters 28 are formed monolithically together. In particular, the carrier part 12 can consist of only a single thermoplastic material component 13, for example polypropylene.

[0092] The fixing element 16 is located on a sonotrode 26 of an ultrasonic welding system 22 (see Fig. 2) slides together with the carrier part 12 relative to the sonotrode 26 (unless the sonotrode 26 is rotating).

[0093] Projections 24' of an anvil 24 engage between adjacent locking elements 14. The projections 24' are aligned in overlap with the energy direction sensors 28. The projections 24' press the carrier part 12 towards the fixing part 16, which rests against the sonotrode 26. During the joining process, vibrational energy is concentrated by means of the energy direction sensors 28, which are used to create connection points 20 (see Fig. 1) be melted or plasticized. Areas of the carrier part 12 adjacent to the energy direction transmitters 28 can also be melted or plasticized.

[0094] Areas of the fixing element 16 can also be melted during the joining process. This can be achieved through conventional welding by fusing material components 13, 18 (see Fig. 1) are produced by support part 12 and fixing part 16, wherein this welding constitutes a portion of a respective connection point 20.

[0095] In particular, a material component 17 of the fixing element 16, preferably comprising a material component of the fibers or filaments 17', is not melted, but merely surrounded by and embedded in the molten material component 13. In embodiments, the fixing element 16 can consist entirely of the material component 17, wherein the material component 17 can, in particular, be non-thermoplastic.

[0096] Fig. Figure 5 shows a cross-sectional view of another closure system 10 according to the invention, which is in production. An anvil 24 and a sonotrode 26 are indicated by dashed lines. During the production of the in Fig. In the closure system 10 shown in Figure 5, at least one closure element 14 is attached to each of the two connection points 20 (compare Figure 5). Fig. 1) destroyed. The in Fig. The 5 outer projections 24' of the anvil 24 are aligned in overlap with the locking elements 14 to be destroyed.

[0097] A support element 12 has 12 energy direction sensors 28 on its rear side. Various shaped energy direction sensors 28 are shown here as examples. In practice, energy direction sensors 28 of the same type are typically used; however, it is also conceivable that several different types of energy direction sensors 28 are present on one support element 12. In one embodiment, the energy direction sensors 28 have a trapezoidal cross-section.

[0098] In contrast to the representation in Fig. 4. The energy direction transmitters 28 consist of the in Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 5, a material component 13' of the carrier part 12 differs from the material component 13 of the closure elements 14 and the majority of the carrier layer 12''. Different material components 13, 13' can be provided independently of the shape and arrangement of the energy direction transmitters 28 and the closure elements 14. Preferably, the material component 13' has a lower melting temperature and / or a different melt flow behavior, for example, a lower viscosity just above its melting temperature, than the material component 13. In particular, the material component 13' can be polyethylene, while the material component 13 is polypropylene, optionally with non-melting additives.

[0099] A fixing element 16 preferably comprises a non-thermoplastic material component 17 or a material component 17 whose melting temperature is at least 5 K higher than the melting temperature of the material component 13'. In particular, the material component 17 is formed from fibers / filaments 17'.

[0100] By including the more fluid material component 13', a process 100 can be implemented particularly efficiently. Furthermore, the material component 13' can penetrate the fibrous material of the fixing element 16 particularly easily, which can promote the formation of stable joints 20.

[0101] The representation in Fig. Figure 5 shows a linear phase boundary between material component 13 and material component 13'; in other words, material components 13 and 13' are sharply demarcated from one another. It is also conceivable that a transition region exists in which the proportions of material components 13 and 13' change. This transition region is typically located within the energy direction transmitters 28 and / or the carrier layer 12''. It is also conceivable that the transition region extends into the closure elements 14, and may begin in the carrier layer 12'' or the energy direction transmitters 28.

[0102] Fig. 6 and Fig. Figures 7 each show a cross-sectional view of another closure system 10 according to the invention that is in production. An anvil 24 and a sonotrode 26 are each analogous to the illustration in Figure 7. Fig. 5 indicated by dashed lines. Each fixing part 16 is similar to the fixing part 16 in Fig. 5. The main differences are in the Fig. 6 and Fig. 7 only the respective training of the carrier part 12 from the in Fig. 5 depicted embodiment.

[0103] The support part 12 of the embodiment of Fig. 6 has energy direction transmitters 28, which mainly comprise a material component 13', in particular consist of the material component 13'. Additionally, a carrier layer 12'' in the area of ​​the back 12''' of the carrier part 12 comprises the material component 13'. Another area of ​​the carrier layer 12'' as well as the closure elements 14 comprise a different material component 13, in particular they consist of this.

[0104] The support part 12 of the Fig. In contrast, 7 does not have any energy direction transmitters 28. In this embodiment, the carrier layer 12'' is multilayered. One layer of the material component 13' is arranged on the back side 12''' of the carrier layer 12'' of the carrier part 12. Another part of the carrier layer 12'' and the closure elements 14 also contain the material component 13.

[0105] As an alternative to a layered formation of the material components 13, 13', a localized arrangement of the material component 13' is conceivable. The material component 13' would then be provided locally on the back side 12''', without protruding beyond the back side 12'''.

