Absorbent article

Abstract

To provide an absorbent article which can facilitate positioning when attached to an outerwear, and in which damage to the outerwear in detachment of the absorbent article can be suppressed.SOLUTION: There is provided an absorbent article 1 extending in a longitudinal direction L extending from an abdominal side to a back side of a wearer, and attached to the inner side of an outerwear which is a disposable article having an inner surface formed of a nonwoven fabric. The absorbent article is attached to an inside of an outerwear. The absorbent article comprises: a surface sheet facing a wearer; and a rear surface sheet 12 located on an opposite side of the surface sheet, facing the outerwear, and provided with an engagement part 20 engaged to the outerwear in a detachable state. The engagement part 20 has: a front engagement part 21 disposed in an end region on the abdominal side; a rear engagement part 22 disposed in an end region on the back side; and an intermediate engagement part 23 disposed in a center part in the longitudinal direction L at least partially. The intermediate engagement part 23 has engagement force lower than that of the front engagement part 21 and the rear engagement part 22.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an absorbent article. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, absorbent articles that are placed inside an outer garment worn by a wearer to absorb bodily fluids have been known (see Patent Documents 1 to 4). Such absorbent articles extend in the longitudinal direction from the back to the ventral side of the wearer and have a top sheet facing the wearer's skin, and a back sheet located on the opposite side of the top sheet facing the outer garment. The back sheet is provided with an engaging portion that detachably engages with the outer garment. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 6474169 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2022-046294 [Patent Document 3] Patent No. 4522021 Publication [Patent Document 4] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2023-171096 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, in the absorbent articles disclosed in Patent Documents 1 and 2, the engaging portions are provided only on both longitudinal ends of the backsheet, so the longitudinal center position of the backsheet cannot be fixed to the outer. As a result, when attaching the absorbent article to the outer, a gap may occur between the longitudinal center position of the backsheet and the outer, causing misalignment.

[0005] Furthermore, in the absorbent article disclosed in Patent Document 3, the engaging portion is provided over almost the entire surface of the backsheet, making it possible to fix the longitudinal center position of the backsheet to the outer. However, there is no mention of the engaging force of the engaging portion. Therefore, when the absorbent article is peeled off from the outer, the inner surface of the outer where the engaging portion was engaged may become fuzzy or torn, making it difficult to continue using the outer as is.

[0006] Furthermore, when the outer is a disposable absorbent article having an inner surface formed from nonwoven fabric, there is a problem that when the absorbent article is peeled off to reuse the outer, pilling and tearing are more likely to occur due to separation of the engagement parts than with cloth underwear, etc.

[0007] The present invention has been made with an eye on the above-mentioned problems, and aims to provide an absorbent article that can be easily positioned when attached to an outer garment, which is a disposable article whose inner surface is made of nonwoven fabric, and that can reduce damage to the inner surface of the outer garment when removed. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] In order to achieve the above-mentioned object, the present invention provides an absorbent article that extends in a longitudinal direction from the ventral side to the dorsal side of the wearer and is worn inside an outer garment, which is a disposable article whose inner surface is formed from a nonwoven fabric, and that comprises a top sheet that faces the wearer, and a back sheet that is located on the opposite side of the top sheet and faces the outer garment, and is provided with an engagement portion that removably engages with the outer garment, and the engagement portion has a front engagement portion located in the ventral end region, a rear engagement portion located in the dorsal end region, and an intermediate engagement portion at least a portion of which is located in the center of the longitudinal direction, and the intermediate engagement portion is configured to have an engagement force lower than that of the front engagement portion and the rear engagement portion. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] This allows the absorbent article of the present invention to be easily positioned when attached to an outer disposable article whose inner surface is made of nonwoven fabric, and also reduces damage to the inner surface of the outer when removed. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing the absorbent article of Example 1 in use. [Figure 2] 1 is a plan view of the absorbent article of Example 1 as seen from the non-skin side. [Figure 3A] 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line AA in FIG. 2. [Figure 3B] 3 is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 2 taken along line B-B. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a plan view of the absorbent article of Example 2 as seen from the non-skin side. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a plan view of the absorbent article of Example 3 as seen from the non-skin side. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a plan view of the absorbent article of Example 4 as seen from the non-skin side. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a main part of an absorbent article according to a first modified example. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a plan view of an absorbent article of a first modified example when viewed from the non-skin side. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a plan view of an absorbent article according to a second modified example, as viewed from the non-skin side. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a plan view of an absorbent article according to a third modified example, as viewed from the non-skin side. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a plan view of an absorbent article according to a fourth modified example, as viewed from the non-skin side. [Figure 12] FIG. 11 is a plan view of an absorbent article according to a fifth modified example, as viewed from the non-skin side. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a plan view of an absorbent article according to a sixth modified example, as viewed from the non-skin side. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] Modes for carrying out the absorbent article of the present invention will be described below based on Examples 1 to 4 shown in the drawings. In this specification, the direction corresponding to the front-to-back direction of the wearer, i.e., the direction extending from the wearer's abdomen through the crotch region to the back, is referred to as the "longitudinal direction L," and the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction L is referred to as the "width direction W."

[0012] The absorbent article 1 of Example 1 is a so-called urine absorption pad, which is detachably attached to the inside of an outer garment 2 worn by a wearer, as shown in Fig. 1, and is used to absorb body fluids such as urine. Here, the outer garment 2 to which the absorbent article 1 is attached is a pants-type or tape-type disposable diaper, and the outer garment 2 itself is a disposable absorbent article capable of absorbing body fluids. That is, the outer garment 2 includes at least an inner sheet 2a, an outer sheet 2b, and an absorbent body 2c.

[0013] The inner sheet 2a is made of a sheet material made of liquid-permeable nonwoven fabric and faces the wearer when worn. In other words, the inner sheet 2a made of nonwoven fabric forms the inner surface of the outer layer 2. The absorbent article 1 is attached to the inner sheet 2a.

[0014] The outer sheet 2b is made of a liquid-impermeable sheet material and covers the outside of the outer sheet 2. The absorbent body 2c is sandwiched between the inner sheet 2a and the outer sheet 2b and is made of a material with water-retaining properties.

[0015] The absorbent article 1 comprises a topsheet 11, a backsheet 12 (see FIG. 2), an absorbent body 13, and a gathered sheet .

[0016] The topsheet 11 is a liquid-permeable sheet material that faces the wearer's skin when the absorbent article 1 is worn. Suitable materials for the topsheet 11 include, for example, perforated or non-perforated nonwoven fabrics and porous plastic sheets. The fibers constituting the nonwoven fabric can be synthetic fibers such as olefins (e.g., polyethylene or polypropylene), polyesters, and polyamides, as well as recycled fibers (e.g., rayon or cupra) and natural fibers (e.g., cotton). The nonwoven fabric forming the topsheet 11 can be a nonwoven fabric obtained by an appropriate processing method, such as spunlace, spunbond, thermalbond, meltblown, or needlepunch. Of these processing methods, the spunlace method is superior in terms of flexibility and drapeability, while the thermalbond method is superior in terms of bulk and softness. The topsheet 11 may be formed by laminating multiple sheet materials or may be formed from a single sheet material.

