Belt assemblies for absorbent articles

Abstract

To provide front and back waist belt assemblies for absorbent articles.SOLUTION: In some configurations, an absorbent article may include an absorbent chassis. First and second belts may be connected with opposing end regions of the chassis. At least one of the first belt and the second belt may comprise an elastic material positioned between and connected with a first substrate and a second substrate. A panel layer extending longitudinally from a first lateral edge to a second lateral edge may be connected with at least one of the first substrate and the second substrate. The panel layer and / or the first and / or second substrate of the first and / or second belts may include features that differ along a width and / or length of the belts. Such features may include belt tensioning, wrinkles, bonding patterns, and / or aperture arrangements.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to absorbent articles including belts, and more particularly, to a front waist belt assembly and a rear belt assembly.

Background Art

[0002] Along an assembly line, various types of articles, such as diapers and other absorbent articles, can be assembled by adding components to a continuous advancing material web and / or otherwise modifying the web. For example, in some processes, the advancing material web is combined with other advancing material webs. In other examples, individual components created from the advancing material web are combined with the advancing material web and then these are combined with other advancing material webs. In some examples, individual components created from the advancing web(s) are combined with other individual components created from other advancing webs. The webs and components of materials used to manufacture diapers may include a backsheet, a topsheet, leg cuffs, waist bands, absorbent core components, front ear flaps and / or rear ear flaps, fastening components, and various types of elastic webs and components such as leg elastics, barrier leg cuff elastics, stretch side panels, and waist elastics. Once the desired components are assembled, the advancing web and components are subjected to a final knife cut to separate the web into individual diapers or other absorbent articles.

[0003] Some absorbent articles have components that include an elastomeric laminate. Such an elastomeric laminate can include an elastic material bonded to one or more nonwoven fabrics. The elastic material can include an elastic film and / or elastic strands. In some laminates, multiple elastic strands are bonded to the nonwoven fabric while the multiple strands are in a stretched state, such that when the elastic strands relax, the nonwoven fabric forms pleats between the locations where the nonwoven fabric is joined to the elastic strands, thereby forming a wavy and wrinkled pattern. The resulting elastomeric laminate is stretchable to an extent that the elastic strands can be extended by the waves.

[0004] Twisted elastomeric laminates may be used to make diaper pant belts. In some cases, it may be desirable to provide a diaper pant belt having features that can vary along the width and / or length of the belt. Such features can include, for example, belt tension, wrinkles, bonding patterns, and aperture arrangements. However, imparting various features to local regions of the elastic laminate can pose various challenges related to web handling and quality issues during the absorbent article assembly process. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION PROBLEMS TO BE SOLVED BY THE INVENTION

[0005] As a result, it is beneficial to provide an elastic laminate for use as a diaper belt having a structure that reduces some of the difficulties associated with the assembly process that can otherwise be related to imparting features to the simultaneously assembled laminate having various features that vary along the width and / or length of the laminate. MEANS FOR SOLVING THE PROBLEMS

[0006] The absorbent article is a chassis including a topsheet, a backsheet, and an absorbent core positioned between the topsheet and the backsheet, the chassis further including a first end region and a second end region longitudinally separated from the first end region by a crotch region, a first belt connected to the first end region of the chassis, and a second belt connected to the second end region of the chassis, an end portion of the second belt facing laterally being connected to an end portion of the first belt facing laterally to form a waist opening, at least one of the first belt and the second belt including an elastic material positioned between and connected to a first substrate and a second substrate, the first substrate and the second substrate each comprising a surface facing the wearer, a surface facing the clothing, and a distal edge extending along a portion of the waist opening, a panel layer including a third substrate connected to the clothing-side surface of the first substrate and the surface of the second substrate facing the wearer, the panel layer being folded along a fold defining at least a portion of the waist opening.

[0007] The absorbent article is a chassis including a topsheet, a backsheet, and an absorbent core positioned between the topsheet and the backsheet, the chassis further including a first end region and a second end region longitudinally separated from the first end region by a crotch region, a first belt connected to the first end region of the chassis, and a second belt connected to the second end region of the chassis, an end portion of the second belt facing laterally being connected to an end portion of the first belt facing laterally to form a waist opening, at least one of the first belt and the second belt including an elastic material positioned between and connected to a first substrate and a second substrate, at least one of the first substrate and the second substrate having a distal edge extending along a portion of the waist opening, a panel layer extending longitudinally from a first lateral edge to a second lateral edge, the panel layer being connected to at least one of the first substrate and the second substrate, a first region including the panel layer, and a second region outside the first region not including the panel layer, when the elastic material contracts, the first region and the second region each having longitudinally extending pleats, the first region including a first wrinkle frequency and a first wrinkle wavelength, the second region including a second wrinkle frequency and a second wrinkle wavelength, the first wrinkle frequency being not equal to the second wrinkle frequency.

[0008] The absorbent article is a chassis including a topsheet, a backsheet, and an absorbent core positioned between the topsheet and the backsheet, the chassis further including a first end region and a second end region longitudinally separated from the first end region by a crotch region, a first belt connected to the first end region of the chassis, and a second belt connected to the second end region of the chassis, an end portion of the second belt facing laterally being connected to an end portion of the first belt facing laterally to form a waist opening, at least one of the first belt and the second belt including an elastic material positioned between and connected to a first substrate and a second substrate, at least one of the first substrate and the second substrate including a distal edge portion extending along a portion of the waist opening, a panel layer extending longitudinally from a first lateral edge to a second lateral edge, the panel layer being connected to at least one of the first substrate and the second substrate, the first substrate being directly joined to the second substrate at a first plurality of discrete joints arranged in a first pattern, the panel layer being directly joined to the first substrate or the second substrate at a second plurality of discrete joints arranged in a second pattern, the first pattern being different from the second pattern, and the panel layer.

[0009] The absorbent article is a chassis including a topsheet, a backsheet, and an absorbent core positioned between the topsheet and the backsheet, the chassis further including a first end region and a second end region longitudinally separated from the first end region by a crotch region, a first belt connected to the first end region of the chassis, and a second belt connected to the second end region of the chassis, wherein an end portion of the second belt facing laterally is connected to an end portion of the first belt facing laterally to form a waist opening, at least one of the first belt and the second belt including a distal edge extending along a portion of the waist opening, an elastic material positioned between and connected to a first substrate and a second substrate, the elastic material including a first plurality of elastic strands positioned between and connected to the first substrate and the second substrate, the first plurality of elastic strands having an average strand spacing of about 0.25 mm to about 4 mm and an average Dtex of about 10 to about 500, the first substrate and the second substrate each including a surface facing the wearer and a surface facing the clothing, a panel layer connected to the wearer surface of the second substrate, the panel layer including a first lateral edge and a second lateral edge, the first lateral edge being positioned longitudinally outside the second lateral edge.

[0010] The absorbent article is a chassis including a topsheet, a backsheet, and an absorbent core positioned between the topsheet and the backsheet, the chassis further including a first end region and a second end region longitudinally separated from the first end region by a crotch region, a first belt connected to the first end region of the chassis, and a second belt connected to the second end region of the chassis, wherein an end portion of the second belt facing laterally is connected to an end portion of the first belt facing laterally to form a waist opening, and at least one of the first belt and the second belt includes a first plurality of elastic strands positioned between and connected to a first substrate and a second substrate, the first plurality of elastic strands having an average strand spacing of from about 0.25 mm to about 4 mm and an average Dtex of from about 10 to about 500, the first substrate and the second substrate each having a surface facing the wearer and a surface facing the clothing, and the first substrate having a first hole.

[0011] The absorbent article is a chassis including a topsheet, a backsheet, and an absorbent core positioned between the topsheet and the backsheet, the chassis further including a first end region and a second end region longitudinally separated from the first end region by a crotch region, a first belt including a first end region laterally separated from the second end region by a central region, the central region being connected to the first end region of the chassis, a second belt including a first end region laterally separated from the second end region by a central region, the central region being connected to the second end region of the chassis, the first and second end regions of the second belt being connected to the respective first and second end regions of the first belt to form a waist opening, at least one of the first belt and the second belt including an elastic material positioned between and connected to a first substrate and a second substrate, the first substrate and the second substrate each including a surface facing the wearer and a surface facing the clothing, at least one of the first substrate and the second substrate including a distal edge extending along a portion of the waist opening and a proximal edge extending across the backsheet.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0012]

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DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0013] Definitions In understanding the present disclosure, the following glossary of terms may be useful.

[0014] "Absorbent article" refers to an implement for absorbing and containing bodily exudates, and more particularly, an implement that is placed in contact with or in proximity to the body of the wearer and absorbs and contains various exudates discharged from the body. Examples of absorbent articles include diapers, training pants, pull-on pant-type diapers (i.e., diapers having pre-formed waist openings and leg openings as shown in U.S. Patent No. 6,120,487), re-fastenable diapers or pant-type diapers, incontinence briefs and underwear, diaper holders and liners, panty liners, absorbent inserts, feminine hygiene garments such as menstrual pads, and the like.

[0015] "Facing the body" and "facing the clothing" each refer to the relative position of an element, or the surface of an element, or a group of elements. "Facing the body" indicates that an element or surface is closer to the wearer during use than some other element or surface. "Facing the clothing" indicates that an element or surface is further from the wearer during use than some other element or surface (i.e., the element or surface is proximate to the wearer's clothing that can be worn over the disposable absorbent article).

[0016] "Elastic", "elastomer", or "elastomeric" refers to a material exhibiting elastic properties, which includes any material that, when a force is applied to its relaxed initial length, can be stretched or elongated to an extended length that exceeds 10% of the initial length and that, when the applied force is released, will substantially recover to approximately the initial length. Examples of elastomeric materials include elastomeric films, scrims, nonwovens, ribbons, strands, and other sheet-like structures.

[0017] As used herein, the term "connected" encompasses configurations in which one element is directly affixed to another element by attaching the one element directly to the other element, as well as configurations in which one element is attached to an intermediate member and the intermediate member is attached to another element such that the one element is indirectly affixed to the other element.

[0018] As used herein, the term "distal" is used to describe a position placed away from the center of the body or the point of attachment, and the term "proximal" is used to describe a position placed closer to the center of the body or the point of attachment.

[0019] As used herein, the term "substrate" is used mainly to describe a material that is two-dimensional (i.e., in the XY plane) and has a relatively small thickness (i.e., 1 / 10 or less) compared to its length (X direction) and width (Y direction). Non-limiting examples of substrates include films and foils such as webs, layers (one or more), or fibrous materials, nonwovens, polymer films, or metal foils. These materials may be used alone or may include two or more layers laminated together. Thus, a web is a substrate.

[0020] As used herein, the term "nonwoven" refers to a material made from continuous (long) filaments (fibers) and / or discontinuous (short) filaments (fibers) by processes such as spunbonding, meltblowing, carding, etc. Nonwovens do not have a woven or knitted filament pattern.

[0021] As used herein, the term "machine direction" (MD) is used to refer to the direction of the flow of the material passing through the process. In addition, the relative placement and movement of the material can be described as flowing in the machine direction from the upstream to the downstream of the process as it passes through the process.

[0022] As used herein, the term "cross direction" (CD) is used to refer to a direction that is substantially perpendicular to the machine direction.

[0023] "Pre-strain" refers to the strain imposed on an elastic or elastomeric material before it is combined with another element of the elastomeric laminate or absorbent article. Pre-strain is determined by the following equation: pre-strain = ((extended length of the elastomer - relaxed length of the elastomer) / relaxed length of the elastomer) * 100.

[0024] "Decitex", also known as Dtex, is a measurement used in the fiber industry to measure yarns or filaments. 1 decitex = 1 gram per 10,000 meters. In other words, if a yarn or filament has a weight of 500 grams for 10,000 linear meters, then that yarn or filament has 500 decitex.

[0025] The term "tape diaper" (also called "open diaper") refers to a disposable absorbent article having an initial front waist region and an initial rear waist region that are not fastened, pre-fastened, or joined to each other during packaging before being applied to the wearer. The tape diaper may be folded at about the lateral centerline with the inner surface of one waist region in contact with the inner surface of the opposite waist region without fastening or connecting the waist regions together. Examples of tape diapers of various suitable configurations are disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,167,897; 5,360,420; 5,599,335; 5,643,588; 5,674,216; 5,702,551; 5,968,025; 6,107,537; 6,118,041; 6,153,209; 6,410,129; 6,426,444; 6,586,652; 6,627,787; 6,617,016; 6,825,393; and 6,861,571, and U.S. Patent Publications 2013 / 0072887 (A1); 2013 / 0211356 (A1); and 2013 / 0306226 (A1), all of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0026] As used herein, the term "pants" (also referred to as "training pants", "pre-closed diapers", "diaper pants", "pant-type diapers", and "pull-on diapers") refers to a disposable absorbent article designed for infant or adult wearers and having a continuous waist opening at the outer edge and a continuous leg opening at the outer edge. The pants may be configured to have a continuous or closed waist opening and at least one continuous closed leg opening before the article is applied to the wearer. The pants may be preformed or pre-fastened using various techniques including, but not limited to, any re-fastenable and / or permanent closure member (e.g., seams, heat seals, pressure welds, adhesives, adhesive bonds, mechanical fasteners, etc.) to join together a portion of the article. The pants may be preformed at any location along the outer periphery of the article in the waist region (e.g., the sides are fastened or joined, the front waist is fastened or joined, the back waist is fastened or joined). Examples of diaper pants of various configurations are disclosed in U.S. Patent Nos. 4,940,464, 5,092,861, 5,246,433, 5,569,234, 5,897,545, 5,957,908, 6,120,487, 6,120,489, 7,569,039, and U.S. Patent Application Publication Nos. 2003 / 0233082(A1), 2005 / 0107764(A1), 2012 / 0061016(A1), 2012 / 0061015(A1), 2013 / 0255861(A1), 2013 / 0255862(A1), 2013 / 0255863(A1), 2013 / 0255864(A1), and 2013 / 0255865(A1), all of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0027] The "closed configuration" means that, upon packaging, the waist regions on opposite sides of each other are joined either permanently or re-fastenable to form a continuous waist opening and leg openings.

[0028] "Open configuration" means that the waist regions on opposite sides of each other are not joined so as to form a continuous waist opening and leg openings in the initial state, but include closing means such as a fastening system for joining the waist regions before or during application of the article to the wearer to form the waist opening and leg openings.

[0029] The present disclosure relates to absorbent articles including belts, and more particularly, to a front waist belt assembly and a rear waist belt assembly. In some configurations, the absorbent article may include a chassis having a topsheet, a backsheet, and an absorbent core positioned between the topsheet and the backsheet. The chassis may further include a first end region and a second end region longitudinally separated from the first end region by a crotch region. A first belt may be connected to the first end region of the chassis, a second belt may be connected to the second end region of the chassis, and an end portion of the second belt facing laterally is connected to an end portion of the first belt facing laterally to form a waist opening. At least one of the first belt and the second belt may include an elastic material positioned between and connected to a first substrate and a second substrate. A panel layer extending longitudinally from a first lateral edge to a second lateral edge may be connected to at least one of the first substrate and the second substrate. As discussed below, the panel layer of the first and / or second belt and / or the first and / or second substrate may include features that may vary along the width and / or length of the belt. Such features may include, for example, belt tension, wrinkles, joining patterns, and pore arrangements.

