Underpants type absorbent article

Abstract

To provide an underpants type absorbent article in which the fitness or absorptivity in a crotch part is hard to deteriorate even if it is worn for a long time.SOLUTION: Disclosed is an underpants type absorbent article (1) having an absorptive body (10) comprising an absorptive core (11). The absorptive body (10) has a crotch elastic region (ER) partitioned by a crotch elastic member (40) which is elongated and contracted in a length direction. The absorptive core (11) has a high-density part (50) in which a density is higher than the surrounding. In a case where a region positioned in a center when the absorptive core (11) is equally divided into three in a lateral direction is defined as a central region (CR), at least a part of the crotch elastic region (ER) is provided in the central region (CR) and in a view in a thickness direction, the central region (CR) includes a portion where the crotch elastic region (ER) overlaps the high-density part (50).SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a pants-type absorbent article. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, in pants-type absorbent articles (such as pants-type diapers) that include an absorbent main body and waistband members arranged to cover the front and back of the absorbent main body from the non-skin side, a technique has been known in which an elastic member (crotch elastic member) that stretches along the longitudinal direction of the absorbent main body is provided to improve the fit of the absorbent main body in the crotch area. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a technique in a disposable diaper in which a first buttocks elastic member 21 (corresponding to a crotch elastic member) that stretches in the longitudinal direction is provided on the non-skin side of the absorbent core, thereby making it easier for the absorbent body portion to fit properly around the crotch area of ​​the wearer when worn. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2010-131196 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] When an absorbent article having such crotch elastic members is worn, if the absorbent core shrinks in the longitudinal direction due to the stretching force exerted by the crotch elastic members, wrinkles are likely to form in the absorbent core along the left-right direction. If the absorbent article is worn for a long period of time in a wrinkled state, the absorbent core that has absorbed moisture from urination and the like may be separated at the wrinkled positions, which may result in a deterioration in fit and absorbency.

[0005] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned problems, and its purpose is to provide a pants-type absorbent article that is less likely to deteriorate in fit and absorbency in the crotch area even when worn for long periods of time. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The main invention for achieving the above-mentioned object is a pants-type absorbent article having an absorbent main body with an absorbent core, which has a longitudinal direction, a left-right direction, and a thickness direction that intersect with each other when unfolded and stretched, wherein the absorbent main body has a crotch elastic region that is located closer to the skin than the absorbent core and is partitioned by a crotch elastic member that stretches along the longitudinal direction, the absorbent core has a high-density portion that is denser than the surrounding area, and when the region located in the center of the absorbent core when divided into thirds in the left-right direction is defined as a central region, at least a part of the crotch elastic region is located in the central region, and when viewed in the thickness direction, there is a portion in the central region where the crotch elastic region and the high-density portion overlap. Other features of the present invention will become apparent from the description of this specification and the accompanying drawings. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a pants-type absorbent article in which the fit and absorbency in the crotch area are unlikely to deteriorate even when worn for a long period of time. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] 1 is a front view of a pants-type disposable diaper 1 as seen from the ventral side. [Figure 2] 1 is a plan view of a pants-type disposable diaper 1 in an unfolded and stretched state. [Figure 3] 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the pants-type disposable diaper 1 taken along the CC line in FIG. 2. FIG. [Figure 4] Fig. 4A is a plan view of the absorbent main body 10 as seen from the skin side, and Fig. 4B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the absorbent main body 10 at the center value CL in the longitudinal direction. [Figure 5] 2 is a plan view illustrating a high density portion 50 provided in the absorbent core 11. FIG. [Figure 6]10 is a partially enlarged view for explaining the details of a high density portion 50. FIG. [Figure 7] 10 is a diagram illustrating the positional relationship between the high density portion 50 (grid area rp) and the crotch elastic member 40. FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a plan view of a modified example of the diaper 1 in an unfolded and stretched state. [Figure 9] 10 is a plan view illustrating a modified example of a high density portion 50 provided in the absorbent core 11. FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] At least the following matters will become clear from the description of this specification and the accompanying drawings. (Aspect 1) A pants-type absorbent article having an absorbent main body with an absorbent core, which has longitudinal, left-right, and thickness directions that intersect with each other when unfolded and stretched, wherein the absorbent main body has a crotch elastic region that is located closer to the skin than the absorbent core and is partitioned by a crotch elastic member that stretches along the longitudinal direction, the absorbent core has a high-density portion that is denser than the surrounding area, and when the absorbent core is divided into thirds in the left-right direction, the central region is defined as the region located in the middle, and at least a part of the crotch elastic region is located in the central region, and when viewed in the thickness direction, there is a portion in the central region where the crotch elastic region and the high-density portion overlap.

[0010] According to the pants-type absorbent article of aspect 1, the rigidity of the absorbent core is likely to be increased in the areas where the high-density portions are provided. Therefore, even if the absorbent core contracts in the longitudinal direction in the central region due to the action of the stretching force of the crotch elastic region when the pants-type absorbent article is worn, forming wrinkles along the left-right direction, the increased rigidity provided by the high-density portions prevents the absorbent core from being torn apart at the positions of the wrinkles. This prevents deterioration of the fit and absorbency in the crotch area even when the pants-type absorbent article is worn for long periods of time.

[0011] (Aspect 2) The pants-type absorbent article according to aspect 1, wherein a plurality of the crotch elastic members are arranged in the central region.

[0012] According to the pants-type absorbent article of aspect 2, the multiple crotch elastic members distribute the stretching force in the central region, which facilitates stable convex deformation of the absorbent core toward the skin when worn. Furthermore, since multiple crotch elastic members are provided, there is no need to excessively increase the stretching force of each individual crotch elastic member, which reduces discomfort in the crotch area of ​​the wearer. This prevents deterioration of fit and absorbency in the crotch area.

[0013] (Aspect 3) The pants-type absorbent article according to aspect 1 or 2, wherein at least half of the plurality of crotch elastic members are arranged in the central region.

[0014] According to the pants-type absorbent article of aspect 3, a greater stretching force is likely to act in the central region than in the regions on either side thereof. This makes it easier for the central region of the absorbent core to deform convexly toward the skin and to maintain the convex shape after deformation. This makes it easier to prevent deterioration of fit and absorbency in the crotch area.

[0015] (Aspect 4) A pants-type absorbent article according to any one of aspects 1 to 3, wherein the average stretchability in the longitudinal direction of the central region is greater than the average stretchability in the longitudinal direction of the side regions located on both sides of the central region in the left-right direction.

[0016] According to the pants-type absorbent article of aspect 4, the elastic force in the central region is greater than the elastic force in the side regions, so that when worn, the central region of the absorbent core is more likely to be pushed up against the skin, causing a convex deformation, thereby improving the fit in the crotch area.

[0017] (Aspect 5) A pants-type absorbent article according to any one of aspects 1 to 4, wherein the high-density portion is composed of linear compressed portions having a predetermined length, and when viewed in the thickness direction, has a portion where the linear compressed portions intersect with the crotch elastic members.

