Absorbent article

Abstract

To provide an absorbent article which has good adhesiveness to a wearer's crotch area and allows a user to easily recognize that absorbent core is less likely to sag before use.SOLUTION: An absorbent article (1) is provided with an elastic crotch area (ER) at a crotch, has a peripheral area (AR) surrounding the elastic crotch area (ER), and has an area (61) of a background color and an area (60) of a certain specific color different from the background color in the case of looking at the absorbent article (1) from a non-skin side. When a ratio obtained by dividing the total area of the area (60) of a specific color provided in the elastic crotch area (ER) by the area of the elastic crotch area (ER) is regarded as a first area rate, and a ratio obtained by dividing the total area of the area (60) of a specific color provided in the peripheral area (AR) by the area of the peripheral area (AR) is regarded as a second area rate, the absolute value of difference between the first area rate and the second area rate is the first area rate or more, or the second area rate or more.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 8

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] The disposable diaper disclosed in Patent Document 1 has a first buttocks elastic member that extends longitudinally and is located on the non-skin-contacting side of the absorbent core. Contraction of the first buttocks elastic member creates an upward tension, reducing the gap between the diaper and the wearer's crotch. This improves the diaper's ability to prevent leakage of body waste and provides a comfortable fit. [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] However, simply providing an elastic member in the buttocks area, as in Patent Document 1, may result in the user not noticing the presence of the elastic member in the buttocks area. As a result, even though the elastic member improves the fit to the wearer's crotch area, the user may not be aware of this and may continue to worry about leakage while wearing the absorbent article. Furthermore, users have experienced gaps in the crotch area caused by the absorbent core being pinched by the force from the inside of the thighs, or by the absorbent core sagging due to its weight after absorbing excrement, which can lead to leakage and discomfort. Therefore, users tend to desire products with absorbent cores that are less likely to sag. Therefore, by knowing before use that the elastic member prevents the absorbent core from sagging, users can use the absorbent article with peace of mind.

[0005] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned problems, and its purpose is to provide an absorbent article that has good adhesion to the wearer's crotch area and that the user can easily recognize before use that the absorbent core is not likely to sag. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The main invention to achieve the above object is: 1. An absorbent article having an absorbent core, In the deployed and extended state, having a longitudinal direction, a left-right direction, and a thickness direction which intersect with each other, a crotch elastic region defined by an elastic portion of a crotch elastic member that is provided on the non-skin side of the absorbent core and that stretches along the longitudinal direction; At least a part of the crotch elastic region is provided in the crotch region, which is a central region when the absorbent article is divided into three equal parts in the longitudinal direction, a peripheral region surrounding the crotch elastic region; The peripheral region ranges in the left-right direction from a position spaced to the left of the left end of the crotch elastic region by half the width of the crotch elastic region to a position spaced to the right of the right end of the crotch elastic region by half the length, and in the longitudinal direction from a position spaced to one side by the width from one end of the crotch elastic region to a position spaced to the other side by the width from the other end of the crotch elastic region, When the absorbent article is viewed from the non-skin side, a region of a background color and a region of a specific color different from the background color, the background color area is the area that occupies the largest area in the crotch area, a first area ratio is a ratio obtained by dividing the total area of ​​the specific color areas provided in the crotch elastic area by the area of ​​the crotch elastic area; When the ratio obtained by dividing the total area of ​​the specific color areas provided in the peripheral area by the area of ​​the peripheral area is defined as a second area ratio, The absorbent article is characterized in that the absolute value of the difference between the first area ratio and the second area ratio is equal to or greater than the first area ratio or equal to or greater than the second area ratio. 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 an absorbent article that has good adhesion to the crotch region of the wearer and that the absorbent core is unlikely to sag, which the user can easily recognize even before use. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic front view of a pants-type disposable diaper 1. FIG. [Figure 2] 1 is a schematic plan view of a diaper 1 in an unfolded and stretched state, as viewed from the skin side. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line CC in FIG. 2. [Figure 4] 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an absorbent body 10. FIG. [Figure 5] 10 is a diagram illustrating the arrangement of the crotch elastic members 40. FIG. [Figure 6] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating the arrangement of modified examples of the crotch elastic members 40. FIG. [Figure 7] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating the arrangement of modified examples of the crotch elastic members 40. FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram of a specific color area 60. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is an enlarged view of the crotch elastic region ER and the peripheral region AR. [Figure 10] 10A and 10B are explanatory diagrams showing modified examples of the specific color area 60. FIG. [Figure 11] 11A and 11B are explanatory diagrams showing modified examples of the specific color area 60. FIG. [Figure 12] 10 is an explanatory diagram of a modified example of the specific color area 60. FIG. [Figure 13]FIG. 13A is a partial cross-sectional view of the absorbent main body 10, and FIG. 13B is an explanatory diagram of the joint 70 between the backsheet 13 and the elastic member cover sheet 17. As shown in FIG. [Figure 14] 10 is an explanatory diagram of a specific color region 60 in the diaper 1 of the second embodiment. 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 is an absorbent article having an absorbent core, which in an unfolded and stretched state has longitudinal, left-right, and thickness directions that intersect with one another, and has a crotch elastic region that is defined by an elastic portion of a crotch elastic member that is located closer to the skin than the absorbent core and stretches along the longitudinal direction, and at least a part of the crotch elastic region is provided in a crotch part that is a central region when the absorbent article is divided into thirds in the longitudinal direction, and has a peripheral region that surrounds the crotch elastic region, and the peripheral region ranges in the left-right direction from a position that is half the width of the crotch elastic region to the left of the left end of the crotch elastic region to a position that is half the length to the right of the right end of the crotch elastic region, and in the longitudinal direction, the absorbent article is characterized in that the absorbent article has a region of a background color and a region of a specific color different from the background color when viewed from the non-skin side, the background color region being the region with the largest area in the crotch part, and the first area ratio is a ratio of the total area of ​​the specific color regions provided in the crotch elastic region divided by the area of ​​the crotch elastic region, and the second area ratio is a ratio of the total area of ​​the specific color regions provided in the peripheral region divided by the area of ​​the peripheral region, and the absolute value of the difference between the first area ratio and the second area ratio is equal to or greater than the first area ratio or the second area ratio.

[0010] According to the first aspect, the difference in the area ratio of the specific color between the crotch elastic region and the surrounding region is large, making the crotch elastic region more noticeable. Therefore, the user can easily notice the presence of the crotch elastic member before using the absorbent article, and can recognize that the absorbent article has good adhesion to the wearer's crotch area and is not likely to sag. This eliminates concerns about leakage and an uncomfortable feeling, allowing the user to use the absorbent article with peace of mind.

[0011] (Aspect 2) The absorbent article according to aspect 1, In the unfolded and stretched state, at least one of the crotch elastic region and the peripheral region is provided with an area of ​​the specific color whose length in the longitudinal direction is longer than its length in the left-right direction.

[0012] According to the second aspect, when a user sees the longitudinally long region of a specific color, the user is likely to get the impression that the crotch elastic members stretch in the longitudinal direction, which makes it easier for the user to recognize that the crotch elastic members keep the absorbent core pressed up against the skin, and the absorbent article adheres well to the crotch area of ​​the wearer and is less likely to sag.

[0013] (Aspect 3) The absorbent article according to aspect 2, In the unfolded and stretched state, the crotch elastic region has a plurality of band-shaped regions of the specific color arranged side by side in the left-right direction along the longitudinal direction.

[0014] According to aspect 3, the specific color area is an elongated area, which makes it easier for a user to get the impression that the crotch elastic members stretch in the longitudinal direction, thereby making it easier for the user to recognize that the absorbent article has good adhesion to the crotch area of ​​the wearer and is less likely to sag.

[0015] (Aspect 4) An absorbent article according to any one of aspects 1 to 3, In the unfolded and stretched state, the total length of the specific color area provided in one of the crotch elastic area and the peripheral area in at least one of the longitudinal direction and the left-right direction is at least half the length of the one area.

[0016] According to the fourth aspect, a specific color area is provided in one area over a wide area in at least one of the longitudinal and left-right directions, making the crotch elastic area more noticeable and allowing the user to easily notice the presence of the crotch elastic member.

[0017] (Aspect 5) An absorbent article according to any one of aspects 1 to 4, The first area ratio is 1 / 2 or more, or the second area ratio is 1 / 2 or more.

[0018] According to the fifth aspect, the crotch elastic region is more noticeable than when the first area ratio is less than 1 / 2 or when the second area ratio is less than 1 / 2, and the user can more easily notice the presence of the crotch elastic member.

[0019] (Aspect 6) An absorbent article according to any one of aspects 1 to 5, The specific color area is not provided in the peripheral area.

[0020] According to the sixth aspect, the user focuses directly on the crotch elastic region, and therefore the presence of the crotch elastic member becomes easily noticeable based on the wrinkles caused by the contraction of the crotch elastic member.

[0021] (Aspect 7) An absorbent article according to any one of aspects 1 to 6, In the unfolded and stretched state, in the crotch elastic region, a plurality of thread-like crotch elastic members are arranged in the left-right direction, and the stretchable portions of the crotch elastic members have portions that overlap with the region of the specific color in the thickness direction.