[0030] Figures 1 to 2B show an example of an absorbent article 100 in the form of a diaper pant 100P that may include components constructed from an elastomeric laminate assembled according to the configurations disclosed herein. Specifically, FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of the diaper pant 100P in a pre-fastened configuration. FIG. 2A shows a plan view of the diaper pant 100P with the portion of the diaper facing away from the wearer facing the observer, and FIG. 2B shows a plan view of the diaper pant 100P with the portion of the diaper facing the wearer facing the observer. The diaper pant 100P includes a chassis 102 and an annular elastic belt 104. As will be described in more detail below, a first elastic belt 106 and a second elastic belt 108 are integrally joined to form the annular elastic belt 104.

[0031] Continuing to refer to FIGS. 1 to 2B, the diaper pant 100P and the chassis 102 each include a first waist region 116, a second waist region 118, and a crotch region 119 disposed intermediate the first waist region and the second waist region. It can also be described that the chassis 102 includes a first end region 116a, a second end region 118a, and a crotch region 119 disposed intermediate the first end region 116a and the second end region 118a. The first waist region 116 may be configured as a front waist region, and the second waist region 118 may be configured as a rear waist region. The diaper 100P may also include a front waist edge 121 that extends horizontally in the front waist region 116 and a rear waist edge 122 that faces longitudinally and extends horizontally in the rear waist region 118. To provide a reference frame for this discussion, the diaper 100P and the chassis 102 in FIGS. 2A and 2B are shown as having a longitudinal axis 124 and a transverse axis 126. In some embodiments, the longitudinal axis 124 may extend through the front waist edge 121 and the rear waist edge 122. The transverse axis 126 may extend through the first longitudinal or right edge 128 of the chassis 102 and through the second longitudinal or left edge 130.

[0032] As shown in FIGS. 1 to 2B, the diaper pants 100P may include an inner surface 132 facing the body and an outer surface 134 facing the clothing. The chassis 102 may include a backsheet 136 and a topsheet 138. The chassis 102 may also include an absorbent assembly 140 including an absorbent core 142 disposed between a portion of the topsheet 138 and the backsheet 136. As will be described in more detail below, the diaper 100P may also include other features such as leg elastic members and / or leg cuffs to enhance the fit around the wearer's legs.

[0033] As shown in FIG. 2A, the peripheral edge of the chassis 102 may be defined by a first longitudinally extending side edge 128, a second longitudinally extending side edge 130, a first laterally extending edge 144 disposed within the first waist region 116, and a second laterally extending edge 146 disposed within the second waist region 118. Both side edges 128 and 130 extend longitudinally between the first edge 144 and the second edge 146. As shown in FIG. 2A, the laterally extending edges 144 and 146 are located longitudinally inward from a front waist edge 121 that extends laterally in the front waist region 116 and a rear waist edge 122 that extends laterally in the rear waist region 118. When the diaper pants 100P are worn on the lower torso of the wearer, the front waist edge 121 and the rear waist edge 122 may surround the portion of the wearer's waist. At the same time, the side edges 128 and 130 may surround at least a portion of the wearer's legs. Also, the crotch region 119 may generally be positioned between the wearer's legs, and the absorbent core 142 extends from the front waist region 116 through the crotch region 119 to the rear waist region 118.

[0034] As described above, the diaper pants 100P may include a backsheet 136. The backsheet 136 may also define a surface 134 facing the clothing outside the chassis 102. The backsheet 136 may also include a woven or non-woven fabric material, a polymer film such as a thermoplastic film of polyethylene or polypropylene, and / or a multi-layer or composite material including a film and a non-woven fabric material. The backsheet may also include an elastomer film. The exemplary backsheet 136 may be a polyethylene film having a thickness of about 0.012 mm (0.5 mil) to about 0.051 mm (2.0 mil). Further, the backsheet 136 can prevent the excrement from passing through the backsheet 136 while allowing the steam to escape from the absorbent core (i.e., the backsheet is breathable).

[0035] Also, as described above, the diaper pants 100P may include a topsheet 138. The topsheet 138 may also define all or a part of the surface 132 facing the wearer inside the chassis 102. The topsheet 138 is liquid-permeable, and liquids (e.g., menstrual blood, urine, and / or liquid feces) may penetrate through its thickness. The topsheet 138 may be manufactured from a wide range of materials such as woven and non-woven materials, perforated or hydroformed thermoplastic films, perforated non-woven fabrics, porous foams, reticulated foams, reticulated thermoplastic films, and thermoplastic scrims. The woven or non-woven material may be manufactured from a wide range of materials such as natural fibers such as wood fibers or cotton fibers, synthetic fibers such as polyester, polypropylene, or polyethylene fibers, or combinations thereof. When the topsheet 138 includes fibers, the fibers may be treated by a spunbond method, a carding method, a wet method, a meltblown method, a hydroentangling method, or another method known in the art. The topsheet 138 may be selected from a bulky non-woven topsheet, a perforated film topsheet, and a perforated non-woven topsheet. Exemplary perforated films may include those described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,628,097, 5,916,661, 6,545,197, and 6,107,539, all of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0036] As described above, the diaper pant 100P may also include an absorbent assembly 140 joined to the chassis 102. As shown in FIG. 2A, the absorbent assembly 140 may have a front edge 148 that extends horizontally in the front waist region 116, and may also have a rear edge 150 that faces longitudinally and extends horizontally in the rear waist region 118. The absorbent assembly may have a right side edge 152 that extends longitudinally, and may also have a left side edge 154 that is on the opposite side horizontally and extends longitudinally. Both the side edges 152 and 154 of the absorbent assembly may extend longitudinally between the front edge 148 and the rear edge 150. The absorbent assembly 140 may additionally include one or more absorbent cores 142 or absorbent core layers. The absorbent core 142 may be at least partially disposed between the top sheet 138 and the back sheet 136, and may be formed in various sizes and shapes that are compatible with the diaper. Exemplary absorbent structures for use as the absorbent core of the present disclosure are described in U.S. Patent Nos. 4,610,678, 4,673,402, 4,888,231, and 4,834,735, all of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0037] Some absorbent core embodiments may include a fluid storage core containing a reduced amount of cellulosic airfelt material. For example, such a core may contain less than about 40%, less than 30%, less than 20%, less than 10%, less than 5%, or even less than about 1% of cellulosic airfelt material. Such a core may mainly contain an absorbent gel material in an amount of at least about 60%, 70%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, or even about 100%, in which case the remainder of the core contains a microfiber adhesive (where applicable). Such cores, microfiber adhesives, and absorbent gel materials are described in U.S. Patent Nos. 5,599,335, 5,562,646, 5,669,894, and 6,790,798, and U.S. Patent Publications 2004 / 0158212(A1) and 2004 / 0097895(A1), all of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0038] As described above, the diaper 100P may also include an elastic leg cuff 156. The leg cuff 156 can be a leg band, a side flap, a barrier cuff, an elastic cuff, or a gasketing cuff, and it will be understood that it may be referred to as such in some cases. The elastic leg cuff 156 may be configured in various ways to help reduce leakage of body exudates in the leg region. Exemplary leg cuffs 156 may include those described in U.S. Patent Nos. 3,860,003, 4,909,803, 4,695,278, 4,795,454, 4,704,115, 4,909,803, and U.S. Patent Publication No. 2009 / 0312730(A1), all of which are hereby incorporated by reference.

[0039] As described above, the diaper pants are manufactured with an annular elastic belt 104, and before being applied to the wearer, the front waist region 116 and the rear waist region 118 may be connected to each other and provided to the consumer in a packaged configuration. Thus, the diaper pants may have a continuous outer peripheral waist opening 110 and a continuous outer peripheral leg opening 112 as shown in FIG. 1. This annular elastic belt can be formed by joining a first elastic belt to a second elastic belt using a permanent side seam or using a releasable and reclosable fastening system disposed on or adjacent to the sides of the belt that face each other in the lateral direction.

[0040] As described above, the annular elastic belt 104 may be defined by a first elastic belt 106 connected to a second elastic belt 108. As shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, the first elastic belt 106 extends between a first longitudinal side edge 111a and a second longitudinal side edge 111b, defining first and second opposing end regions 106a, 106b and a central region 106c. The second elastic belt 108 extends between a first longitudinal side edge 113a and a second longitudinal side edge 113b, defining first and second opposing end regions 108a, 108b and a central region 108c. The distance between the first longitudinal side edge 111a and the second longitudinal side edge 111b defines the pitch length PL of the first elastic belt 106, and the distance between the first longitudinal side edge 113a and the second longitudinal side edge 113b defines the pitch length PL of the second elastic belt 108. The central region 106c of the first elastic belt is connected to the first waist region 116 or the first end region 116a of the chassis 102, and the central region 108c of the second elastic belt 108 is connected to the second waist region 118 or the second end region 118a of the chassis 102. As shown in FIG. 1, the first end region 106a of the first elastic belt 106 is connected to the first end region 108a of the second elastic belt 108 at the first side seam 178, and the second end region 106b of the first elastic belt 106 is connected to the second end region 108b of the second elastic belt 108 at the second side seam 180, defining the annular elastic belt 104 and the waist opening 110 and the leg openings 112. It should be understood that the first belt 106 and the second belt 108 may be connected to each other permanently or re-fastenable at the first side seam 178 and the second side seam 180.

[0041] As shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, the first elastic belt 106 also defines a laterally extending outer edge portion 107a and a laterally extending inner edge portion 107b, and the second elastic belt 108 defines a laterally extending outer edge portion 109a and a laterally extending inner edge portion 109b. In this way, the outer edge portion 112a of one leg opening can be defined by the laterally extending inner edge portion 107b of the first elastic belt 106, the laterally extending inner edge portion 109b of the second elastic belt 108, and a portion of the first longitudinal or right side edge 128 of the chassis 102. Further, the outer edge portion 112b of the other leg opening can be defined by the laterally extending inner edge portion 107b, the laterally extending inner edge portion 109b, and a portion of the second longitudinal or left side edge 130 of the chassis 102. The laterally extending outer edge portions 107a, 109a can also define the front waist edge portion 121 and the laterally extending rear waist edge portion 122 of the diaper pants 100P.

[0042] It should be understood that the first elastic belt 106 and the second elastic belt 108 can define different sizes and shapes. For example, FIG. 2C shows a configuration in which both the first elastic belt 106 and the second elastic belt 108 generally define a rectangular shape. For example, as shown in FIG. 2C, the laterally extending outer edge portion 107a of the first elastic belt 106 can have a lateral width of W1D, the laterally extending inner edge portion 107b can have a lateral width of W1P, and W1D and W1P are equal or substantially equal. In addition, the laterally extending outer edge portion 109a of the second elastic belt 108 can have a lateral width of W2D, the laterally extending inner edge portion 109b can have a lateral width of W2P, and W2D and W2P are equal or substantially equal.

[0043] In some configurations, at least one of the first elastic belt 106 and the second elastic belt 108 may have lateral edges of different lengths. For example, FIG. 2D shows a configuration in which the first elastic belt 106 defines a generally rectangular shape as described with reference to FIG. 2C, and the laterally extending outer edge 109a and the laterally extending inner edge 109b of the second elastic belt 108 have different lengths. As shown in FIG. 2D, the laterally extending outer edge 109a of the second elastic belt 108 may have a lateral width of W2D, the laterally extending inner edge 109b may have a lateral width of W2P, and W2D is greater than W2P.

[0044] In some configurations, both the first elastic belt 106 and the second elastic belt 108 may have lateral edges of different lengths. For example, FIG. 2E shows a configuration in which the laterally extending outer edge 107a and the laterally extending inner edge 107b of the first elastic belt 106 have different lengths, and the laterally extending outer edge 109a and the laterally extending inner edge 109b of the second elastic belt 108 have different lengths. As shown in FIG. 2E, the laterally extending outer edge 107a of the first elastic belt 107 may have a lateral width of W1D, the laterally extending inner edge 107b may have a lateral width of W1P, W1D is greater than W1P, the laterally extending outer edge 109a of the second elastic belt 108 may have a lateral width of W2D, the laterally extending inner edge 109b may have a lateral width of W2P, and W2D is greater than W2P.

[0045] Referring to FIGS. 2C to 2E, the first elastic belt 106 may define a longitudinal length LT1 extending between a laterally extending outer edge portion 107a and a laterally extending inner edge portion 107b, and the second elastic belt 108 may define a longitudinal length LT2 extending between a laterally extending outer edge portion 109a and a laterally extending inner edge portion 109b. In some configurations, LT1 may be equal to LT2. In some configurations, LT1 may be smaller than or larger than LT2. Continuing to refer to FIGS. 2C to 2E, in some configurations, W1D may be equal to W1P or W1D may be different from W1P. In some configurations, W2D may be equal to W2P or W2D may be different from W2P. In some configurations, W1D and / or W1P may be equal to or different from W2D and / or W2P.

[0046] Referring to FIGS. 2A, 2B, and 3, the first elastic belt 106 and the second elastic belt 108 may also each include a first substrate 162 and a second substrate 164. The first substrate 162 may be oriented to define at least a portion of the surface of the first elastic belt 106 and the second elastic belt 108 that faces the clothing, and the second substrate 164 may be oriented to define at least a portion of the surface of the first elastic belt 106 and the second elastic belt 108 that faces the wearer. The first substrate 162 may extend over a maximum length L1 from the proximal edge 162b to the distal edge 162a, and the second substrate 164 may extend over a maximum length L2 from the proximal edge 164b to the distal edge 164a. It should be understood that the distal edge 162a and / or the proximal edge 162b of the first substrate 162 may be linear and / or curved, and and / or may be parallel or non-parallel to each other. Also, it should be understood that the distal edge 164a and / or the proximal edge 164b of the second substrate 164 may be linear and / or curved, and and / or may be parallel or non-parallel to each other. Thus, the maximum length L1 refers to the longest distance extending longitudinally between the distal edge 162a and the proximal edge 162b of the first substrate 162, and the maximum length L2 refers to the longest distance extending longitudinally between the distal edge 164a and the proximal edge 164b of the second substrate 164. In some configurations, the distal edge 162a of the first substrate 162 may define at least a portion of the front waist edge 121 and / or at least a portion of the rear waist edge 122, and and / or the distal edge 164a of the second substrate 164 may define at least a portion of the front waist edge 121 and / or at least a portion of the rear waist edge 122. Thus, in some configurations, the distal edge 162a of the first substrate 162 and / or the distal edge 164a of the second substrate 164 may define at least a portion of the waist opening 110. It should also be understood that the first substrate 162 and / or the second substrate 164 may extend continuously from the first belt 106 to the second belt 108.

[0047] In some configurations, the proximal edge portion 162b of the first substrate 162 and / or the proximal edge portion 164b of the second substrate 164 may extend laterally across the backsheet 134. As shown in FIGS. 2A-3, the first substrate 162 includes a surface 162c facing the garment and an opposite surface 162d facing the wearer, and the second substrate 164 includes a surface 164c facing the garment and an opposite surface 164d facing the wearer.