[0018] According to the pants-type absorbent article of aspect 5, the water-retentive fibers forming the absorbent core are less likely to become entangled in the areas along the linear compressed portions, which increases the rigidity of the absorbent core and helps it maintain its shape. This makes it easier to prevent the absorbent core from being torn apart in the longitudinal direction due to the stretching force of the crotch elastic members. This makes it easier to achieve good fit and absorbency of the absorbent core even when the pants-type absorbent article is worn for long periods of time.

[0019] (Aspect 6) 6. The pants-type absorbent article according to any one of aspects 1 to 5, wherein each of the linear compressed portions is inclined with respect to the longitudinal direction, and a plurality of the linear compressed portions are arranged in a lattice pattern.

[0020] According to the pants-type absorbent article of aspect 6, the compression portions arranged in a grid pattern act like a frame, making it easier to maintain the strength of the absorbent core while following the longitudinal expansion and contraction of the crotch elastic members. That is, the absorbent core is more likely to have both rigidity and stretchability. Therefore, even when the pants-type absorbent article is worn for a long period of time, the absorbent core is less likely to break apart, making it easier to achieve good fit and absorbency.

[0021] (Aspect 7) A pants-type absorbent article according to any one of aspects 1 to 6, wherein each of the regions surrounded by the linear compressed portions arranged in a grid pattern has a length in the longitudinal direction that is longer than its length in the left-right direction.

[0022] According to the pants-type absorbent article of aspect 7, the lattice region is less likely to deform when pulled in the direction of the longer diagonal (longitudinal direction) than when pulled in the direction of the shorter diagonal (lateral direction) with the same magnitude of force, and is therefore more likely to resist deformation along the longitudinal direction. This makes it easier to prevent the absorbent core from being torn apart by resisting a force that deforms the absorbent core in the longitudinal direction.

[0023] (Aspect 8) A pants-type absorbent article according to any one of aspects 1 to 7, wherein a plurality of the crotch elastic members are arranged in the central region, and the length in the left-right direction of each region surrounded by the linear compressed portions arranged in a grid pattern is longer than the distance between two adjacent crotch elastic members in the left-right direction.

[0024] According to the pants-type absorbent article of aspect 8, since there is no possibility that the entire lattice region will be disposed between laterally adjacent crotch elastic members, the rigidity of the region between the crotch elastic members will not be excessively high, and the stretchability of the crotch elastic members will be easily ensured, which makes it easier to achieve good fit and absorbency.

[0025] (Aspect 9) A pants-type absorbent article according to any one of aspects 1 to 8, wherein the distance between two adjacent crotch elastic members in the left-right direction is longer than half the length in the left-right direction of each area surrounded by the linear compressed portions arranged in a grid pattern.

[0026] According to the pants-type absorbent article of aspect 9, there is a high probability that only one crotch elastic member will be arranged between the left and right sides of one grid region, and this makes it easier to ensure the rigidity between the crotch elastic members compared to the opposite case. This makes it easier to prevent the absorbent core from being torn apart in the longitudinal direction, and makes it easier to achieve good fit and absorbency.

[0027] (Aspect 10) A pants-type absorbent article according to any one of aspects 1 to 8, wherein the distance between two adjacent crotch elastic members in the left-right direction is equal to or less than half the length in the left-right direction of each area surrounded by the linear compressed portions arranged in a grid pattern.

[0028] According to the pants-type absorbent article of aspect 10, since one grid region is disposed across two or more crotch elastic members, the rigidity of the absorbent core in the region overlapping with the crotch elastic region is unlikely to become excessively high, and the stretchability of the absorbent core is likely to be ensured. For example, even when the absorbent core itself is designed to be relatively rigid, it is possible to make the longitudinal stretchability of the crotch elastic members more effective, which makes it easier to achieve a good fit and absorbency.

[0029] (Aspect 11) 11. The pants-type absorbent article according to any one of aspects 1 to 10, wherein the linear compressed portions arranged in a lattice pattern do not intersect with each other.

[0030] In the pants-type absorbent article of aspect 11, since the compressed portions do not intersect at the nodes of the lattice region, the absorbent core is prevented from becoming too hard at the nodes, and the feel against the skin is less likely to deteriorate. Furthermore, since the nodes are not fixed, the lattice region is easily deformed in the longitudinal and lateral directions, which is less likely to impede the expansion and contraction of the crotch elastic members and the convex deformation of the absorbent core, thereby improving the fit of the absorbent core.

[0031] (Aspect 12) A pants-type absorbent article according to any one of aspects 1 to 11, wherein the absorbent core has a portion in the center in the longitudinal direction where the width in the left-right direction is narrower, and at the position in the longitudinal direction where the width of the absorbent core in the left-right direction is narrowest, two or more lattices formed by being surrounded by the linear compressed portions are provided between one end of the absorbent core in the left-right direction and one end of the crotch elastic region in the left-right direction.

[0032] According to the pants-type absorbent article of aspect 12, by providing at least two or more lattice regions in the narrowest portion of the absorbent core in the region laterally outboard of the crotch elastic region, it is easier to ensure rigidity in the narrowest portion compared to the opposite case, which makes it possible to suppress excessive deformation and wrinkles at both ends of the absorbent core when worn, and to easily suppress deterioration in fit and feel.

[0033] (Aspect 13) 13. The pants-type absorbent article according to any one of aspects 1 to 12, wherein the area of ​​the range in which the linear compressed portions are arranged in the absorbent main body is larger than the area of ​​the central region.

[0034] According to the pants-type absorbent article of aspect 13, a high-density portion is formed over a wide area of ​​the central region, which increases the rigidity of the central region and makes it easier to prevent the absorbent core from being torn apart.

[0035] (Aspect 14) 14. The pants-type absorbent article according to any one of aspects 1 to 13, wherein the area of ​​the absorbent body where the linear compressed portions are arranged is larger than the area of ​​the crotch elastic region.

[0036] According to the pants-type absorbent article of aspect 14, the rigidity of the absorbent core in the crotch elastic region, which has high stretchability, is likely to be increased, making it difficult for the absorbent core to split in the longitudinal direction even when worn for a long period of time, and making it easier to achieve good fit and absorbency.

[0037] (Aspect 15) 15. The pants-type absorbent article according to any one of aspects 1 to 14, which does not have linear compressed portions parallel to the longitudinal direction.

[0038] In the pants-type absorbent article of aspect 15, if the linear compressed portions were arranged parallel to the longitudinal direction, there is a possibility that they would hinder the stretchability of the crotch elastic members along the longitudinal direction, but because the linear compressed portions are not arranged parallel to the longitudinal direction, stretchability of the crotch elastic members along the longitudinal direction is more easily ensured, which makes it easier to promote convex deformation of the absorbent core and makes it easier to achieve good fit and absorbency in the crotch area.

[0039] (Aspect 16) 16. The pants-type absorbent article according to any one of aspects 1 to 15, wherein the shape of the region surrounded by the linear compressed portions and the crotch elastic members is asymmetric in the left-right direction.

[0040] According to the pants-type absorbent article of aspect 16, random wrinkles are likely to form on the surface of the absorbent core, making it less likely for the article to feel uniform against the skin when worn, and giving the wearer a softer feel.

