Adhesive-containing articles and methods of use thereof

Abstract

The article includes at least one substrate and at least one adhesive member. The at least one adhesive member includes an adhesive layer including an adhesive configured to bond the at least one adhesive member to an exterior surface. The at least one adhesive member further includes at least one slit extending through the at least one adhesive member. The article further includes at least one tab connected to at least the adhesive layer of the at least one adhesive member and extending from the at least one adhesive member. The at least one tab is configured to receive a pulling force from a user. When a pulling force is applied to the at least one tab, the at least one adhesive member at least partially separates adjacent the at least one slit and peels from each of the at least one substrate and the exterior surface.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE The present disclosure relates generally to articles that include adhesives and methods of using the articles. [Background technology]

[0002] Articles including adhesive layers are commonly found in a variety of applications. Such articles can be held to an external surface with the aid of an adhesive layer. For example, medical diagnostic devices are typically held to a user's skin through an adhesive layer. In some cases, when the user wishes to remove the article from the external surface, the adhesive layer may not be directly accessible to the user.

[0003] Some articles are provided with a stretch-releasing adhesive layer, which can be removed without any damage or residue by stretching the adhesive layer at a specific angle. Examples of stretch-releasing adhesive layers are provided in WO 2021 / 137135 (hereinafter referred to as the '135 document). The '135 document discloses stretch-releasing adhesive articles with tunable mechanical properties. The stretch-releasing adhesive article includes a stretchable carrier, one of whose major surfaces is a stretch-releasable adhesive surface. The stretchable carrier includes a pattern of slits dispensed thereon, configured to deform when the stretchable carrier is stretched, elongating the stretchable carrier. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In one aspect, an article is described. The article includes at least one substrate. The article further includes at least one adhesive member having a first major surface and a second major surface opposite the first major surface. The first major surface is connected to the at least one substrate. The at least one adhesive member further includes an adhesive layer forming the second major surface of the at least one adhesive member. The adhesive layer includes an adhesive configured to bond the at least one adhesive member to an outer surface. The at least one adhesive member further includes at least one slit extending through the at least one adhesive member from the first major surface to the second major surface. The article further includes at least one tab connected to at least the adhesive layer of the at least one adhesive member and extending from the at least one adhesive member. The at least one tab is configured to receive a pulling force from a user. When a pulling force is applied to the at least one tab, the at least one adhesive member at least partially separates adjacent the at least one slit and peels from each of the at least one substrate and the outer surface.

[0005] In another aspect, a method of using an article is described. The article includes at least one substrate, at least one adhesive member connected to the at least one substrate, and at least one tab connected to the at least one adhesive member. The method includes adhesively bonding at least one adhesive layer to an exterior surface. The method further includes applying a pulling force to the at least one tab to cause at least partial separation of the at least one adhesive member adjacent to the at least one slit, thereby peeling the at least one adhesive member from each of the at least one substrate and the exterior surface.

[0006] The details of one or more examples of this disclosure are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features, objects, and advantages of the present disclosure will be apparent from the description and drawings, and from the claims. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] The exemplary embodiments disclosed herein may be more fully understood by considering the following detailed description in conjunction with the following drawings: The drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. Like numbers used in the figures refer to like components. However, it will be understood that the use of a number to refer to a component in a given figure is not intended to limit the component in another figure labeled with the same number. [Figure 1A] 1 is a schematic top perspective view of an article according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. [Figure 1B] FIG. 1 is a schematic bottom perspective view of an article according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] 1 is a schematic cross-sectional perspective view of an article according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a schematic bottom view of an article according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] 1 is a schematic bottom view of at least one adhesive member of an article according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5A] FIG. 1 is a schematic bottom view of at least one adhesive member and a portion of a tab according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5B] FIG. 10 is a schematic bottom view of at least one adhesive member and a portion of a tab with tension applied to the tab, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6A] FIG. 10 is a schematic bottom view of at least one adhesive member and a tab according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6B] FIG. 6B is a schematic bottom view of a portion of at least one adhesive member and tab of FIG. 6A with tension applied to the tab, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a schematic bottom view of a portion of at least one adhesive member according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8A] 1 is a schematic cross-sectional front view of at least one adhesive member and a portion of a tab according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8B] 10 is a schematic cross-sectional front view of at least one adhesive member and a portion of a tab according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9A] 10 is a schematic cross-sectional front view of a portion of at least one adhesive member according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9B] 9B is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a portion of at least one adhesive member of FIG. 9A, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9C] 9B is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a portion of at least one adhesive member of FIG. 9A, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10A] FIG. 10 is a schematic bottom view of at least one adhesive member according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10B] 10B is a schematic cross-sectional view of at least one adhesive member taken along section line AA' shown in FIG. 10A according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a schematic bottom view of at least one adhesive member according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a schematic bottom view of at least one adhesive member according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a schematic bottom view of at least one adhesive member according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 14A] FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view of an article according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 14B] FIG. 14B is a schematic bottom view of the article of FIG. 14A according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 15A] FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view of an article according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 15B] FIG. 15B is a schematic bottom view of the article of FIG. 15A according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 16] FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view of an article according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a schematic bottom view of the article of FIG. 16 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 18] 1 is a flowchart illustrating a method of using an article according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] In the following description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof, and in which various embodiments are shown by way of illustration. It is to be understood that other embodiments are contemplated and may be made without departing from the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. Accordingly, the following detailed description is not to be taken in a limiting sense.