[0022] According to the seventh aspect, the user focuses directly on the stretchable portion of the crotch elastic member, and therefore the presence of the crotch elastic member becomes easily noticeable based on the wrinkles caused by the contraction of the crotch elastic member.

[0023] (Embodiment 8) An absorbent article according to any one of embodiments 1 to 7, In the unfolded and stretched state, multiple thread-like crotch elastic members are arranged in the left-right direction in the crotch elastic region, and in the region outside the crotch elastic region in the longitudinal direction, the non-stretchable portions of the crotch elastic members have portions that do not overlap with the region of the specific color in the thickness direction.

[0024] According to the eighth aspect, it is possible to prevent the user from mistakenly perceiving the non-stretchable portions of the crotch elastic members as stretchable, and to correctly grasp the actual stretchable positions. Furthermore, it is possible to prevent the non-stretchable portions of the freely stretchable crotch elastic members from being less noticeable, thereby preventing the impression of the longitudinally stretchable crotch elastic members from being diminished. Furthermore, it is possible to prevent a decrease in the appearance (aesthetics) of the absorbent article.

[0025] (Aspect 9) An absorbent article according to any one of aspects 1 to 8, The garment has a liquid-impermeable back sheet and a non-skin-side sheet located closer to the skin than the back sheet, and the crotch elastic member is located between the back sheet and the non-skin-side sheet. The back sheet is colored to form the specific color area. In the unfolded and stretched state, in the crotch elastic area, multiple thread-like crotch elastic members are lined up in the left-right direction, and a joint between the back sheet and the non-skin-side sheet is located between the multiple crotch elastic members lined up in the left-right direction.

[0026] According to the ninth aspect, the non-skin side sheet can be prevented from floating relative to the back sheet, and the visibility of the specific color area formed on the back sheet is improved, so that the crotch elastic area stands out and the user can easily recognize the presence of the crotch elastic member.

[0027] (Aspect 10) An absorbent article according to any one of aspects 1 to 9, The garment has a liquid-impermeable back sheet and a non-skin-side sheet located closer to the skin than the back sheet, and the crotch elastic member is located between the back sheet and the non-skin-side sheet.In the unfolded and stretched state, in the crotch elastic region, multiple thread-like crotch elastic members are lined up in the left-right direction, and a joint between the back sheet and the non-skin-side sheet is located between the multiple crotch elastic members lined up in the left-right direction, and the joint extends further outward in the longitudinal direction than the crotch elastic region.

[0028] According to the tenth aspect, the joining portion restricts the bending of the non-stretchable portions of the crotch elastic members in the left-right direction. This prevents the impression of the longitudinally stretchable crotch elastic members from being diminished. This also prevents the appearance (aesthetics) of the absorbent article from being impaired.

[0029] (Embodiment 11) The absorbent article according to any one of embodiments 1 to 10, The crotch elastic members are colored to form the specific color areas.

[0030] According to the eleventh aspect, the user can easily focus on the crotch elastic members, become aware of their existence, and correctly grasp the actual stretching positions.

[0031] (Aspect 12) An absorbent article according to any one of aspects 1 to 11, In the unfolded and stretched state, the absorbent article has a waist elastic region that stretches along the left-right direction at at least one end of the longitudinal direction, and when the absorbent article is viewed from the non-skin side, the waist elastic region has a waist colored region that is colored along the left-right direction.

[0032] According to aspect 12, the waist colored region is conspicuous, making it easier for the user to notice the presence of the waist elastic region, allowing the user to recognize that the absorbent article is a product that fits well around the waist of the wearer, eliminating concerns about leakage and the impression of discomfort, and allowing the user to use the absorbent article with peace of mind.

[0033] (Aspect 13) An absorbent article according to any one of aspects 1 to 12, In an unfolded and stretched state, the absorbent body having the absorbent core has side elastic regions on both sides in the left-right direction that stretch along the longitudinal direction, and when the absorbent article is viewed from the non-skin side or the skin side, the side elastic regions have side colored regions that are colored along the longitudinal direction.

[0034] According to Aspect 13, the side colored regions are conspicuous, making it easier for the user to notice the presence of the side elastic regions, which allows the user to recognize that the absorbent article is a product that adheres well to the wearer's leg areas, eliminating concerns about leakage and the impression of discomfort, and allowing the user to use the absorbent article with peace of mind.

[0035] (Aspect 14) The absorbent article of aspect 12, In an unfolded and stretched state, the absorbent main body having the absorbent core has side elastic regions that stretch along the longitudinal direction on both sides in the left-right direction, and when the absorbent article is viewed from the non-skin side or the skin side, the side elastic regions have side colored regions that are colored along the longitudinal direction, and the specific color region in the crotch elastic region viewed from the non-skin side, the waist colored region viewed from the non-skin side, and the side colored regions viewed from the non-skin side or the skin side are all similar colors.

[0036] According to the fourteenth aspect, the three elastic regions (crotch elastic region, waist elastic region, and side elastic region) have a sense of unity, making it easier for the user to visually and intuitively recognize that the crotch, waist, and leg regions of the absorbent article are each stretchable. The appearance (aesthetics) of the absorbent article is also improved. Furthermore, the three elastic regions, which are similar in color, make it easier for the user to recognize that the absorbent article fits well in all directions (especially in areas prone to leakage), allowing the user to use the absorbent article with confidence.

[0037] (Aspect 15) The absorbent article of aspect 12 or 14, In an unfolded and stretched state, the absorbent main body having the absorbent core has side elastic regions that stretch along the longitudinal direction on both left and right sides, and when the absorbent article is viewed from the non-skin side or the skin side, the side elastic regions have side colored regions that are colored along the longitudinal direction, and the maximum width in the left and right direction of the specific color region in the crotch elastic region is greater than the maximum width in the longitudinal direction of the waist colored region and the maximum width in the left and right direction of the side colored regions.

[0038] According to aspect 15, the crotch elastic region is most noticeable, making it easier for the user to notice the presence of the crotch elastic member. This allows the user to recognize that the absorbent article has good adhesion to the crotch area of ​​the wearer and is less likely to sag, allowing the user to use the absorbent article with confidence.

[0039] (Aspect 16) An absorbent article having an absorbent core, which in an unfolded and stretched state has longitudinal, left-right, and thickness directions that intersect with one another, and has a crotch elastic region defined by an elastic portion of a crotch elastic member that is located closer to the skin than the absorbent core and stretches along the longitudinal direction, and at least a portion of the crotch elastic region is provided in a crotch portion that is a central region when the absorbent article is divided into thirds in the longitudinal direction, and has a peripheral region surrounding the crotch elastic region, and the peripheral region is positioned from a position that is half the width of the crotch elastic region to the left of the left end of the crotch elastic region in the left-right direction to a position that is half the width of the crotch elastic region to the right of the right end of the crotch elastic region. the region ranging from a position that is spaced apart from one end of the crotch elastic region by the length of the width in the longitudinal direction to a position that is spaced apart from the other end of the crotch elastic region by the length of the width in the other direction, when the absorbent article is viewed from the non-skin side, the region has a background color and a region of a certain specific color that is different from the background color, the background color region is the region that occupies the largest area in the crotch part, and the total length of the specific color regions provided in the crotch elastic region and one of the peripheral regions is equal to or greater than half the length of the one region in at least one of the longitudinal direction and the left-right direction.

[0040] According to aspect 16, a specific color area is provided in one area over a wide area in at least one of the longitudinal and lateral directions, making the crotch elastic area conspicuous. Therefore, before using the absorbent article, the user can easily notice the presence of the crotch elastic member, and can recognize that the absorbent article is a product that adheres well to the crotch area of ​​the wearer and is not likely to sag.

[0041] === Implementation form === The absorbent article according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described below using an example of a pants-type disposable diaper for adults (hereinafter also referred to as "diaper 1"). However, the absorbent article according to the present invention is not limited to the above and can also be used as a tape-type disposable diaper, sanitary shorts, etc. Furthermore, the wearer may be a living organism such as an infant or an animal.

[0042] ===First Embodiment=== <<Basic structure of pants-type disposable diaper 1>> Fig. 1 is a schematic front view of a pants-type disposable diaper 1. Fig. 2 is a schematic plan view of the diaper 1 in an unfolded and stretched state, as seen from the skin side. Fig. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line CC in Fig. 2. Fig. 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the absorbent main body 10. Here, the "unfolded state" of the diaper 1 refers to a state in which the waist seam 2, which will be described later, is untied, the diaper 1 is opened in the longitudinal direction, and the diaper 1 is unfolded in a plane.