[0017] The backsheet 12 is a liquid-impermeable sheet material, and is located on the opposite side of the topsheet 11, facing the outer layer 2 when the absorbent article 1 is worn. A liquid-impermeable plastic sheet such as polyethylene or polypropylene is preferably used as the material for the backsheet 12. To prevent stuffiness, a moisture-permeable material may also be used for the backsheet 12. A suitable water-proof and moisture-permeable sheet is a microporous sheet obtained by melt-kneading inorganic fine particles such as calcium carbonate in an olefin resin such as polyethylene or polypropylene to form a sheet, and then stretching the sheet uniaxially or biaxially. The backsheet 12 may be formed by laminating multiple sheet materials, or may be composed of a single sheet material.

[0018] The absorbent body 13 is a water-retentive member disposed between the top sheet 11 and the back sheet 12. The material forming the absorbent body 13 is, for example, a pulp fiber stack, an aggregate of filaments such as cellulose acetate, or a nonwoven fabric, and may be formed based on the material, with a superabsorbent polymer mixed or fixed therein as needed. The absorbent body 13 may have a single-layer structure or a structure consisting of multiple layers. The absorbent body 13 may be wrapped in a liquid-permeable and liquid-retentive wrapping sheet such as crepe paper as needed to maintain the shape and retain the polymer.

[0019] The gathered sheets 14 are disposed on both widthwise sides of the topsheet 11 and face the wearer when the absorbent article 1 is worn. A water-repellent nonwoven fabric is preferably used as the material for the gathered sheet 14. The gathered sheet 14 is formed from side edges fixed to both widthwise sides of the topsheet 11 and a free portion extending from these side edges and not fixed but movable freely. An elongated gathered elastic member is disposed at the tip of the free portion, and contraction of the gathered elastic member causes the free portion to rise from the topsheet 11. The shape of the gathered sheet 14, whether or not it is present, the shape of the side edges, and the number and position of the gathered elastic members can be determined as appropriate.

[0020] The absorbent article 1 has an overall elongated, strip-like shape in a plan view, and when worn, faces the wearer's back side across the crotch region toward the stomach side. The absorbent article 1 has a predetermined length in the longitudinal direction L (front-to-back direction), and a predetermined length in the width direction W that is shorter than the length in the longitudinal direction L. The absorbent article 1 has a rectangular shape in a plan view with a constant width (length in the width direction W) over the entire length in the longitudinal direction L. However, for example, the absorbent article 1 may have a region (constricted region) in the middle in the longitudinal direction L that is narrower than both end edges 10a, 10b in the longitudinal direction L.

[0021] 2, the absorbent article 1 has an engagement portion 20 provided on the back sheet 12. The engagement portion 20 detachably engages with the inner surface of the outer layer 2 made of nonwoven fabric. The engagement portion 20 in Example 1 is formed of a member separate from the back sheet 12, such as a hook material of a mechanical fastener, and is fixed to the back sheet 12.

[0022] As shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, the engaging portion 20 of Example 1 is formed of a sheet-like base portion 20a and multiple hook portions 20b extending from the base portion 20a in the opposite direction to the backsheet 12. The base portion 20a is fixed to the backsheet 12 by adhesive bonding, welding, or the like so that it cannot be peeled off. The hook portions 20b have posts 20c that rise from the surface of the base portion 20a and protrusions 20d provided at the tips of the posts 20c. The protrusions 20d may be formed as separate parts combined with or bonded to the posts 20c, or may be formed integrally with the posts 20c. Note that while the hook portions 20b in FIGS. 3A and 3B are T-shaped, the shape is not limited to a T-shape and may be J-shaped, L-shaped, or the like.

[0023] The engaging portion 20 has a front engaging portion 21, a rear engaging portion 22, and an intermediate engaging portion 23.

[0024] The front engagement portion 21 is an engagement portion 20 arranged in an end region on the ventral side of the backsheet 12. Here, the "ventral end region" refers to the region extending from the edge on the ventral side in the longitudinal direction L (hereinafter referred to as the "front edge 10a") to a maximum of 1 / 3 of the length in the longitudinal direction L of the absorbent article 1. The front engagement portion 21 in Example 1 is formed of a single member having a rectangular shape that is long in the width direction W in a plan view.

[0025] The rear engagement portion 22 is an engagement portion 20 arranged in the rear end region of the back sheet 12. Here, the "rear end region" refers to the region extending from the rear edge in the longitudinal direction L (hereinafter referred to as the "rear edge 10b") to a maximum of 1 / 3 of the length in the longitudinal direction L of the absorbent article 1. The rear engagement portion 22 in Example 1 is formed of a single member having a rectangular shape that is long in the width direction W in a plan view.

[0026] The intermediate engagement portion 23 is an engagement portion 20 provided between the front engagement portion 21 and the rear engagement portion 22, and at least a portion of which is arranged in the center of the longitudinal direction L of the backsheet 12. The intermediate engagement portion 23 of Example 1 is composed of a single member having a rectangular shape that is long in the width direction W in a plan view. Note that the "center of the longitudinal direction L of the backsheet 12" refers to a region ranging from the front edge 10a and the rear edge 10b of the absorbent article 1 toward the front edge 10a and the rear edge 10b, respectively, of the absorbent article 1, based on a position half the length of the absorbent article 1 in the longitudinal direction L.

[0027] Here, the length in the longitudinal direction L of the front engagement portion 21 (hereinafter referred to as the "longitudinal length Lf") and the length in the longitudinal direction L of the rear engagement portion 22 (hereinafter referred to as the "longitudinal length Lr") are set to be the same. In addition, the length in the width direction W of the front engagement portion 21 (hereinafter referred to as the "width direction length Wf") and the length in the width direction W of the rear engagement portion 22 (hereinafter referred to as the "width direction length Wr") are set to be the same. In other words, the front engagement portion 21 and the rear engagement portion 22 are set to have the same area that can engage with the outer 2.

[0028] The length of the intermediate engagement portion 23 in the longitudinal direction L (hereinafter referred to as the "longitudinal length Ls") is also set to be the same as the longitudinal length Lf of the front engagement portion 21 and the longitudinal length Lr of the rear engagement portion 22. On the other hand, the length of the intermediate engagement portion 23 in the width direction W (hereinafter referred to as the "width length Ws") is set to be shorter than the width length Wf of the front engagement portion 21 and the width length Wr of the rear engagement portion 22. In other words, the area of ​​the intermediate engagement portion 23 that can engage with the outer 2 is smaller than those of the front engagement portion 21 and the rear engagement portion 22.