[0106] Properties of the material components 13, 13' of the support parts 12 of the Fig. 6 and Fig. 7 can the to Fig. The properties described in section 5 correspond to this. Phase boundaries between the material components 13, 13' can, as shown, be sharply defined, or a smooth transition between the material components 13, 13' can be formed.

[0107] Fig. Figure 8 shows a hygiene article 30 according to the invention in the form of a diaper with two fastening systems 10 in one of the previously described embodiments. Each fastening system 10 has a retaining element 16 and a carrier element 12 with projecting fastening elements 14. The fastening elements 14 are suitable for interlocking with a nonwoven fabric of the hygiene article 30, in particular with a nonwoven fabric of a landing zone 32 of the hygiene article 30. The retaining element 16 is attached to a diaper ear 34. The diaper ear 34 itself can be an integral part of the diaper. Typically, however, the diaper ear 34 is attached to a main body 36 of the diaper along a connection line 34'. An absorbent core 38 can be arranged on the main body 36.

[0108] The fixing element 16 can be attached to the diaper ear 34 by welding and / or gluing. The connection of the diaper ear 34 to the main body 36 of the diaper can, for example, be made by welding.

[0109] Advantageously, the closure of the diaper created by means of the closure system 10 can be manually opened and readjusted multiple times. The respective securing element 16 can also be made of non-woven fabric, so that the closure elements 14 of a carrier part 12 can be "parked" on the corresponding securing element 16 when the diaper is open, for example to prevent unintentional snagging on the clothing of a person changing a small child or on other diapers in a package.

[0110] Fig. Figure 9 shows another hygiene article 30 according to the invention. In contrast to Fig. 8 is a respective diaper ear 34, here also the fixing element 16. The respective diaper ear 34 can optionally be attached to the main body 36 of the diaper along a connection line 34'. Alternatively, the diaper ear 34 can be a monolithic component of the main body 36. A respective support element 12 is connected by means of connection points 20 (see figure). Fig. 1) attached to the diaper ear 34 (which forms the fixing part 16). The diaper ear 34 of the embodiment of Fig. 9 can exhibit greater elasticity and higher absorbency than the one in Fig. 8 shown fixing part 16. In particular in the case of the in Fig. In the embodiment of the hygiene article 30 shown in Figure 9, a design of the closure systems 10 using the method 100 can ensure a reliable and uncomplicated fixation of the carrier parts 12 on the diaper ears 34 or fixing parts 16.

[0111] The invention relates to a closure system 10 and a manufacturing system for manufacturing a closure system 10, based on a combined view of the figures in the drawing. The closure system 10 has a carrier part 12 with projecting closure elements 14, in particular adhesive closure elements, and is arranged on its rear side 12''' on a fixing part 16. The fixing part 16 has a material component 17 whose melting point is higher than the melting point of at least one material component 13, 13' of the carrier part 12, or which is non-meltable. The carrier part 12 and the fixing part 16 are permanently connected to each other at at least one connection point 20. The connection point 20 can be formed by a material bond and / or a form-fit. A material bond is achieved by fusing a material component 13, 13' of the carrier part 12 and a material component 17, 18 of the fixing part 16.In a material-to-material connection, the joint 20 is at least partially designed as a weld. A positive-lock connection is formed by enclosing a material component 17 of the fixing part 16 that is not or not completely melted by a material component 13, 13' of the carrier part 12. Preferably, the joint 20 is at least partially positive-locking. A purely positive-locking design of the joint 20 is possible. Preferably, a material-to-material connection component is present in addition to a positive-locking connection component. In special cases, a purely material-to-material connection is also possible if both material components 13, 13', 17, 18 in the area of ​​the joint 20 have been completely melted. The invention also relates to a hygiene article 30 with such a closure system 10. Reference symbol list 10 Locking system 12 Carrier part 12' Front 12'' carrier layer 12''' reverse 13 thermoplastic material component 13' thermoplastic material component 14 Locking element 14' head 14'' stem 15 non-thermoplastic material component 16 fixing part 17 non-thermoplastic or higher-melting thermoplastic material component 17' Fiber material / filament 18 thermoplastic material component 20 liaison point 22 Ultrasonic welding system 24 anvil 24' lead 26 sonotrodes 28 Energy direction transmitters 30 hygiene products 32 Landing zone 34 diaper ear 34' connecting line 36 Main body 38 core 100 procedures 102 Procedure step 104 Procedure step 106 Procedure step MD Machine direction QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] EP 3 408 067 B1

[0004] EP 2 815 733 A1

[0004] EP 4 548 891 A1

[0006] EP 3 271 134 B1

[0006]