[0048] The belt elastic material 167 may be positioned between the surface 162d of the first substrate 162 facing the wearer and the surface 164c of the second substrate 164 facing the garment. It should be understood that the belt elastic material 167 may include one or more elastic elements extending along the length of the elastic belt, such as strands, ribbons, elastic films, or panels. As shown in FIGS. 2A and 3, the elastic material 167 may include a plurality of elastic strands 168. In some configurations, the elastic strands 168 may be in the form of extruded elastic strands, which may also be joined to the first substrate 162 and / or the second substrate 164 in a pre-waved configuration, as disclosed, for example, in U.S. Patent No. 5,681,302, which is incorporated herein by reference. In some configurations, the elastic strands 168 may be referred to herein as outer waist elastic members 170 and inner waist elastic members 172. The elastic strands 168 (e.g., the outer waist elastic members 170) may extend continuously laterally between the opposing first end regions 106a and second end regions 106b of the first elastic belt 106, and between the opposing first end regions 108a and second end regions 108b of the second elastic belt 108. In some embodiments, some of the elastic strands 168, such as the inner waist elastic members 172, may be configured to have discontinuities within an area where the first and second elastic belts 106, 108 overlap a portion of the chassis 102, such as the absorbent assembly 140.

[0049] In some configurations, the first elastic belt 106 and / or the second elastic belt 108 may define a curved profile. For example, the inner lateral edges 107b, 109b of the first and / or second elastic belts 106, 108 may include non-linear or curved portions at the first and second opposing end regions. Such a curved profile can help to define a desired shape for the leg opening 112, such as a relatively rounded leg opening. In addition to having a curved profile, the elastic belts 106, 108 may include elastic strands 168 that extend along a non-linear or curved path that may coincide with the curved profile of the inner lateral edges 107b, 109b.

[0050] As shown in FIGS. 2A to 3, the first elastic belt 106 and / or the second elastic belt 108 may also include a panel layer 165 that may include a substrate or a laminate of substrate layers. The panel layer 165 may extend longitudinally over a maximum distance D between a first lateral edge 165a and a second lateral edge 165b. It should be understood that the first lateral edge 165a and / or the second lateral edge 165b of the panel layer 165 may be linear and / or curved, and / or may be parallel or non-parallel to each other. Thus, the maximum distance D refers to the longest distance extending longitudinally between the first lateral edge 165a and the second lateral edge 165b of the panel layer 165. In some configurations, the maximum distance D may or may not be equal to the maximum length L1 of the first substrate 162 and / or the maximum length L2 of the second substrate 164. In some configurations, the maximum distance D may be less than or equal to the maximum length L1 of the first substrate 162 and / or the maximum length L2 of the second substrate 164. In some configurations, D may be less than about 40% of L1 and / or L2. It should also be understood that the panel layer 165 may be positioned at various longitudinal positions relative to the first substrate 162 and / or the second substrate 164. For example, as shown in FIGS. 2A to 3, the first lateral edge 165a of the panel layer 165 may be positioned longitudinally outward from the distal edge 162a of the first substrate 162 and / or the distal edge 164a of the second substrate 164. In some configurations, the first lateral edge 165a of the panel layer 165 may be positioned in contact with the distal edge 162a of the first substrate 162 and / or the distal edge 164a of the second substrate 164. In some configurations, the first lateral edge 165a of the panel layer 165 may be positioned longitudinally inward from the distal edge 162a of the first substrate 162 and / or the distal edge 164a of the second substrate 164. In some configurations, the panel layer 165 may be positioned such that the first lateral edge 165a of the panel layer 165 may define at least a portion of the front waist edge 121 and / or the rear waist edge 122. Thus, in some configurations, the first lateral edge 165a of the panel layer 165 may define at least a portion of the waist opening 110.

[0051] In some configurations, the panel layer 165 can be positioned to cover at least a portion of the first end region 116a and / or the second end region 118a of the chassis 102, as shown in FIG. 3C. Accordingly, the second lateral edge 165b of the panel layer 165 can extend across the top sheet 138. In some configurations, the second lateral edge 165b of the panel layer 165 can extend across the back sheet 136. The second lateral edge 165b of the panel layer 165 can be on the inner or outer longitudinal side of the proximal edge 162b of the first substrate 162 and / or the proximal edge 164b of the second substrate 164. And in some configurations, the second lateral edge 165b of the panel layer 165 can be in contact with the proximal edge 162b of the first substrate 162 and / or the proximal edge 164b of the second substrate 164. In some configurations, at least a portion of the second lateral edge 165b of the panel layer 165 may not be joined to the surface 164d of the second substrate 164 facing the wearer in order to define a pocket between the panel layer 165 and the surface 164d of the second substrate 164 facing the wearer.

[0052] It should be understood that the first substrate 162, the second substrate 164, and the panel layer 165 can define various lateral widths, which may or may not be equal. For example, as shown in FIG. 2B, the first substrate 162 can extend laterally between the first longitudinal edge 162e and the second longitudinal edge 162f to define a first lateral width W1, and the second substrate 164 can extend laterally between the first longitudinal edge 164e and the second longitudinal edge 164f to define a second lateral width W2. In addition, the panel layer 165 can extend laterally between the first longitudinal edge 165e and the second longitudinal edge 165f to define a third lateral width W3. In some configurations, the third lateral width W3 can be equal to at least one of the first lateral width W1 and the second lateral width W2. In some configurations, the third lateral width W3 can be less than at least one of the first lateral width W1 and the second lateral width W2.

[0053] It should be understood that the panel layer 165 can be connected to the first elastic belt 106 and / or the second elastic belt 108 at various positions, and / or to various components of the first elastic belt 106 and / or the second elastic belt 108. For example, as shown in FIG. 3, the panel layer 165 can be connected to the surface 162c of the first substrate 162 facing the clothing on the first elastic belt 106 and / or the second elastic belt 108.

[0054] As shown in FIG. 3A, the first elastic belt 106 and / or the second elastic belt 108 can include a belt elastic material 167 positioned between and connected to the first substrate 162 and the panel layer 165. As described above, the elastic material 167 can include a plurality of elastic strands 168. As shown in FIG. 3A and elsewhere, the elastic strands 168 connected to the panel layer 165 can be referred to herein as panel layer elastic strands 169. In some configurations, the elastic strands 169 can be in the form of extruded elastic strands, which can also be joined to the first substrate 162, the second substrate 164, and / or the panel layer 165 in a pre-corrugated configuration, as disclosed, for example, in U.S. Patent No. 5,681,302, which is incorporated herein by reference. In another configuration, such as that shown in FIG. 3B, the panel layer 165 can be connected to the surface 164d of the second substrate 164 facing the wearer on the first elastic belt 106 and / or the second elastic belt 108. And in some configurations, the first elastic belt 106 and / or the second elastic belt 108 can include an elastic material 169 positioned between and connected to the second substrate 164 and the panel layer 165.

[0055] It will be appreciated that the first elastic belt 106 and the second elastic belt 108 may comprise the same material and / or may have the same structure. In some embodiments, the first elastic belt 106 and the second elastic belt may comprise different materials and / or may have different structures. It should also be understood that the components of the first elastic belt 106 and the second elastic belt 108, such as the first substrate 162, the second substrate 164, and / or the panel layer 165, may be constructed from a variety of materials. For example, the first and / or second belt may include the first substrate 162, the second substrate 164, and / or the panel layer 165 made from materials such as plastic film; perforated plastic film; natural materials (e.g., wood fibers or cotton fibers), synthetic fibers (e.g., polyolefin, polyamide, polyester, polyethylene or polypropylene fibers), or a woven or non-woven web of natural and / or synthetic fibers; or a coated woven or non-woven web. In some configurations, the first and / or second belt may include the first substrate 162, the second substrate 164, and / or the panel layer 165 including a non-woven web of synthetic fibers and may include a stretch non-woven fabric. In some configurations, the first and second elastic belts may include an inner hydrophobic non-stretch non-woven fabric material and an outer hydrophobic non-stretch non-woven fabric material.

[0056] It should also be understood that the first substrate 162, the second substrate 164, the panel layer 165, and / or the elastic material 167 of the first elastic belt 106 and / or the second elastic belt 108 may be joined together and / or to other components such as the chassis 102 by adhesives and / or mechanical joining. It should be understood that the adhesive and mechanical joining methods may be used alone or in combination with each other.

[0057] In some configurations, when combined to form the first elastic belt 106 and / or the second elastic belt 108, an adhesive can be applied to at least one of the first substrate 162, the second substrate 164, the panel layer 165, and / or the elastic material 167. Such an adhesive can be applied by an adhesive applicator device configured in various ways, such as, for example, a spray nozzle and / or a slot coating device. In some configurations, the adhesive applicator device can be configured according to the devices and / or methods disclosed in U.S. Patent Nos. 8,186,296, 9,265,672, 9,248,054, and 9,295,590, and U.S. Patent Publication No. 2014 / 0148773(A1), all of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0058] In some configurations, when combined to form the first elastic belt 106 and / or the second elastic belt 108, a mechanical joining device can apply a mechanical join to at least one of the first substrate 162, the second substrate 164, the panel layer 165, and / or the elastic material 167. Such mechanical joining can be applied with heat, pressure, and / or an ultrasonic device. Examples of ultrasonic joining devices, which can include linear or rotary type configurations, are disclosed, for example, in U.S. Patent Nos. 3,113,225, 3,562,041, 3,733,238, 5,110,403, 6,036,796, 6,508,641, and 6,645,330. In some configurations, the ultrasonic joining device can be configured as a linear vibration type sonotrode available, for example, from Herrmann Ultrasonic, Inc. Examples of such mechanical joining devices and methods are disclosed in U.S. Patent Nos. 4,854,984, 6,291,039, 6,248,195, 8,778,127, and 9,005,392, and U.S. Patent Publications Nos. 2014 / 0377513(A1) and 2014 / 0377506(A1), all of which are hereby incorporated by reference. In some configurations, the mechanical joining device can apply a join that joins the first substrate 162, the second substrate 164, the panel layer 165, and / or the elastic material 167 together and / or can act to capture or immobilize discrete lengths of shrunken elastic strands within the first elastic belt 106 and / or the second elastic belt 108.

[0059] The first substrate 162, the second substrate 164, the panel layer 165, and / or the elastic material 167 can be joined to each other by various methods and apparatuses to produce various elastomeric laminates as described in U.S. Patent Publication Nos. 2018 / 0168878(A1), 2018 / 0168877(A1), 2018 / 0168880(A1), 2018 / 0170027(A1), 2018 / 0169964(A1), 2018 / 0168879(A1), 2018 / 0170026(A1), 2018 / 0168889(A1), 2018 / 0168874(A1), 2018 / 0168875(A1), 2018 / 0168890(A1), 2018 / 0168887(A1), 2018 / 0168892(A1), 2018 / 0168876(A1), 2018 / 0168891(A1), 2019 / 0070042(A1), and 2019 / 0070041(A1), and U.S. Patent Application Nos. 62 / 989,059 and 62 / 984,837, all of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

[0060] It should be understood that the panel layer 165 of this specification can be configured as a single-layer substrate or a laminate including two or more layers. For example, as shown in FIG. 4A, the panel layer 165 can be configured as a laminate including a layer 165c facing the clothing and a layer 165d facing the wearer. The panel layer 165 can also include elastic materials 167, 169 positioned between and connected to the layer 165c facing the clothing and the layer 165d facing the wearer. As described above, the panel layer 165 can be connected to the first substrate 162 or the second substrate 164 of the first elastic belt 106 and / or the second elastic belt 108. For example, as shown in FIG. 4A, the layer 165d facing the wearer can be connected to the surface 162c of the first substrate 162 facing the clothing. In addition, the elastic materials 167, 169 can be positioned between and connected to the layer 165d facing the wearer and the surface 162c of the first substrate 162 facing the clothing. It should be understood that the first lateral edge 165a of the panel layer 165 can be defined by one or both of the layer 165c facing the clothing and the layer 165d facing the wearer. It should be understood that the second lateral edge 165b of the panel layer 165 can be defined by one or both of the layer 165c facing the clothing and the layer 165d facing the wearer. In some configurations as shown in FIG. 4B, the layer 165c facing the clothing can be connected to the surface 164d of the second substrate 164 facing the wearer. It should also be understood that in some configurations, the elastic materials 167, 169 can be positioned between and connected to the layer 165c facing the clothing and the surface 164d of the second substrate 164 facing the wearer. It should also be understood that in some configurations, the elastic materials 167, 169 can be positioned between and connected to the layer 165c facing the clothing and the surface 164d of the second substrate 164 facing the wearer.

[0061] Referring now to FIG. 4C, the panel layer 165 can be configured as a laminate formed of a substrate that is folded along a fold line 165e to form a first portion that defines a layer 165c facing the garment and a second portion that defines a layer 165d facing the wearer. In the folded configuration, the panel layer 165 can also include elastic materials 167, 169 positioned between and connected to the layer 165c facing the garment and the layer 165d facing the wearer. As described above, the panel layer 165 can be connected to the first substrate 162 or the second substrate 164 of the first elastic belt 106 and / or the second elastic belt 108. For example, as shown in FIG. 4C, the layer 165d facing the wearer can be connected to the surface 162c of the first substrate 162 facing the garment. Additionally, the elastic materials 167, 169 can be positioned between and connected to the layer 165d facing the wearer and the surface 162c of the first substrate 162 facing the garment. It should be understood that the first lateral edge 165a of the panel layer 165 can be defined by the fold line 165e. Thus, in some configurations, the panel layer can be positioned such that the fold line 165e of the panel layer 165 can define at least a portion of the front waist edge 121 and / or the rear waist edge 122. Thus, in some configurations, the fold line 165e of the panel layer 165 can define at least a portion of the waist opening 110.

[0062] It should be understood that the second lateral edge 165b of the panel layer 165 can be defined by one or both of the layer 165c facing the garment and the layer 165d facing the wearer. In some configurations such as shown in FIG. 4D, the layer 165c facing the garment can be connected to the surface 164d of the second substrate 164 facing the wearer. It should also be understood that in some configurations, the elastic materials 167, 169 can be positioned between and connected to the layer 165c facing the garment and the surface 164d of the second substrate 164 facing the wearer. It should also be understood that in some configurations, the elastic materials 167, 169 can be positioned between and connected to the layer 165c facing the garment and the surface 164d of the second substrate 164 facing the wearer.

[0063] In some configurations of the first elastic belt 106 and / or the second elastic belt 108, the first substrate 162 and the second substrate 164 can be positioned between the layer 165c facing the clothing and the layer 164d facing the wearer. More specifically, the layer 165c of the panel layer 165 facing the clothing can be connected to the first substrate 162, and the layer 165d of the panel layer 165 facing the wearer can be connected to the second substrate 164. For example, as shown in FIG. 4E, the panel layer 165 is depicted as a laminate formed by a substrate folded along a fold line 165e to form a first portion defining the layer 165c facing the clothing and a second portion defining the layer 165d facing the wearer. As shown in FIG. 4E, the layer 165c facing the clothing is connected to the layer 162c of the first substrate 162 facing the clothing, and the layer 165d facing the wearer is connected to the layer 164d of the second substrate 164 facing the wearer. In addition, the panel layer 165 can also include elastic materials 167, 169 positioned between and connected to the layer 165c facing the clothing and the layer 165d facing the wearer. As shown in FIG. 4E, the elastic materials 167, 169 can also be positioned between and connected to the layer 165c of the first substrate facing the clothing and the surface 162c facing the clothing, and / or between and connected to the layer 165d facing the wearer and the surface 164d of the second substrate 164 facing the wearer.