[0029] That is, in the absorbent article 1, the following formulas (1), (2), and (3) hold true. Lf = Lr = Ls (1) Wf = Wr > Ws (2) Af = Ar > As (3) Af: area of ​​the front engagement portion 21 that can engage with the outer 2 Ar: Area of ​​the rear engagement portion 22 that can engage with the outer 2 As: Area of ​​the intermediate engagement portion 23 that can engage with the outer 2

[0030] Furthermore, in Example 1, the density Df of the hook portions 20b in the front engagement portion 21 and the density Dr of the hook portions 20b in the rear engagement portion 22 are set to the same density. In contrast, as shown in Figures 3A and 3B, the density Ds of the hook portions 20b in the intermediate engagement portion 23 is lower than those of the front engagement portion 21 and the rear engagement portion 22. Therefore, in the absorbent article 1, the following formula (4) holds. Note that the density of the hook portions 20b is determined by the number of hook portions 20b per unit area. The greater the number of hook portions 20b per unit area, the higher the density of the hook portions 20b. Df=Dr>Ds (4)

[0031] As a result, in the absorbent article 1, as shown in the following formula (5), the engagement force F3 of the intermediate engagement portion 23 is lower than the engagement force F1 of the front engagement portion 21 and the engagement force F2 of the rear engagement portion 22. Furthermore, the engagement force F1 of the front engagement portion 21 and the engagement force F2 of the rear engagement portion 22 are approximately the same. F1=F2>F3 (5)

[0032] Here, the engagement force F1 of the front engagement portion 21, the engagement force F2 of the rear engagement portion 22, and the engagement force F3 of the intermediate engagement portion 23 are all determined by peel strength and shear strength. Peel strength is the force required to peel the engagement portion 20 from the outer 2 in the thickness direction. Shear strength is the force required to apply forces parallel to the inner surface of the outer 2 from opposite directions to the engagement portion 20, sliding the engagement portion 20 relative to the outer 2 and peeling it off.

[0033] The engagement force F1 of the front engagement portion 21, the engagement force F2 of the rear engagement portion 22, and the engagement force F3 of the intermediate engagement portion 23 are all set to a degree that will not damage the inner surface of the outer layer 2 made of nonwoven fabric when the absorbent article 1 is removed from the outer layer 2.

[0034] Specifically, the peel strength of the front engagement portion 21 and the rear engagement portion 22 is preferably 0.5 N or more, and more preferably 0.7 N or more. On the other hand, the peel strength of the intermediate engagement portion 23 is preferably less than 0.7 N, and more preferably less than 0.5 N, on the premise that it is lower than the peel strength of the front engagement portion 21 and the rear engagement portion 22. Note that it is sufficient that the peel strength of the intermediate engagement portion 23 is lower than the peel strength of the front engagement portion 21 and the rear engagement portion 22.

[0035] The shear strength of the front engagement portion 21 and the rear engagement portion 22 is preferably 6.2 N or more, and more preferably 7.0 N or more. On the other hand, the shear strength of the intermediate engagement portion 23 is preferably less than 7.0 N, and more preferably less than 6.2 N, on the premise that it is lower than the shear strength of the front engagement portion 21 and the rear engagement portion 22. The shear strength of the intermediate engagement portion 23 only needs to be lower than the shear strength of the front engagement portion 21 and the rear engagement portion 22.

[0036] Furthermore, in the absorbent article 1, the density of the hook portions 20b is constant throughout the entire area of ​​the front engagement portion 21, the entire area of ​​the rear engagement portion 22, and the entire area of ​​the intermediate engagement portion 23. Therefore, the engagement force F1 of the front engagement portion 21 is constant throughout the entire area of ​​the front engagement portion 21. Furthermore, the engagement force F2 of the rear engagement portion 22 is constant throughout the entire area of ​​the rear engagement portion 22. Furthermore, the engagement force F3 of the intermediate engagement portion 23 is constant throughout the entire area of ​​the intermediate engagement portion 23.

[0037] Furthermore, a first non-engagement area 12a is defined on the back sheet 12 between the front engagement portion 21 and the intermediate engagement portion 23, and a second non-engagement area 12b is defined between the rear engagement portion 22 and the intermediate engagement portion 23.

[0038] The first non-engagement region 12a is a region that does not have an engagement portion 20 and does not engage with the outer 2. The maximum length L1 of the first non-engagement region 12a in the longitudinal direction L is longer than the length Lf of the front engagement portion 21 in the longitudinal direction.

[0039] The second non-engagement region 12b is a region that does not have an engagement portion 20 and does not engage with the outer 2. The maximum length L2 of the second non-engagement region 12b in the longitudinal direction L is longer than the longitudinal length Lr of the rear engagement portion 22.

[0040] The function of the absorbent article 1 of Example 1 will be explained as follows.

[0041] The outer garment 2 on which the absorbent article 1 of Example 1 is attached is generally reused by attaching the absorbent article 1 to the inside and replacing only the absorbent article 1 as needed. Therefore, the absorbent article 1 is repeatedly attached to and detached from the inner surface of the outer garment 2.

[0042] On the other hand, the inner surface of the disposable outer garment 2 is made of nonwoven fabric. Here, nonwoven fabric is formed by accumulating fibers in a certain direction or randomly. Therefore, it is weaker and more easily torn than fabrics formed by weaving or knitting fibers. Nonwoven fabric is also more likely to become ripped than cloth. That is, in the case of the disposable outer garment 2, since the inner surface is made of nonwoven fabric, when the absorbent article 1 is peeled off for reuse, the inner surface is more likely to tear or become ripped or ripped due to the separation of the engaging portion 20 than cloth underwear.

[0043] In contrast, the absorbent article 1 of Example 1 has an engagement portion 20 that detachably engages with the outer 2 provided on the backsheet 12, the engagement portion 20 comprising a front engagement portion 21 located in the edge region on the ventral side, a rear engagement portion 22 located in the edge region on the dorsal side, and an intermediate engagement portion 23 at least a portion of which is located in the center in the longitudinal direction. The intermediate engagement portion 23 has a lower engagement force than the front engagement portion 21 and the rear engagement portion 22, and the above-mentioned formula (5) is established.

[0044] As a result, the front engaging portion 21 and the rear engaging portion 22 of the absorbent article 1, which have a relatively stronger engaging force than the intermediate engaging portion 23, firmly engage with the outer 2, preventing both ends of the absorbent article 1 in the longitudinal direction L from coming off or shifting position from the outer 2. Furthermore, the intermediate engaging portion 23 allows the intermediate portion of the absorbent article 1 in the longitudinal direction L to be temporarily fastened to the outer 2 when the absorbent article 1 is worn. Therefore, the absorbent article 1 will not shift from the outer 2 and can be easily worn in the correct position.