[0043] In the pants-type state shown in FIG. 1, the diaper 1 has a vertical direction, a horizontal direction, and a front-to-back direction, which intersect with one another, and is formed with a waist opening BH and a pair of leg openings LH. In the unfolded state shown in FIG. 2, the diaper 1 has a longitudinal direction, a horizontal direction, and a thickness direction, which intersect with one another. The longitudinal direction is the direction along the vertical direction in the pants-type state. The thickness direction is the direction in which the components constituting the diaper 1 are layered (see FIG. 4). In the vertical direction, the waist opening BH side is the upper side, and the crotch side is the lower side. In the front-to-back direction, the side facing the wearer's stomach is the front side, and the side facing the wearer's back is the rear side. In the thickness direction, the side in contact with the wearer's body (skin) is the skin side, and the opposite side is the non-skin side.

[0044] Furthermore, the "stretched state" of the diaper 1 refers to a state in which the entire diaper 1 is stretched without wrinkles by stretching each elastic member of the diaper 1 (for example, the waist elastic members 24, 25 and the leak-proof wall elastic member 51, which will be described later), specifically, a state in which the dimensions of each material constituting the diaper 1 (for example, the top sheet 12 and the inner layer sheet 23, which will be described later) are stretched to the same dimensions as or close to the dimensions of the individual member.

[0045] As shown in Fig. 3, the diaper 1 has an absorbent main body 10 and an exterior member 20 arranged on the non-skin side of the absorbent main body 10. The absorbent main body 10 and the exterior member 20 are joined with an adhesive (not shown). Cover sheets 31, 32 may be provided to cover both longitudinal ends of the absorbent main body 10 from the skin side. This can prevent the edges of the absorbent main body 10 from digging into the wearer's body and prevent the absorbent main body 10 from opening open.

[0046] 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." The diaper 1 in an unfolded state is folded in half at the longitudinal central position CL, and the left and right side portions of the outer member 20 of the ventral portion 1A and the outer member 20 of the dorsal portion 1C are joined together to form the pants-type diaper 1 shown in Fig. 1. Examples of joining methods for the waist seam 2 include welding and joining with an adhesive.

[0047] 4, the absorbent body 10 includes an absorbent core 11 that absorbs excrement, a liquid-permeable top sheet 12 (e.g., nonwoven fabric) arranged on the skin side of the absorbent core 11 in the thickness direction, a liquid-impermeable back sheet 13 (e.g., a resin film such as polyethylene or polypropylene) arranged on the non-skin side of the absorbent core 11 in the thickness direction, a pair of side sheets 16, and an elastic member cover sheet 17. The elastic member cover sheet 17 is a sheet member that covers the non-skin side of the crotch elastic members 40 (described in detail later) that stretch in the longitudinal direction.

[0048] 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). An example of the absorbent core 11 is one in which liquid-absorbent fibers such as pulp containing superabsorbent polymer (SAP) are molded into a predetermined shape. The absorbent core 11 of this embodiment has a shape in which the center portion in the longitudinal direction is narrowed inward in the left-right direction, but the planar shape of the absorbent core 11 is not particularly limited.

[0049] A pair of leakage barrier walls 50 are provided along the longitudinal direction on both lateral sides of the absorbent body 10. As shown in FIG. 4 , portions of the side sheets 16 extending from both lateral sides of the non-skin side of the back sheet 13 are folded at multiple locations to form the leakage barrier walls 50 on both lateral sides of the skin side of the top sheet 12. Leak barrier wall elastic members 51 (e.g., thread-like elastic members) are attached to the leakage barrier walls 50 in a stretched state along the longitudinal direction. The stretchability of the leakage barrier wall elastic members 51 allows the leakage barrier walls 50 to stand up toward the wearer's skin and block excrement. Leg-hole elastic members 52 are provided along the longitudinal direction outboard of the leakage barrier walls 50. The stretchability of the leg-hole elastic members 52 allows the diaper 1 to fit around the legs of the wearer.

[0050] 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 Fig. 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.

[0051] The ventral outer layer sheet 21, the back 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 back 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 waistline joint 2 in the longitudinal direction and has the same longitudinal length as the waistline joint 2. The back outer layer sheet 22 is disposed closer to the skin than the inner layer sheet 23 and in part of the back portion 1C and the crotch portion 1B. The back outer layer sheet 22 overlaps with the waistline joint 2 in the longitudinal direction and extends further toward the crotch than the waistline joint 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.

[0052] The waist elastic members 24, 25 and the buttocks elastic members 26 are elastic members that stretch in the left-right direction, and can be exemplified by thread-like elastic members. As shown in FIG. 2, the waist elastic members 24, 25 overlap the waist joint 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 waist joint 2. In this embodiment, there are two buttocks elastic members 26, but this number is not particularly limited.

[0053] 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.

[0054] The basic configuration of the diaper 1 has been described above, but the above-described configuration of the diaper 1 is merely an example and is not intended to be limiting. For example, a liquid-permeable intermediate sheet (e.g., a nonwoven fabric) may be disposed between the top sheet 12 and the absorbent core 11. Furthermore, although the outer covering member 20 of this embodiment is configured as a single member that is continuous in the longitudinal direction from the ventral side to the dorsal side, this is not intended to be limiting. For example, the ventral and dorsal outer covering members may be configured as separate members, with the non-skin side of the absorbent main body 10 exposed in the crotch region, or a crotch outer covering member may be provided between the ventral and dorsal outer covering members, which are separate members, to connect them.

[0055] <<Crotch elastic member 40>> Fig. 5 is a diagram illustrating the arrangement of the crotch elastic members 40. Figs. 6 and 7 are diagrams illustrating modified arrangements of the crotch elastic members 40. Figs. 5 to 7 are partial schematic plan views of the diaper 1 in an unfolded and stretched state.

[0056] The diaper 1 has "crotch elastic members 40" that are stretchable in the longitudinal direction and are located closer to the skin than the absorbent core 11. The diaper 1 of this embodiment has a plurality of thread-like elastic members as the crotch elastic members 40. As shown in FIG. 4, the plurality of crotch elastic members 40 (five thread-like elastic members) are arranged side by side at intervals in the left-right direction between the backsheet 13 and the elastic member cover sheet 17. Each crotch elastic member 40 is attached in a stretched state in the longitudinal direction. Note that only the stretchable portions of the crotch elastic members 40 are shown in the drawings other than FIG. 9 and FIG. 13B, which will be described later.

[0057] The region defined by the stretchable portions of the crotch elastic members 40 is referred to as the "crotch elastic region ER." At least a portion of the crotch elastic region ER is provided in the "crotch portion 1B," which is the central region when the diaper 1 in a flat and stretched state is divided into three equal parts in the longitudinal direction. The crotch elastic region ER may be contained within the crotch portion 1B (FIGS. 5 and 6), may extend to the abdominal portion 1A (FIG. 7), or may extend to the dorsal portion 1C. The crotch elastic region ER may be positioned across the longitudinal center CL of the diaper 1, or may be positioned offset to the front or rear of the center CL. The lengths of the multiple crotch elastic members 40 of the diaper 1 may be the same or different.

[0058] Specifically, when multiple thread-like crotch elastic members 40 are lined up at intervals in the left-right direction, the crotch elastic region ER is as follows: As shown in Fig. 5, the crotch elastic region ER is the region between the leftmost crotch elastic member 40a and the rightmost crotch elastic member 40b, and is surrounded by an imaginary line connecting the longitudinal abdominal ends of the stretchable portions of each crotch elastic member 40 lined up in the left-right direction and an imaginary line connecting the longitudinal dorsal ends of the stretchable portions of each crotch elastic member 40. For example, as shown in Fig. 5, when the five crotch elastic members 40 have the same length, the crotch elastic region ER has a rectangular shape. As shown in Fig. 6, when the central three crotch elastic members 40 of the five crotch elastic members 40 are long, the central portion in the left-right direction of the crotch elastic region ER protrudes outward in the longitudinal direction. Furthermore, when the crotch elastic member 40 is a stretchable sheet (stretchable nonwoven fabric, stretchable film, etc.), the region where the stretchable sheet is arranged is referred to as the crotch elastic region ER. When multiple strip-shaped stretchable sheets or flat elastic bands are arranged at intervals in the left-right direction, the same applies as in the case of thread-like elastic members. In other words, the region between the left end of the leftmost crotch elastic member 40 (strip-shaped stretchable sheet or flat elastic band) and the right end of the rightmost crotch elastic member 40 is referred to as the crotch elastic region ER.

[0059] However, as shown in Fig. 7, crotch elastic members 40 that are arranged at a large distance in the left-right direction belong to different crotch elastic regions ER. For example, crotch elastic members 40 that are spaced apart by more than three times the minimum distance (Wa in Fig. 7) between multiple crotch elastic regions 40 arranged in the left-right direction belong to different crotch elastic regions ER. Therefore, the crotch elastic region ER may be provided in the center of the absorbent core 11 in the left-right direction as shown in Fig. 5, or multiple crotch elastic regions ER (here, a pair) may be provided spaced apart in the left-right direction as shown in Fig. 7. In Fig. 5, the crotch elastic region ER is provided in the center region CR when the absorbent core 11 is divided into thirds at its maximum width.