[0009] In the disclosure that follows, the following definitions are adopted:

[0010] As used herein, all numbers should be considered to be modified by the term "about." As used herein, "a," "an," "the," "at least one," and "one or more" are used interchangeably.

[0011] The term "generally," when used herein as a modifier to a characteristic or attribute, unless specifically defined otherwise, means that the characteristic or attribute is readily recognizable by one of ordinary skill in the art, but does not require absolute precision or perfect agreement (e.g., within + / - 20% for quantifiable characteristics).

[0012] The term "substantially," unless otherwise specifically defined, means a high degree of approximation (e.g., within + / - 10% for quantifiable properties), but again does not require absolute precision or perfect agreement.

[0013] The term "about," unless otherwise specifically defined, means a high degree of approximation (e.g., within + / - 5% for quantifiable properties), but again does not require absolute precision or exact agreement.

[0014] As used herein, the terms "first" and "second" are used as identifiers. Therefore, such terms should not be construed as limiting the present disclosure. The terms "first" and "second" when used in conjunction with a feature or element are interchangeable throughout multiple embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0015] As used herein, "at least one of A and B" should be understood to mean "A only, B only, or both A and B."

[0016] As used herein, the recitation of numerical ranges by endpoints includes all numbers subsumed within that range, as well as the endpoints (e.g., 1 to 5 includes 1, 1.5, 2, 2.75, 3, 3.80, 4, 5, etc.).

[0017] As used herein, the term "adhesive" generally refers to a polymeric composition useful for bonding two adherends together. Examples of adhesives can include curable adhesives, heat-activated adhesives, pressure-sensitive adhesives, or combinations thereof.

[0018] As used herein, the term "layer" generally refers to a planar sheet, film, fabric, or covering of an object formed using a single blended composition or individual substance.

[0019] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, an article includes at least one substrate. The article further includes at least one adhesive member having a first major surface and a second major surface opposite the first major surface. The first major surface is connected to the at least one substrate. The at least one adhesive member further includes an adhesive layer forming the second major surface of the at least one adhesive member. The adhesive layer includes an adhesive configured to bond the at least one adhesive member to an outer surface. The at least one adhesive member further includes at least one slit extending through the at least one adhesive member from the first major surface to the second major surface. The article further includes at least one tab connected to at least the adhesive layer of the at least one adhesive member and extending from the at least one adhesive member. The at least one tab is configured to receive a pulling force from a user. When a pulling force is applied to the at least one tab, the at least one adhesive member at least partially separates adjacent to the at least one slit and peels away from each of the at least one substrate and the outer surface.

[0020] In the article of the present disclosure, at least one tab is connected to at least one adhesive layer of at least one adhesive member. Therefore, pulling the at least one tab can apply force to the at least one adhesive layer. The at least one tab can be accessible to a user of the article. Pulling the at least one tab can at least partially separate the at least one adhesive member adjacent to the at least one slit, thereby peeling the at least one adhesive member from each of the at least one substrate and the outer surface. Therefore, a user can easily remove the article from the outer surface by pulling the at least one tab.

[0021] The at least one adhesive member may include a bulk material that allows the at least one adhesive member to be pulled and at least partially separate adjacent the at least one slit. Further, the at least one slit may allow for a reduction in the force required to peel the at least one adhesive member (e.g., by necking) compared to conventional adhesive members that include a continuous bulk of adhesive.

[0022] Furthermore, compared to conventional adhesive members that include a discontinuous pattern of slits, the at least one slit of the present disclosure may be continuous and may extend along the first or second major surface from the at least one tab to the end of the at least one adhesive member. Furthermore, conventional adhesive members (with perforations or holes) are stretched as a single, continuous piece. However, the at least one slit of the present disclosure may allow the at least one adhesive member to be formed as a single, elongated, continuous bulk material with a narrow cross-sectional area. This may allow the at least one adhesive member to have a smaller necking cross-sectional area when a pulling force is applied to the at least one tab, thereby reducing the amount of pulling force required to peel the at least one adhesive member. Therefore, the impact of peeling the at least one adhesive member on both the at least one substrate and the outer surface may be minimized.