[0064] Continuing to refer to FIG. 4E, the first lateral edge 165a of the panel layer 165 can be defined by the fold line 165e. Thus, in some configurations, the panel layer can be positioned such that the fold line 165e of the panel layer 165 can define at least a portion of the front waist edge 121 and / or the rear waist edge 122. Thus, in some configurations, the fold line 165e of the panel layer 165 can define at least a portion of the waist opening 110. It should also be understood that the layer 165c facing the clothing can define a first second lateral edge 165b1 of the panel layer 165 extending along the surface 162c of the first substrate 162 facing the clothing, and the layer 165d facing the wearer can define a second second lateral edge 165b2 of the panel layer 165 extending along the surface 164d of the second substrate 164 facing the wearer.

[0065] It should also be understood that the panel layer 165 can be positioned at various longitudinal positions relative to the first substrate 162 and / or the second substrate 164. For example, as shown in FIG. 4E, the fold 165e of the panel layer 165 can be positioned longitudinally outward from the distal edge 162a of the first substrate 162 and / or the distal edge 164a of the second substrate 164. In some configurations, the fold 165e of the panel layer 165 can be positioned to extend along the distal edge 162a of the first substrate 162 and / or the distal edge 164a of the second substrate 164. In some configurations, the panel layer 165 can be positioned such that the first lateral edge 165a or the fold 165e of the panel layer 165 can define at least a portion of the front waist edge 121 and / or the rear waist edge 122. Thus, in some configurations, the fold 165e of the panel layer 165 can define at least a portion of the waist opening 110.

[0066] In some configurations, the panel layer 165 can be positioned such that the layer 165c facing the garment and / or the layer 165d facing the wearer covers at least a portion of the first end region 116 and / or the second end region 118 of the chassis 102. In some configurations, the first and second lateral edges 165b1 of the panel layer 165 can extend across the backsheet 136 and / or the second and second lateral edges 165b2 of the panel layer 165 can extend across the topsheet 138. The first and second lateral edges 165b1 and / or the second and second lateral edges 165b2 of the panel layer 165 can be on the inner or outer longitudinal side of the proximal edge 162b of the first substrate 162 and / or the proximal edge 164b of the second substrate 164. And in some configurations, the first and second lateral edges 165b1 and / or the second and second lateral edges 165b2 of the panel layer 165 can be in contact with the proximal edge 162b of the first substrate 162 and / or the proximal edge 164b of the second substrate 164 at the boundary. In some configurations, at least a portion of the second and second lateral edges 165b2 of the panel layer 165 may not be joined to the surface 164d facing the wearer of the second substrate 164 in order to define a pocket between the layer 165d facing the wearer of the panel layer 165 and the surface 164d facing the wearer of the second substrate 164.

[0067] As shown in FIG. 4E, the panel layer 165 may extend longitudinally over a first maximum distance D1 between a first lateral edge 165a (or fold 165e) and a first second lateral edge 165b1, and the panel layer 165 may extend longitudinally over a second maximum distance D2 between the first lateral edge 165a (or fold 165e) and a second second lateral edge 165b2. It should be understood that the first lateral edge 165a and / or the first second lateral edge 165b1 of the panel layer 165 may be linear and / or curved, and / or may be parallel or non-parallel to each other. It should also be understood that the first lateral edge 165a and / or the second second lateral edge 165b2 of the panel layer 165 may be linear and / or curved, and / or may be parallel or non-parallel to each other. Thus, the maximum distance D1 refers to the longest distance extending longitudinally between the first lateral edge 165a and the first second edge 165b1 of the panel layer 165, and the maximum distance D2 refers to the longest distance extending longitudinally between the first lateral edge 165a and the second second edge 165b2 of the panel layer 165. In some configurations, the first maximum distance D1 and the second maximum distance D2 may be equal or of different lengths. It should also be understood that the first maximum distance D1 and the second maximum distance D2 may be defined with various lengths relative to the first maximum length L1 of the first substrate 162 and the second maximum length L2 of the second substrate 164 described above with reference to FIG. 2B. For example, in some configurations, the first maximum distance D1 and / or the second maximum distance D2 may be less than or equal to the first maximum length L1 of the first substrate 162 and / or the second maximum length L2 of the second substrate 164. In some configurations, the first maximum distance D1 and / or the second maximum distance D2 may be less than about 40% of L1 and / or L2. It should also be understood that the features of the panel layer 165 described above with reference to the folded configuration of FIG. 4E are also applicable to a panel layer 165 laminate structure including at least two separate substrates joined together as shown in FIG. 4F.

[0068] In addition to the various configurations of the panel layer 165 discussed herein, it should be understood that the first elastic belt 106 and the second elastic belt 108 can be configured in various ways using various configurations and / or combinations of the first substrate 162 and the second substrate 164. In some configurations, the first substrate 162 and / or the second substrate 164 can be configured as a laminated structure including a single substrate layer or a plurality of substrate layers. For example, as shown in FIG. 5A, the first elastic belt 106 and / or the second elastic belt 108 can include a second substrate 164 configured as a laminate including a layer 164' facing the garment and a layer 164'' facing the wearer. It should be understood that the layer 164' facing the garment and the layer 164'' facing the wearer can be the same material or different materials. In another example, as shown in FIG. 5B, the first elastic belt 106 and / or the second elastic belt 108 can include a first substrate 162 configured as a laminate including a layer 162' facing the garment and a layer 162'' facing the wearer. It should be understood that the layer 162' facing the garment and the layer 162'' facing the wearer can be the same material or different materials. In some configurations, instead of having separate layers 162' facing the garment in each of the first and second elastic belts 106, 108, as shown in FIG. 5C, a single layer 162' facing the garment can be connected to and extend between the layers 162'' facing the wearer of the first and second elastic belts 106, 108. In yet another configuration, as shown in FIG. 5D, the first and second elastic belts 106, 108 can be configured without separate layers 162'' facing the wearer, and thus, the first elastic belt 106 and the second elastic belt 108 can include a portion of a single layer 162' facing the garment of the first substrate 162 that forms part of the first elastic belt 106 and the second elastic belt 108 and extends longitudinally between the first elastic belt 106 and the second elastic belt 108 along the backsheet 136 of the chassis 102.

[0069] In some configurations, the first elastic belt 106 and / or the second elastic belt 108 may include at least the folded portion of the first substrate 162 and / or the second substrate 164. For example, as shown in FIG. 6A, the first elastic belt 106 and / or the second elastic belt 108 may include a folded portion of the first substrate 162 that extends longitudinally between the fold 162g and the lateral edge 162h of the first substrate 162. Accordingly, the folded portion of the first substrate 162 may be connected to the surface 164d of the second substrate 164 that faces the wearer. As shown in the configuration of FIG. 6A, the elastic material 167 may also be positioned between and connected to the folded portion of the first substrate 162 and the surface 164d of the second substrate 164 that faces the wearer. In another example shown in FIG. 6B, the first elastic belt 106 and / or the second elastic belt 108 may include a folded portion of the second substrate 164 that extends longitudinally between the fold 164g and the lateral edge 164h of the second substrate 164. Accordingly, the folded portion of the second substrate 164 may be connected to the surface 162c of the first substrate 162 that faces the garment. As shown in the configuration of FIG. 6B, the elastic material 167 may also be positioned between and connected to the folded portion of the second substrate 164 and the surface 164c of the first substrate 162 that faces the garment.

[0070] In some configurations, the first elastic belt 106 and / or the second elastic belt 108 may include folded portions of both the first substrate 162 and the second substrate 164. For example, as shown in FIG. 6C, the first elastic belt 106 and / or the second elastic belt 108 may extend longitudinally between the fold 162g and the lateral edge 162h of the first substrate 162 and between the fold 164g and the lateral edge 164h of the second substrate 164, and may include folded portions of both the first substrate 162 and the second substrate 164. Thus, the folded portion of the second substrate 164 may be connected to the surface 164d facing the wearer of the second substrate 164. As shown in the configuration of FIG. 6C, the elastic material 167 may also be positioned between and connected to the folded portion of the second substrate 164 and the surface 164d facing the wearer of the second substrate 164. It should be understood that the first substrate 162 and the second substrate 164 may be folded in a direction opposite to that shown in FIG. 6C such that the folded portion of the first substrate 162 may be connected to the surface 162c facing the garment of the first substrate 162. In some configurations, the folded portions of the first elastic belt 106 and / or the second elastic belt 108 may be configured to overlap and / or cover at least a portion of the first end region 116a and / or the second end region 118a of the chassis 102, as shown in FIG. 6D.

[0071] It should be understood that the components of the first elastic belt 106 and / or the second elastic belt 108 can be assembled in various ways and in various combinations to create various desirable features that can vary along the lateral width and / or the longitudinal length of the first elastic belt 106 and / or the second elastic belt 108. Such features can include, for example, Dtex value, joining pattern, hole arrangement, elastic positioning, average Dtex value, average pre-strain value, wrinkle frequency, wrinkle wavelength, height value, and / or contact area. It should be understood that different features can be imparted to various components, such as the first substrate 162, the second substrate 164, the panel layer 165, and the elastic material 167, for example, before and / or during the assembly stage of the first elastic belt 106 and / or the second elastic belt 108. For example, different features can be imparted separately to the panel layer 165 before being combined with the first substrate 162 and / or the second substrate 164. In another embodiment, different features can be imparted separately to the first substrate 162 and / or the second substrate 164 before being combined. Thus, in some configurations, the first elastic belt 106 and / or the second elastic belt 108 can include different features without the need to impart features relating to the fully assembled product.

[0072] The elastic materials 167 of the first substrate 162, the second substrate 164, the panel layer 165, and / or the first elastic belt 106 and / or the second elastic belt 108 in this specification can be formed in various ways and can be joined together in various ways and with different or the same joining patterns. It should be understood that in some configurations, the first substrate 162, the second substrate 164, the panel layer 165, and / or the elastic material 167 can be joined continuously or discontinuously. In some configurations, the first substrate 162, the second substrate 164, the panel layer 165, and / or the elastic material 167 can be joined at a plurality of individual joining sites, which may or may not form a visually distinguishable pattern. Such individual joining sites can also define various features having various sizes relative to each other, and such joining sites can be formed in various ways such as by adhesives or mechanical joining and / or combinations thereof. It should be understood that the first elastic belt 106 and / or the second elastic belt 108 can include various portions of components joined together in various ways and with different or the same joining patterns. FIG. 7 shows a general example of a first joint B1, a second joint B2, and a third joint B3 that can be arranged in first, second, and third patterns respectively on the first substrate, the second substrate, and / or the panel layer on the first elastic belt 106 and / or the second elastic belt 108. It should be understood that the joints can be arranged in various ways and can be arranged to join various different components of the first elastic belt 106 and / or the second elastic belt 108.

[0073] For example, referring to FIGS. 1-6D, in some configurations of the first elastic belt 106 and / or the second elastic belt 108, the first substrate 162 can be directly joined to the second substrate 164 at a first plurality of separate joints arranged in a first pattern, and the panel layer 165 can be directly joined to the first substrate 162 or the second substrate 164 at a second plurality of separate joints arranged in a second pattern, and the first pattern may or may not be the same as the second pattern.

[0074] In another example, the panel layer 165 can be directly joined to the first substrate 162 at a first plurality of distinct joints arranged in a first pattern, the panel layer 165 can be directly joined to the second substrate 164 at a second plurality of distinct joints arranged in a second pattern, and the first substrate 162 can be directly joined to the second substrate 164 at a third plurality of distinct joints arranged in a third pattern. Thus, in some configurations, the first pattern may be the same as or different from the second pattern. And in some configurations, at least one of the first pattern and the second pattern may be different from the third pattern. Further, the first plurality of distinct joints, the second plurality of distinct joints, and the third plurality of distinct joints can include at least one of adhesive bonding and mechanical bonding.

[0075] In yet another example, the layer 165d of the panel layer 165 facing the wearer can be directly joined to the layer 165c of the panel layer 165 facing the garment by a first plurality of distinct joints arranged in a first pattern. Additionally, the layer 165d of the panel layer 165 facing the wearer is directly joined to the second substrate 164, and the layer 165c of the panel layer 165 facing the garment is directly joined to the first substrate 162 at a second plurality of distinct joints arranged in a second pattern. Further, the first substrate 162 can be directly joined to the second substrate 164 at a third plurality of distinct joints arranged in a third pattern. In some configurations, the first pattern can be the same as the second pattern, and at least one of the first pattern and the second pattern can be different from the third pattern. Additionally, the first plurality of distinct joints, the second plurality of distinct joints, and the third plurality of distinct joints can include at least one of adhesive bonding and mechanical bonding.

[0076] It should also be understood that the components of the first elastic belt 106 and / or the second elastic belt 108 may have additional features such as holes arranged in various ways. For example, the first substrate 162, the second substrate 164, and / or the panel layer 165 may have holes. Such holes may be arranged in the same or different patterns and may include the same or different sizes. In some configurations, the holes in the first substrate 162, the second substrate 164, and / or the panel layer 165 are about 0.030 mm 2 to about 51.000 mm 2 in area, specifically, within all of the above ranges and all ranges formed therein or thereby, all in increments of 0.001 mm 2 and are enumerated. Additionally, the holes may be positioned within and / or outside of the bonding regions of the first substrate 162, the second substrate 164, and / or the panel layer 165. FIG. 8 shows a general example of first holes A1, second holes A2, and third holes A3 that may be arranged in first, second, and third patterns and / or in first, second, and third sizes on the first substrate, the second substrate, and / or the panel layer on the first elastic belt 106 and / or the second elastic belt 108. It should be understood that the holes may be arranged in various ways and may be arranged within various different components of the first elastic belt 106 and / or the second elastic belt 108.

[0077] Referring to FIG. 8, in some configurations, the first substrate 162 may comprise a first hole, the second substrate 164 may comprise a second hole, and the panel layer 165 may comprise a third hole. In some configurations, the layer 165c of the panel layer 165 facing the clothing and / or the layer 165d of the panel 165 facing the wearer may comprise a third hole. In some configurations, the first hole and the second hole may be at least partially aligned and overlapping to define a hole extending through both the first substrate 162 and the second substrate 164 in the assembled first elastic belt 106 and / or the second elastic belt 108. In some configurations, the first hole and the third hole may be at least partially aligned and overlapping to define a hole extending through both the first substrate 162 and the panel layer 165 in the assembled first elastic belt 106 and / or the second elastic belt 108. In some configurations, the second hole and the third hole may be at least partially aligned and overlapping to define a hole extending through both the second substrate 164 and the panel layer 165 in the assembled first elastic belt 106 and / or the second elastic belt 108. In some configurations, the first hole, the second hole, and the third hole may be at least partially aligned and overlapping to define a hole extending through all of the first substrate 162, the second substrate 164, and the panel layer 165 in the assembled first elastic belt 106 and / or the second elastic belt 108. In some configurations, the first hole may define a first size, a first shape, and a first pattern, the second hole may define a second size, a second shape, and a second pattern, and the third hole may define a third size, a third shape, and a third pattern. Accordingly, at least one of the first size, the first shape, and the first pattern may be the same as or different from at least one of the second size, the second shape, and the second pattern, respectively. In some configurations, at least one of the first size, the first shape, and the first pattern may be the same as or different from at least one of the third size, the third shape, and the third pattern, respectively.And in some configurations, at least one of the second size, the second shape, and the second pattern may be the same as or different from at least one of the third size, the third shape, and the third pattern, respectively. It should also be understood that at least some of the elastic strands 168 may extend across some of the first holes, the second holes, and / or the third holes.