[0060] The crotch elastic members 40, which overlap the absorbent core 11 in the thickness direction, are bonded to the absorbent core 11 via the backsheet 13 with an adhesive or the like. Therefore, when the diaper 1 is worn, the crotch elastic members 40 contract in the longitudinal direction, and the absorbent core 11 is pushed up against the skin and easily deforms to fit closely to the wearer's crotch region. This ensures good adhesion of the absorbent core 11 to the wearer's crotch region, making it less likely for excrement to leak. It also reduces discomfort during wear. Even after the absorbent core 11 absorbs excrement and its weight increases, it is less likely to sag, maintaining its close fit to the wearer's crotch region.

[0061] In particular, when the crotch elastic region ER is provided in the lateral central region CR of the absorbent core 11, the lateral central region CR of the absorbent core 11 deforms into a convex shape upward (toward the crotch region of the wearer). This makes it difficult for a gap to form between the wearer's excretory opening (e.g., urethral opening) and the absorbent core 11, thereby preventing excretions such as urine from leaking out of the diaper 1 along the wearer's skin.

[0062] <<Specific color area 60>> Fig. 8 is an explanatory diagram of the specific color area 60. Fig. 9 is an enlarged view of the crotch elastic area ER and the peripheral area AR. Figs. 10A, 10B, 11A, 11B, and 12 are explanatory diagrams of modified examples of the specific color area 60.

[0063] The diaper 1 has a peripheral region AR surrounding the crotch elastic region ER. In Figs. 5 to 7, the crotch elastic region ER is solid and the peripheral region AR is shaded. The peripheral region AR extends from a position ARa (a distance Wa / 2) to the left of the left end ERa of the crotch elastic region ER, which is half the width of the crotch elastic region ER, to a position Wa / 2 to the right of the right end ERb of the crotch elastic region ER, which is half the distance Wa / 2. In the longitudinal direction, the peripheral region AR extends from a position Wa (the width Wa) to one side of the end ERc (the ventral side) of the crotch elastic region ER, which is the width Wa of the crotch elastic region ER, to a position ARd (the width Wa) to the other side of the end ERd (the back side) of the crotch elastic region ER. The peripheral region AR does not include the crotch elastic region ER.

[0064] However, if the width Wa of the crotch elastic region ER is long and the positions that should be defined as the left-right ends ARa, ARb of the peripheral region AR are located outside beyond the left-right ends 10a, 10b of the absorbent main body 10, the left-right ends 10a, 10b of the absorbent main body 10 will be referred to as the left-right ends ARa, ARb of the peripheral region AR. Similarly, if the width Wa of the crotch elastic region ER is long and the positions that should be defined as the longitudinal ends ARc, ARd of the peripheral region AR are located outside beyond the longitudinal ends 10c, 10d of the absorbent main body 10, the longitudinal ends 10c, 10d of the absorbent main body 10 will be referred to as the longitudinal ends ARc, ARc of the peripheral region AR. In other words, the peripheral region AR is defined to be within the range that overlaps with the absorbent main body 10 in the thickness direction.

[0065] As mentioned above, the provision of the crotch elastic region ER in the crotch portion 1B of the diaper 1 (within the area surrounded by the thick line in Figure 8) ensures good adhesion to the crotch portion of the wearer and prevents sagging after excretion. However, simply providing the crotch elastic member 40 on the diaper 1 may result in the user not noticing the presence of the crotch elastic member 40. Therefore, as shown in Figures 1 and 8, the diaper 1 is provided with a "specific color region 60" that is visible when the diaper 1 is viewed from the non-skin side.

[0066] When the diaper 1 is viewed from the non-skin side, the diaper 1 has a background color region 61 and a specific color region 60 different from the background color. The background color region 61 is the region that occupies the largest area in the crotch portion 1B of the diaper 1 in an unfolded and stretched state. For example, if the absorbent main body 10 and the outer cover member 20 located in the crotch portion 1B are made of white materials, the background color is white, and the white region is the background color region 61. The specific color region 60 is an area colored a specific color different from white (e.g., blue or green).

[0067] In the diaper 1 of this embodiment, the backsheet 13 is printed in a specific color, and the area colored in the specific color is visible from the non-skin side of the diaper 1 through the exterior member 20, becoming the specific color area 60. Figures 8 and 9 show an example of a longitudinally long strip-shaped (rectangular) specific color area 60 at a position overlapping with the thread-like crotch elastic members 40. Similar to the five crotch elastic members 40 lined up in the left-right direction, five rectangular specific color areas 60 are lined up at intervals in the left-right direction.

[0068] Conversely to the above, most of the material located in the crotch portion 1B may be colored, for example, green, in which case the area colored green becomes the background color area 61. The area that is not colored the background color (e.g., green), that is, the area that is the base color of the material or the area colored a color different from the background color, becomes the specific color area 60.

[0069] The method for coloring the material to form the specific color region 60 and the background color region 61 is not particularly limited. For example, the material may be colored by printing, or the material may be colored by incorporating a colorant into its constituent components (fibers, etc.). In the present embodiment, the specific color region 60 is formed by printing on the backsheet 13, but this is not limiting. The specific color region 60 and the background color region 61 may also be formed by coloring other materials, such as the elastic member cover sheet 17, the exterior member 20, and the crotch elastic member 40.

[0070] When the diaper 1 is viewed from the non-skin side in the unfolded and stretched state, the following is defined. First, the ratio obtained by dividing the total area (A1) of the specific color regions 60 provided in the crotch elastic region ER by the area (S1) of the crotch elastic region ER is defined as the "first area ratio (A1 / S1)." The first area ratio is the area ratio of the specific color regions 60 in the crotch elastic region ER. Meanwhile, the ratio obtained by dividing the total area (A2) of the specific color regions 60 provided in the peripheral region AR by the area (S2) of the peripheral region AR is defined as the "second area ratio A2 / S2." The second area ratio is the area ratio of the specific color regions 60 in the peripheral region AR. In this case, in the diaper 1, the absolute value of the difference between the first area ratio and the second area ratio is equal to or greater than the first area ratio or equal to or greater than the second area ratio. |A1 / S1-A2 / S2|≧A1 / S1, or |A1 / S1-A2 / S2|≧A2 / S2.

[0071] For example, in FIG. 9, the crotch elastic region ER has three band-shaped regions 60 of a specific color and two half-width band-shaped regions 60 of a specific color. In contrast, the peripheral region AR has only two half-width band-shaped regions 60 of a specific color. That is, in FIG. 9, the specific color regions 60 in the crotch elastic region ER are large, and the first area ratio is large. On the other hand, the specific color regions 60 in the peripheral region AR are small, and the second area ratio is small. Therefore, the absolute value of the difference between the first area ratio (large) and the second area ratio (small) is large and is equal to or greater than the second area ratio (small) (|A1 / S1-A2 / S2|≧A2 / S2). In other words, the first area ratio is approximately twice the second area ratio. This makes the specific color regions 60 in the crotch elastic region ER more noticeable than in the opposite case (when the absolute value of the difference is less than the second area ratio). Therefore, when a user (wearer, caregiver, etc.) sees the diaper 1 in its natural state before use, they are more likely to notice the crotch elastic region ER, and based on the wrinkles caused by the contraction of the crotch elastic member 40, they are more likely to notice that the crotch portion 1B stretches and contracts (the presence of the crotch elastic member 40).

[0072] Conversely, in the modified example shown in FIG. 10A, a hollow rectangular (thick frame) specific color area 60 is provided in the peripheral area AR to surround the crotch elastic area ER. That is, the specific color area 60 in the peripheral area AR is large, and the second area ratio is large. On the other hand, the specific color area 60 is not provided in the crotch elastic area ER, and the first area ratio is small (zero in this case). Therefore, the absolute value of the difference between the first area ratio (small) and the second area ratio (large) is large and is equal to or greater than the first area ratio (small) (|A1 / S1-A2 / S2|≧A1 / S1). In other words, the second area ratio is approximately twice the first area ratio. This makes the specific color area 60 in the peripheral area AR more noticeable, and the crotch elastic area ER, surrounded by the specific color area 60, stands out, compared to the opposite case (when the absolute value of the difference is less than the first area ratio). Therefore, when a user sees the diaper 1 in its natural state before use, they are more likely to notice the crotch elastic region ER, and based on the wrinkles caused by the contraction of the crotch elastic member 40, they are more likely to notice that the crotch portion 1B stretches (the presence of the crotch elastic member 40).

[0073] Before using the diaper 1, a user who notices the presence of the crotch elastic member 40 can recognize that the diaper 1 adheres well to the wearer's crotch area and that the absorbent core 11 is unlikely to sag. This eliminates the user's concern that the absorbent core 11 may sag when pressure is applied to the inner thighs or when the wearer's weight increases due to excreted fluid. This eliminates concerns about leakage due to the diaper 1 sagging and the impression of discomfort, allowing the user to use the diaper 1 with peace of mind. Furthermore, by being aware of the presence of the crotch elastic member 40, the wearer can easily realize the good adhesion of the diaper 1 to the crotch area while wearing it, thereby reducing concerns about leakage. Although specific color regions 60 are illustrated in FIGS. 9 to 12, the shape, number, arrangement, etc. of the specific color regions 60 are not particularly limited as long as they satisfy the above-mentioned area ratio relationship.