[0045] Furthermore, because the engagement force F3 of the intermediate engagement portion 23 is lower than the engagement force F1 of the front engagement portion 21 and the engagement force F2 of the rear engagement portion 22, the intermediate engagement portion 23 can be easily detached without strongly pulling on the inner surface of the outer 2 when peeled off from the outer 2. Therefore, the absorbent article 1 can suppress tearing and fuzzing of the inner surface of the outer 2 at the portion engaged by the intermediate engagement portion 23, preventing problems from occurring during continued use of the outer 2.

[0046] Furthermore, when the absorbent article 1 is attached to the inside of the outer 2, first, both ends in the longitudinal direction L are pressed against the outer 2, and the front engagement portion 21 and the rear engagement portion 22 are engaged with the outer 2. Next, the middle portion of the absorbent article 1 in the longitudinal direction L is pressed against the outer 2, and the middle engagement portion 23 is engaged with the outer 2.

[0047] Alternatively, the absorbent article 1 is first pressed against the outer 2 at the middle portion in the longitudinal direction L, and the middle engagement portion 23 engages with the outer 2, and then both ends in the longitudinal direction L are pressed against the outer 2, and the front engagement portion 21 and the rear engagement portion 22 engage with the outer 2.

[0048] That is, when the absorbent article 1 is attached to the inside of the outer layer 2, the timing at which both ends in the longitudinal direction L are pressed against the outer layer 2 differs from the timing at which the absorbent article 1 is pressed against the outer layer 2 at the middle portion in the longitudinal direction L.

[0049] In contrast, in the absorbent article 1 of Example 1, a first non-engagement region 12a is defined between the front engagement portion 21 and the intermediate engagement portion 23 of the backsheet 12, and the longitudinal length L1 is longer than the longitudinal length Lf of the front engagement portion 21, so that the first non-engagement region 12a does not engage with the outer 2. Furthermore, a second non-engagement region 12b is defined between the rear engagement portion 22 and the intermediate engagement portion 23 of the backsheet 12, and the longitudinal length L2 is longer than the longitudinal length Lr of the rear engagement portion 22, so that the second non-engagement region 12b does not engage with the outer 2.

[0050] This makes it easy to adjust the position of the absorbent article 1 when wearing it, and it can be worn in an appropriate position. Furthermore, the absorbent article 1 can ensure a sufficient area where the back sheet 12 does not engage with the outer 2, and the back sheet 12 does not unnecessarily engage with the outer 2. Therefore, the absorbent article 1 can further prevent tears and pilling on the inner surface of the outer 2.

[0051] Incidentally, the engagement portion 20 has higher rigidity than other components of the absorbent article 1 (such as the top sheet 11 and the back sheet 12), but in the absorbent article 1 of Example 1, the widthwise length Ws of the intermediate engagement portion 23 is shorter than the widthwise length Wf of the front engagement portion 21 and the widthwise length Wr of the rear engagement portion 22.

[0052] In other words, in the absorbent article 1, the intermediate engagement parts 23 are not arranged on both sides in the width direction W in the middle part in the longitudinal direction L. Therefore, in the absorbent article 1, the rigidity of both sides in the width direction W near the leg areas of the outer 2 is not increased by the intermediate engagement parts 23, or the influence of the rigidity of the intermediate engagement parts 23 is small. As a result, the absorbent article 1 of Example 1 can prevent the intermediate engagement parts 23 from interfering with the wearer's walking. Furthermore, the absorbent article 1 can prevent the intermediate engagement parts 23 from coming into contact with the wearer's skin even when the absorbent article 1 is rolled up.

[0053] In addition, in the absorbent article 1 of Example 1, the area As of the intermediate engagement portion 23 that can engage with the outer 2 is smaller than the area Af of the front engagement portion 21 that can engage with the outer 2 and the area Ar of the rear engagement portion 22 that can engage with the outer 2.

[0054] As a result, even if the front engagement portion 21, the rear engagement portion 22, and the intermediate engagement portion 23 of the absorbent article 1 are formed from the same material (materials with the same density of the hook portions 20b), it is possible to make the engagement force F3 of the intermediate engagement portion 23 lower than the engagement force F1 of the front engagement portion 21 and the engagement force F2 of the rear engagement portion 22. This makes it possible to prevent an increase in the number of components that make up the absorbent article 1 and reduce manufacturing costs.

[0055] Example 2 4, in the absorbent article 1A of Example 2, the configuration of the engagement portion 20A provided on the back sheet 12 is different from the engagement portion 20 of Example 1. Note that, since the configuration of the absorbent article 1A of Example 2 other than the engagement portion 20A is the same as that of the absorbent article 1 of Example 1, the same reference numerals as in Example 1 are used and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0056] That is, the engagement portion 20A of the second embodiment has a front engagement portion 21, a rear engagement portion 22, and an intermediate engagement portion 23A. Here, the front engagement portion 21 and the rear engagement portion 22 have the same configuration as in the first embodiment.

[0057] On the other hand, the intermediate engagement portion 23A is divided into a plurality of portions (three in this example) along the longitudinal direction L and is composed of a first intermediate engagement portion 24A, a second intermediate engagement portion 24B, and a third intermediate engagement portion 24C. Here, the first intermediate engagement portion 24A is disposed in the center of the back sheet 12 in the longitudinal direction L. The second intermediate engagement portion 24B is disposed between the first intermediate engagement portion 24A and the front engagement portion 21. The third intermediate engagement portion 24C is disposed between the first intermediate engagement portion 24A and the rear engagement portion 22.

[0058] The first intermediate engagement portion 24A, the second intermediate engagement portion 24B, and the third intermediate engagement portion 24C are each formed of a single member having a rectangular shape that is long in the width direction W in a plan view. The longitudinal lengths Ls1, Ls2, and Ls3 of the first intermediate engagement portion 24A, the second intermediate engagement portion 24B, and the third intermediate engagement portion 24C are set to be the same. The widthwise lengths Ws1, Ws2, and Ws3 of the first intermediate engagement portion 24A, the second intermediate engagement portion 24B, and the third intermediate engagement portion 24C are also set to be the same. Therefore, the area of ​​the first intermediate engagement portion 24A that can engage with the outer 2, the area of ​​the second intermediate engagement portion 24B that can engage with the outer 2, and the area of ​​the third intermediate engagement portion 24C that can engage with the outer 2 are set to be the same.