[0023] In some examples, the at least one adhesive member includes a plurality of slits that are substantially parallel to one another. This can divide the necking region of the at least one adhesive member into a plurality of smaller necking regions with reduced cross-sectional areas, whereas conventional adhesive members include a single necking region, and the entire cross-sectional area of ​​the at least one adhesive member perpendicular to the direction of the pulling force is activated or stretched simultaneously. Thus, the at least one adhesive member of the present disclosure having a plurality of slits can further reduce the amount of pulling force required to separate the at least one adhesive member.

[0024] Additionally, the multiple smaller necking regions with reduced cross-sectional area created in the at least one adhesive member by the multiple slits can be activated or stretched individually, sequentially, or in parallel when a pulling force is applied to the at least one tab. Further, the at least one tab may include one or more tabs attached to each of the multiple necking regions to aid in the removal of the at least one adhesive member. In some embodiments, the multiple smaller necking regions with reduced cross-sectional area can result in a lower pulling force required to remove the at least one adhesive member from each of the at least one substrate and exterior surface.

[0025] It should be noted that the multiple slits in the at least one adhesive member may facilitate peeling of the at least one adhesive member from the at least one substrate and the outer surface, respectively, without any significant damage or residue, while not significantly reducing the adhesion of the at least one adhesive member to an outer surface (such as a user's skin). Furthermore, when the outer surface is a user's skin, the at least one slit may allow moisture to pass through the at least one adhesive member, thereby improving the permeability and breathability of the at least one adhesive member.

[0026] Referring now to the drawings, FIG. 1A is a schematic top perspective view of article 100. Article 100 is attached to an exterior surface 102. FIG. 1B is a schematic bottom perspective view of article 100. FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional perspective view of article 100. Referring now to FIGS. 1A-2, article 100 includes at least one substrate 104. Article 100 further includes at least one adhesive member 110 (shown in FIGS. 1B and 2). Article 100 is attached to exterior surface 102 via adhesive member 110. The term "at least one substrate 104" is hereinafter interchangeably referred to as "substrate 104." The term "at least one adhesive member 110" is hereinafter interchangeably referred to as "adhesive member 110."

[0027] In some examples, at least one substrate 104 includes a main portion 108 connected with at least one adhesive member 110. In the illustrated examples of Figures 1A-2, the main portion 108 is rectangular (i.e., polygonal). In some other examples, the main portion 108 may be circular, oval, or elliptical. It should be understood that the main portion 108 may be any shape and geometry based on application requirements, including irregular shapes.

[0028] In some examples, the substrate 104 further includes one or more side portions 105 extending from the main portion 108. In some examples, the one or more side portions 105 at least partially surround at least one adhesive member 110. In the example shown in FIGS. 1A-2, the one or more side portions 105 include multiple side portions 105 spaced apart from one another. In some examples, the multiple side portions 105 may prevent foreign matter, such as dirt, from reaching the adhesive member 110.

[0029] In some examples, at least one substrate 104 includes at least one notch 118. Specifically, the at least one notch 118 includes a plurality of notches 118 that separate the plurality of sides 105 from one another. In some examples, each notch 118 of the plurality of notches 118 is disposed between a corresponding pair of adjacent sides 105 of the plurality of sides 105.

[0030] In some examples, the substrate 104 may be a backing for the adhesive member 110. In some examples, the substrate 104 may be part of a medical diagnostic device and the exterior surface 102 may be the skin of a user. For example, the medical diagnostic device may be attached to the skin of a user via the adhesive member 110. In some examples, the medical diagnostic device may include one or more sensors attached thereto.

[0031] 1B and 1C, the at least one adhesive member 110 includes a first major surface 112 and a second major surface 114 opposite the first major surface 112. The first major surface 112 is connected to the at least one substrate 104. The at least one adhesive member 110 further includes an adhesive layer 116 that forms the second major surface 114 of the at least one adhesive member 110.

[0032] The adhesive layer 116 comprises an adhesive configured to bond the at least one adhesive member 110 to the exterior surface 102 (shown in FIG. 1A). In some examples, the adhesive is a pressure-sensitive adhesive or a stretch-release adhesive. In some examples, the article 100 further comprises a release liner 106 (shown in FIG. 2) releasably attached to the adhesive layer 116. In some examples, the release liner 106 is removed before bonding the adhesive layer 116 to the exterior surface 102 (shown in FIG. 1A). The release liner 106 is not shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B.