[0074] More preferably, the absolute value of the difference between the first area ratio and the second area ratio is at least twice the first area ratio, or at least twice the second area ratio. |A1 / S1-A2 / S2|≧2×A1 / S1, or |A1 / S1-A2 / S2|≧2×A2 / S2.

[0075] This increases the difference in area ratio of the specific color region 60 between the crotch elastic region ER and the surrounding region AR. This makes the crotch elastic region ER provided with the specific color region 60 more noticeable, and makes the crotch elastic region ER surrounded by the specific color region 60 even more noticeable. This makes it easier for the user to notice the presence of the crotch elastic member 40.

[0076] The first area ratio and the second area ratio can be measured by a known method. For example, the diaper 1 in an unfolded and stretched state is fixed with the non-skin side facing up, and the ranges of the crotch elastic region ER, the peripheral region AR, and the specific color region 60 of the diaper 1 are identified. The area ratios can be determined by actually measuring the lengths of the target regions (ER, AR, 60) and calculating their areas. Alternatively, the area ratios can be determined by acquiring image data of the diaper 1 and using an area calculation program to obtain the areas of the target regions (ER, AR, 60).

[0077] Furthermore, the difference between the background color and the specific color may be such that a plurality of subjects (for example, 10 people) can visually recognize the difference in color. Specifically, when one of the specific color and the background color is white and the other is a color other than white, the colors are considered to be different. Preferably, one of the specific color and the background color is included in the white color defined below, and the other is a color not included in the white color defined below. White includes, for example, a color expressed as "N9.5" in the Munsell color system, a color expressed as "255,255,255" in the RGB color space (so-called pure white), and also colors whose color difference from pure white is less than 12. To measure the color difference of white, for example, a color difference meter such as the CR-300 manufactured by Konica Minolta or an equivalent device can be used, and the light source of the measuring device can be Illuminant C (standard of the International Commission on Illumination (CIE)). In this case, the diameter of the measuring window of the measuring device is 40 mm. The color difference is measured by measuring the color difference (L) relative to a white reference plate. * a * b * ) color space. The color difference relative to the white reference plate can be calculated by measuring the Lab value of the white reference plate and the Lab value of the target area (measurements are taken with the diaper 1 in an unfolded and stretched state, with the non-skin side facing up). The white reference plate is set to lab0 with a coordinate system of (X93.19, Y95.20, Z112.28). Here, L is a value that indexes brightness, and a and b are plane coordinates of chromaticity. If the Lab values ​​of the white reference plate are L0, a0, and b0, and the Lab values ​​of the target area are L1, a1, and b1, the color difference can be calculated as ΔL = L0-L1, Δa = a0-a1, and Δb = b0-b1.

[0078] Furthermore, both the specific color and the background color may be colors other than white. In this case, even if the colors are of the same family (e.g., blue), if they have different brightnesses (e.g., blue and light blue) and multiple subjects can visually recognize the difference in color, the colors are considered to be different. Preferably, the Munsell color wheel, which is divided into 20 hues, is used for this determination. First, multiple subjects (e.g., 10 subjects) view the diaper 1 in an unfolded and stretched state from the non-skin side and determine which hue on the Munsell color wheel each of the target areas (the specific color area 60 and the background color area 61) corresponds to (the closest hue to which it is). The hue selected by the most people is considered to be the hue of the target area. If the hue of the specific color area 60 is two or more hues away from the hue of the background color area 61 (if they are not the same hue or the hues on either side of it), the colors are considered to be different.

[0079] In addition, when the diaper 1 is in an unfolded and stretched state, at least one of the crotch elastic region ER and the peripheral region AR may be provided with a specific color region 60 whose longitudinal length is longer than its left-right length. For example, in Fig. 9, the crotch elastic region ER has a plurality of specific color regions 60, each rectangular in shape and having a longitudinal length L1 longer than its left-right length L2, arranged side by side in the left-right direction. In Fig. 10A, a modified example shows a specific color region 60 in the peripheral region AR, each hollow rectangular in shape (thick frame shape) whose longitudinal length L4 is longer than its left-right length L5.

[0080] Since the specific color area 60 (the graphic formed in the specific color) is long in the longitudinal direction, the user who sees it is likely to get the impression that the crotch elastic members 40 stretch in the longitudinal direction. Therefore, the user can more easily recognize that the crotch elastic members 40 keep the absorbent core 11 pressed up against the skin, and that the diaper 1 adheres well to the wearer's crotch area and is not likely to sag.

[0081] Furthermore, as shown in Fig. 9, it is preferable that, when the diaper 1 is in an unfolded and stretched state, the crotch elastic region ER has a plurality of longitudinally extending band-shaped regions 60 of a specific color arranged side by side in the left-right direction. This reduces the width L2 of the band-shaped regions 60 of a specific color, making the regions 60 elongated. This allows the user to more easily get the impression that the crotch elastic members 40 stretch in the longitudinal direction. This allows the user to more easily recognize that the diaper 1 has good adhesion to the crotch area of ​​the wearer and is less likely to sag.

[0082] However, this is not limited to the above. For example, as shown in a modified example in Fig. 10B, the entire crotch elastic region ER may be the specific color region 60. In this way, only one specific color region 60 having a rectangular shape that is long in the longitudinal direction may be provided in the crotch elastic region ER.

[0083] Furthermore, when the diaper 1 is in an unfolded and stretched state, it is preferable that the total length of the specific color area 60 provided in one of the crotch elastic area ER and the peripheral area AR in at least one of the longitudinal direction and the left-right direction is at least half the length of the one area.

[0084] For example, in Fig. 9, the longitudinal length L1 of the specific color area 60 provided in the crotch elastic region ER is the same as the longitudinal length L1 of the crotch elastic region ER, and is more than half the longitudinal length of the crotch elastic region ER. In this case, the specific color area 60 is provided over a wide range in the longitudinal direction of the crotch elastic region ER. This makes it easier for the user to focus on the crotch elastic region ER. Furthermore, in FIG. 9, the total length in the left-right direction of the specific color regions 60 provided in the crotch elastic region ER (specifically, the total length of the three strip-shaped specific color regions 60 (L2×3) and the length of the two specific color regions 60 with half the width (L2 / 2×2)) is more than half the left-right length L3 of the specific color regions 60. Therefore, the specific color regions 60 are provided over a wide range in the left-right direction of the crotch elastic region ER. This makes it easier for the user to focus on the crotch elastic region ER.

[0085] By satisfying the above length relationship in both the longitudinal and lateral directions, the user can easily focus on the crotch elastic region ER. This makes it easier for the user to notice the presence of the crotch elastic member 40. The user can also grasp more than half of the range of the position where the crotch elastic member 40 actually stretches. However, this is not limiting, and the above length relationship may be satisfied only in one of the longitudinal and lateral directions.

[0086] 10A, the longitudinal length L4 of the specific color region 60 provided in the peripheral region AR is equal to or greater than half the longitudinal length L6 of the peripheral region AR (L4≧L6 / 2). Furthermore, the left-right length L5 of the specific color region 60 is equal to or greater than half the longitudinal length L7 of the peripheral region AR (L5≧L7 / 2). Therefore, the specific color region 60 is provided over a wide range in the longitudinal and left-right directions of the peripheral region AR, making it easier for the user to focus on the crotch elastic region ER.

[0087] Furthermore, the specific color region 60 does not have to be a long, continuous region in the longitudinal and left-right directions. A plurality of relatively small specific color regions 60 may be arranged in the longitudinal and left-right directions. For example, in Fig. 12, circular specific color regions 60 are arranged in a staggered pattern at intervals in the longitudinal and left-right directions in the crotch elastic region ER. In this case, too, as long as the above-mentioned area ratio relationship is satisfied, the crotch elastic region ER stands out, making it easier for the user to notice the presence of the crotch elastic member 40.

[0088] In the case of FIG. 12, the entire area of ​​the crotch elastic region ER in the left-right or longitudinal direction where no specific color regions 60 are located is defined as a non-specific color region 62. The total length of the area excluding the non-specific color regions 62 in either the crotch elastic region ER or the peripheral region AR is defined as the total length of the specific color regions 60 provided in that one region. For example, in the longitudinal direction of FIG. 12, the total length of the specific color regions 60 provided in the crotch elastic region ER is the length L1 of the crotch elastic region ER minus the total length of the n non-specific color regions 62 (L8 × n). In other words, it is the total length of the multiple specific color regions 60 arranged in a zigzag pattern in the longitudinal direction. It is preferable that this total length is at least half of the length L1 of the crotch elastic region ER.

[0089] Furthermore, it is preferable that the first area ratio is 1 / 2 or more, or the second area ratio is 1 / 2 or more. When the first area ratio is 1 / 2 or more, more than half of the crotch elastic region ER becomes the specific color region 60. Therefore, compared to when the first area ratio is less than 1 / 2, the crotch elastic region ER is more noticeable, making it easier for the user to focus on the crotch elastic region ER and notice the presence of the crotch elastic member 40. Similarly, when the second area ratio is 1 / 2 or more, more than half of the peripheral region AR becomes the specific color region 60. Therefore, compared to when the second area ratio is less than 1 / 2, a wider range of the crotch elastic region ER is surrounded by the specific color region 60, making it easier for the user to focus on the crotch elastic region ER and notice the presence of the crotch elastic member 40.