[0078] It should be understood that the first elastic belt 106 and / or the second elastic belt 108 may include belt elastic materials 167 of various configurations disposed relative to each other and relative to the first substrate 162, the second substrate 164, and the panel layer 165. As described above, the elastic material 167 may include a configuration of one or more elastic elements such as strands, ribbons, films, or panels positioned in various arrangements. In some configurations, the elastic material 167 includes various elastomers, elastic features and arrangements, and processes related to assembly as described in US Patent Application Publication Nos. 2018 / 0168889(A1), 2018 / 0168874(A1), 2018 / 0168875(A1), 2018 / 0168890(A1), 2018 / 0168887(A1), 2018 / 0168892(A1), 2018 / 0168876(A1), 2018 / 0168891(A1), 2019 / 0298586(A1), 2019 / 0070042(A1), 2018 / 0168878(A1), 2018 / 0168877(A1), 2018 / 0168880(A1), 2018 / 0170027(A1), 2018 / 0169964(A1), 2018 / 0168879(A1), 2018 / 0170026(A1), and 2019 / 0070041(A1), and U.S. Patent Application Nos. 62 / 989059 and 62 / 984,837, all of which are incorporated herein by reference. It should also be understood that the elastic material 167 herein may be configured in the same or different colors at various different locations on the first elastic belt 106 and / or the second elastic belt 108.

[0079] In some embodiments, the elastic material 167 may be configured as elastic strands 168 longitudinally disposed at regular intervals. In other embodiments, the elastic strands 168 may be disposed at different intervals longitudinally. In some configurations, the elastic material 167 in a stretched state may be sandwiched and joined between non-shrinking substrate layers. When the elastic material 167 is relaxed, the elastic material 167 returns to a non-stretched state and causes the substrate layer to contract. The elastic material 167 may provide a desired change in the contraction force within the area of the annular elastic belt. It should be understood that the chassis 102 and the elastic belts 106, 108 may be configured in a manner different from that depicted in the accompanying figures. It should also be understood that the elastic material 167 material may be joined to the substrate continuously or intermittently along the interface between the elastic material 167 material and the substrate.

[0080] For example, as described above with respect to the embodiments with reference to FIGS. 1 to 6D, the elastic material 167 contemplated herein can be in the form of elastic strands 168. It should be understood that the first elastic belt 106 and / or the second elastic belt 108 can be configured to include various amounts of elastic strands 168. In some configurations, the first elastic belt 106 and / or the second elastic belt 108 can include from about 100 to about 1500 elastic strands 168. The elastic strands 168 herein can include various Dtex values, strand spacing values, and pre-strain values, and such elastic strands 168 can be utilized with other elastic strands to create the first and second elastic belts 106, 108 that include elastic strands 168 in various combinations of Dtex values, strand spacing values, and pre-strain values. For example, in some configurations, the average Dtex of one or more elastic strands 168 can be greater than 500. In some configurations, the average Dtex of one or more elastic strands 168 can be from about 10 to about 500, specifically enumerated in steps of 1 Dtex within all ranges formed within or by the above-described range and all its sub-ranges. In some configurations, the plurality of elastic strands 168 can have an average strand spacing of 4 mm or less. In some configurations, the plurality of elastic strands 168 can have an average strand spacing from about 0.25 mm to about 4 mm, specifically enumerated in steps of 0.01 mm within all ranges formed within or by the above-described range and all its sub-ranges. In some configurations, the plurality of elastic strands 168 can have an average strand spacing greater than 4 mm. In some configurations, the average pre-strain of each of the plurality of elastic strands can be from about 50% to about 400%, specifically enumerated in steps of 1% within all ranges formed within or by the above-described range and all its sub-ranges.

[0081] Referring to the configuration of the first elastic belt 106 and / or the second elastic belt 108 disclosed herein, it should be understood that the elastic strands can be arranged at various positions having various average Dtex values, average pre-strain values, and various average strand feel values. For example, referring to FIGS. 1 to 6D, in some configurations, the first elastic belt 106 and / or the second elastic belt 108 can include a first substrate 162 connected to the second substrate 164, and a panel layer 165 connected to either or both of the first substrate 162 and the second substrate 164. The elastic material 167 can be positioned between and connected to the first substrate 162 and the second substrate 164. In addition, the elastic material 167 can be positioned between and connected to the panel layer 165 and the first substrate 162 and / or the second substrate 164. Further, in some configurations, the elastic material 167 can be positioned within the layer 165c facing the clothing of the panel layer 165 and the layer 165d facing the wearer. As described above, the elastic material 167 can include elastic strands 168. Thus, the elastic strands 168 can be grouped into a plurality of elastic strands 168. Next, one or more of the plurality of elastic strands 168 can be positioned at various locations between the first substrate 162 and the second substrate 164, at various locations between the panel layer 165 and the first substrate 162, at various locations between the panel layer 165 and the second substrate 164, and / or at various locations between the layer 165c facing the clothing of the panel layer 165 and the layer 165d facing the wearer. For example, in some configurations, the plurality of elastic strands 168 can be positioned adjacent to the distal edge 162a of the first substrate 162 and / or adjacent to the distal edge 164a of the second substrate 164. In some configurations, the plurality of elastic strands 168 can be positioned adjacent to the proximal edge 162b of the first substrate 162 and / or adjacent to the proximal edge 164b of the second substrate 164.

[0082] In some configurations, the first plurality of elastic strands can include a first average pre-strain of from about 75% to about 300%, and the second plurality of elastic strands can include a second average pre-strain that is greater than the first average pre-strain. In some configurations, the first plurality of elastic strands have an average strand spacing of from about 0.25 mm to about 4 mm, and an average Dtex of from about 10 to about 500, and the second plurality of elastic strands can have an average strand spacing of greater than about 4 mm, and an average Dtex of greater than about 450.

[0083] In some configurations of the first elastic belt 106 and / or the second elastic belt 108, when the elastic material 167 contracts, the first substrate 162, the second substrate 164, and the panel layer 165 can each include longitudinally extending folds. FIG. 9 shows a general example of a first fold G1 and a second fold G2 that can be arranged to include various wrinkle wavelengths and / or wrinkle frequencies. For example, in some configurations, the first elastic belt 106 and / or the second elastic belt 108 can include a first region R1 that includes the panel layer 165. In addition, the first elastic belt 106 and / or the second elastic belt 108 can include a second region R2 outside of the first region, and the second region does not include the panel layer 165. Next, when the elastic material 167 contracts, the first region R1 and the second region R2 each include longitudinally extending folds. For example, the first region R1 can include a first fold G1, and the second region R2 can include a second fold G2. Thus, the first region R1 can include a first wrinkle frequency and a first wrinkle wavelength, and the second region R2 can include a second wrinkle frequency and a second wrinkle wavelength. In some configurations, the first wrinkle frequency is not equal to the second wrinkle frequency, and in some configurations, the first wrinkle wavelength is not equal to the second wrinkle wavelength. For example, the first wrinkle frequency can be less than the second wrinkle frequency.

[0084] It should be understood that the first and second wrinkle frequencies can have various values. For example, in some configurations, at least one of the first wrinkle frequency and the second wrinkle frequency can be from about 0.40 to about 0.59, specifically, enumerated in increments of 0.01 within the above-mentioned range and all ranges formed therein or thereby. In some configurations, at least one of the first wrinkle frequency and the second wrinkle frequency can be from about 0.60 to about 2, specifically, enumerated in increments of 0.01 within the above-mentioned range and all ranges formed therein or thereby. It should also be understood that the first and second wrinkle wavelengths can have various values. In another example, at least one of the first wrinkle wavelength and the second wrinkle wavelength can be from about 0.50 mm to about 1.65 mm, specifically, enumerated in increments of 0.01 mm within the above-mentioned range and all ranges formed therein or thereby. In some configurations, at least one of the first wrinkle wavelength and the second wrinkle wavelength can be from about 1.70 mm to about 2.50 mm, specifically, enumerated in increments of 0.01 mm within the above-mentioned range and all ranges formed therein or thereby.

[0085] It should be understood that the second region R2 can be configured to include a plurality of wrinkle frequencies and wrinkle wavelengths. For example, the second region R2 can include a third wrinkle frequency and a third wrinkle wavelength. In some configurations, the third wrinkle frequency is not equal to the second wrinkle frequency and / or the first wrinkle frequency. In some configurations, the third wrinkle wavelength is not equal to the second wrinkle wavelength and / or the first wrinkle wavelength.

[0086] As described above, the first elastic belt 106 and / or the second elastic belt 108 can be constructed to include additional desirable features such as, for example, percent contact area and / or height values. In some configurations, at least one of the first elastic belt 106 and the second elastic belt 108 can include at least one percent contact area that is greater than about 11% at 100 um, greater than about 28% at 200 um, and greater than about 51% at 300 um. And in some configurations, at least one of the first elastic belt 106 and the second elastic belt 108 can have a height value of 2% to 98% that is less than 1.6 mm.

[0087] Average dtex (average denier per tex) Using the average dtex method, the average dtex for elastic fibers present in a complete article or in a sample of a subject extracted from the article is calculated on a length-weighted basis. The dtex value is the mass in grams of the fibers present in 10,000 meters of that material in a relaxed state. The dtex value of an elastic fiber or an elastic laminate containing elastic fibers is often reported by the manufacturer as part of the specification of the elastic fiber or elastic laminate containing the elastic fibers. The average dtex can be calculated from these specifications if available. Alternatively, if these specified values are not known, the dtex value of an individual elastic fiber is determined by determining the cross-sectional area of the fiber in a relaxed state via a suitable microscopy technique such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM), determining the composition of the fiber via Fourier Transform Infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, and then using literature values for the density of the composition to calculate the mass in grams of the fibers present in 10,000 meters of fiber. The dtex values for individual elastic fibers removed from a complete article or a sample extracted from the article, provided by the manufacturer or measured experimentally, are used in the equation described below, in which the length-weighted average of the dtex values among the elastic fibers present is determined.

[0088] If the lengths of the elastic fibers present in an article or a sample extracted from the article are known, they are calculated from the component or overall dimensions of the article having the components or the sample, and the elastic fiber pre-strain ratio associated with the component or sample of the article having the components. Alternatively, if the dimensions and / or the elastic fiber pre-strain ratio are not known, the absorbent article or the sample extracted from the absorbent article is disassembled and all the elastic fibers are removed. This disassembly can be performed, for example, by gently heating to soften the adhesive, using a cryogenic spray (e.g., Quick-Freeze, Miller-Stephenson Company, Danbury, CT), or using a suitable solvent that removes the adhesive but does not expand, modify, or break the elastic fibers. The length of each elastic fiber in the relaxed state is measured and recorded to the nearest millimeter (mm) in millimeters.

[0089] Calculation of average Dtex For each individual elastic fiber f i in the absorbent article or the sample extracted from the absorbent article, having a relaxed length L i (either obtained from the manufacturer's specifications or measured experimentally) i and a fiber decitex value d, the average Dtex of the absorbent article or the sample extracted from the absorbent article is defined as follows:

[0090]

Equation

[0091] If the decitex value of any individual fiber is not known from the specifications, it is determined experimentally as described below, and the resulting fiber decitex value is used in the above equation to determine the average Dtex.

[0092] Experimental determination of the decitex value of the fiber For each elastic fiber taken from an absorbent article or a sample extracted from an absorbent article according to the above procedure, each elastic fiber L k The relaxed length of is measured and recorded to the nearest mm in millimeters (mm). Each elastic fiber is analyzed via FT-IR spectroscopy to determine its composition, and its density ρ k is determined from available literature values. Finally, each fiber is analyzed via SEM. The fiber is cut vertically at three roughly equal positions along its length using a sharp blade to create a clean cross-section for SEM analysis. The three fiber sections with these exposed cross-sections are mounted in a relaxed state on an SEM specimen holder, sputter-coated with gold, introduced into the SEM, and analyzed, imaging at a resolution sufficient to clearly elucidate the fiber cross-section. To minimize any oblique strain in the measured cross-section, the fiber cross-section is oriented as perpendicular as possible to the detector. The shape of the fiber cross-section varies, and some fibers are composed of multiple individual filaments. In any case, the area of each of the three fiber cross-sections is determined (e.g., the diameter of a circular fiber, the major and minor axes of an elliptical fiber, and using image analysis for more complex shapes), and the average of the three areas a k of the elastic fiber is recorded in units of square micrometers (μm 2 ), to 0.1 μm 2 units. The decitex d k of the k-th elastic fiber measured is calculated as follows: d k = 10,000 m × a k × ρ k × 10 -6 where the unit of d k is grams per (calculated length of 10,000 meters), the unit of a k is μm 2 , and the unit of ρ k is grams per cubic centimeter (g / cm 3 ). For any elastic fiber analyzed, the experimentally determined L k value and d k value are later used in the equation for the above-average Dtex.

[0093] Average strand interval Using a gauge accurate to 0.5 mm calibrated against a certified NIST gauge, measure the distance between two distal strands within a section in 0.5 mm increments and then divide by the number of strands in that section minus 1. Average strand interval = d / (n - 1) (where n > 1) Report in 0.1 mm increments.

[0094] Average pre-strain Measure the average pre-strain of the sample on a constant speed tensile testing machine using a load cell where the measured force is within 1% to 90% of the cell's limit. (A suitable instrument is MTS Insight using Testworks 4.0 Software, available from MTS Systems Corp., Eden Prairie, MN). Prior to analysis, condition the article for 2 hours at 23°C ± 2°C and 50% ± 2% relative humidity and then test under the same environmental conditions.

[0095] After adjusting the initial gauge length, program the tensile testing machine to perform elongation until breakage. First, raise the crosshead at 10 mm / min to a force of 0.05 N. Set the gauge at this point to the adjusted gauge length. Raise the crosshead at 100 mm / min until the sample breaks (the force drops 20% after the maximum peak force). Return the crosshead to its original position. Force and elongation data are obtained at a rate of 100 Hz throughout the experiment.

[0096] Set the nominal gauge length to 40 mm using a calibrated caliper block and zero the crosshead. Insert the sample into the upper grip such that the center of the test strip is positioned 20 mm below the upper grip. The sample may be folded perpendicular to the tensile axis and placed within the grip to achieve this position. After closing the grip, excess material can be trimmed. Insert the sample into the lower gripping portion and close it. Again, the strip can be folded, but then trimming can be done after closing the grip. Zero the load cell. The sample should have minimal sag and a force on the load cell of less than 0.05 N. Start the test program.

[0097] From the data, calculate force (N) vs. elongation (mm). Calculate the average pre-strain from the inflection point of the curve corresponding to the elongation when the non-woven fabric in the elastomer is engaged. Plot two lines corresponding to the region of the curve before the inflection point (mainly the elastomer) and the region after the inflection point (mainly the non-woven fabric). Read the elongation when these two lines intersect and calculate the pre-strain % from this elongation and the corrected gauge length. Record the pre-strain % as 0.1%. Calculate the arithmetic mean of three replicate test specimens for each elastomer laminate and the average pre-strain in 0.1% units.