[0033] The at least one adhesive member 110 further includes at least one slit 120 extending through the at least one adhesive member 110 from the first major surface 112 to the second major surface 114. Thus, the at least one slit 120 is a through slit. In some examples, the at least one slit 120 may extend further along the first major surface 112 or the second major surface 114. In some examples, the at least one slit 120 may be arranged in a predetermined pattern along the first major surface 112 and the second major surface 114. The terms "at least one slit 120" are hereinafter referred to interchangeably as "slit 120."

[0034] In some examples, the slits 120 may be created by cutting the adhesive member 110 by various known methods. Specifically, the slits 120 may be created by cutting a continuous region of the adhesive member 110 in a predetermined pattern, such that the predetermined pattern may impart particular mechanical properties to the adhesive member 110. Such mechanical properties may also vary in different directions. Alternatively, the adhesive member 110 may be dispensed directly from a robotic platform in a predetermined pattern, for example, in the form of elongated portions. It should be understood that the adhesive member 110 may be formed in different shapes / geometry and the slits 120 may be formed in different shapes / patterns based on application requirements.

[0035] 1A and 1B, the article 100 further includes at least one tab 130 connected to at least the adhesive layer 116 of the at least one adhesive member 110 and extending from the at least one adhesive member 110. In some examples, the at least one notch 118 is configured to at least partially receive the at least one tab 130 therethrough. In some examples, the at least one tab 130 may be made from a material different from the material of the adhesive member 110. In some other examples, the at least one tab 130 may be made from the same material as the material of the adhesive member 110. The terms "at least one tab 130" are hereinafter referred to interchangeably as "tab 130."

[0036] In some examples, the at least one tab 130 and the at least one adhesive member 110 have the same layered structure. In other words, the at least one tab 130 and the at least one adhesive member 110 include the same layers (i.e., similar compositions) having the same respective thicknesses. In some examples, the at least one tab 130 includes an adhesive layer 131. In some examples, the adhesive layer 131 includes a pressure-sensitive adhesive or a stretch-release adhesive. In some examples, the adhesive layer 131 may include an adhesive similar to the adhesive of the adhesive layer 116. Alternatively, in some other examples, the at least one tab 130 may be non-adhesive.

[0037] The at least one tab 130 is configured to receive a pulling force F from a user. When the pulling force F is applied to the at least one tab 130, the at least one adhesive member 110 at least partially separates adjacent the at least one slit 120 and peels from each of the at least one substrate 104 and the exterior surface 102. Thus, a user can peel the substrate 104 from the exterior surface 102 by pulling the tab 130.

[0038] In some examples, the at least one tab 130 may be adhesive. For example, the at least one tab 130 may be an extension of the at least one adhesive member 110. In such cases, to peel the substrate 104 from the exterior surface 102, the at least one tab 130 may be grasped and pulled by a user to stretch the at least one adhesive member 110. In some examples, the at least one tab 130 may include those described in U.S. Pat. No. 9,587,146 (Sherman et al.) and U.S. Pat. No. 9,228,117 (Sherman et al.), the disclosures of which are incorporated by reference in their entireties.

[0039] 3 is a schematic bottom view of the article 100. In some examples, the at least one adhesive member 110 further includes a first longitudinal edge 136 extending along a longitudinal axis L, a second longitudinal edge 138 opposite the first longitudinal edge 136 and extending at least partially along the longitudinal axis L, a first transverse edge 142 extending between the first longitudinal edge 136 and the second longitudinal edge 138 along a transverse axis T perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L, and a second transverse edge 144 opposite the first transverse edge 142 and extending between the first longitudinal edge 136 and the second longitudinal edge 138 along the transverse axis T.

[0040] In some examples, the at least one slit 120 includes a plurality of slits 120 spaced apart from one another relative to the transverse axis T and extending at least partially along the longitudinal axis L. In some examples, the plurality of slits 120 includes a set of first slits 122 and a set of second slits 124 alternating with the set of first slits 122. In some examples, each first slit 122 in the set of first slits 122 extends partially from the first transverse edge 142 toward the second transverse edge 144 such that each first slit 122 is spaced apart from the second transverse edge 144. In some examples, each second slit 124 in the set of second slits 124 extends partially from the second transverse edge 144 toward the first transverse edge 142 such that each second slit 124 is spaced apart from the first transverse edge 142. It should be understood that the set of first slits 122 and the set of second slits 124 may include any number of first slits 122 and second slits 124, respectively.

[0041] In some examples, the at least one adhesive member 110 includes a plurality of elongated portions 146 extending at least partially along the longitudinal axis L between a first transverse edge 142 and a second transverse edge 144. In some examples, adjacent elongated portions 146 of the plurality of elongated portions 146 are at least partially separated from one another by a corresponding first slit 122 of the set of first slits 122 or a corresponding second slit 124 of the set of second slits 124. In some examples, adjacent elongated portions 146 are connected to one another at the first transverse edge 142 or the second transverse edge 144 such that the plurality of elongated portions 146 together form the serpentine pattern 140. Thus, the set of first slits 122 and the set of second slits 124 may enable the at least one adhesive member 110 to be formed as a single elongated, continuous bulk material having a narrow cross-sectional area.