[0090] However, the present invention is not limited to the above, and the first area ratio or the second area ratio may be less than 1 / 2. For example, in FIG. 11A, the area of ​​the specific color region 60 provided in the peripheral region AR is small, and the second area ratio is less than 1 / 2. In this case, too, when the first area ratio is small (because the first area ratio is zero in FIG. 11A), the aforementioned relationship of area ratios (|A1 / S1-A2 / S2|≧A1 / S1) is satisfied, making it easier for the user to focus on the crotch elastic region ER based on the specific color region 60. Also, in FIG. 11A, the specific color region 60 in the shape of a set of brackets is provided outside the four corners of the crotch elastic region ER, indicating the positions of the corners of the crotch elastic region ER. Therefore, even if the second area ratio is less than 1 / 2, the position of the crotch elastic region ER is indicated, making it easier for the user to focus on the crotch elastic region ER.

[0091] 11B, the specific color area 60 provided in the crotch elastic region ER may be a thin linear frame, and the first area ratio may be less than 1 / 2. In this case, too, when the second area ratio is small (because the second area ratio is zero in FIG. 11B), the aforementioned relationship of area ratios (|A1 / S1-A2 / S2|≧A2 / S2) is satisfied. The specific color area 60 in FIG. 11B is a frame shape that is approximately similar to the outline of the crotch elastic region ER. Therefore, even if the first area ratio is less than 1 / 2, the position of the crotch elastic region ER is indicated, making it easier for the user to focus on the crotch elastic region ER.

[0092] 12, the crotch elastic region ER is provided with a region 60 of a specific color, but the peripheral region AR is not provided with a region 60 of a specific color. In this case, the user can easily focus directly on the crotch elastic region ER, and therefore can easily notice the presence of the crotch elastic member 40 based on the wrinkles caused by contraction of the crotch elastic member 40.

[0093] Furthermore, when multiple thread-like crotch elastic members 40 are arranged in the lateral direction in the crotch elastic region ER, it is preferable that the stretchable portion 40E of the crotch elastic member 40 overlaps the specific color region 60 in the thickness direction when the diaper 1 is unfolded and stretched, as shown in Figs. 9, 10B, 12, etc. This allows the user to easily focus on the stretchable portion 40E of the crotch elastic member 40, making it easier for the user to notice the presence of the crotch elastic member 40 based on wrinkles caused by contraction of the crotch elastic member 40. Wrinkles are particularly noticeable when the specific color is a color other than white. Furthermore, when the specific color region 60 and the crotch elastic member 40 are different colors, the visibility of the crotch elastic member 40 is enhanced. This makes it easier for the user to notice the presence of the crotch elastic member 40.

[0094] Although only a portion of the stretchable portion 40E of the crotch elastic member 40 may overlap with the specific color area 60, it is preferable that most of the stretchable portion 40E of the crotch elastic member 40 overlaps in the thickness direction with the specific color area 60. This allows the user to grasp the position where the crotch elastic member 40 actually stretches.

[0095] 9, five strip-shaped areas 60 of a specific color are arranged side by side in the left-right direction, similar to the five crotch elastic members 40 arranged side by side in the left-right direction. Therefore, when a user sees the areas 60 of the specific color, they can easily intuitively recognize that a plurality of thread-like crotch elastic members 40 are arranged side by side in the left-right direction.

[0096] On the other hand, in the region longitudinally outward of the crotch elastic region ER when the diaper 1 is in an unfolded and stretched state, the non-stretched portions 40N of the crotch elastic members 40 preferably have a portion that does not overlap in the thickness direction with the specific color region 60. Although it is acceptable for only a portion of the non-stretched portions 40N of the crotch elastic members 40 not to overlap with the specific color region 60, it is preferable that the entire non-stretched portions 40N of the crotch elastic members 40 do not overlap with the specific color region 60, as shown in Fig. 9 .

[0097] This prevents the user from mistakenly perceiving the non-stretchable portion 40N of the crotch elastic member 40, which overlaps the specific color region 60, as stretchable, and allows the user to correctly identify the actual stretchable portion. Furthermore, the non-stretchable portion 40N of the crotch elastic member 40 is formed by cutting the portion of the crotch elastic member 40 that is not fixed to the material during the manufacturing process of the diaper 1. Therefore, the non-stretchable portion 40N of the crotch elastic member 40 is not fixed to the material and is easily flexible. Since the non-stretchable portion 40N of the crotch elastic member 40 does not overlap the specific color region 60, the non-stretchable portion 40N of the crotch elastic member 40 that is not aligned in the longitudinal direction is less noticeable. This prevents the impression of the longitudinally stretchable crotch elastic member 40 from being diminished. This also prevents a deterioration in the appearance (aesthetics) of the diaper 1.

[0098] FIG. 13A is a partial cross-sectional view of the absorbent main body 10, and FIG. 13B is an explanatory diagram of a joint 70 between the backsheet 13 and the elastic member cover sheet 17. As shown in FIG. 4, the absorbent main body 10 includes a liquid-impermeable backsheet 13 located closer to the skin than the absorbent core 11 and an elastic member cover sheet 17 (a non-skin-side sheet) located closer to the skin than the backsheet 13. The crotch elastic members 40 are located between the backsheet and the elastic member cover sheet 17. In the diaper 1 of this embodiment, the backsheet 13 is colored to form a specific color area 60. In this case, as shown in FIGS. 13A and 13B, it is preferable that a joint 70 between the backsheet 13 and the elastic member cover sheet 17 is located between a plurality of thread-like crotch elastic members 40 aligned in the left-right direction when the diaper 1 is in an unfolded and stretched state. The joining method for the joint 70 is not particularly limited, and examples include a joining method using an adhesive.

[0099] In the area where the thread-like crotch elastic members 40 are arranged, the back sheet 13 and the elastic member cover sheet 17 are joined via the crotch elastic members 40. However, if a joint 70 were not provided between the crotch elastic members 40, the elastic member cover sheet 17 would easily float relative to the back sheet 13. Therefore, by providing the joint 70, the elastic member cover sheet 17 can be prevented from floating relative to the back sheet 13, and the visibility of the specific color area 60 formed on the back sheet 13 is improved. This makes the crotch elastic region ER stand out, making it easier for the user to recognize the presence of the crotch elastic members 40.

[0100] 13B is continuous in the longitudinal direction throughout the entire crotch elastic region ER, but the pattern of the junctions 70 is not particularly limited. For example, the junctions 70 may be intermittent in the longitudinal direction, or may be provided only in a portion of the longitudinal direction of the crotch elastic region ER. Furthermore, when three or more crotch elastic members 40 are arranged side by side, it is sufficient that the junctions 70 are provided between at least one of the crotch elastic members 40 arranged side by side.

[0101] Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 13B, it is preferable that the joint 70 joining the back sheet 13 and the elastic member cover sheet 17 between the multiple crotch elastic members 40 aligned in the left-right direction extends longitudinally outward beyond the crotch elastic region ER.

[0102] As described above, the non-stretchable portion 40N of the crotch elastic member 40 is not fixed to any material and is therefore free to contract and bend. Therefore, by providing the above-described joints 70, the lateral bending of the non-stretchable portion 40N of the crotch elastic member 40 is restricted by the joints 70. In particular, as shown in FIG. 13B , by providing joints 70 on both lateral sides of the non-stretchable portion 40N of the crotch elastic member 40, the non-stretchable portion 40N of the crotch elastic member 40 is accommodated between the joints 70 aligned in the lateral direction, thereby restricting excessive bending. This prevents the impression of the longitudinally stretchable crotch elastic member 40 from being diminished. This also prevents a deterioration in the appearance (aesthetics) of the diaper 1.

[0103] In the present embodiment, the specific color area 60 is formed by printing a color on the backsheet 13, but this is not limiting. The specific color area 60 may also be formed by coloring the crotch elastic members 40. That is, by coloring the crotch elastic members 40 in a color different from the background color, the area where the crotch elastic members 40 are located becomes the specific color area 60 when the diaper 1 is viewed from the non-skin side.

[0104] In this case, the user can easily focus on the crotch elastic member 40 and therefore easily notice the presence of the crotch elastic member 40 based on the wrinkles caused by the contraction of the crotch elastic member 40. The user can also correctly grasp the actual position of the stretch. In particular, when the crotch elastic member 40 is a sheet-like elastic member or when multiple band-like elastic members are arranged in the left-right direction, the first area ratio becomes larger (the area of ​​the specific color region 60 in the crotch elastic region ER becomes larger), and the relationship of the area ratios described above becomes more likely to be satisfied.