[0059] The longitudinal lengths Ls1, Ls2, and Ls3 are all set to be the same as the longitudinal length Lf of the front engagement portion 21 and the longitudinal length Lr of the rear engagement portion 22. The width lengths Ws1, Ws2, and Ws3 are all set to be shorter than the width length Wf of the front engagement portion 21 and the width length Wr of the rear engagement portion 22. Therefore, the first intermediate engagement portion 24A, the second intermediate engagement portion 24B, and the third intermediate engagement portion 24C all have smaller areas that can engage with the outer 2 than the front engagement portion 21 and the rear engagement portion 22.

[0060] In the absorbent article 1A, the density Ds1 of the hook portions 20b in the first intermediate engagement portion 24A is higher than the density Ds2 of the hook portions 20b in the second intermediate engagement portion 24B and the density Ds3 of the hook portions 20b in the third intermediate engagement portion 24C. The density Ds2 of the hook portions 20b in the second intermediate engagement portion 24B and the density Ds3 of the hook portions 20b in the third intermediate engagement portion 24C are set to the same density. Furthermore, the density Ds1 of the hook portions 20b in the first intermediate engagement portion 24A is lower than those in the front engagement portion 21 and the rear engagement portion 22. Therefore, in the absorbent article 1A of Example 2, the following formula (6) holds. Df=Dr>Ds1>Ds2=Ds3 (6)

[0061] As a result, in the absorbent article 1A, the engagement force F1 of the front engagement portion 21 and the engagement force F2 of the rear engagement portion 22 are set to be approximately the same, as shown in the following formula (7). Furthermore, the intermediate engagement portion 23A has partially different engagement forces, with the first intermediate engagement portion 24A located in the center in the longitudinal direction L having a higher engagement force than the second intermediate engagement portion 24B and the third intermediate engagement portion 24C located at both end portions in the longitudinal direction L. In other words, the intermediate engagement portion 23A has a higher engagement force in the center portion in the longitudinal direction L than at both end portions in the longitudinal direction L. Furthermore, the engagement forces F31 to F33 of the first to third intermediate engagement portions 24A to 24C are all lower than the engagement force F1 of the front engagement portion 21 and the engagement force F2 of the rear engagement portion 22. F1=F2>F31>F32=F33 (7) F31: Engagement force of the first intermediate engagement portion 24A F32: Engagement force of second intermediate engagement part 24B F33: Engagement force of third intermediate engagement part 24C

[0062] In this way, in the absorbent article 1A of Example 2, the engaging force of the intermediate engaging portion 23A varies partially, so that a desired region of the absorbent article 1A can be fixed with a relatively strong force to the outer 2. As a result, the absorbent article 1A can be effectively prevented from twisting or shifting during use.

[0063] Furthermore, in the absorbent article 1A of Example 2, the central portion of the intermediate engagement portion 23A in the longitudinal direction L has a stronger engagement force than both end portions in the longitudinal direction L. Therefore, between the front engagement portion 21 and the rear engagement portion 22, the central portion in the longitudinal direction L of the absorbent article 1A can be engaged relatively more firmly with the outer 2 than the portions closer to the front engagement portion 21 or the rear engagement portion 22. Furthermore, the central portion in the longitudinal direction L of the absorbent article 1A is less likely to come loose from the outer 2, which can suppress displacement that may occur while the wearer is walking, for example. Furthermore, the absorbent article 1A can provide the wearer with a sense of security during use.

[0064] In the absorbent article 1A of Example 2, a first non-engagement region 12a is also defined in the backsheet 12 between the front engagement portion 21 and the second intermediate engagement portion 24B of the intermediate engagement portion 23A. A second non-engagement region 12b is defined between the rear engagement portion 22 and the third intermediate engagement portion 24C of the intermediate engagement portion 23A. The maximum length L1 of the first non-engagement region 12a in the longitudinal direction L is longer than the longitudinal length Lf of the front engagement portion 21, and the maximum length L2 of the second non-engagement region 12b in the longitudinal direction L is longer than the longitudinal length Lr of the rear engagement portion 22.

[0065] As a result, in the absorbent article 1A, the backsheet 12 does not unnecessarily engage with the outer layer 2, and tearing and fluffing of the inner surface of the outer layer 2 can be suppressed.

[0066] Example 3 5, in the absorbent article 1B of Example 3, the configuration of the engagement portion 20B provided on the back sheet 12 is different from the engagement portion 20 of Example 1. Note that, since the configuration of the absorbent article 1B of Example 3 other than the engagement portion 20B is the same as that of the absorbent article 1 of Example 1, the same reference numerals as in Example 1 are used and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0067] That is, the engaging portion 20B of the third embodiment has a front engaging portion 21, a rear engaging portion 22B, and an intermediate engaging portion 23B. Here, the front engaging portion 21 has the same configuration as that of the first embodiment.

[0068] On the other hand, the rear engagement portion 22B is configured from a single member having a rectangular shape that is long in the width direction W in a plan view, but the longitudinal length Lr is set to be longer than the longitudinal length Lf of the front engagement portion 21. The width direction length Wr of the rear engagement portion 22B and the width direction length Wf of the front engagement portion 21 are set to be the same length. As a result, the area of ​​the rear engagement portion 22B that can engage with the outer 2 is larger than that of the front engagement portion 21.

[0069] The intermediate engagement portion 23B is divided into a plurality of portions (three in this example) along the longitudinal direction L and is composed of a first intermediate engagement portion 25A, a second intermediate engagement portion 25B, and a third intermediate engagement portion 25C. Here, the first intermediate engagement portion 25A is disposed in the center of the back sheet 12 in the longitudinal direction L. The second intermediate engagement portion 25B is disposed between the first intermediate engagement portion 25A and the front engagement portion 21. The third intermediate engagement portion 25C is disposed between the first intermediate engagement portion 25A and the rear engagement portion 22B.

[0070] The first intermediate engagement portion 25A, the second intermediate engagement portion 25B, and the third intermediate engagement portion 25C are each formed of a single member having a rectangular shape that is long in the width direction W in a plan view. The longitudinal lengths Ls1, Ls2, and Ls3 of the first intermediate engagement portion 25A, the second intermediate engagement portion 25B, and the third intermediate engagement portion 25C are set to be the same. Meanwhile, the width direction length Ws3 of the third intermediate engagement portion 25C is the longest, and the width direction length Ws2 of the second intermediate engagement portion 25B is the shortest. The width direction length Ws1 of the first intermediate engagement portion 25A, which is located in the center, is set to be longer than the width direction length Ws2 but shorter than the width direction length Ws3.

[0071] Therefore, the area of ​​the first intermediate engagement portion 25A that can engage with the outer 2, the area of ​​the second intermediate engagement portion 25B that can engage with the outer 2, and the area of ​​the third intermediate engagement portion 25C that can engage with the outer 2 become smaller in order from the rear side (dorsal side) to the front side (ventral side).