[0042] In some examples, the plurality of elongated portions 146 includes an end elongated portion 148 disposed at the second longitudinal edge 138. In some examples, the set of first slits 122 includes an end first slit 126 disposed proximal to the second longitudinal edge 138 and at least partially separating an end elongated portion 146 from an adjacent elongated portion 148.

[0043] In some examples, the end elongated portion 148 includes a first elongated portion 150 connected to an adjacent elongated portion 146 and extending along the longitudinal axis L, a second elongated portion 152 extending from the first elongated portion 150 and angled relative thereto, and a third elongated portion 154 extending from the second elongated portion 152 along the longitudinal axis L.

[0044] In some examples, the first slit 126 at the end includes a first slit portion 156 extending from the first transverse edge 144 along the longitudinal axis L, a second slit portion 158 extending from the first slit portion 156 and inclined relative to the first slit portion 156, and a third slit portion 160 extending from the second slit portion 158 along the longitudinal axis L partially toward the second transverse edge 142.

[0045] In some examples, at least one tab 130 is connected to the end elongated portion 148 and is positioned adjacent to the end first slit 126. Specifically, the at least one tab 130 extends from the third elongated portion 154. In some examples, the at least one tab 130 includes a curved portion 132 extending from the at least one adhesive member 110 and a disc-shaped portion 134 distal to the at least one adhesive member 110 and connected to the curved portion 132.

[0046] The tab 130 is configured to receive a pulling force F from a user. When the user applies the pulling force F to the tab 130, the adhesive member 110 at least partially separates adjacent the plurality of slits 120 and peels from each of the substrate 104 and the exterior surface 102 (shown in FIG. 1 ), e.g., by necking. In other words, when the pulling force F is applied, the serpentine pattern 140 of the at least one adhesive member 110 unwinds (e.g., ribbon-like) along the plurality of slits 120 and peels from each of the substrate 104 and the exterior surface 102 (shown in FIG. 1 ). Because the at least one adhesive member 110 of the present disclosure is formed as a single, elongated, continuous bulk material having a narrow cross-sectional area perpendicular to the direction of the pulling force F, the magnitude of the pulling force F required to peel the at least one adhesive member 110 may be reduced compared to conventional adhesive members (e.g., perforated or holed) that are pulled as a single continuous piece.

[0047] In some embodiments, when a user applies a pulling force F to the tab 130, the adhesive member 110 can slide out from under the at least one notch 118, causing the substrate 104 to peel away from the exterior surface 102 (shown in FIG. 1 ). Alternatively, when a user applies a pulling force F to the tab 130, the adhesive member 110 can slide out from under one or more sides 105, causing the substrate 104 to peel away from the exterior surface 102 (shown in FIG. 1 ).

[0048] In some examples, the adhesive member 110 may include a bulk material that allows the adhesive member 110 and adhesive layer 116 to undergo a tensile force via the tab 130 without breaking. In other words, the adhesive member 110 has sufficient strength to withstand a tensile force applied to the adhesive member 110. For example, a suitable material may be selected for the adhesive member 110 that provides structural strength to the adhesive member 110 based on chemical properties or inherent material properties. It should be understood that any suitable material that provides sufficient strength to the adhesive member 110 may be utilized for the adhesive member 110.

[0049] Figure 4 is a schematic bottom view of at least one adhesive member 110. In the example shown in Figure 4, the end first slit 126 and the end elongated portion 148 each extend along the longitudinal axis L. In some examples, the at least one tab 130 includes a straight portion 128 extending from the at least one adhesive member 110 and a disc-shaped portion 134 distal to the at least one adhesive member 110 and connected to the straight portion 128.

[0050] Figure 5A is a schematic bottom view of a portion of the adhesive member 110 and the tab 130. In the illustrated example of Figure 5A, a single slit 120 is shown for illustrative purposes. Figure 5B is a schematic bottom view of a portion of the adhesive member 110 and the tab 130 with a tensile force F applied to the tab 130. In some examples, the slit 120 extends along a slit axis S, and the tensile force F is applied along a pulling direction P. In the illustrated example of Figure 5B, the pulling direction P is substantially parallel to the slit axis S of the slit 120.

[0051] 5A and 5B, in some examples, the adhesive member 110 delaminates from each of the substrate 104 (shown in FIGS. 1A-3 ) and the exterior surface 102 (shown in FIG. 1A ) by necking in response to the application of a tensile force F to the tab 130. Specifically, the adhesive member 110 necks in response to the application of a tensile force F to the tab 130, forming a necking region N, as indicated by the delamination region R, before the adhesive member 110 is fully delaminate. Thus, the adhesive member 110 may initially stretch and narrow before the adhesive member 110 is fully delaminate.