[0105] As shown in FIG. 2, the diaper 1 has a waist elastic region WR that stretches in the left-right direction at at least one longitudinal end (here, both the ventral and dorsal ends). The longitudinal spacing between the waist elastic members 24, 25 in the waist elastic region WR is smaller than that in the crotch region. When viewed from the non-skin side of the diaper 1 in a stretched, unfolded state, the waist elastic region WR preferably has a waist colored region 25c that is colored in the left-right direction. That is, the waist colored region 25c is colored a different color from the surrounding region (e.g., the background colored region 61) and appears to be a different color from the surrounding region when the diaper 1 is viewed from the non-skin side. The definition of the different color is the same as for the specific colored region 60 and the background colored region 61. In the diaper 1 of this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 8, the waist colored region 25c is formed by coloring some of the waist elastic members 25 (the third to eighth waist elastic members 25 counting from the waist side) that belong to the dorsal waist elastic region WR.

[0106] As a result, the waist colored region 25c is conspicuous, which makes it easier for the user to focus on the waist elastic region WR and notice that the waist portion is stretchable (the presence of the waist elastic member 25). Therefore, before using the diaper 1, the user can recognize that the diaper 1 is a product that fits well around the wearer's waist, eliminating concerns about leakage through gaps and the impression that the diaper 1 is uncomfortable to wear, and allowing the user to use the diaper 1 with peace of mind.

[0107] In the diaper 1, the waist colored region 25c is provided only in the waist elastic region WR on the back side. Therefore, the front and back of the diaper 1 can be determined based on the waist colored region 25c. However, the present invention is not limited to the above, and the waist colored region may be provided only in the waist elastic region WR on the ventral side, or the waist colored regions may be provided in both the back and ventral waist elastic regions WR.

[0108] 2 and 4, the diaper 1 has side elastic regions SR that stretch along the longitudinal direction on both lateral sides of the absorbent main body 10. The diaper 1 of this embodiment has side elastic regions SR defined by stretchable portions of the leakage barrier wall elastic members 51 that are located closer to the skin than the top sheet 12 and that raise the leakage barrier walls 50 toward the skin, and side elastic regions SR defined by stretchable portions of the leg-hole elastic members 52 that are located laterally outward of the leakage barrier wall elastic members 51. When the diaper 1 in its unfolded and stretched state is viewed from the non-skin side or skin side, the side elastic regions SR preferably have side colored regions 51c that are colored along the longitudinal direction. That is, the side colored regions 51c are colored in a color different from the surrounding regions (e.g., the background color region 61 and the skin-side surface of the absorbent main body 10) and appear to be a different color from the surrounding regions when the diaper 1 is viewed from the non-skin side or skin side. The definition of the different colors is the same as that of the specific color area 60 and the background color area 61. In the diaper 1 of this embodiment, as shown in Fig. 4, part of the leakage preventing wall elastic members 51 (the first and second leakage preventing wall elastic members 51 counting from the inside in the left-right direction) is colored to form side colored areas 51c.

[0109] As a result of the above, the side colored regions 51c are conspicuous, which makes it easier for the user to focus on the side elastic regions SR and notice that the leg-hole portions are stretchable (the presence of the leakage preventing wall elastic members 51, etc.). Therefore, before using the diaper 1, the user can recognize that the diaper 1 is a product that adheres well to the wearer's leg-holes, eliminating concerns about leakage through gaps and the impression of discomfort, and allowing the user to use the diaper 1 with confidence.

[0110] However, the above is not limiting, and the side colored areas may be formed by coloring the leg elastic member 52, or the side colored areas may be formed by coloring both the leakage preventing wall elastic member 51 and the leg elastic member 52.

[0111] The waist elastic region WR and the side elastic region SR may be formed by sheet-like or band-like elastic members, not limited to thread-like elastic members. Furthermore, the waist colored region and the side colored region may be formed by coloring materials (such as the exterior member 20 and the side sheet 16) that overlap the elastic members in the thickness direction, rather than by coloring the waistline elastic members 25 and the leakage preventing wall elastic members 51.

[0112] Furthermore, it is preferable that the specific color region 60 in the crotch elastic region ER as viewed from the non-skin side of the diaper 1, the waist colored region 25c as viewed from the non-skin side of the diaper 1, and the side colored regions 51c as viewed from the non-skin side or the skin side of the diaper 1 are all similar colors. The side colored regions 51c provided in the side elastic regions SR of the leakage barrier wall 50 are more visible from the skin side of the diaper 1 than from the non-skin side.

[0113] By providing similarly colored areas in the three elastic regions of the diaper 1 (the crotch elastic region ER, the waist elastic region WR, and the side elastic region SR), the three elastic regions appear uniform. This allows the user to easily identify the three elastic regions and visually and intuitively recognize that the crotch, waist, and leg regions of the diaper 1 are each stretchable. Furthermore, the three elastic regions in similar colors make it easier for the user to recognize that the diaper 1 fits well in all directions (especially in areas prone to leakage), allowing the user to use the diaper 1 with peace of mind. This also improves the appearance (aesthetics) of the diaper 1.

[0114] If the three elastic regions (ER, WR, SR) fall within the definition of white as described above, the three elastic regions can be considered to be similar colors of white. Furthermore, if the three elastic regions are a color other than white, similar colors can be determined using the Munsell color wheel, which is divided into 20 hues. First, multiple subjects (e.g., 10 people) view the diaper 1 in an unfolded and stretched state from the non-skin side or the skin side, and determine which hue on the Munsell color wheel each of the target regions (ER, WR, SR) corresponds to (the hue it is closest to). The hue selected by the most people is considered to be the hue of that target region. The three elastic regions (ER, WR, SR) are considered to be similar colors if their hues are the same or are the same as the hues on either side of them.

[0115] Furthermore, when the diaper 1 is in an unfolded and stretched state, it is preferable that the maximum width L2 (see Figure 9) in the left-right direction of the specific color area 60 in the crotch elastic region ER is larger than the maximum width in the longitudinal direction of the waist colored area 25c (the diameter of the colored waist elastic member 25, see Figure 8) and the maximum width in the left-right direction of the side colored area 51c (the diameter of the colored leakage barrier elastic member 51, see Figure 4).

[0116] This makes the crotch elastic region ER the most noticeable of the three elastic regions, making it easier for the user to focus on the crotch elastic region ER and notice the presence of the crotch elastic member 40. Therefore, before using the diaper 1, the user can recognize that the diaper 1 has good adhesion to the crotch area and is less likely to sag, allowing the user to use the diaper 1 with confidence.

[0117] Preferably, when the diaper 1 is in an unfolded and stretched state, the length L11 (see FIG. 9) from the left end to the right end of the specific color region 60 in the crotch elastic region ER and the peripheral region AR is longer than the length L12 (see FIG. 8) from one longitudinal end to the other longitudinal end of the waist colored region 25c in the waist elastic region WR, and is also longer than the length L13 from the left end to the right end of the side colored region 51c in the side elastic region SR. In this case, too, the crotch elastic region ER is the most noticeable of the three elastic regions, making it easier for the user to notice the presence of the crotch elastic member 40.

[0118] === Second Embodiment === FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram of a specific color region 60 in a diaper 1 of a second embodiment. In the second embodiment, differences from the first embodiment will be mainly described. Like the diaper 1 of the first embodiment, the diaper 1 of the second embodiment has at least a portion of a crotch elastic region ER in the crotch portion 1B, which is the central region when the diaper 1 is divided into thirds longitudinally. The diaper 1 of the second embodiment also has a peripheral region AR surrounding the crotch elastic region ER, as illustrated in FIGS. 5 to 7. When viewed from the non-skin side, the diaper 1 of the second embodiment has a background color region 61 and a specific color region 60 that is different from the background color. The background color region 61 occupies the largest area in the crotch portion 1B of the diaper 1.

[0119] In the second embodiment of the diaper 1, when the diaper 1 is in an unfolded and stretched state, the total length of the specific color areas 60 provided in one of the crotch elastic region ER and the peripheral region AR in at least one of the longitudinal direction and the left-right direction is more than half the length of the one of the areas.

[0120] For example, in FIG. 14, a narrow frame-shaped specific color region 60 along the contour of the crotch elastic region ER is positioned slightly offset from the crotch elastic region ER. In this case, the specific color region 60 is provided in both the crotch elastic region ER and the peripheral region AR, with a similar area. Therefore, the area ratio relationship of the first embodiment (|A1 / S1-A2 / S2|≧A1 / S1 or |A1 / S1-A2 / S2|≧A2 / S2) may not be satisfied. However, the longitudinal length L9 of the specific color region 60 provided in the crotch elastic region ER is at least half the longitudinal length L1 of the crotch elastic region ER (L9≧L1 / 2). Furthermore, the lateral length L10 of the specific color region 60 provided in the crotch elastic region ER is at least half the lateral length L3 of the crotch elastic region ER (L10≧L3 / 2).

[0121] In this way, by providing the specific color area 60 in the crotch elastic region ER over a wide area in both the longitudinal and lateral directions, the user can easily notice the crotch elastic region ER. Therefore, the wrinkles caused by the contraction of the crotch elastic member 40 make it easier for the user to notice the presence of the crotch elastic member 40. Therefore, even before using the diaper 1, the user can recognize that the diaper 1 is a product that adheres well to the wearer's crotch area and is less likely to sag, allowing the user to use the diaper 1 with peace of mind. Although not shown, the one area may be the peripheral area AR, and the same effect can be achieved even when the specific color area 60 is provided in the peripheral area AR over a wide area in at least one of the longitudinal and lateral directions.