[0072] The longitudinal lengths Ls1, Ls2, and Ls3 are all set to be the same as the longitudinal length Lf of the front engagement portion 21. The widthwise lengths Ws1, Ws2, and Ws3 are all set to be shorter than the widthwise length Wf of the front engagement portion 21 and the widthwise length Wr of the rear engagement portion 22B. Therefore, the first intermediate engagement portion 25A, the second intermediate engagement portion 25B, and the third intermediate engagement portion 25C all have smaller areas that can engage with the outer 2 than the front engagement portion 21 and the rear engagement portion 22B.

[0073] In the absorbent article 1B, the densities of the hook portions 20b in the engaging portions 21, 22B, 25A, 25B, and 25C are all set to the same density.

[0074] As a result, in the absorbent article 1B, the engagement force F2 of the rear engagement portion 22B is higher than the engagement force F1 of the front engagement portion 21, as shown in the following formula (8). Furthermore, the intermediate engagement portion 23B has partially different engagement forces, with the third intermediate engagement portion 25C having a higher engagement force than the first intermediate engagement portion 25A, and the first intermediate engagement portion 25A having a higher engagement force than the second intermediate engagement portion 25B. In other words, the intermediate engagement portion 23B has a higher engagement force in a portion closer to the rear engagement portion 22B than in a portion closer to the front engagement portion 21. Furthermore, the engagement forces F31 to F33 of the first to third intermediate engagement portions 25A to 25C are all lower than the engagement force F1 of the front engagement portion 21 and the engagement force F2 of the rear engagement portion 22B. F2>F1>F33>F31>F32 (8) F31: Engagement force of the first intermediate engagement portion 25A F32: Engagement force of second intermediate engagement part 25B F33: Engagement force of third intermediate engagement part 25C

[0075] In this way, in the absorbent article 1B of Example 3, the engaging force of the intermediate engaging portion 23B varies partially, so that a desired region of the absorbent article 1B can be fixed with a relatively strong force to the outer 2. As a result, the absorbent article 1B can be effectively prevented from twisting or shifting during use.

[0076] Furthermore, in the absorbent article 1B of Example 3, the portion of the intermediate engagement portion 23B closer to the rear engagement portion 22B has a stronger engagement force than the portion closer to the front engagement portion 21. Therefore, the absorbent article 1B can suppress displacement of the rear portion of the absorbent article 1B by increasing the engagement force on the rear side. Furthermore, the absorbent article 1B of Example 3 can maintain a proper wearing state even in cases where the rear portion is prone to displacement or deformation during use, such as when used in a supine position.

[0077] In the absorbent article 1B of Example 3, a first non-engagement region 12a is also defined in the backsheet 12 between the front engagement portion 21 and the second intermediate engagement portion 25B. A second non-engagement region 12b is also defined between the rear engagement portion 22B and the third intermediate engagement portion 25C. The maximum length L1 of the first non-engagement region 12a in the longitudinal direction L is longer than the longitudinal length Lf of the front engagement portion 21, and the maximum length L2 of the second non-engagement region 12b in the longitudinal direction L is longer than the longitudinal length Lr of the rear engagement portion 22B.

[0078] As a result, in the absorbent article 1B, the backsheet 12 does not unnecessarily engage with the outer layer 2, and tearing and fluffing of the inner surface of the outer layer 2 can be suppressed.

[0079] Example 4 6, in the absorbent article 1C of Example 4, the configuration of the engagement portion 20C provided on the back sheet 12 is different from the engagement portion 20 of Example 1. Note that, since the configuration of the absorbent article 1C of Example 4 other than the engagement portion 20C is the same as that of the absorbent article 1 of Example 1, the same reference numerals as in Example 1 are used and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0080] That is, the engaging portion 20C of the fourth embodiment has a front engaging portion 21C, a rear engaging portion 22, and an intermediate engaging portion 23C. Here, the rear engaging portion 22 has the same configuration as that of the first embodiment.

[0081] On the other hand, the front engagement portion 21C is configured from a single member having a rectangular shape that is long in the width direction W in a plan view, but the longitudinal length Lf is set to be longer than the longitudinal length Lr of the rear engagement portion 22. The width direction length Wf of the front engagement portion 21C and the width direction length Wr of the rear engagement portion 22 are set to be the same length. As a result, the area of ​​the front engagement portion 21C that can engage with the outer 2 is larger than that of the rear engagement portion 22.

[0082] The intermediate engagement portion 23C is divided into a plurality of portions (three in this example) along the longitudinal direction L and is composed of a first intermediate engagement portion 26A, a second intermediate engagement portion 26B, and a third intermediate engagement portion 26C. The first intermediate engagement portion 26A is disposed in the center of the back sheet 12 in the longitudinal direction L. The second intermediate engagement portion 26B is disposed between the first intermediate engagement portion 26A and the front engagement portion 21C. The third intermediate engagement portion 26C is disposed between the first intermediate engagement portion 26A and the rear engagement portion 22.

[0083] The first intermediate engagement portion 26A, the second intermediate engagement portion 26B, and the third intermediate engagement portion 26C are each formed of a single member having a rectangular shape that is long in the width direction W in a plan view. The longitudinal lengths Ls1, Ls2, and Ls3 of the first intermediate engagement portion 26A, the second intermediate engagement portion 26B, and the third intermediate engagement portion 26C are set to be the same. Meanwhile, the width direction length Ws2 of the second intermediate engagement portion 26B is the longest, and the width direction length Ws3 of the third intermediate engagement portion 26C is the shortest. The width direction length Ws1 of the first intermediate engagement portion 26A, which is located in the center, is set to be shorter than the width direction length Ws2 but longer than the width direction length Ws3.

[0084] Therefore, the area of ​​the first intermediate engagement portion 26A that can engage with the outer 2, the area of ​​the second intermediate engagement portion 26B that can engage with the outer 2, and the area of ​​the third intermediate engagement portion 26C that can engage with the outer 2 decrease in order from the front side (ventral side) to the rear side (dorsal side).

[0085] The longitudinal lengths Ls1, Ls2, and Ls3 are all set to be the same as the longitudinal length Lr of the rear engagement portion 22. The lengths Ws1, Ws2, and Ws3 are all set to be shorter than the widthwise length Wf of the front engagement portion 21C and the widthwise length Wr of the rear engagement portion 22. Therefore, the first intermediate engagement portion 26A, the second intermediate engagement portion 26B, and the third intermediate engagement portion 26C all have smaller areas that can engage with the outer 2 than the front engagement portion 21C and the rear engagement portion 22.

[0086] In the absorbent article 1C, the densities of the hook portions 20b in the engaging portions 21C, 22, 26A, 26B, and 26C are all set to the same density.