[0052] The adhesive member 110 of the present disclosure includes at least one slit 120 extending from the at least one tab 130 to or proximal to the end 111 of the at least one adhesive member 110. Furthermore, the at least one slit 120 may allow the at least one adhesive member 110 to be peeled by forming multiple smaller necking regions N, as compared to conventional adhesive members that include a single necking region and in which the entire cross-sectional area of ​​the adhesive member perpendicular to the direction of the pulling force is simultaneously activated or stretched. Thus, the magnitude of the pulling force F required to peel the adhesive member 110 may be significantly lower than when the adhesive member includes a continuous bulk material or a bulk material with discontinuous slits, resulting in less damage to the bonded surfaces.

[0053] In some examples, the magnitude of the tensile force F required to peel the adhesive member 110 may depend on the width of the adhesive member 110. Thus, by reducing the width of the adhesive member 110, the tensile force F required to peel the adhesive member 110 may be reduced. Furthermore, the magnitude of the tensile force F required to peel the adhesive member 110 may increase with an increase in the width of the adhesive member 110. Thus, if a wider adhesive member 110 may be provided, multiple slits 120 may be used to enable the creation of multiple necking regions, thereby reducing the magnitude of the tensile force F required to peel the adhesive member 110.

[0054] 6A is a schematic bottom view of an adhesive member 110 and a tab 130 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 6B is a schematic bottom view of a portion of the adhesive member 110 and the tab 130 when a tensile force F is applied to the tab 130. Specifically, the tensile direction P of the tensile force F is inclined with respect to the slit axis S of the slit 120.

[0055] 6A and 6B, the magnitude of the tensile force F required to delaminate the adhesive member 110 when the pulling direction P of the tensile force F is oblique to the slit axis S of the slit 120 remains smaller than when the adhesive member 110 comprises a continuous bulk of adhesive. In some examples, the adhesive member 110 delaminates from each of the substrate 104 (shown in FIGS. 1A-3 ) and the exterior surface 102 (shown in FIG. 1A ) by necking in response to the application of the tensile force F to the tab 130. Specifically, the adhesive member 110 necks in response to the application of the tensile force F to the tab 130 to form a necking region N before being completely delaminated, as indicated by the delamination region R. The reduced magnitude of the tensile force F may also be due to the presence of the slit 120, resulting in less damage to the bonded surfaces.

[0056] 7 shows a schematic bottom view of a portion of an adhesive member 110 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. In the illustrated example of FIG. 7, for illustrative purposes, a single slit 120 is shown. Furthermore, the pulling direction P of the pulling force F is oblique to the slit axis S of the slit 120.

[0057] In some examples, the adhesive member 110 peels from each of the substrate 104 (shown in FIGS. 1A-3 ) and the outer surface 102 (shown in FIG. 1A ) by rolling. In some examples, if the pulling direction P of the tensile force F is not aligned with the slit axis S of the slit 120, the adhesive member 110 may roll on itself and peel from the substrate 104 (shown in FIGS. 1A-3 ) and the outer surface 102 (shown in FIG. 1A ) before the adhesive member 110 is subjected to sufficient force to cause necking. This peeling mechanism may depend on the bond strength to the bonding surface and the elastic modulus of the adhesive member 110. The magnitude of the tensile force F required to peel the adhesive member 110 with the slit 120 is still smaller than if the adhesive member 110 included a continuous bulk of adhesive.

[0058] Figure 8A is a schematic cross-sectional front view of a portion of an adhesive member 110 and a tab 130. In the illustrated embodiment of Figure 8A, at least one adhesive member 110 further includes a core layer 162 including a first core major surface 164 facing at least one substate 104 (shown in Figures 1A-3) and a second core major surface 166 opposite the first core major surface 164.

[0059] In some examples, adhesive layer 116 is disposed on second core major surface 166. In the illustrated example of Figure 8A, tab 130 is connected to adhesive layer 116 and core layer 162 of adhesive member 110 and extends from adhesive member 110. In some examples, at least one adhesive member 110 further includes another adhesive layer 168 disposed on first core major surface 164 and bonding at least one adhesive member 110 to at least one substrate 104 (shown in Figures 1A-3). Specifically, another adhesive layer 168 forms first major surface 112 of adhesive member 110.

[0060] In some examples, the core layer 162 comprises a foam. However, it should be understood that any other suitable material may be selected for the core layer 162. In some examples, the core layer 162 may comprise a thin film layer. In such cases, the thin film layer may be able to match the necking behavior of the adhesive member 110 or withstand forces in the tensile direction P (shown in FIGS. 5A-7 ) without limiting the necking behavior of the adhesive member 110.