[0041] (Aspect 17) A pants-type absorbent article according to any one of aspects 1 to 16, wherein when the regions located on both sides of the central region in the left-right direction are defined as side regions, the crotch elastic members are not arranged in the side regions.

[0042] According to the pants-type absorbent article of aspect 17, the stretching force of the crotch elastic members is less likely to act on both side regions of the absorbent core, and is more likely to act only on the central region, which makes it easier for the central region of the absorbent core to more naturally convexly deform toward the skin side, making it easier to prevent deterioration of fit and absorbency in the crotch region.

[0043] (Aspect 18) A pants-type absorbent article according to any one of aspects 1 to 17, wherein when the absorbent core is divided into four equal parts in the left-right direction, the regions located at both ends are defined as end regions, and the crotch elastic members are not arranged in the end regions.

[0044] According to the pants-type absorbent article of aspect 18, problems such as the end regions of the absorbent core being lifted toward the wearer's skin and interfering with the wearer's legs are less likely to occur, and the central region of the absorbent core can be easily deformed convexly toward the wearer's skin, making it easier to maintain a good fit and absorbency.

[0045] === Implementation form === The following description will be given taking a pants-type disposable diaper 1 (hereinafter also referred to as "diaper 1") as an example of a pants-type absorbent article according to the present invention. However, the pants-type absorbent article according to the present invention is not limited to the above and can also be used as a sanitary napkin, sanitary shorts, etc.

[0046] <Basic structure of pants-type disposable diaper 1> Fig. 1 is a front view of a pants-type disposable diaper 1 as seen from the ventral side. Fig. 2 is a plan view of the pants-type disposable diaper 1 in an unfolded and stretched state. Fig. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the pants-type disposable diaper 1 taken along the line CC in Fig. 2.

[0047] The unfolded state of the pants-type disposable diaper 1 (diaper 1) refers to the state in which the diaper 1 is opened and laid out flat by separating a pair of side seams 2 provided on both sides of the diaper 1. The stretched state of the diaper 1 refers to the state in which the diaper 1 is stretched to the extent that wrinkles in the diaper 1 are no longer visible. Specifically, this refers to the state in which the diaper 1 is stretched until the dimensions of each component constituting the diaper 1 (e.g., the top sheet 12 and inner layer sheet 23, which will be described later) match or are close to the dimensions of the component alone.

[0048] As shown in Fig. 1, the diaper 1 has a vertical direction, a horizontal direction, and a front-to-back direction (directions passing through the paper in Fig. 1) that are perpendicular to one another, and has a waist opening BH and a pair of leg openings LH. The upper side in the vertical direction corresponds to the waist opening BH side, and the lower side corresponds to the crotch side. The front side in the front-to-back direction corresponds to the wearer's abdomen, and the rear side corresponds to the wearer's back.

[0049] In the unfolded state shown in FIG. 2, the diaper 1 has a longitudinal direction, a left-right direction, and a thickness direction (a direction passing through the paper in FIG. 2) that intersect with one another. The left-right direction in the unfolded state of FIG. 2 is the same as the left-right direction in the pants-type state of FIG. 1. The longitudinal direction in the unfolded state is a direction along the up-down direction in the pants-type state. One side in the longitudinal direction corresponds to the front side (ventral side), and the other side corresponds to the rear side (dorsal side). As shown in FIG. 3, the thickness direction is the direction in which the materials constituting the diaper 1 are layered. In the thickness direction, the side that comes into contact with the wearer's skin is referred to as the skin side, and the opposite side is referred to as the non-skin side.

[0050] The diaper 1 has an absorbent main body 10 and an exterior member 20 provided on the side away from the wearer's skin than the absorbent main body 10. The absorbent main body 10 and the exterior member 20 are bonded together in the thickness direction using an adhesive (not shown). Cover sheets 31, 32 may also be provided to cover both longitudinal ends of the absorbent main body 10 from the skin side (see FIG. 3). This prevents the edges of the absorbent main body 10 from digging into the wearer's body and prevents the absorbent main body 10 from opening open.

[0051] In this specification, as shown in Fig. 2, when the diaper 1 is in an unfolded and stretched state, the diaper 1 is divided into three equal parts in the longitudinal direction, and the ventral region is referred to as the "ventral portion 1A," the central region is referred to as the "crotch portion 1B," and the dorsal region is referred to as the "dorsal portion 1C." When the diaper 1 is folded in half at the longitudinal central position CL from the unfolded state shown in Fig. 2, the ventral portion 1A and a portion of the dorsal portion 1C, which are opposed in the thickness direction (front-to-back direction), are joined at both lateral sides by a pair of side joining portions 2, thereby forming the pants-type diaper 1 as shown in Fig. 1. Examples of joining methods using the side joining portions 2 include thermal welding, ultrasonic welding, and adhesive joining.

[0052] (Absorbent body 10) Fig. 4A is a plan view of the absorbent main body 10 as seen from the skin side. Fig. 4B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the absorbent main body 10 at the longitudinal centerline CL. The absorbent main body 10 includes an absorbent core 11 that absorbs and retains excretory liquids such as urine, a liquid-permeable top sheet 12 (e.g., nonwoven fabric) arranged closer to the skin than the absorbent core 11, a liquid-impermeable back sheet 13 (e.g., a resin film such as polyethylene or polypropylene) arranged closer to the skin than the absorbent core 11, a liquid-permeable intermediate sheet 15 (e.g., nonwoven fabric) arranged between the top sheet 12 and the absorbent core 11, a pair of side sheets 16, and an elastic member cover sheet 17.

[0053] The absorbent core 11 absorbs and retains excreted liquids such as urine. The surface of the absorbent core 11 may be covered with a liquid-permeable core wrap sheet 18 (e.g., tissue paper). The absorbent core 11 is made of a liquid-absorbent material such as water-retentive fibers or superabsorbent polymers (so-called SAPs) molded into a predetermined shape. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4A, the absorbent core 11 has a generally hourglass shape with its longitudinal center narrowed inward in the left-right direction. However, the planar shape of the absorbent core 11 is not particularly limited, and may be, for example, rectangular in plan view. In this embodiment, the width (maximum width) of the absorbent main body 10 in the left-right direction is approximately equal to the width (maximum width) of the absorbent core 11 in the left-right direction.

[0054] A pair of leakage preventing walls 60 is provided along the longitudinal direction on both left and right sides of the absorbent body 10. As shown in FIG. 4B , portions of the side sheets 16 extending from both left and right sides of the non-skin side of the back sheet 13 are folded at multiple locations to form the leakage preventing walls 60 on both left and right sides of the skin side of the top sheet 12. Leak preventing wall elastic members 61 (e.g., rubber threads) are attached to the leakage preventing walls 60 in a stretched state along the longitudinal direction. When the diaper 1 is worn, the stretchability of the leakage preventing wall elastic members 61 causes the leakage preventing walls 60 to stand up against the wearer's skin, thereby blocking body waste.