[0122] Alternatively, the specific color area 60 may be formed by coloring the thread-like crotch elastic members 40. In this case, because the thread-like crotch elastic members 40 are thin, the area of ​​the specific color area 60 provided in the crotch elastic region ER is small. Furthermore, if the non-stretchable portions 40N of the crotch elastic members 40 located in the peripheral region AR are also colored, the difference between the first area ratio and the second area ratio becomes small. Therefore, the relationship between the area ratios in the first embodiment may not be satisfied. However, the longitudinal length of the colored thread-like crotch elastic members 40, i.e., the longitudinal length of the specific color area 60, is more than half the longitudinal length of the crotch elastic region ER. This makes it easier for the user to focus on the crotch elastic region ER and notice the presence of the crotch elastic members 40.

[0123] ===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. [Explanation of symbols]

[0124] 1. Pants-type disposable diapers (absorbent articles), 2 waist joint, 10. Absorbent body; 11 absorbent core, 12 top sheet, 13 back seat, 16 side seats, 17 Elastic member cover sheet (non-skin side sheet), 20 Exterior components, 21 ventral outer sheet, 22 dorsal outer sheet, 23 inner layer sheet, 24 (abdominal side) waist elastic member 25 (back side) waist elastic member, 26 buttocks elastic member, 31 cover sheet, 32 cover sheet, 40 crotch elastic member, 50 Leakage prevention wall section, 51 Leak-proof wall elastic member (side elastic member), 52 Elastic member around the legs, 60 specific color area, 61 background color area, 70 joints, ER crotch elastic area, AR surrounding area,

Claims

1. 1. An absorbent article having an absorbent core, In the deployed and extended state, having a longitudinal direction, a left-right direction, and a thickness direction which intersect with one another, a crotch elastic region defined by an elastic portion of a crotch elastic member that is provided on the non-skin side of the absorbent core and that stretches along the longitudinal direction; At least a part of the crotch elastic region is provided in a crotch region, which is a central region when the absorbent article is divided into three equal parts in the longitudinal direction, a peripheral region surrounding the crotch elastic region; The peripheral region ranges in the left-right direction from a position spaced to the left of the left end of the crotch elastic region by half the width of the crotch elastic region to a position spaced to the right of the right end of the crotch elastic region by half the length, and in the longitudinal direction from a position spaced to one side by the width from one end of the crotch elastic region to a position spaced to the other side by the width from the other end of the crotch elastic region, When the absorbent article is viewed from the non-skin side, a region of a background color and a region of a specific color different from the background color, the background color area is the area that occupies the largest area in the crotch area, a first area ratio is a ratio obtained by dividing the total area of ​​the specific color areas provided in the crotch elastic region by the area of ​​the crotch elastic region; When the ratio obtained by dividing the total area of ​​the specific color areas provided in the peripheral area by the area of ​​the peripheral area is defined as a second area ratio, An absorbent article, characterized in that the absolute value of the difference between the first area ratio and the second area ratio is equal to or greater than the first area ratio or equal to or greater than the second area ratio.

2. The absorbent article according to claim 1, An absorbent article characterized in that, in an unfolded and stretched state, at least one of the crotch elastic region and the peripheral region has an area of ​​the specific color whose length in the longitudinal direction is longer than its length in the left-right direction.

3. The absorbent article according to claim 2, In a deployed and stretched state, the crotch elastic region has a plurality of band-shaped regions of the specific color arranged side by side in the left-right direction along the longitudinal direction.

4. The absorbent article according to any one of claims 1 to 3, An absorbent article characterized in that, in an unfolded and stretched state, the total length of the specific color area provided in one of the crotch elastic area and the peripheral area in at least one of the longitudinal direction and the left-right direction is at least half the length of the one area.

5. The absorbent article according to any one of claims 1 to 3, An absorbent article, characterized in that the first area ratio is 1 / 2 or more, or the second area ratio is 1 / 2 or more.

6. The absorbent article according to any one of claims 1 to 3, An absorbent article characterized in that the peripheral region is free of the specific color region.

7. The absorbent article according to any one of claims 1 to 3, In the unfolded and stretched state, the crotch elastic region has a plurality of thread-like crotch elastic members arranged in the left-right direction, and the stretchable portion of the crotch elastic member has a portion that overlaps with the region of the specific color in the thickness direction.

8. The absorbent article according to any one of claims 1 to 3, In the deployed and extended state, In the crotch elastic region, a plurality of thread-like crotch elastic members are arranged in the left-right direction, An absorbent article characterized in that, in a region outer than the crotch elastic region in the longitudinal direction, the non-stretchable portion of the crotch elastic member has a portion that does not overlap with the region of the specific color in the thickness direction.

9. The absorbent article according to any one of claims 1 to 3, a liquid-impermeable back sheet and a non-skin-side sheet provided on the non-skin side of the back sheet, the crotch elastic members are provided between the back sheet and the non-skin side sheet, the back sheet is colored to form the specific color area, In the deployed and extended state, In the crotch elastic region, a plurality of thread-like crotch elastic members are arranged in the left-right direction, The absorbent article is characterized in that a joint between the back sheet and the non-skin side sheet is provided between the plurality of crotch elastic members aligned in the left-right direction.

10. The absorbent article according to any one of claims 1 to 3, a liquid-impermeable back sheet and a non-skin-side sheet provided on the non-skin side of the back sheet, the crotch elastic members are provided between the back sheet and the non-skin side sheet, In the deployed and extended state, In the crotch elastic region, a plurality of thread-like crotch elastic members are arranged in the left-right direction, a joining portion between the back sheet and the non-skin side sheet is provided between the plurality of crotch elastic members aligned in the left-right direction, The absorbent article is characterized in that the joining portion extends further outward in the longitudinal direction than the crotch elastic region.

11. The absorbent article according to any one of claims 1 to 3, The absorbent article is characterized in that the crotch elastic members are colored to form the specific color areas.

12. The absorbent article according to any one of claims 1 to 3, In the deployed and extended state, a waist elastic region that is stretchable along the left-right direction at at least one end in the longitudinal direction; An absorbent article characterized in that, when the absorbent article is viewed from the non-skin side, the waist elastic region has a waist colored region that is colored along the left-right direction.

13. The absorbent article according to any one of claims 1 to 3, In the deployed and extended state, The absorbent body has side elastic regions that stretch along the longitudinal direction on both sides in the left-right direction of the absorbent body including the absorbent core, An absorbent article characterized in that, when the absorbent article is viewed from the non-skin side or the skin side, the side elastic regions have side colored regions that are colored along the longitudinal direction.

14. 13. The absorbent article of claim 12, In the deployed and extended state, The absorbent body has side elastic regions that stretch along the longitudinal direction on both sides in the left-right direction of the absorbent body including the absorbent core, When the absorbent article is viewed from the non-skin side or the skin side, the side elastic regions are provided with side colored regions that are colored along the longitudinal direction, An absorbent article characterized in that the specific color area in the crotch elastic area as viewed from the non-skin side, the waist colored area as viewed from the non-skin side, and the side colored areas as viewed from the non-skin side or the skin side are all similar colors.

15. 13. The absorbent article of claim 12, In the deployed and extended state, The absorbent body has side elastic regions that stretch along the longitudinal direction on both sides in the left-right direction of the absorbent body including the absorbent core, When the absorbent article is viewed from the non-skin side or the skin side, the side elastic regions are provided with side colored regions that are colored along the longitudinal direction, An absorbent article characterized in that the maximum width in the left-right direction of the specific color area in the crotch elastic area is greater than the maximum width in the longitudinal direction of the waist colored area and the maximum width in the left-right direction of the side colored area.

16. 1. An absorbent article having an absorbent core, In the deployed and extended state, having a longitudinal direction, a left-right direction, and a thickness direction which intersect with one another, a crotch elastic region defined by an elastic portion of a crotch elastic member that is provided on the non-skin side of the absorbent core and that stretches along the longitudinal direction; At least a part of the crotch elastic region is provided in a crotch region, which is a central region when the absorbent article is divided into three equal parts in the longitudinal direction, a peripheral region surrounding the crotch elastic region; The peripheral region ranges in the left-right direction from a position spaced to the left of the left end of the crotch elastic region by half the width of the crotch elastic region to a position spaced to the right of the right end of the crotch elastic region by half the length, and in the longitudinal direction from a position spaced to one side by the width from one end of the crotch elastic region to a position spaced to the other side by the width from the other end of the crotch elastic region, When the absorbent article is viewed from the non-skin side, a region of a background color and a region of a specific color different from the background color, the background color area is the area that occupies the largest area in the crotch area, An absorbent article characterized in that, in at least one of the longitudinal direction and the left-right direction, the total length of the specific color area provided in one of the crotch elastic area and the peripheral area is at least half the length of the one area.

Images