[0061] In some examples, the core layer 162 may increase the structural strength of the adhesive member 110, enabling the adhesive member 110 to withstand tensile forces applied to the adhesive member 110 in order to peel the adhesive member 110 from each of the substrate 104 (shown in Figures 1A-3) and the outer surface 102 (shown in Figure 1A).

[0062] Figure 8B is a schematic front cross-sectional view of a portion of the adhesive member 110 and the tabs 130. In the illustrated example of Figure 8C, at least one tab 130 is further connected to the core layer 162 and another adhesive layer 168. Thus, the tabs 130 can transmit a tensile force F to the core layer 162 and the another adhesive layer 168 to peel the adhesive member 110 from each of the substrate 104 (shown in Figures 1A-3) and the exterior surface 102 (shown in Figure 1A).

[0063] 9A is a schematic cross-sectional front view of a portion of an adhesive member 110 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. In the depicted example of FIG. 9A, for illustrative purposes, the tab 130 is not shown. Additionally, the adhesive layer 116 further forms the first major surface 112 of at least one adhesive member 110 and is bonded to at least one substrate 104 (shown in FIGS. 1A-3).

[0064] In some examples, the adhesive layer 116 further includes a plurality of reinforcing elements 170 embedded in the adhesive. The plurality of reinforcing elements 170 may increase the structural strength of the adhesive member 110, allowing the adhesive member 110 to withstand tensile forces applied to the adhesive member 110. The plurality of reinforcing elements 170 may allow the adhesive member 110 to withstand tensile forces applied to the adhesive member 110 without limiting the necking behavior of the adhesive member 110.

[0065] Figure 9B is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a portion of an adhesive member 110. In the illustrated example of Figure 9B, the plurality of reinforcing elements 170 includes cylindrical members 172. Figure 9C is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a portion of an adhesive member 110, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. In the illustrated example of Figure 9C, the plurality of reinforcing elements 170 includes flat members 174.

[0066] 1A-9C 。 In some examples, the adhesive member 210 may be functionally equivalent to the adhesive member 110 of FIGS. 1A-9C . In some examples, the adhesive member 210 further includes a first longitudinal edge 236 extending along a longitudinal axis L, a second longitudinal edge 238 opposite the first longitudinal edge 236 and extending at least partially along the longitudinal axis L, a first transverse edge 242 extending between the first longitudinal edge 236 and the second longitudinal edge 238 along a transverse axis T perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L, and a second transverse edge 244 opposite the first transverse edge 242 and extending between the first longitudinal edge 236 and the second longitudinal edge 238 along the transverse axis T.

[0067] In some examples, the at least one adhesive member 210 includes at least one slit 220 extending therethrough. The at least one slit 220 includes a plurality of slits 220 spaced apart from one another relative to the transverse axis T and extending at least partially along the longitudinal axis L. In the illustrated example of FIG. 10A , each slit 220 of the plurality of slits 220 extends partially from a first transverse edge 242 toward a second transverse edge 244 such that each slit 220 is spaced apart from the second transverse edge 244. In comparison to conventional adhesive members that include a discontinuous pattern of slits, the plurality of slits 220 of the present disclosure may be continuous and may extend substantially from the first transverse edge 242 toward the second transverse edge 244.

[0068] 10A , the plurality of slits 220 are spaced apart from the second transverse edge 244 to form a non-slit portion, or bridge portion 211. The bridge portion 211 may be a portion of the at least one adhesive member 210 that is small enough so as not to affect the necking behavior of the at least one adhesive member 210. Additionally, in some examples, the bridge portion 211 may improve handling of the at least one adhesive member 210 during production.

[0069] In some examples, at least one tab 230 is connected to and extends from the at least one adhesive layer 216 of the at least one adhesive member 210. In some examples, the at least one tab 230 extends from the first transverse edge 242 and is disposed adjacent to the plurality of slits 220. In some examples, the at least one tab 230 tapers away from the at least one adhesive member 210 and is D-shaped. Specifically, the at least one tab 230 tapers away from the first transverse edge 242 of the adhesive member 210. Alternatively, the at least one tab 230 may be connected to and taper away from the second transverse edge 244 of the adhesive member 210.

[0070] The at least one tab 230 is configured to receive a pulling force F from a user. When the pulling force F is applied to the at least one tab 230, the at least one adhesive member 210 peels from each of the at least one substrate 104 (shown in FIGS. 1A-3 ) and the outer surface 102 (shown in FIG. 1A ). In some examples, the multiple slits 220 are parallel to one another. This may divide the necking region of the at least one adhesive member 210 into multiple smaller necking regions of reduced cross-sectional area. Thus, the at least one adhesive member 210 may reduce the magnitude of the pulling force F required to peel the at least one adhesive member 210.