[0087] As a result, in the absorbent article 1C, the engagement force F1 of the front engagement portion 21C is higher than the engagement force F2 of the rear engagement portion 22, as shown in the following formula (9). Furthermore, the intermediate engagement portion 23C has partially different engagement forces, with the second intermediate engagement portion 26B having a higher engagement force than the first intermediate engagement portion 26A, and the first intermediate engagement portion 26A having a higher engagement force than the third intermediate engagement portion 26C. In other words, the intermediate engagement portion 23C has a higher engagement force in a portion closer to the front engagement portion 21C than in a portion closer to the rear engagement portion 22. Furthermore, the engagement forces F31 to F33 of the first to third intermediate engagement portions 26A to 26C are all lower than the engagement force F1 of the front engagement portion 21C and the engagement force F2 of the rear engagement portion 22. F1>F2>F32>F31>F33 (9) F31: Engagement force of the first intermediate engagement portion 26A F32: Engagement force of second intermediate engagement part 26B F33: Engagement force of third intermediate engagement part 26C

[0088] In this way, in the absorbent article 1C of Example 4, the engaging force of the intermediate engaging portion 23C varies partially, so that a desired region of the absorbent article 1C can be fixed with a relatively strong force to the outer 2. As a result, the absorbent article 1C can be effectively prevented from twisting or shifting during use.

[0089] Furthermore, in the absorbent article 1C of Example 4, the portion of the intermediate engagement portion 23C that is closer to the front engagement portion 21C has a stronger engagement force than the portion that is closer to the rear engagement portion 22. Therefore, the absorbent article 1C can increase the engagement force on the ventral side to prevent the ventral portion of the absorbent article 1B from shifting out of position. Therefore, even in cases where the ventral portion is prone to deformation during use, such as in men's pads, the absorbent article 1C of Example 4 can prevent shifting and maintain a proper wearing state.

[0090] In the absorbent article 1C of Example 4, a first non-engagement region 12a is also defined in the backsheet 12 between the front engagement portion 21C and the second intermediate engagement portion 26B. A second non-engagement region 12b is also defined between the rear engagement portion 22 and the third intermediate engagement portion 26C. The maximum length L1 of the first non-engagement region 12a in the longitudinal direction L is longer than the longitudinal length Lf of the front engagement portion 21C, and the maximum length L2 of the second non-engagement region 12b in the longitudinal direction L is longer than the longitudinal length Lr of the rear engagement portion 22.

[0091] As a result, in the absorbent article 1C, the backsheet 12 does not unnecessarily engage with the outer layer 2, and tearing and fluffing of the inner surface of the outer layer 2 can be suppressed.

[0092] The absorbent article of the present invention has been described above based on Examples 1 to 4, but the specific configuration is not limited to these Examples, and design changes and additions are permitted as long as they do not deviate from the gist of the invention according to each claim.

[0093] In the absorbent article 1 of Example 1, the engaging portion 20 is formed of a member separate from the backsheet 12. However, as in the absorbent article 1D of the first modified example shown in FIG. 7, the engaging portion 20 is formed by applying resin processing, such as ultrasonic waves or embossing, to the surface of the backsheet 12 (the surface in contact with the outer 2) to form hook portions 20b that can engage with the nonwoven fabric. The engaging portion 20 may then be formed of the hook portions 20b. In other words, the engaging portion 20 may be integrated with the backsheet 12.

[0094] In this case, as in the absorbent article 1D of the first modified example shown in Fig. 8, the density of the hook portions 20b formed in the end regions P1, P1' in the longitudinal direction L of the backsheet 12 is made higher than the density of the hook portions 20b formed in the central region P2. This allows the engagement force of the front engagement portion (end region P1) and the rear engagement portion (end region P1') of the engagement portion 20 to be higher than the engagement force of the intermediate engagement portion (central region P2).

[0095] In the absorbent article 1D of the first modified example shown in FIG. 8, it is also preferable that the widthwise length WP2 of the central region P2 is shorter than the widthwise lengths WP1, WP1' of the end regions P1, P1' in the width direction W.

[0096] The engaging force of the end region P1 and the engaging force of the end region P1' do not have to be equal. Furthermore, even within the central region P2, the density of the hook portions 20b can be made to vary partially, so that the engaging force in the central region P2 does not have to be uniform.

[0097] Furthermore, between the end region P1 and the central region P2, or between the end region P1' and the central region P2, there may be provided a region where no hook portion 20b is formed.

[0098] Furthermore, the engaging portion 20 may be formed by an adhesive applied to the back sheet 12.

[0099] Furthermore, even if the engaging portion 20 is formed of a member separate from the backsheet 12, its shape and arrangement are not limited to those in the first to fourth embodiments.

[0100] For example, as in an absorbent article 1E of a second modified example shown in Fig. 9, the front engagement portion 21E, the rear engagement portion 22E, and the intermediate engagement portion 23E of an engagement portion 20E may all be set to the same size as the front engagement portion 21 or the rear engagement portion 22 of Example 1. In the absorbent article 1E of the second modified example, for example, the density Df of the hook portions 20b in the front engagement portion 21E and the density Dr of the hook portions 20b in the rear engagement portion 22E are set higher than the density Ds of the hook portions 20b in the intermediate engagement portion 23E. This allows the engagement force of the front engagement portion 21E and the rear engagement portion 22E to be set higher than the engagement force of the intermediate engagement portion 23E.

[0101] Furthermore, in the absorbent article 1A of Example 2, an example was shown in which the intermediate engagement portion 23A was divided into multiple (three) parts along the longitudinal direction L. However, the shape of the engagement portion 20 is not limited to this. For example, as in an absorbent article 1F of a third modified example shown in FIG. 10 , the engagement portion 20F includes a front engagement portion 21F, a rear engagement portion 22F, and an intermediate engagement portion 23F. The front engagement portion 21F may be divided into multiple (two, here) parts along the longitudinal direction L and configured with a first front engagement portion 21Fa close to the front edge 10a and a second front engagement portion 21Fb close to the intermediate engagement portion 23F. The rear engagement portion 22F may be divided into multiple (two, here) parts along the longitudinal direction L and configured with a first rear engagement portion 22Fa close to the rear edge 10b and a second rear engagement portion 22Fb close to the intermediate engagement portion 23F.

[0102] In the absorbent article 1F of the third modified example, the second front engagement portion 21Fb has a shorter width than the first front engagement portion 21Fa, and the second rear engagement portion 22Fb has a shorter width than the first rear engagement portion 22Fa. This allows the absorbent article 1F to weaken the engagement force of the engagement portion 20F toward the center in the longitudinal direction L.

[0103] Furthermore, in the absorbent article 1, it is sufficient that the engagement force of the intermediate engagement portion 23 is lower than the engagement force of the front engagement portion 21 and the rear engagement portion 22. Therefore, the lengths in the longitudinal direction L or width direction W of the front engagement portion 21, the rear engagement portion 22, and the intermediate engagement portion 23, the area that can be engaged with the outer 2, the arrangement, number, shape, density of the hook portions 20b, etc. are not limited to those in the above-described embodiments and modified examples. For example, they can be set arbitrarily as shown in Figs. 11 to 13.