[0098] Surface topography (percent contact area, wrinkle frequency, wrinkle wavelength, and 2 - 98% height value) In the surface topography method, an elastomeric laminate sample is removed from the absorbent article, contacted and extended over the convex surface of a transparent horizontal cylindrical tube segment, and the planar surface topography of the body-facing side of the laminate measured through this transparent tube segment using optical profilometry. Then, the 3D surface data is sampled and processed to extract several parameters that describe the percent contact area and height of the elastomeric laminate sample surface, and the associated wrinkle frequency and wavelength. All specimen preparation and testing are performed in a conditioned chamber maintained at approximately 23 ± 2 °C and approximately 50 ± 2% relative humidity, and the specimens are equilibrated in this environment for at least 24 hours prior to testing.

[0099] Preparation of Samples Each elastic laminate sample extracted from the article is mounted on a horizontal tube segment as described below. The tube segment is cut from an optically transparent colorless cast acrylic cylindrical tube of sufficient length having an outer diameter of 8.0 inches (203 mm) and a wall thickness of 0.1875 inches (4.76 mm). This segment has a dimension of 4.0 inches (102 mm) along an axis parallel to the cylindrical central axis of the parent tube and a circumferential outer arc length of 5.5 inches (140 mm).

[0100] The elastic laminate sample extends up to 120% of its original width in its primary stretching direction. For example, a sample having an original width of 100 mm can be extended up to a width of 120 mm for testing. In this stretched state, the stretched elastic laminate sample is oriented such that the surface facing its body contacts the convex surface of the tube segment and the axis of stretching is along the periphery of the tube segment. Both ends of the stretched laminate are fixed to the transparent tube segment such that the surface facing the body of the laminate is visible through the concave surface of the transparent tube segment.

[0101] Five replicate elastic laminate samples are separated and prepared in this manner from five equivalent absorbent articles for analysis.

[0102] 3D Surface Image Acquisition Using a DLP-based structured light three-dimensional (3D) surface topography measurement system, obtain a 3D surface topography image of the body-facing surface of the stretched elastic laminate sample (a suitable surface topography measurement system is the MikroCAD Premium instrument commercially available from LMI Technologies Inc., Vancouver, Canada, or equivalent). This system includes the following main components: a) a digital light processing (DLP) projector with a direct digital control micromirror, b) a CCD camera with a resolution of at least 1600×1200 pixels, c) a projection optical system adapted to a measurement area of at least 60 mm × 45 mm, d) a recording optical system adapted to a measurement area of 60 mm × 45 mm, e) a tripod based on a small hard stone plate, f) a blue LED light source, g) measurement, control, and evaluation computer-executed surface texture analysis software (a suitable software is MikroCAD software with Mountain Map technology, or equivalent), and h) a calibration plate for horizontal (XY) calibration and vertical (Z) calibration available from the supply manufacturer.

[0103] The optical 3D surface topography measurement system measures the surface height of the test piece using the digital micromirror pattern fringe projection technique. Due to the nature of this pattern projection technique, it is possible to inspect the surface topography of the sample through a transparent material. The result of the measurement is a 3D data set of the surface height (defined as the Z-axis) with respect to the displacement in the horizontal (XY) plane. This 3D data set can also be considered an image in which all pixels in the image are associated with the XY displacement and the pixel value is the recorded Z-axis height value. This system has a field of view of 60×45 mm with an XY pixel resolution of approximately 37 micrometers and a height resolution of 0.5 micrometers, and the possible total height range is 32 mm.

[0104] Calibrate this instrument according to the manufacturer's specifications using the calibration plates for horizontal (XY plane) and vertical (Z-axis) available from the supply manufacturer.

[0105] Place the elastic laminate sample mounted on the transparent tube segment such that the concave surface of the tube segment faces upward and the surface facing the body faces upward and is visible through the transparent material. Place the tube segment on a stand such that the convex (downward) sample surface within the area to be analyzed is freely suspended and does not rest on the surface. The tube segment is oriented such that its circumferential direction (the direction in which the laminate is stretched or the axis) is centered on and perpendicular to the long axis of the camera's field of view (or the central axis if the field of view is square). Collect a 3D surface topography image of the elastic laminate sample according to the measurement procedure recommended by the instrument manufacturer, which may include focusing the measurement system and adjusting the brightness. No pre-filtering option is used. The collected height image file is saved to an evaluation computer that runs surface texture analysis software.

[0106] If the field of view of the 3D surface topography measurement system is larger than the evaluation area on the elastic laminate sample, the image may be trimmed to remove the irrelevant area and retain a rectangular field of view of the relevant part while maintaining the XY resolution before analysis.

[0107] 3D Surface Image Analysis Open the 3D surface topography image with surface texture analysis software. Then, perform the following filtering procedures on each image: 1) removal of invalid or unmeasured points, 2) a 5×5 pixel median filter to remove noise, 3) a 5×5 pixel average filter to smooth the surface, and 4) subtraction of a two-dimensional quadratic polynomial (determined through the least squares fit of the surface topography image) to remove the general form and flatten the surface. The quadratic polynomial is defined by the following equation: f(x,y)=c1+c2x+c3y+c4x 2 +c5y 2 +c6xy

[0108] Each dataset processed as described above up to this point is referred to as the "preprocessed sample dataset". The highest point of the resulting topology image corresponds to the area in contact with the convex surface of the tube segment, and the lowest point is the most distal point below the convex surface of the tube segment.

[0109] Contact surface area and 2 - 98% height values For each of the 3D surface topography images of the five replicate samples, the following analysis is performed on the preprocessed sample dataset. The measured values of percent surface contact area and 2 - 98% height are derived from the areal material ratio (Abbott - Firestone) curve described in ISO 13565 - 2:1996, which is extrapolated for the surface. This curve is the integrated curve of the surface height distribution histogram for the range of measured surface heights. The material ratio is expressed as a percentage of the area corresponding to the points having a height above the intersection plane passing through the surface at a given height or cut depth, relative to the cross - sectional area of the evaluation area (field area). First, the height at a material ratio of 2% is identified. Then, a cut depth 100 μm below this height is identified, and the material ratio at this depth is recorded as the percent surface contact area at 100 μm. This procedure is repeated at cut depths 200 μm and 300 μm lower than the identified height at a material ratio of 2%, and the material ratios at these depths are recorded as the percent surface contact area at 200 μm and the percent surface contact area at 300 μm, respectively. All percent contact area values are recorded in 0.1% units.

[0110] The 2 - 98% height of the sample surface is defined as the difference in height between two material ratios, excluding a small percentage of the highest peaks and lowest valleys. The 2 - 98% height of the sample surface is the height between two cut depths corresponding to a material ratio value of 2% to a material ratio of 98%, and is recorded in 0.01 mm units.

[0111] Wrinkle frequency and wrinkle wavelength The pre-treated 3D surface topology images of each sample are subjected to Fourier transform spatial frequency analysis to determine the wrinkle frequency and wrinkle wavelength.

[0112] Each 3D surface topology image is decomposed into individual line profiles by isolating each of the overall arrays of single data points that extend within a dimension parallel to the elastic strands (if present and obvious) of the elastic laminate, or more generally, perpendicular to the wrinkles exhibited by the relaxed elastic laminate. Thus, these line profiles are data sets in the form of height (in millimeters) versus distance (in millimeters).

[0113] For each replicated 3D surface topology image that has been decomposed, each line profile is mean-centered and the fast Fourier transform (FFT) is applied to calculate the frequency amplitude spectrum of each line profile. The Fourier transform amplitude versus spatial frequency spectra of all the extracted line profiles are averaged, and the resulting average amplitude versus spatial frequency spectrum is defined as F(1 / d), where 1 / d is the reciprocal of the distance in units of mm -1 The spatial frequency power spectral density with a pre-factor of the distance d to correct for the expected 1 / d noise, P(1 / d)=d×F 2 (1 / d), is plotted against 1 / d. The value of the reciprocal of the distance 1 / d at which P(1 / d) is maximum is defined as the wrinkle frequency and recorded in units of 0.001 mm -1 in units of mm. The reciprocal of the wrinkle frequency is defined as the wrinkle wavelength and recorded in units of 0.01 mm in units of mm. -1 The reciprocal of the wrinkle frequency is defined as the wrinkle wavelength and recorded in units of 0.01 mm in units of mm.

[0114] Report of method parameters After performing the above-described 3D surface image analysis on all 3D surface topology images of five sample replicas, the following output parameters are defined and reported. The arithmetic mean of all the measured values of the five percent surface contact area at 100 μm is defined as the average percent surface contact area at 100 μm and reported in 0.1% units. The arithmetic mean of all the measured values of the five percent surface contact area at 200 μm is defined as the average percent surface contact area at 200 μm and reported in 0.1% units. The arithmetic mean of all the measured values of the five percent surface contact area at 300 μm is defined as the average percent surface contact area at 300 μm and reported in 0.1% units. The arithmetic mean of all five 2 - 98% height measurements is defined as the average 2 - 98% height and reported in mm units to 0.01 mm. The arithmetic mean of all five wrinkle frequency measurements is defined as the average wrinkle frequency and reported in mm units to 0.001 mm -1 units. The arithmetic mean of all the measured values of the five wrinkle wavelengths is defined as the average wrinkle wavelength and reported in mm units to 0.01 mm.