[0055] The absorbent main body 10 also has longitudinally stretchable crotch elastic members 40 in the left-right center and on the non-skin side in the thickness direction of the absorbent core 11. Specifically, the crotch elastic members 40 of this embodiment are attached in a stretched state along the longitudinal direction between the back sheet 13 provided on the non-skin side of the absorbent core 11 in the thickness direction and the elastic member cover sheet 17 arranged on the non-skin side of the back sheet 13. However, it is sufficient that the crotch elastic members 40 are provided on the non-skin side of the absorbent core 11, and for example, they may be provided between the core wrap sheet 18 and the back sheet 13 on the non-skin side of the absorbent core 11.

[0056] In Fig. 4A, five crotch elastic members 41-45 are arranged longitudinally at intervals in the left-right center of the absorbent main body 10 (absorbent core 11). Hereinafter, the area defined by these five crotch elastic members 40 (41-45) will also be referred to as the "crotch elastic region ER." In other words, as shown by the hatched area in Fig. 4A, the area surrounded by the crotch elastic member 41 arranged on the most one side in the left-right direction and the crotch elastic member 45 arranged on the most other side is the crotch elastic region ER. However, the number and arrangement of the crotch elastic members 40 are not limited to this.

[0057] Furthermore, when the absorbent core 11 (the absorbent main body 10) is divided into thirds in the left-right direction, the central region is referred to as the "central region CR," and the regions on either side of the central region CR are referred to as "side regions SR." Here, "dividing into thirds" refers to dividing the distance (width) between one end 11esl and the other end 11esr of the absorbent core 11 in the left-right direction into thirds. As shown in FIG. 4A , the diaper 1 has a crotch elastic region ER in the central region CR. Specifically, at least one of the crotch elastic members 41 to 45 forming the crotch elastic region ER is arranged so as to overlap the central region CR when viewed in the thickness direction. When the diaper 1 is worn, the stretchability of the crotch elastic member 40 (crotch elastic region ER) allows the central region CR of the absorbent core 11 to deform three-dimensionally so as to be convex toward the skin, thereby fitting well to the crotch region and excretory opening, thereby achieving good absorbency and fit.

[0058] (Exterior member 20) The outer covering member 20 is a sheet member having a shape in which the longitudinal center portion is narrowed inward in the left-right direction. As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the outer covering member 20 has a ventral outer layer sheet 21, a dorsal outer layer sheet 22, an inner layer sheet 23, waist elastic members 24 and 25, and a buttocks elastic member 26.

[0059] The ventral outer layer sheet 21, the dorsal outer layer sheet 22, and the inner layer sheet 23 can be exemplified by flexible sheet members such as nonwoven fabrics. The inner layer sheet 23 forms the outer shape of the exterior member 20 and is a sheet member that is continuous from the ventral portion 1A through the crotch portion 1B to the dorsal portion 1C. The ventral outer layer sheet 21 is disposed closer to the skin than the inner layer sheet 23 and in part of the ventral portion 1A. The ventral outer layer sheet 21 overlaps with the side joint portion 2 in the longitudinal direction and has the same longitudinal length as the side joint portion 2. The dorsal outer layer sheet 22 is disposed closer to the skin than the inner layer sheet 23 and in part of the dorsal portion 1C and the crotch portion 1B. The dorsal outer layer sheet 22 overlaps with the side joint portion 2 in the longitudinal direction and extends toward the crotch portion beyond the side joint portion 2. In the flattened diaper 1, the ventral outer sheet 21 and the dorsal outer sheet 22 are spaced apart in the longitudinal direction, with the inner sheet 23 exposed to the outside as the non-skin side of the diaper 1 between them.

[0060] The waist elastic members 24, 25 and the buttocks elastic members 26 are elastic members that stretch in the left-right direction, and examples thereof include rubber thread. As shown in FIG. 2, the waist elastic members 24, 25 overlap the side joint portions 2 in the longitudinal direction. In the following description, the waist elastic member located in the abdominal portion 1A will also be referred to as the abdominal waist elastic member 24, and the waist elastic member 25 located in the back portion 1C will also be referred to as the back waist elastic member 25. The buttocks elastic member 26 is located on the crotch side in the longitudinal direction (lower in the up-down direction) than the side joint portions 2. In this embodiment, there are two buttocks elastic members 26, but this number is not particularly limited.

[0061] The waist elastic members 24, 25 and buttocks elastic members 26 are arranged side by side in the vertical direction in the pants-shaped state between the inner layer sheet 23 and the ventral-side outer layer sheet 21 or the dorsal-side outer layer sheet 22, and are fixed in a stretched state in the horizontal direction, so that the outer member 20 fits snugly around the waist and buttocks of the wearer.

[0062] <Regarding the Fit of the Absorbent Body 10> As explained above, the diaper 1 of this embodiment improves the fit around the crotch area of ​​the wearer by providing the crotch elastic members 40 (crotch elastic region ER) in the left-right central portion of the absorbent main body 10. That is, when the stretching force (contraction force) along the longitudinal direction of the crotch elastic members 40 (crotch elastic region ER) acts on the absorbent core 11, the left-right central portion of the absorbent core 11 (central region CR) is lifted toward the skin and deformed into a convex shape, which is pushed up against the wearer's crotch area (excretory opening such as the vagina) and improves the fit.

[0063] On the other hand, when the absorbent core 11 contracts in the longitudinal direction due to the crotch elastic members 40 (crotch elastic regions ER), wrinkles (not shown) are likely to form in the lateral direction in the contracted portions. If the absorbent core 11 repeatedly absorbs excrement such as urine while lateral wrinkles are formed, the absorbent core 11 is likely to split into front and rear parts at the wrinkled portions. For example, when the liquid-absorbent material forming the absorbent core 11 absorbs water and expands, stress may be concentrated in the wrinkled portions, causing the fibers of the water-retentive fibers to easily become disentangled. As a result, if the diaper 1 is worn for a long period of time, the absorbent core 11 may split in the longitudinal direction, making it difficult to maintain a good fit and absorbency.

[0064] In contrast, in the diaper 1 of this embodiment, the rigidity of the absorbent core 11 is increased in the central region CR where the stretching force of the crotch elastic members 40 (crotch elastic region ER) acts, thereby making the absorbent core 11 less likely to break apart. Specifically, by providing the absorbent core 11 with high-density sections 50 that are denser than the surrounding areas, the rigidity of the absorbent core 11 is increased in the areas where the high-density sections 50 are provided, thereby preventing the absorbent core 11 from breaking apart in the longitudinal direction.

[0065] Fig. 5 is a plan view illustrating the high density portion 50 provided in the absorbent core 11. Fig. 6 is a partially enlarged view illustrating the high density portion 50 in detail.

[0066] The high-density portion 50 is formed by subjecting the absorbent core 11 to embossing (compression) or the like during the manufacturing process of the absorbent main body 10. That is, the liquid-absorbent material is formed into a generally hourglass shape, and the absorbent core 11 is covered with the core wrap sheet 18. Compression is performed in the thickness direction of the absorbent core 11 from one side (e.g., the skin side) to the other side (e.g., the non-skin side) to form the high-density portion 50, in which the density of the compressed portion is higher than that of the surrounding area. In this embodiment, the high-density portion 50 is provided throughout the entire absorbent core 11. However, it is sufficient that the high-density portion 50 is provided at least in the central region CR; it is not necessary that the high-density portion 50 be provided throughout the entire absorbent core 11. Although the crotch elastic members 40 (crotch stretchable regions ER) are shown in FIG. 5 together with the high-density portion, the crotch elastic members 40 are not yet in place at the time of the compression process.