Claims

Manufacturing plant for producing a closure system (10), wherein the manufacturing plant is configured to carry out a manufacturing process, wherein a retaining element (16) is supplied to a carrier part (12) with projecting closure elements (14) arranged on its front (12') and to its rear (12'''), characterized in that the retaining element (16) has a material component (17) whose melting temperature is higher than a melting temperature of at least one material component (13, 13') of the carrier part (12), in particular by at least 5 K, or which is not meltable, in particular is not a thermoplastic, that the carrier part (12) and the retaining element (16) are permanently joined to each other at at least one connection point (20), and that the connection point (20) is formed at least partially by fusing a material component (13, 13') of the carrier part (12) and a material component (17,18) of the fixing part (16) and / or is produced at least partially by enclosing a non-melted material component (13, 13', 15, 17, 18) of one part (12, 16), in particular the fixing part (16), by a material component (13, 13', 15, 17, 18) of the other part (12, 16), in particular the support part (12). Manufacturing plant according to claim 1, configured to heat the carrier part (12) and the fixing part (16) to produce the connection point (20), in particular wherein a material component (13, 13') of the carrier part (12) is brought into a plastic or molten state. Manufacturing plant according to claim 2, configured to prevent the higher melting material component (17) of the fixing part (16) from being brought into a plastic or molten state. Manufacturing plant according to one of the preceding claims, configured to press the carrier part (12) and the fixing part (16) against each other to create the connection point (20). Manufacturing plant according to one of the preceding claims, configured to carry the carrier part (12) and the fixing part (16) to create the connection point (20) between an anvil (24) and a sonotrode (26). Manufacturing plant according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the carrier part (12) has at least one energy direction sensor (28) protruding over the rear side (12''') before the connection point (20) is created. Manufacturing plant according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the closure elements (14) and the energy direction transmitter (28) have the same, preferably thermoplastic, material component (13, 13') and are in particular monolithic with each other. Manufacturing plant according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the closure elements (14) and the energy direction transmitter (28) have different material components (13, 13'), in particular wherein a melting temperature of the material component (13') of the energy direction transmitter (28) is lower than a melting temperature of the material component (13) of the closure elements (14). Manufacturing apparatus according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the fixing part (16) comprises exclusively non-meltable material (17), in particular exclusively non-meltable fiber material (17'), preferably cotton. Manufacturing plant according to one of the preceding claims, configured to introduce several connection points (20) between locking elements (14), in particular without damaging the locking elements (14). Manufacturing plant according to one of the preceding claims, configured to introduce several connection points (20), wherein at least one of the connection points (20) affects at least one closure element (14). A locking system (10) comprising a carrier part (12) with projecting locking elements (14) arranged on its front (12') and a locking element (16) arranged on the rear (12''') of the carrier part (12), wherein the locking element (16) comprises a material component (17) whose melting point is higher than the melting point of at least one material component (13, 13') of the carrier part (12), in particular by at least 5 K, or which is non-meltable, in particular not a thermoplastic, wherein the carrier part (12) and the locking element (16) are permanently connected to each other at at least one connection point (20), and wherein at the connection point (20) a material component (13, 13') of the carrier part (12) and a material component (17, 18) of the locking element (16) are at least partially fused together and / or a material component (13, 13', 15, 17, 18) of one part (12, 16), in particular the defining part (16),is enclosed by a material component (13, 13', 15, 17, 18) of the other part (12, 16), in particular the support part (12). Closure system (10) according to claim 12, wherein the fixing part (16) comprises a thermoplastic material component (17, 18) and a non-thermoplastic material component (17). Closure system (10) according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the locking element (16), in particular the higher melting or non-melting material component (17) of the locking element (16), comprises an additive for modifying at least one property of the closure system (10). Closure system (10) according to one of claims 12 to 14, wherein the higher melting or non-melting material component (17) of the fixing part (16) comprises an elastomer, and / or an organic fiber material (17'), in particular a natural fiber material (17'), and / or wherein the non-thermoplastic material component (17) comprises a mineral filler, in particular in the form of a fiber material (17'). Closure system (10) according to one of claims 12 to 15, wherein the fixing element (16), in particular the higher melting or non-melting material component (17) of the fixing element (16), comprises filaments (17'), in particular in the form of a nonwoven material or a woven fabric. Closure system (10) according to one of claims 12 to 16, wherein the closure system (10), in particular the carrier part (12), has two thermoplastic material components (13, 13', 17, 18) with different melt flow behavior. Closure system (10) according to one of claims 12 to 17, wherein the carrier part (12) has a material component (13, 13') on the rear side (12'') whose melt flow behavior differs from the melt flow behavior of a further material component (13, 13') that forms the closure elements (14). Closure system (10) according to one of claims 12 to 18, wherein the carrier part (12) comprises a thermoplastic material component (13, 13') and a non-thermoplastic material component (15), in particular wherein the non-thermoplastic material component (15) comprises a mineral filler, and / or an organic fiber material, and / or an elastomer, and / or an additive for modifying at least one property of the closure system (10). A locking system (10) according to one of claims 12 to 19, wherein the locking elements (14) each have a head (14') which projects in at least one radial direction over a stem (14'') of the locking element (14), in particular wherein the head (14') projects radially over the entire circumference of the stem (14''). Hygiene article (30), in particular in the form of a diaper, with a closure system (10) according to one of claims 12 to 20, in particular wherein the fixing part (16) forms a diaper ear (34).

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