[0115] Combination An absorbent article, comprising a chassis including a topsheet, a backsheet, and an absorbent core positioned between the topsheet and the backsheet, the chassis further including a first end region and a second end region longitudinally separated from the first end region by a crotch region, a first belt connected to the first end region of the chassis, and a second belt connected to the second end region of the chassis, wherein an end portion of the second belt facing laterally is connected to an end portion of the first belt facing laterally to form a waist opening, at least one of the first belt and the second belt includes an elastic material positioned between and connected to a first substrate and a second substrate, the first substrate and the second substrate each include a surface facing the wearer, a surface facing the clothing, and a distal edge extending along a portion of the waist opening, a panel layer including a third substrate connected to the clothing-side surface of the first substrate and the surface of the second substrate facing the wearer, the panel layer being folded along a fold defining at least a portion of the waist opening. B1. The absorbent article according to paragraph A1, wherein at least one of the first substrate and the second substrate includes a proximal edge extending across the backsheet. C1. The panel layer includes a first lateral edge extending along the clothing-side surface of the first substrate and a second lateral edge extending along the surface of the second substrate facing the wearer, the panel layer having a first maximum distance D1 extending longitudinally from the fold to the first lateral edge and a second maximum distance D2 extending longitudinally from the fold to the second lateral edge. The absorbent article according to any one of paragraphs A1 or B1. D1. The absorbent article according to claim 3, wherein D1 is not equal to D2. E1. The absorbent article according to claim 3, wherein at least one of the first substrate and the second substrate defines a maximum length extending longitudinally from the distal edge to the proximal edge, and D1 or D2 is less than the maximum length extending longitudinally from the distal edge to the proximal edge. The absorbent article according to claim 5, wherein F1.D1 or D2 is less than about 40% of the maximum length extending longitudinally from the distal edge to the proximal edge. The absorbent article according to claim 3, wherein a portion of the second lateral edge of the panel layer is not joined to the wearer-side surface of the second substrate to define a pocket between the panel layer and the wearer-side surface of the second substrate. The absorbent article according to paragraph A1, wherein the fold extends along the distal edges of the first and second substrates. The absorbent article according to paragraph A1, wherein the fold is positioned longitudinally outward from at least one of the distal edges of the first substrate and the second substrate. The absorbent article according to paragraph A1, wherein the panel layer includes a layer facing the clothing that extends longitudinally between the fold and the first lateral edge, and a layer facing the wearer that extends longitudinally between the fold and the second lateral edge. The absorbent article according to paragraph J1, wherein the layer of the panel layer facing the wearer is directly joined to the layer of the panel layer facing the clothing by a first plurality of discrete joints arranged in a first pattern. The absorbent article according to paragraph K1, wherein the layer of the panel layer facing the clothing is directly joined to the first substrate, and the layer of the panel layer facing the wearer is directly joined to the second substrate by a second plurality of discrete joints arranged in a second pattern. The absorbent article according to paragraph L1, wherein the first substrate is directly joined to the second substrate by a third plurality of discrete joints arranged in a third pattern. The absorbent article according to paragraph M1, wherein the first pattern is the same as the second pattern. The absorbent article according to paragraph M1, wherein at least one of the first pattern and the second pattern is different from the third pattern. The absorbent article according to paragraph M1, wherein the first plurality of discrete joints, the second plurality of discrete joints, and the third plurality of discrete joints include at least one of adhesive bonding and mechanical bonding. Q1. The absorbent article according to paragraph J1, wherein the elastic material is positioned between the layer facing the wearer of the panel layer and the layer facing the clothing of the panel layer. R1. The absorbent article according to paragraph J1, wherein the portion of the panel layer facing the clothing has holes. S1. The absorbent article according to paragraph J1, wherein the panel layer has holes extending through the layer of the panel layer facing the clothing and the layer of the panel layer facing the wearer. T1. The absorbent article according to paragraph J1, wherein the first substrate and the second substrate are positioned between the layer facing the wearer of the panel layer and the layer facing the clothing of the panel layer. U1. The absorbent article according to paragraph T1, further comprising holes extending through the first substrate, the second substrate, the layer of the panel layer facing the clothing, and the layer of the panel layer facing the wearer. V1. The absorbent article according to any one of paragraphs A1 to U1, wherein the elastic material includes an elastic film. W1. The absorbent article according to any one of paragraphs A1 to V1, wherein the elastic material includes elastic strands. X1. The absorbent article according to paragraph W1, wherein the elastic strands include extruded elastic strands. Y1. The absorbent article according to paragraph X1, wherein the extruded elastic strands are joined to the first substrate in a pre-waved configuration. Z1. The elastic strands include at least one of a first plurality of elastic strands and a second plurality of elastic strands, the first plurality of elastic strands having an average strand spacing of about 0.25 mm to about 4 mm and an average Dtex of about 10 to about 500, the second plurality of elastic strands having an average strand spacing of greater than about 4 mm and an average Dtex of greater than about 450, the absorbent article according to paragraph W1. AA1. The absorbent article according to paragraph Z1, wherein at least one of the first plurality of elastic strands and the second plurality of elastic strands is joined to the panel layer. BB1. The absorbent article according to paragraph Z1, wherein at least one of the first plurality of elastic strands and the second plurality of elastic strands is joined between the first substrate and the second substrate adjacent to the distal edge. CC1. At least one of the first plurality of elastic strands and the second plurality of elastic strands is joined to the panel layer and joined between the first substrate and the second substrate adjacent to the distal edge, the absorbent article according to paragraph Z1. DD1. At least one of the first substrate and the second substrate has a proximal edge extending across the backsheet, and at least one of the first plurality of elastic strands and the second plurality of elastic strands is positioned adjacent to the proximal edge, the absorbent article according to paragraph Z1. EE1. The first plurality of elastic strands includes a first average pre-strain of about 75% to about 300%, the absorbent article according to paragraph Z1. FF1. The second plurality of elastic strands includes a second average pre-strain greater than the first average pre-strain, the absorbent article according to paragraph EE1. GG1. At least one first region of the first belt and the second belt including the panel layer, and at least one second region outside the first region not including the panel layer of the first belt and the second belt, further comprising, when the elastic material contracts, the first region and the second region each have a longitudinally extending fold, the first region includes a first wrinkle frequency and a first wrinkle wavelength, the second region includes a second wrinkle frequency and a second wrinkle wavelength, the absorbent article according to any one of paragraphs A1 to FF1. HH1. The first wrinkle frequency is not equal to the second wrinkle frequency, the absorbent article according to paragraph GG1. II1. The first wrinkle frequency is less than the second wrinkle frequency, the absorbent article according to paragraph HH1. JJ1. At least one of the first wrinkle frequency and the second wrinkle frequency is about 0.40 to about 0.59, and at least one of the first wrinkle frequency and the second wrinkle frequency is about 0.60 to about 2, the absorbent article according to paragraph GG1. KK1. At least one of the first wrinkle wavelength and the second wrinkle wavelength is about 0.50 mm to about 1.65 mm, and at least one of the first wrinkle wavelength and the second wrinkle wavelength is about 1.70 mm to about 2.50 mm, the absorbent article according to paragraph GG1. LL1. The first substrate defines a first lateral width W1 between a first longitudinal edge and a second longitudinal edge, the second substrate defines a second lateral width W2 between the first longitudinal edge and the second longitudinal edge, and the panel layer defines a third lateral width W3 between the first longitudinal edge and the second longitudinal edge. The absorbent article according to any one of paragraphs A1 to KK1. MM1. The absorbent article according to paragraph LL1, wherein the third lateral width W3 is equal to at least one of the first lateral width W1 and the second lateral width W2. NN1. The absorbent article according to paragraph LL1, wherein the third lateral width W3 is less than at least one of the first lateral width W1 and the second lateral width W2. OO1. The absorbent article according to any one of paragraphs A1 to NN1, wherein the panel layer is a laminate. PP1. The absorbent article according to paragraph OO1, wherein the laminate contains a second elastic material. QQ1. The absorbent article according to any one of paragraphs A1 to PP1, wherein at least one of the first substrate and the second substrate extends continuously from the first belt to the second belt. RR1. The absorbent article according to any one of paragraphs A1 to QQ1, wherein the elastic material extends along a curved path. SS1. The absorbent article according to any one of paragraphs A1 to RR1, wherein an end portion of the second belt facing laterally is releasably connected to an end portion of the first belt facing laterally. TT1. The first belt defines a first longitudinal length, the second belt defines a second longitudinal length, and the first longitudinal length is different from the second longitudinal length. The absorbent article according to any one of paragraphs A1 to SS1. UU1. The absorbent article according to any one of paragraphs A1 to TT1, wherein each of the first belt and the second belt includes an edge extending in a first lateral direction and an edge extending in a second lateral direction. VV1. The absorbent article according to paragraph UU1, wherein at least one of the first lateral edge and the second lateral edge of the first belt and the second belt defines different lateral widths. An absorbent article, comprising a chassis including a topsheet, a backsheet, and an absorbent core positioned between the topsheet and the backsheet, the chassis further including a first end region and a second end region longitudinally separated from the first end region by a crotch region, a first belt connected to the first end region of the chassis, and a second belt connected to the second end region of the chassis, wherein an end portion of the second belt facing laterally is connected to an end portion of the first belt facing laterally to form a waist opening, at least one of the first belt and the second belt includes an elastic material positioned between and connected to a first substrate and a second substrate, at least one of the first substrate and the second substrate includes a distal edge extending along a portion of the waist opening, a panel layer extending longitudinally from a first lateral edge to a second lateral edge, the panel layer being connected to at least one of the first substrate and the second substrate, a first region including the panel layer, and a second region outside the first region not including the panel layer, wherein when the elastic material contracts, the first region and the second region each include longitudinally extending pleats, the first region includes a first pleat frequency and a first pleat wavelength, the second region includes a second pleat frequency and a second pleat wavelength, and the first pleat frequency is not equal to the second pleat frequency. B2. The absorbent article according to paragraph A2, wherein the second region further includes a third pleat frequency that is not equal to the second pleat frequency. C2. The absorbent article according to paragraph A2 or B2, wherein each of the first substrate and the second substrate includes a surface facing the wearer and a surface facing the clothing, and the panel layer is connected to the surface of the second substrate facing the wearer. D2. The absorbent article according to any one of paragraphs A2 to C2, wherein a portion of the second lateral edge of the panel layer is not joined to the surface of the second substrate facing the wearer to define a pocket between the panel layer and the surface of the second substrate facing the wearer. E2. The absorbent article according to any one of paragraphs A2 to D2, wherein at least one of the first substrate and the second substrate includes a proximal edge extending across the backsheet. F2. The panel layer has a first maximum distance D1 that extends longitudinally from a first lateral edge to a second lateral edge, and at least one of the first substrate and the second substrate defines a maximum length that extends longitudinally from a distal edge to a proximal edge, and D1 is less than the maximum length that extends longitudinally from the distal edge to the proximal edge, the absorbent article according to any one of paragraphs A2 to E2. G2. The absorbent article according to paragraph F2, wherein D1 is less than about 40% of the maximum length that extends longitudinally from the distal edge to the proximal edge. H2. The absorbent article according to any one of paragraphs A2 to G2, wherein the first lateral edge is positioned longitudinally outward from the distal edge of at least one of the first substrate and the second substrate. I2. The absorbent article according to any one of paragraphs A2 to H2, wherein the panel layer is directly joined to the first substrate by a first plurality of discrete joints arranged in a first pattern. J2. The absorbent article according to paragraph I2, wherein the panel layer is directly joined to the second substrate by a second plurality of discrete joints arranged in a second pattern. K2. The absorbent article according to paragraph J2, wherein the first substrate is directly joined to the second substrate by a third plurality of discrete joints arranged in a third pattern. L2. The absorbent article according to paragraph K2, wherein the first pattern is the same as the second pattern. M2. The absorbent article according to paragraph K2 or L2, wherein at least one of the first pattern and the second pattern is different from the third pattern. N2. The absorbent article according to any one of paragraphs K2 to M2, wherein at least one of the first plurality of discrete joints, the second plurality of discrete joints, and the third plurality of discrete joints includes at least one of an adhesive joint and a mechanical joint. O2. The absorbent article according to any one of paragraphs A2 to H2, wherein the panel layer is directly joined to at least one of the first substrate and the second substrate by a first plurality of discrete joints arranged in a first pattern. Absorbent article according to paragraph O2, wherein the first substrate is directly joined to the second substrate by a third plurality of discrete joints arranged in a second pattern. Absorbent article according to paragraph O2 or P2, wherein the first pattern is the same as the second pattern. Absorbent article according to any one of paragraphs O2 - Q2, wherein the first pattern is different from the second pattern. Absorbent article according to any one of paragraphs A2 - R2, wherein the elastic material is positioned between the panel layer and the first substrate. Absorbent article according to any one of paragraphs A2 - S2, wherein the panel layer has pores. Absorbent article according to any one of paragraphs A2 - T2, further comprising pores extending through the panel layer, the first substrate, and the second substrate. Absorbent article according to any one of paragraphs A2 - U2, wherein the elastic material includes an elastic film. Absorbent article according to any one of paragraphs A2 - V2, wherein the elastic material includes elastic strands. Absorbent article according to paragraph W2, wherein the elastic strands comprise extruded elastic strands. Absorbent article according to paragraph X2, wherein the extruded elastic strands are joined to the first substrate in a pre - corrugated configuration. Absorbent article according to any one of paragraphs A2 - Y2, wherein the elastic strands comprise at least one of a first plurality of elastic strands and a second plurality of elastic strands, the first plurality of elastic strands having an average strand spacing of about 0.25 mm to about 4 mm and an average Dtex of about 10 to about 500, the second plurality of elastic strands having an average strand spacing greater than about 4 mm and an average Dtex greater than about 450. Absorbent article according to paragraph Z2, wherein at least one of the first plurality of elastic strands and the second plurality of elastic strands is joined to the panel layer. BB2. The absorbent article according to paragraph Z2, wherein at least one of the first plurality of elastic strands and the second plurality of elastic strands is joined between the first substrate and the second substrate adjacent to the distal edge. CC2. The absorbent article according to paragraph Z2, wherein at least one of the first substrate and the second substrate has a proximal edge extending across the backsheet, and at least one of the first plurality of elastic strands and the second plurality of elastic strands is positioned adjacent to the proximal edge. DD2. The absorbent article according to any one of paragraphs Z2 to CC2, wherein the first plurality of elastic strands includes a first average pre-strain of from about 75% to about 300%. EE2. The absorbent article according to paragraph DD2, wherein the second plurality of elastic strands includes a second average pre-strain greater than the first average pre-strain. FF2. The absorbent article according to any one of paragraphs A2 to EE2, wherein the first wrinkle frequency is less than the second wrinkle frequency. GG2. The absorbent article according to any one of paragraphs A2 to FF2, wherein at least one of the first wrinkle frequency and the second wrinkle frequency is from about 0.40 to about 0.59, and at least one of the first wrinkle frequency and the second wrinkle frequency is from about 0.60 to about 2. HH2. The absorbent article according to any one of paragraphs A2 to GG2, wherein the first wrinkle wavelength is not equal to the second wrinkle wavelength. II2. The absorbent article according to paragraph HH2, wherein at least one of the first wrinkle wavelength and the second wrinkle wavelength is from about 0.50 mm to about 1.65 mm, and at least one of the first wrinkle wavelength and the second wrinkle wavelength is from about 1.70 mm to about 2.50 mm. JJ2. The absorbent article according to any one of paragraphs A2 to II2, wherein the first lateral edge of the panel layer is positioned in contact with the distal edge of at least one of the first belt and the second belt. KK2. The absorbent article according to any one of paragraphs A2 to JJ2, wherein the first lateral edge of the panel layer is positioned longitudinally inside the distal edge of at least one of the first belt and the second belt. LL2. The absorbent article according to any one of paragraphs A2 to KK2, wherein at least one of the first substrate and the second substrate has a proximal edge, and the second lateral edge of the panel layer is positioned longitudinally outside the proximal edge. MM2. The absorbent article according to any one of paragraphs A2 to LL2, wherein the first lateral edge defines a part of the waist opening. NN2. The absorbent article according to any one of paragraphs A2 to MM2, further comprising an elastic strand positioned between the panel layer and at least one of the first substrate and the second substrate. OO2. The elastic strand comprises at least one of a first plurality of elastic strands and a second plurality of elastic strands. The first plurality of elastic strands have an average strand spacing of about 0.25 mm to about 4 mm and an average Dtex of about 10 to about 500. The absorbent article according to paragraph NN2, wherein the second plurality of elastic strands have an average strand spacing of greater than about 4 mm and an average Dtex of greater than about 450. A3. An absorbent article, A chassis including a topsheet, a backsheet, and an absorbent core positioned between the topsheet and the backsheet, the chassis further including a first end region and a second end region longitudinally separated from the first end region by a crotch region, a first belt connected to the first end region of the chassis, and a second belt connected to the second end region of the chassis, wherein an end portion of the second belt facing laterally is connected to an end portion of the first belt facing laterally to form a waist opening, at least one of the first belt and the second belt includes an elastic material positioned between and connected to a first substrate and a second substrate, at least one of the first substrate and the second substrate includes a distal edge extending along a portion of the waist opening, a panel layer extending longitudinally from a first lateral edge to a second lateral edge, the panel layer being connected to at least one of the first substrate and the second substrate, the first substrate being directly joined to the second substrate by a first plurality of discrete joints arranged in a first pattern, the panel layer being directly joined to the first substrate or the second substrate by a second plurality of discrete joints arranged in a second pattern, the first pattern being different from the second pattern, and the absorbent article comprising the panel layer. An absorbent article comprising a chassis including a topsheet, a backsheet, and an absorbent core positioned between the topsheet and the backsheet, the chassis further including a first end region and a second end region longitudinally separated from the first end region by a crotch region, a first belt connected to the first end region of the chassis, and a second belt connected to the second end region of the chassis, wherein an end portion of the second belt facing laterally is connected to an end portion of the first belt facing laterally to form a waist opening, at least one of the first belt and the second belt comprising a distal edge extending along a portion of the waist opening, an elastic material positioned between and connected to a first substrate and a second substrate, the elastic material including a first plurality of elastic strands positioned between and connected to the first substrate and the second substrate, the first plurality of elastic strands having an average strand spacing of about 0.25 mm to about 4 mm and an average Dtex of about 10 to about 500, the first substrate and the second substrate each comprising a surface facing the wearer and a surface facing the clothing, and a panel layer connected to the wearer surface of the second substrate, the panel layer comprising a first lateral edge and a second lateral edge, the first lateral edge being positioned longitudinally outside the second lateral edge. B4. The absorbent article according to paragraph A4, wherein the first lateral edge of the panel layer is positioned in abutting relation with at least one distal edge of the first belt and the second belt. C4. The absorbent article according to paragraph A4, wherein the first lateral edge of the panel layer is positioned longitudinally inside at least one distal edge of the first belt and the second belt. D4. The absorbent article according to paragraph A4, wherein at least one of the first substrate and the second substrate comprises a proximal edge extending across the backsheet. E4. The absorbent article according to any one of paragraphs A4 to D4, wherein the elastic material includes an elastic film. F4. The absorbent article according to any one of paragraphs A4 to E4, wherein the elastic strands comprise extruded elastic strands. Absorbent article according to F4, wherein the extruded elastic strands are joined to the first substrate in a pre-corrugated configuration. Absorbent article according to any one of paragraphs A4 - G4, wherein the elastic material further comprises a second plurality of elastic strands, the second plurality of elastic strands having an average strand spacing of more than about 4 mm and an average Dtex of more than about 450. Absorbent article according to paragraph H4, wherein at least one of the first plurality of elastic strands and the second plurality of elastic strands is joined to a panel layer. J4. At least one first region of the first belt and the second belt, comprising a panel layer, and At least one second region of the first belt and the second belt outside the first region without a panel layer, further comprising: When the elastic material contracts, the first region and the second region each have longitudinally extending pleats, the first region having a first pleat frequency and a first pleat wavelength, and the second region having a second pleat frequency and a second pleat wavelength. Absorbent article according to any one of paragraphs A4 - I4. Absorbent article according to paragraph J4, wherein the first pleat frequency is not equal to the second pleat frequency. Absorbent article according to paragraph J4, wherein the first pleat frequency is less than the second pleat frequency. Absorbent article according to paragraph J4, wherein at least one of the first pleat frequency and the second pleat frequency is from about 0.40 to about 0.59, and at least one of the first pleat frequency and the second pleat frequency is from about 0.60 to about 2. Absorbent article according to paragraph J4, wherein at least one of the first pleat wavelength and the second pleat wavelength is from about 0.50 mm to about 1.65 mm, and at least one of the first pleat wavelength and the second pleat wavelength is from about 1.70 mm to about 2.50 mm. O4. The first substrate defines a first transverse width W1 between a first longitudinal edge and a second longitudinal edge, the second substrate defines a second transverse width W2 between the first longitudinal edge and the second longitudinal edge, and the panel layer defines a third transverse width W3 between the first longitudinal edge and the second longitudinal edge. The absorbent article according to any one of paragraphs A4 to N4. P4. The absorbent article according to paragraph O4, wherein the third transverse width W3 is equal to at least one of the first transverse width W1 and the second transverse width W2. Q4. The absorbent article according to paragraph O4, wherein the third transverse width W3 is less than at least one of the first transverse width W1 and the second transverse width W2. R4. The absorbent article according to any one of paragraphs A4 to R4, wherein the panel layer is a laminate. S4. The absorbent article according to paragraph R4, wherein the laminate contains a second elastic material. T4. The absorbent article according to any one of paragraphs A4 to S4, wherein the panel layer covers a part of the first end region of the chassis. A5. An absorbent article comprising a chassis including a topsheet, a backsheet, and an absorbent core positioned between the topsheet and the backsheet, the chassis further including a first end region and a second end region longitudinally separated from the first end region by a crotch region, a first belt connected to the first end region of the chassis, and a second belt connected to the second end region of the chassis, wherein an end portion of the second belt facing the transverse direction is connected to an end portion of the first belt facing the transverse direction to form a waist opening. At least one of the first belt and the second belt is positioned between and connected to the first substrate and the second substrate and includes a first plurality of elastic strands, the first plurality of elastic strands having an average strand spacing of about 0.25 mm to about 4 mm and an average Dtex of about 10 to about 500. The first substrate and the second substrate each have a surface facing the wearer and a surface facing the clothing, and the first substrate has a first hole. The absorbent article. Absorbent article according to paragraph A5, wherein the chassis is connected to the surface facing the wearer of the first substrate. Absorbent article according to paragraph A5 or B5, wherein the second substrate comprises a second hole. Absorbent article according to paragraph C5, wherein the first opening and the second opening are at least partially aligned and overlap to define a hole extending through the first substrate and the second substrate. Absorbent article according to paragraph C5, wherein the first hole defines a first size, a first shape, and a first pattern, and the second hole defines a second size, a second shape, and a second pattern. Absorbent article according to paragraph E5, wherein at least one of the first size, the first shape, and the first pattern is different from at least one of the second size, the second shape, and the second pattern, respectively. Absorbent article according to paragraph E5, wherein at least one of the first size, the first shape, and the first pattern is the same as at least one of the second size, the second shape, and the second pattern, respectively. Absorbent article according to paragraph A5, wherein at least one of the first substrate and the second substrate comprises a distal edge extending along a portion of the waist opening and a proximal edge extending across the backsheet. Absorbent article according to paragraph H5, wherein the first hole defines a first size, a first shape, and a first pattern adjacent to the distal edge, and the first hole defines a second size, a second shape, and a second pattern adjacent to the proximal edge. Absorbent article according to paragraph H5, wherein at least one of the first size, the first shape, and the first pattern is different from at least one of the second size, the second shape, and the second pattern, respectively. Absorbent article according to paragraph H5, wherein at least one of the first size, the first shape, and the first pattern is the same as at least one of the second size, the second shape, and the second pattern, respectively. L5. The absorbent article according to paragraph A5, further comprising a panel layer extending longitudinally from a first lateral edge to a second lateral edge, the panel layer being connected to at least one of the first substrate and the second substrate, and the first lateral edge defining a part of the waist opening. M5. The absorbent article according to paragraph L5, wherein the panel layer comprises a second hole. N5. The absorbent article according to paragraph M5, wherein the first hole defines a first size, a first shape, and a first pattern, and the second hole defines a second size, a second shape, and a second pattern adjacent to the proximal edge. O5. The absorbent article according to paragraph M5, wherein at least one of the first size, the first shape, and the first pattern is different from at least one of the second size, the second shape, and the second pattern, respectively. P5. The absorbent article according to paragraph M5, wherein at least one of the first size, the first shape, and the first pattern is the same as at least one of the second size, the second shape, and the second pattern, respectively. Q5. The absorbent article according to paragraph M5, wherein the first hole and the second hole are aligned to define a hole extending through the first substrate and the panel layer. R5. The absorbent article according to any one of paragraphs A5 - Q5, wherein the first plurality of elastic strands comprises an average Dtex of about 10 to about 200. S5. The absorbent article according to any one of paragraphs A5 - R5, wherein some of the first plurality of elastic strands extend across some of the first holes. T5. The absorbent article according to any one of paragraphs A5 - Q5, wherein the first substrate and the second substrate are both joined in a joining region, and the joining region is surrounded by a non - joining region. U5. The absorbent article according to paragraph T5, wherein the first hole is positioned within the joining region. V5. The absorbent article according to paragraph T5, wherein the first hole is positioned within the non - joining region. W5. The first hole is about 0.030 mm 2 ~ about 51.000 mm 2The absorbent article according to paragraph A5, which defines the area. A6. An absorbent article, comprising a chassis including a topsheet, a backsheet, and an absorbent core positioned between the topsheet and the backsheet, the chassis further including a first end region and a second end region longitudinally separated from the first end region by a crotch region, a first belt including a first end region laterally separated from the second end region by a central region, the central region being connected to the first end region of the chassis, a second belt including a first end region laterally separated from the second end region by a central region, the central region being connected to the second end region of the chassis, and the first and second end regions of the second belt being connected to the respective first and second end regions of the first belt to form a waist opening, at least one of the first belt and the second belt including an elastic material positioned between and connected to a first substrate and a second substrate, the first substrate and the second substrate each having a surface facing the wearer and a surface facing the clothing, and at least one of the first substrate and the second substrate having a distal edge extending along a portion of the waist opening and a proximal edge extending across the backsheet. B6. The absorbent article according to paragraph A6, further comprising at least one first region of the first belt and the second belt including a panel layer and at least one second region outside the first region not including the panel layer, when the elastic material contracts, each of the first region and the second region having longitudinally extending pleats, the first region including a first pleat frequency and a first pleat wavelength, and the second region including a second pleat frequency and a second pleat wavelength. C6. The absorbent article according to paragraph B6, wherein the first pleat frequency is not equal to the second pleat frequency. D6. The absorbent article according to paragraph C6, wherein the first pleat frequency is less than the second pleat frequency. E6. The absorbent article according to paragraph B6, wherein at least one of the first wrinkle frequency and the second wrinkle frequency is from about 0.40 to about 0.59, and at least one of the first wrinkle frequency and the second wrinkle frequency is from about 0.60 to about 2. F6. The absorbent article according to paragraph B6, wherein at least one of the first wrinkle wavelength and the second wrinkle wavelength is from about 0.50 mm to about 1.65 mm, and at least one of the first wrinkle wavelength and the second wrinkle wavelength is from about 1.70 mm to about 2.50 mm. G6. The absorbent article according to paragraph B6, wherein the second region further includes a third wrinkle frequency, and the third wrinkle frequency is not equal to the second wrinkle frequency. H6. The absorbent article according to any one of paragraphs A6 - G6, wherein the first fold extends longitudinally away from the waist opening in at least one of the first end region, the second end region, and the central region of the first belt. I6. The absorbent article according to paragraph H6, wherein the second fold extends longitudinally away from the waist opening in at least one of the first end region, the second end region, and the central region of the first belt. J6. The absorbent article according to paragraph B6, wherein the first belt further includes a panel layer extending longitudinally from the first lateral edge to the second lateral edge, the panel layer is connected to at least one of the first substrate and the second substrate, and the first lateral edge defines a part of the waist opening. K6. The absorbent article according to paragraph J6, wherein the panel layer is connected to the surface of the first substrate facing the clothing. L6. The absorbent article according to paragraph J6, wherein the panel layer includes the first fold, and the first substrate includes the second fold. M6. The absorbent article according to paragraph L6, wherein at least one of the first wrinkle frequency and the first wrinkle wavelength is different from at least one of the second wrinkle frequency and the second wrinkle wavelength, respectively. N6. The absorbent article according to paragraph L6, wherein at least one of the first wrinkle frequency and the first wrinkle wavelength is the same as at least one of the second wrinkle frequency and the second wrinkle wavelength, respectively. O6. The absorbent article according to paragraph J6, wherein the elastic material includes an elastic film. P6. The absorbent article according to paragraph J6, wherein the elastic material comprises elastic strands. Q6. The absorbent article according to paragraph J6, wherein the elastic strands comprise at least one of a first plurality of elastic strands and a second plurality of elastic strands, the first plurality of elastic strands having an average strand spacing of from about 0.25 mm to about 4 mm and an average Dtex of from about 10 to about 500, the second plurality of elastic strands having an average strand spacing of greater than about 4 mm and an average Dtex of greater than about 450, the absorbent article according to paragraph J6. R6. The absorbent article according to paragraph Q6, wherein at least one of the first plurality of elastic strands and the second plurality of elastic strands is joined to a panel layer. S6. The absorbent article according to paragraph Q6, wherein at least one of the first plurality of elastic strands and the second plurality of elastic strands is joined between a first substrate and a second substrate adjacent to a distal edge. T6. The absorbent article according to paragraph Q6, wherein at least one of the first plurality of elastic strands and the second plurality of elastic strands is positioned adjacent to a proximal edge. U6. The absorbent article according to paragraph J6, wherein a first lateral edge of the panel layer is defined by a fold in the first substrate. V6. The absorbent article according to paragraph J6, wherein the panel layer comprises a first pleat and a second pleat, and the second substrate comprises a second pleat. W6. The absorbent article according to any one of paragraphs A6 to V6, wherein each of the first substrate layer and the second substrate layer has a basis weight of from about 6 grams per square meter to about 30 grams per square meter. X6. The absorbent article according to any one of paragraphs A6 to W6, wherein at least one of the first belt and the second belt comprises a percent contact area of greater than about 11% at 100 um, greater than about 28% at 200 um, and greater than about 51% at 300 um. Y6. The absorbent article according to any one of paragraphs A6 to X6, wherein at least one of the first belt and the second belt has a height value of 2% to 98% less than 1.6 mm. Z6. The absorbent article according to any one of paragraphs A6 to Y6, wherein the first substrate and the second substrate are both intermittently joined in a separate joining region. AA6. The absorbent article according to paragraph AA6, wherein at least one of the first fold and the second fold is defined by a separate joining region. BB6. The absorbent article according to paragraph AA6, wherein the joining region includes an adhesive bond. CC6. The absorbent article according to paragraph AA6, wherein the joining region includes a heat seal bond.