[0067] The high-density portion 50 is formed as a pattern of many diamond-shaped lattices by arranging compressed portions 51, 52, each having a different shape, as shown in FIG. 6 . That is, the high-density portion 50 is formed by second compressed portions 52a, 52b, which are linear (strip-shaped) compressed portions having a predetermined length, and first compressed portions 51a, 51b, which are linear (strip-shaped) compressed portions having a predetermined length combined in a generally Z-shape (saw-tooth shape). Hereinafter, the diamond-shaped region surrounded by the compressed portions 51, 52 is also referred to as a lattice region rp. For example, in FIG. 6 , the diamond-shaped region surrounded by the first compressed portions 51a, 51b and the second compressed portion 52a, indicated by the dashed line, is the lattice region rp, and the high-density portion 50 is formed by arranging multiple such lattice regions rp. However, the shape and arrangement pattern of the high-density portion 50 are not limited to this example. For example, the high density portion 50 may be formed in a polygonal shape such as a triangle or a hexagon, a curved shape such as an ellipse, or other patterns. Also, the high density portion 50 may be formed in a so-called dotted line shape by arranging dot-shaped compressed portions intermittently.

[0068] When the diaper 1 is viewed in the thickness direction in an expanded and stretched state, the central region CR of the absorbent core 11 (the absorbent main body 10) has an overlapping region between the crotch elastic region ER and the high-density region 50 (see FIG. 5). The region where the high-density region 50 is provided increases the rigidity of the absorbent core 11, making it easier to prevent the absorbent core 11 from losing its shape or breaking apart. Therefore, even if the absorbent core 11 in the central region CR contracts in the longitudinal direction due to the stretching force of the crotch elastic region ER (crotch elastic member 40) during wear, and wrinkles are formed along the left-right direction, the absorbent core 11 is prevented from breaking apart at the wrinkles. This prevents deterioration of the fit and absorbency in the crotch area, even when the diaper 1 is worn for a long period of time.

[0069] Furthermore, the diaper 1 has multiple crotch elastic members 41-45 arranged in the central region CR. If only one crotch elastic member 40 were arranged in the central region CR, a strong crotch elastic member 40 would exert concentrated stress, potentially causing pain or discomfort in the wearer's crotch region. Furthermore, a weak crotch elastic member 40 would prevent the absorbent core 11 from deforming convexly, potentially resulting in poor fit. In contrast, the diaper 1 has multiple crotch elastic members 41-45 in the central region CR, dispersing the stretch force. This allows the absorbent core 11 to deform convexly toward the skin when the diaper 1 is worn. Furthermore, since there is no need to excessively increase the stretch force of each crotch elastic member 40, discomfort in the wearer's crotch region is unlikely. This prevents poor fit and absorbency in the crotch region.

[0070] When multiple crotch elastic members 40 are provided, it is preferable that more than half of the crotch elastic members 40 are arranged in the central region CR. In other words, it is preferable that the number of crotch elastic members 40 arranged in the central region CR is greater than the number of crotch elastic members 40 arranged in the side regions SR. With this configuration, a greater stretching force is likely to act in the central region CR than in the side regions SR, making it easier for the central region CR of the absorbent core 11 to deform convexly toward the skin and to maintain the convex shape after deformation. This makes it easier to prevent deterioration of fit and absorbency in the crotch area.

[0071] In the diaper 1 of this embodiment, all of the multiple crotch elastic members 41-45 are arranged in the central region CR. In other words, the crotch elastic members 41-45 (crotch elastic regions ER) are not arranged in the side regions SR. With this configuration, the stretching force of the crotch elastic members 41-45 is less likely to act on the side regions SR of the absorbent main body 10 (absorbent core 11), and the stretching force is more likely to act only on the central region CR. Therefore, the central region CR of the absorbent core 11 is more likely to naturally convexly deform toward the skin side, making it easier to prevent deterioration of fit and absorbency in the crotch area.

[0072] Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 4A , if the end regions GR are defined as regions located at both ends of the absorbent main body 10 (absorbent core 11) when the absorbent body 10 is divided into four equal parts in the left-right direction, it is more preferable that the crotch elastic members 40 (crotch elastic regions ER) are not disposed in the end regions GR. If the stretching force of the crotch elastic members 40 were to act on the end regions GR, the end regions GR of the absorbent core 11 would be lifted toward the wearer's skin when the diaper 1 was worn, which could cause the end regions GR to interfere with the wearer's legs. This would also make it difficult for the absorbent core 11 to achieve a smooth convex deformation, which could result in poor fit and absorbency in the crotch area. In contrast, since the diaper 1 does not have the crotch elastic members 40 (crotch elastic regions ER) disposed in the end regions GR, problems such as the end regions GR of the absorbent core 11 being lifted toward the wearer's skin and interfering with the wearer's legs are less likely to occur, and the central region CR of the absorbent core 11 is more likely to deform convexly toward the wearer's skin. This makes it easier to maintain good fit and absorbency.

[0073] Furthermore, the average longitudinal stretchability of the central region CR of the absorbent core 11 is greater than the average longitudinal stretchability of the both side regions SR of the absorbent core 11. Here, the average contractile force refers to the magnitude of the force per unit width required to stretch the absorbent core 11 by a unit length when a tensile test is conducted in the longitudinal direction on the central region CR and both side regions SR of the absorbent core 11 divided into these regions. When comparing the stretchability of the regions CR and SR of the absorbent core 11, elastic members that do not directly affect the stretchability of the absorbent core 11, i.e., elastic members that are not in contact with the absorbent core 11 in its natural state (e.g., the leakage-barrier elastic members 61), are excluded from the comparison. Because the stretchability of the central region CR is greater than that of the both side regions SR, the central region CR of the absorbent core 11 is more likely to be pushed up toward the skin and to undergo convex deformation when the diaper 1 is worn, thereby improving the fit in the crotch area.

[0074] To conduct a tensile test, first, a test specimen is prepared by cutting out the central region CR and the side regions SR from the stretched absorbent core 11. As mentioned above, any elastic members that do not contact the absorbent core 11 in its natural state, such as the leak-proof wall elastic members 61, are removed from the test specimen. Next, both longitudinal ends of the test specimen are gripped with a pair of chucks (fixing jigs) of a specified tensile tester (e.g., Instron Model 5965 or equivalent), and the distance between the chucks is adjusted to a length L1 at which the test specimen is in its natural state. The natural state refers to a state in which an unloaded sample is left for a specified period of time. Next, the distance between the pair of chucks is increased in the tensile direction (the longitudinal direction of the test specimen) at a specified speed (e.g., 100 mm / min) until the distance between the chucks reaches a specified length L2. The distances L1 and L2 were set to, for example, L1 = 380 mm and L2 = 480 mm, but the predetermined length L2 may be adjusted appropriately depending on the initial distance L1 of the test piece in its natural state. The length of the test piece when stretched in the longitudinal direction is recorded in correspondence with the magnitude of the force acting at that time, and the recorded force is divided by the width of the test piece in the left-right direction, thereby calculating the average stretching force of the test piece.