[0104] 11, the widthwise length Ws of the intermediate engagement portion 23G is set to be shorter than the widthwise length Wf of the front engagement portion 21G and the widthwise length Wr of the rear engagement portion 22G. On the other hand, the longitudinal length Ls of the intermediate engagement portion 23G is set to be sufficiently longer than the longitudinal length Lf of the front engagement portion 21G and the longitudinal length Lr of the rear engagement portion 22G, and extends in the longitudinal direction L like a long strip.

[0105] In addition, in the absorbent article 1G of the fourth modified example, for example, the density Ds of the hook portions 20b at the intermediate engagement portion 23G is set to be lower than the density Df of the hook portions 20b at the front engagement portion 21 and the density Dr of the hook portions 20b at the rear engagement portion 22, so that the engagement force F3 of the intermediate engagement portion 23G can be set to be lower than the engagement force F1 of the front engagement portion 21 and the engagement force F2 of the rear engagement portion 22.

[0106] In addition, in the absorbent article 1H of the fifth modified example shown in Figure 12, the longitudinal length Lf of the front engagement portion 21H is longer than the longitudinal length Lf of the front engagement portion 21 of Example 1, and the longitudinal length Lr of the rear engagement portion 22H is set to be longer than the longitudinal length Lr of the rear engagement portion 22 of Example 1.

[0107] The widthwise length Wf of the front engagement portion 21H is shorter than the widthwise length Wf of the front engagement portion 21 of Example 1 and is set to the same size as the intermediate engagement portion 23 of Example 1. The widthwise length Wr of the rear engagement portion 22H is shorter than the widthwise length Wr of the rear engagement portion 22 of Example 1 and is set to the same size as the intermediate engagement portion 23 of Example 1. In the absorbent article 1H of the fifth modified example, the size of the intermediate engagement portion 23H is set to the same size as the intermediate engagement portion 23 of Example 1.

[0108] 13, the front engagement portion 21J, the rear engagement portion 22J, and the intermediate engagement portion 23J are all set to the same size as the intermediate engagement portion 23 of Example 1. Even in this case, for example, by setting the density Ds of the hook portions 20b in the intermediate engagement portion 23J lower than the density Df of the hook portions 20b in the front engagement portion 21J and the density Dr of the hook portions 20b in the rear engagement portion 22J, the engagement force F3 of the intermediate engagement portion 23J can be set lower than the engagement force F1 of the front engagement portion 21J and the engagement force F2 of the rear engagement portion 22J.

[0109] Furthermore, the front engagement portion 21, the rear engagement portion 22, and the intermediate engagement portion 23 may be divided into multiple portions along the width direction W, or may be divided into multiple portions along the longitudinal direction L and the width direction W and arranged in a matrix.

[0110] Furthermore, the first non-engagement region 12a and the second non-engagement region 12b do not necessarily have to be provided. That is, the front engagement portion 21 and the intermediate engagement portion 23 may be provided continuously, or the rear engagement portion 22 and the intermediate engagement portion 23 may be provided continuously.

[0111] Furthermore, although the absorbent article 1 in Example 1 is an example of a urine-absorbing pad to be worn inside the outer garment 2, the absorbent article 1 is not limited to this. The absorbent article 1 may be any article that is worn inside the outer garment 2 and used to absorb bodily fluids. Therefore, the absorbent article 1 may be, for example, a sanitary napkin that absorbs menstrual blood or a panty liner that absorbs vaginal discharge. [Explanation of symbols]

[0112] 1. Absorbent articles 2. Outerwear 11 Surface sheet 12 Back sheet 12a 1st non-engaging area 12b 2nd non-engaging area 20 Engagement portion 20b Hook part 21 Front engagement portion 22 rear engagement portion 23 Intermediate engagement portion F1 Engagement force of front engagement part F2 Engagement force of rear engagement part F3 Engagement force of intermediate engagement part

Claims

1. An absorbent article that is attached to the inside of an outer disposable article that extends in a longitudinal direction extending from the ventral side to the dorsal side of a wearer and has an inner surface formed of a nonwoven fabric, a top sheet facing the wearer; and a back sheet positioned on the opposite side of the top sheet, facing the outer layer, and having an engaging portion for detachably engaging with the outer layer, The engaging portion has a front engaging portion disposed in the end region on the ventral side, a rear engaging portion disposed in the end region on the dorsal side, and an intermediate engaging portion at least a portion of which is disposed in a central portion in the longitudinal direction, The intermediate engagement portion has a lower engagement force than the front engagement portion and the rear engagement portion. An absorbent article characterized by:

2. The absorbent article according to claim 1, The engagement force of the intermediate engagement portion is partially different. An absorbent article characterized by:

3. The absorbent article according to claim 2, The front engaging portion and the rear engaging portion are set to have equal engaging forces, The intermediate engaging portion has a stronger engaging force at a central portion in the longitudinal direction than at both end portions in the longitudinal direction. An absorbent article characterized by:

4. The absorbent article according to claim 2, The rear engagement portion has a higher engagement force than the front engagement portion, The intermediate engagement portion has a stronger engagement force at a portion closer to the rear engagement portion than at a portion closer to the front engagement portion. An absorbent article characterized by:

5. The absorbent article according to claim 2, The front engagement portion has a higher engagement force than the rear engagement portion, The intermediate engagement portion has a stronger engagement force at a portion closer to the front engagement portion than at a portion closer to the rear engagement portion. An absorbent article characterized by:

6. The absorbent article according to claim 1 or 2, The backsheet has a first non-engagement region between the front engagement portion and the intermediate engagement portion, the first non-engagement region having a length in the longitudinal direction longer than the length in the longitudinal direction of the front engagement portion, and not engaging with the outer; A second non-engagement region is defined between the rear engagement portion and the intermediate engagement portion, the second non-engagement region having a length in the longitudinal direction longer than the length in the longitudinal direction of the rear engagement portion and not engaging with the outer. An absorbent article characterized by:

7. The absorbent article according to claim 1 or 2, The length of the intermediate engagement portion in a width direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction is shorter than the length of the front engagement portion and the length of the rear engagement portion in the width direction. An absorbent article characterized by:

8. The absorbent article according to claim 1 or 2, The area of ​​the intermediate engagement portion that can engage with the outer casing is smaller than the area of ​​the front engagement portion that can engage with the outer casing and the area of ​​the rear engagement portion that can engage with the outer casing. An absorbent article characterized by:

9. The absorbent article according to claim 1 or 2, The engaging portion is configured by a hook portion that can engage with the nonwoven fabric formed on the surface of the back sheet. An absorbent article characterized by:

Images