[0116] The dimensions and values disclosed in this specification should not be understood as being strictly limited to the recited exact numerical values. Instead, unless otherwise indicated, each such dimension is intended to mean both the recited value and the functionally equivalent range surrounding that value. For example, a dimension disclosed as "40 mm" is intended to mean "about 40 mm".

[0117] All documents cited in this specification, including any patents or patent applications that are cross-referenced or related, and any patent application or patent for which this application claims priority or the benefit thereof, are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety, unless expressly excluded or otherwise limited. The citation of any document shall not be construed as prior art with respect to any invention disclosed or claimed in this specification, nor shall any such invention be considered to be taught, suggested, or disclosed by that document alone or in combination with any other reference(s). Further, if any meaning or definition of a term in this document conflicts with any meaning or definition of the same term in a document incorporated by reference, the meaning or definition given to the term in this document shall apply.

[0118] Although specific embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various other changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Accordingly, it is intended that all such changes and modifications within the scope of the present invention be covered by the appended claims.

Claims

Claim 1 An absorbent article, a chassis (102) comprising a topsheet (138), a backsheet (136), and an absorbent core (140) positioned between the topsheet (138) and the backsheet (136), the chassis (102) further comprising a first end region (116a), and a second end region (118a) longitudinally separated from the first end region (116a) by a crotch region (119), the chassis (102); a first belt (106) connected to the first end region (116a) of the chassis (102); a second belt (108) connected to the second end region (118a) of the chassis (102), wherein opposing end portions (108a, 108b) of the second belt (108) in the transverse direction are connected to opposing end portions (106a, 106b) of the first belt (106) in the transverse direction to form a waist opening (110), the second belt; wherein at least one of the first belt (106) and the second belt (108) has distal edges (121, 122) extending along a portion of the waist opening (110); an elastic material (167) positioned between and connected to a first substrate (162) and a second substrate (164), the elastic material (167) comprising a first plurality of elastic strands (168) positioned between and connected to the first substrate (162) and the second substrate (164), the first plurality of elastic strands (168) having an average strand spacing of from about 0.25 mm to about 4 mm and an average Dtex of from about 10 to about 500; the first substrate (162) and the second substrate (164) each comprising a surface (162d, 164d) facing the wearer and a surface (162c, 164c) facing the clothing, the elastic material (167); a panel layer (165) connected to the wearer-side surface (164d) of the second substrate (164), the panel layer (165) comprising a first lateral edge (165a) and a second lateral edge (165b), the first lateral edge (165a) being positioned longitudinally outside the second lateral edge (165b), the panel layer (165); an absorbent article. Claim 2 The absorbent article according to claim 1, wherein the first lateral edge (165a) of the panel layer (165) is positioned in contact with a boundary with at least one of the distal edges (121, 122) of the first belt (106) and the second belt (108).

3. The absorbent article according to claim 1, wherein the first lateral edge (165a) of the panel layer (165) is positioned inside the longitudinal direction of at least one of the distal edges (121, 122) of the first belt (106) and the second belt (108).

4. The absorbent article according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the first substrate (162) and the second substrate (164) includes proximal edges (162b, 164b) extending across the backsheet (136).

5. The absorbent article according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the elastic material (167) includes an elastic film.

6. The absorbent article according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the elastic material (167) further includes a second plurality of elastic strands (168), and the second plurality of elastic strands includes an average strand spacing of more than about 4 mm and an average Dtex of more than about 450.

7. The absorbent article according to claim 6, wherein at least one of the first plurality of elastic strands (168) and the second plurality of elastic strands (168) is joined to the panel layer (165).

8. At least one first region (R1) of the first belt (106) and the second belt (108) including the panel layer (165), And at least one second region (R2) of the first belt (106) and the second belt (108) outside the first region (R1) not including the panel layer (165), and When the elastic material (167) contracts, the first region (R1) and the second region (R2) each include longitudinal folds, the first region (R1) includes a first wrinkle frequency and a first wrinkle wavelength, and the second region (R2) includes a second wrinkle frequency and a second wrinkle wavelength. The absorbent article according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. The absorbent article according to claim 8, wherein the first wrinkle frequency is not equal to the second wrinkle frequency.

10. The absorbent article according to claim 9, wherein at least one of the first wrinkle frequency and the second wrinkle frequency is from about 0.40 to about 0.59, and at least one of the first wrinkle frequency and the second wrinkle frequency is from about 0.60 to about 2.

11. The absorbent article according to claim 10, wherein at least one of the first wrinkle wavelength and the second wrinkle wavelength is from about 0.50 mm to about 1.65 mm, and at least one of the first wrinkle wavelength and the second wrinkle wavelength is from about 1.70 mm to about 2.50 mm.

12. The first substrate (162) defines a first transverse width W1 between a first longitudinal edge and a second longitudinal edge, the second substrate (164) defines a second transverse width W2 between a first longitudinal edge and a second longitudinal edge, the panel layer defines a third transverse width W3 between a first longitudinal edge and a second longitudinal edge, the third transverse width W3 is equal to at least one of the first transverse width W1 and the second transverse width W2, preferably, the third transverse width W3 is smaller than at least one of the first transverse width W1 and the second transverse width W2. The absorbent article according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

13. The absorbent article according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the panel layer (165) is a laminate.

14. The absorbent article according to claim 13, wherein the laminate contains a second elastic material.

15. The absorbent article according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the panel layer (165) covers a part of the first end region (116a) of the chassis (102).

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