[0075] The high-density section 50 provided in the absorbent main body 10 (absorbent core 11) is composed of linear (strip-shaped) compressed portions 51, 52 having a predetermined length. When viewed in the thickness direction, the linear compressed portions 51, 52 have portions where they intersect with the crotch elastic members 40 (crotch elastic regions ER). In the portions along the linear compressed portions 51, 52, the multiple water-retentive fibers forming the absorbent core 11 are compressed together, making it difficult for the fibers to become entangled. This increases the rigidity of the absorbent core 11 and helps it maintain its shape. In particular, the linear compressed portions 51, 52 are provided overlapping the crotch elastic regions ER, to which the stretching force of the crotch elastic members 40 acts. This helps prevent the absorbent core 11 from being torn apart in the longitudinal direction due to the stretching force of the crotch elastic members 40. This makes it easier to achieve a good fit and absorbency of the absorbent core 11, even when the diaper 1 is worn for long periods of time.

[0076] Furthermore, each of the linear (strip-like) compressed portions 51, 52 is disposed at an angle relative to the stretch direction, i.e., the longitudinal direction, of the crotch elastic member 40, and the plurality of compressed portions 51, 52 are disposed in a lattice pattern as shown in FIG. 5 . By arranging the linear compressed portions 51, 52 so as to form a lattice (lattice regions rp) at an angle relative to the stretch direction of the crotch elastic member 40, the compressed portions 51, 52 act as a framework, enabling the absorbent core 11 to maintain its strength while following the longitudinal stretch of the crotch elastic member 40. That is, by configuring the diamond-shaped lattice regions rp to be somewhat deformable in the longitudinal and lateral directions in response to the stretch of the crotch elastic member 40, the absorbent core 11 can be made to have both rigidity and stretchability. Therefore, the absorbent core 11 is prevented from breaking apart even when the diaper 1 is worn for a long period of time, making it easier to achieve a good fit and absorbency.

[0077] As shown in FIG. 6, the lattice region rp surrounded by the linear compressed portions 51, 52 has a longitudinal length Lrp that is longer than its lateral length Wrp. That is, the lattice region rp has a vertically elongated diamond shape. When such a diamond-shaped lattice region rp is pulled in the direction in which the diagonal length is longer (the longitudinal direction in FIG. 6), it is less likely to deform than when pulled with the same magnitude of force in the direction in which the diagonal length is shorter (the lateral direction in FIG. 6). Therefore, the lattice region rp is more likely to resist deformation in the longitudinal direction. The high-density portion 50 formed in the absorbent core 11 of the diaper 1 is composed of multiple longitudinally elongated lattice regions rp arranged side by side, which prevents the absorbent core 11 from being torn apart by a force that deforms the absorbent core 11 in the longitudinal direction.

[0078] As described above, the lattice region rp is capable of deforming to a certain extent in the longitudinal direction and does not significantly hinder the stretching of the crotch elastic member 40, so there is little possibility that the stretching of the crotch elastic member 40 will be hindered by the high-density portion 50 when the diaper 1 is worn.

[0079] Furthermore, it is preferable that the area of ​​the region in the absorbent main body 10 where the high-density portions 50 (compressed portions 51, 52) are arranged is larger than the area of ​​the central region CR. With this configuration, the high-density portions 50 are more likely to be formed over a wider area than the central region CR, which increases the rigidity of the central region CR and makes it easier to prevent the absorbent core 11 from being torn apart. In the diaper 1, the high-density portions 50 (compressed portions 51, 52) are arranged over the entire absorbent core 11, including the central region CR. That is, the area of ​​the region in which the high-density portions 50 (compressed portions 51, 52) are arranged is larger than the area of ​​the central region CR. Therefore, the overall rigidity of the central region CR is increased, making it easier to prevent the absorbent core 11 from losing its shape, etc. Furthermore, when the absorbent core 11 deforms convexly toward the skin, it is easier to maintain that state.

[0080] In the diaper 1, the area of ​​the region where the high-density portions 50 (compressed portions 51, 52) are arranged (the entire absorbent core 11) is larger than the area of ​​the crotch elastic region ER. This increases the rigidity of the crotch elastic region ER, which is highly stretchable, of the absorbent core 11. This makes it difficult for the absorbent core 11 to tear in the longitudinal direction even when the diaper 1 is worn for a long period of time, making it easier to achieve good fit and absorbency.

[0081] Furthermore, it is preferable that the linear compressed portions 51, 52 provided on the absorbent core 11 are not arranged parallel to the stretch direction (i.e., the longitudinal direction) of the crotch elastic members 40. If the compressed portions 51, 52 were arranged parallel to the longitudinal direction, they could directly impede the stretch of the crotch elastic members 40 along the longitudinal direction. In this case, the absorbent core 11 would be less likely to undergo convex deformation toward the skin, which could result in poor fit and absorbency in the crotch area. In contrast, in the diaper 1, the compressed portions 51, 52 are arranged at an angle to the stretch direction (longitudinal direction) of the crotch elastic members 40, and none of the high-density portions are arranged parallel to the longitudinal direction (see Figure 5, etc.). This ensures stretchability of the crotch elastic members 40 along the longitudinal direction and facilitates convex deformation of the absorbent core 11, making it easier to achieve good fit and absorbency in the crotch area.

[0082] FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining the positional relationship between the high-density portion 50 (lattice region rp) and the calf elastic member 40. As shown in FIG. 7, the length Wrp in the left-right direction of the lattice region rp surrounded by the squeezing portions 51 and 52 is longer than the interval W40 between two adjacent calf elastic members 40, 40 in the left-right direction (W40 < Wrp). That is, the lattice region rp has a portion that necessarily overlaps with one of the calf elastic members 40 in the left-right direction. If the length Wrp in the left-right direction of the lattice region rp is smaller than the interval W40 between the calf elastic members 40, 40, there is a possibility that the entire lattice region rp is disposed between the left-right directions of the calf elastic members 40, 40. In this case, the rigidity of the absorbent core 11 between the calf elastic members 40, 40 may become excessively high, and it may be difficult for the calf elastic member 40 to expand and contract in the longitudinal direction.

[0083] On the other hand, if the relationship of W40 < Wrp is satisfied, there is no case where the entire lattice region rp is disposed between the left-right directions of the calf elastic members 40, 40, and the expandability and contractibility of the calf elastic member 40 are easily ensured. And if at least one of the high-density portions 50 (squeezing portions 51, 52) constituting the lattice region rp is disposed so as to intersect with the calf elastic member 40, as described above, the rigidity at the intersection portion is increased, and it becomes easy to suppress the absorbent core 11 from being divided in the longitudinal direction. Therefore, it is possible to easily realize good fitting properties and absorbency. When the intervals between two adjacent calf elastic members 40, 40 in the left-right direction are not constant, the narrowest interval is taken as the interval W40.

[0084] Furthermore, the distance W40 between two laterally adjacent crotch elastic members 40, 40 is longer than half the length Wrp of the lattice region rp in the left-right direction (W40 > 1 / 2 * Wrp). If the relationship W40 > 1 / 2 * Wrp is satisfied, there is a higher probability that only one crotch elastic member 40 will be arranged between the left and right sides of one lattice region rp, and this makes it easier to ensure the rigidity of the absorbent core 11 in the region between the laterally adjacent crotch elastic members 40, 40 compared to the opposite case. This makes it easier to prevent the absorbent core 11 from being torn apart in the longitudinal direction, making it easier to achieve good fit and absorbency.

[0085] Conversely, the distance W40 between two laterally adjacent crotch elastic members 40, 40 may be set to be equal to or less than half the length Wrp of the lattice region rp in the left-right direction (W40≦½*Wrp). In this case, one lattice region rp is disposed across two or more crotch elastic members 40, so that the rigidity of the absorbent core 11 in the region overlapping with the crotch elastic region ER is unlikely to become excessively high, and the stretchability of the absorbent core 11 is likely to be ensured. For example, when the absorbent core 11 has a large basis weight and is designed to have a relatively high rigidity, the longitudinal stretchability of the crotch elastic members 40 can be more easily exerted, making it easier to achieve a good fit and absorbency.

[0086] 6 and other figures, the compressed portions 51, 52 arranged in a lattice pattern do not intersect with each other. In other words, at the nodes (vertices) of the lattice region rp, a certain compressed portion does not intersect with another compressed portion. Because the compressed portions do not intersect with each other at the nodes of the lattice region rp, the absorbent core 11 is prevented from becoming too hard at the nodes, and the diaper 1 is less likely to feel uncomfortable against the skin when worn. Furthermore, because the nodes are not fixed, the lattice region rp is more likely to deform in the longitudinal and lateral directions, which does not hinder the stretchability of the crotch elastic members 40 or the convex deformation of the absorbent core 11, thereby improving the fit of the absorbent core 11.

[0087] Furthermore, the shape (pattern) of the region surrounded by the linear compressed portions 51, 52 forming the grid region rp and the crotch elastic member 40 may be asymmetric in the left-right direction. For example, in FIG. 7, the crotch elastic member 43 is located in the left-right center, and the crotch elastic member 41 on one side and the crotch elastic member 45 on the other side are located symmetrically in the left-right direction. In this case, the region S1 surrounded by the crotch elastic member 41 and the linear compressed portion 51a is different in shape and size from the region 2 surrounded by the crotch elastic member 45 and the linear compressed portions 51b, 52b, and the regions S1 and S2 are asymmetric in the left-right direction. In such a case, the shape and size of wrinkles formed on the surface of the absorbent core 11 due to the expansion and contraction of the crotch elastic member 40 are likely to differ. That is, since random wrinkles are formed on the surface of the absorbent core 11, the diaper 1 does not feel uniform when worn, and the wearer feels a softer sensation.

[0088] As explained above, the absorbent core 11 has a generally hourglass shape with a narrower width in the left-right direction at the longitudinal center. In Fig. 5, the absorbent core 11 is most constricted at the longitudinal position Ln. That is, the length (width) W11n of the absorbent core 11 in the left-right direction is shortest (narrowest) at the longitudinal position Ln. At the longitudinal position Ln, it is preferable that at least two or more lattice regions rp are provided between one left-right end 11ne of the absorbent core 11 and one left-right end ERe of the crotch elastic region ER.

[0089] The left-right end portions of the absorbent core 11 are prone to deformation and wrinkling due to friction with the wearer's legs when the diaper 1 is worn. Therefore, by providing at least two or more lattice regions rp in the narrowest portion of the absorbent core 11 (position Ln in the longitudinal direction) in the region laterally outboard of the crotch elastic region ER, the rigidity of the narrowest portion is more easily ensured than in the opposite case. This prevents excessive deformation and wrinkling at the left and right end portions of the absorbent core 11 when the diaper 1 is worn, making it easier to prevent deterioration in fit and feel.

[0090] <Modification> The pants-type absorbent article (diaper 1) according to this embodiment can also be modified as follows. Fig. 8 is a plan view of a modified version of the diaper 1 in an unfolded and stretched state, and corresponds to Fig. 2. The configuration of the diaper 1 according to this modified version is basically the same as the configuration of the diaper 1 according to the above-described embodiment, so only differences in the configuration will be described.

[0091] In the pants-type absorbent article (diaper 1) of the modified example, the width of the absorbent main body 10 in the left-right direction is wider than the width of the absorbent core 11 in the left-right direction, and longitudinally stretchable leg gather elastic members 19 are provided on both left-right sides of the absorbent main body 10. The leg gather elastic members 19 may be made of, for example, rubber thread, and are attached so that they are sandwiched in the thickness direction by the side sheets 16 in a longitudinally stretched state. The stretchability exerted by the leg gather elastic members 19 allows both ends of the absorbent main body 10 to easily fit the wearer's body. In other words, when the diaper 1 is worn, the fit around the wearer's legs is improved, making it easier to prevent side leakage of excrement, etc.

[0092] Furthermore, in the pants-type absorbent article (diaper 1) of the modified example, the inner edge of the outer cover member 20 (inner layer sheet 23) is located more inward than the outer edge of the absorbent main body 10 in the left-right direction. That is, the contours of the leg openings LH are formed so as to be deeply recessed inward in the left-right direction. This allows for easy leg movement when wearing the diaper 1. As described above, in the diaper 1 of the modified example, leg gather elastic members 19 are provided on both sides of the absorbent main body 10 in the left-right direction. Therefore, even if the leg openings LH are deeply recessed inward, a good fit in the groin area is likely to be maintained, and side leakage of excrement is unlikely to occur.

[0093] In addition, in the pants-type absorbent article (diaper 1) of the modified example, a portion of the waist elastic members 24 provided on the outer cover member 20 is cut in the portion overlapping the absorbent core 11 when viewed in the thickness direction. In FIG. 8, the waist elastic members 24 are cut in the portion (the center portion in the left-right direction) where the absorbent core 11 and the outer cover member 20 overlap on the front side (ventral side) in the longitudinal direction, making it difficult for a stretching force in the left-right direction to act in the cut portion. This makes it difficult for a stretching force (contraction force) in the left-right direction by the waist elastic members 24 to act on the absorbent core 11. This makes it easier for the absorbent core 11 to maintain its planar shape and to fit the wearer's abdomen more easily. This improves the absorbency of urine and the like near the excretory opening.

[0094] Furthermore, in the pants-type absorbent article (diaper 1) of the modified example, the crotch elastic members 40 are arranged forward of the longitudinal center position CL. That is, the crotch elastic region ER is provided at the front side in the front-to-back direction of the diaper 1. This facilitates convex deformation of the absorbent main body 10 (absorbent core 11) at the front side in the front-to-back direction, making it easier to fit the absorbent core 11 to the vaginal opening, etc.

[0095] ===Other=== The above-described embodiments are intended to facilitate understanding of the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention. The present invention may be modified or improved without departing from the spirit thereof, and it goes without saying that the present invention includes equivalents thereof.

[0096] In the above-described embodiment, no elastic members are provided in the portions of the diaper 1 that define the leg openings LH. However, stretchable elastic members may be provided along the peripheries of the leg openings LH. For example, elastic members may be provided along the edges of the inner layer sheet 23 of the outer cover member 20 that are constricted inward in the lateral direction in the longitudinal direction of FIG. 2, extending from the ventral portion 1A through the crotch portion 1B to the dorsal portion 1C. Note that even if elastic members are provided along the leg openings LH in this manner, these elastic members are not included in the crotch elastic members 40. Furthermore, the leg gather elastic members 19 described in FIG. 8 are not included in the crotch elastic members 40.

[0097] FIG. 9 is a plan view illustrating a modified example of the high-density section 50 provided in the absorbent core 11. In FIG. 9, the high-density section 50 is formed by arranging multiple curved linear (curved) compressed sections 53. The roughly diamond-shaped regions surrounded by the curved compressed sections 53 form a lattice region rp. The high-density section 50 with such a pattern can also increase the rigidity of the absorbent core 11 and prevent the absorbent core 11 from losing its shape or breaking even when the crotch elastic region ER expands (contracts). Furthermore, since the curved compressed sections 53 do not have straight sections parallel to the longitudinal direction (strictly speaking, they may contain slight components parallel to the longitudinal direction, but these are not included in the "straight sections" referred to here), they are unlikely to interfere with the expansion and contraction of the crotch elastic members 40. Therefore, the fit and absorbency in the crotch area are unlikely to deteriorate even when worn for long periods of time. Note that the pattern shown in FIG. 9 is merely an example, and the high-density section 50 may be formed using other patterns. [Explanation of symbols]

[0098] 1 Diapers (pants-type disposable diapers, pants-type absorbent articles), 1A ventral part, 1B crotch part, 1C dorsal part, 2 side joints, 10. Absorbent body; 11 absorbent core, 12 top sheet, 13 back sheet, 15 intermediate sheet, 16 side sheet, 17 elastic member cover sheet, 18 core wrap sheet, 19 Leg gather elastic member, 20 Exterior components, 21 ventral outer layer sheet, 22 dorsal outer layer sheet, 23 inner layer sheet, 24 waist elastic member (ventral side), 25 waist elastic member (dorsal side), 26 buttocks elastic member, 31 cover sheet, 32 cover sheet, 40 crotch elastic member, 41 to 45 crotch elastic member, 50 High density area, 51 first compression section, 52 second compression section, 53 compression section, 60 Leakage prevention wall section, 61 Leak-proof wall elastic member, BH waist opening, LH leg opening, CL central position (longitudinal direction), ER crotch elastic area, CR central region, SR bilateral region, GR end area, rp lattice region,

Claims

1. In the deployed and extended state, the device has a longitudinal direction, a left-right direction, and a thickness direction which intersect with each other, A pants-type absorbent article having an absorbent body with an absorbent core, the absorbent main body has a crotch elastic region defined by a crotch elastic member that is provided closer to the skin than the absorbent core and stretches along the longitudinal direction, The absorbent core has a high density portion having a higher density than the surrounding area, When the absorbent core is divided into three equal parts in the left-right direction, the central region is defined as: At least a portion of the crotch elastic region is provided in the central region, A pants-type absorbent article, characterized in that, when viewed in the thickness direction, the central region has a portion where the crotch elastic region and the high-density portion overlap.

2. The pants-type absorbent article according to claim 1, A pants-type absorbent article, characterized in that a plurality of the crotch elastic members are arranged in the central region.

3. The pants-type absorbent article according to claim 2, A pants-type absorbent article, characterized in that at least half of the plurality of crotch elastic members are arranged in the central region.

4. The pants-type absorbent article according to any one of claims 1 to 3, A pants-type absorbent article characterized in that the average stretchability in the longitudinal direction of the central region is greater than the average stretchability in the longitudinal direction of both side regions located on both sides of the central region in the left-right direction.

5. The pants-type absorbent article according to any one of claims 1 to 3, The high-density portion is composed of a linear compressed portion having a predetermined length, A pants-type absorbent article characterized in that, when viewed in the thickness direction, there are portions where the linear compressed portions and the crotch elastic members intersect.

6. The pants-type absorbent article according to claim 5, Each of the linear compressed portions is inclined with respect to the longitudinal direction, A pants-type absorbent article, characterized in that a plurality of the linear compressed portions are arranged in a lattice pattern.

7. The pants-type absorbent article according to claim 6, A pants-type absorbent article, characterized in that each area surrounded by the linear compressed portions arranged in a grid pattern has a length in the longitudinal direction that is longer than its length in the left-right direction.

8. The pants-type absorbent article according to claim 6, A plurality of the crotch elastic members are arranged in the central region, The distance between the two crotch elastic members adjacent to each other in the left-right direction is A pants-type absorbent article, characterized in that the length in the left-right direction of each area surrounded by the linear compressed portions arranged in a lattice pattern is longer.

9. The pants-type absorbent article according to claim 6, The interval between two adjacent crotch elastic members in the left-right direction is A pants-type absorbent article, characterized in that the length in the left-right direction of each area surrounded by the linear compressed portions arranged in a lattice pattern is more than half the length of each area surrounded by the linear compressed portions.

10. The pants-type absorbent article according to claim 6, The interval between two adjacent crotch elastic members in the left-right direction is A pants-type absorbent article, characterized in that the length in the left-right direction of each area surrounded by the linear compressed portions arranged in a lattice pattern is 1 / 2 or less.

11. The pants-type absorbent article according to claim 6, A pants-type absorbent article, characterized in that the linear compressed portions arranged in a lattice pattern do not have any intersections with each other.

12. The pants-type absorbent article according to claim 6, The absorbent core has a portion in the center in the longitudinal direction where the width in the left-right direction is narrowed, In the longitudinal direction, at a position where the width of the absorbent core in the left-right direction is narrowest, A pants-type absorbent article characterized in that two or more lattices formed by being surrounded by the linear compressed portions are provided between one end of the absorbent core in the left-right direction and one end of the crotch elastic region in the left-right direction.

13. The pants-type absorbent article according to claim 5, A pants-type absorbent article, characterized in that the area of ​​the range in which the linear compressed portions are arranged in the absorbent main body is larger than the area of ​​the central region.

14. The pants-type absorbent article according to claim 5, A pants-type absorbent article, characterized in that the area of ​​the range in which the linear compressed portions are arranged in the absorbent main body is larger than the area of ​​the crotch elastic region.

15. The pants-type absorbent article according to claim 5, A pants-type absorbent article, characterized in that it does not have linear compressed portions parallel to the longitudinal direction.

16. The pants-type absorbent article according to claim 5, A pants-type absorbent article, characterized in that the shape of the area surrounded by the linear compressed portions and the crotch elastic members is asymmetric in the left-right direction.

17. The pants-type absorbent article according to any one of claims 1 to 3, When regions located on both sides of the central region in the left-right direction are defined as side regions, A pants-type absorbent article, wherein the crotch elastic members are not disposed in the both side regions.

18. The pants-type absorbent article according to any one of claims 1 to 3, When the absorbent core is divided into four equal parts in the left-right direction, the regions located at both ends are defined as end regions. A pants-type absorbent article, wherein the crotch elastic members are not disposed in the end regions.

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