[0071] 10B is a schematic cross-sectional view of at least one adhesive member 210 taken along section line A-A' shown in FIG. 10A. Referring now to FIGS. 10A and 10B, in some examples, the at least one adhesive member 210 includes a plurality of adhesive regions 256 disposed adjacent to at least one slit 220. Specifically, the plurality of adhesive regions 256 are separated by the plurality of slits 220. In other words, the plurality of slits 220 divide the at least one adhesive member 210 into individual adhesive regions 256. In some examples, each of the plurality of adhesive regions 256 has a cross-sectional area A1 that is smaller than the total cross-sectional area A2 of the at least one adhesive member 210. In some examples, the total cross-sectional area A2 of the at least one adhesive member 210 is equal to the sum of the cross-sectional areas A1 of the individual adhesive regions 256 and the cross-sectional area of ​​the plurality of slits 220.

[0072] In some examples, the plurality of slits 220 divide the at least one adhesive member 210 into a plurality of smaller necking regions with reduced cross-sectional areas (corresponding to the plurality of adhesive regions 256). In some examples, the plurality of smaller necking regions with reduced cross-sectional areas may result in a lower pull force F required to remove the at least one adhesive member 210 from each of the at least one substrate 104 (shown in FIGS. 1A-3 ) and the exterior surface 102 (shown in FIG. 1A ) compared to a conventional adhesive member that includes a single necking region in which the entire cross-sectional area of ​​the adhesive member is activated or stretched simultaneously.

[0073] In some examples, the multiple adhesive regions 256 may be activated or stretched individually, sequentially, or in parallel when a tensile force F is applied to the at least one tab 230. In some examples, the at least one tab 230 may include one or more tabs (not shown) attached to each of the multiple adhesive regions 256 to aid in the removal of the at least one adhesive member 210.

[0074] FIG. 11 is a schematic bottom view of at least one adhesive member 210 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 11 , each slit 220 of the plurality of slits 220 extends from a first transverse edge 242 to a second transverse edge 244. In some examples, at least one tab 230 extends from the first transverse edge 242 and is disposed adjacent to the plurality of slits 220. In some examples, the at least one tab 230 tapers away from the at least one adhesive member 210 and is D-shaped. Specifically, the at least one tab 230 tapers away from the first transverse edge 242 of the adhesive member 210. Alternatively, the at least one tab 230 may be connected to the second transverse edge 244 of the adhesive member 210 and may taper away from the second transverse edge 244.

[0075] The at least one tab 230 is configured to receive a pulling force F from a user. When the pulling force F is applied to the at least one tab 230, the at least one adhesive member 210 peels from each of the at least one substrate 104 (shown in FIGS. 1A-3) and the exterior surface 102 (shown in FIG. 1A).

[0076] 12 is a schematic bottom view of at least one adhesive member 210 according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 12 , each slit 220 of the plurality of slits 220 extends from a first transverse edge 242 to a second transverse edge 244. In some examples, the at least one tab 230 includes a first tab 232 extending from the first transverse edge 242 and disposed adjacent to the plurality of slits 220. In some examples, the at least one tab further includes a second tab 234 extending from the second transverse edge 244 and disposed adjacent to the plurality of slits 220. In some examples, each of the first tab 232 and the second tab 234 tapers away from the respective first transverse edge 242 and second transverse edge 244 and is D-shaped.

[0077] In some examples, both the first tab 232 and the second tab 234 are configured to receive opposing pulling forces F from a user. When opposing pulling forces F are applied to the first tab 232 and the second tab 234, the at least one adhesive member 210 peels from each of the at least one substrate 104 (shown in FIGS. 1A-3) and the exterior surface 102 (shown in FIG. 1A).

[0078] Figure 13 is a schematic bottom view of at least one adhesive member 310. The at least one adhesive member 310 is functionally equivalent to the at least one adhesive member 110 of Figures 1A-9C. In some examples, at least one adhesive member 310 further includes a first longitudinal edge 336 extending along the longitudinal axis L, a second longitudinal edge 338 opposite the first longitudinal edge 336 and extending at least partially along the longitudinal axis L, a first transverse edge 342 extending between the first longitudinal edge 336 and the second longitudinal edge 338 along a transverse axis T perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L, and a second transverse edge 344 opposite the first transverse edge 342 and extending between the first longitudinal edge 336 and the second longitudinal edge 338 along the transverse axis T.

[0079] In some examples, the at least one adhesive member 310 includes at least one slit 320 extending therethrough. In some examples, the at least one slit 320 includes a plurality of slits 320 spaced apart from one another. In some examples, the plurality of slits 320 includes a central slit 322 extending along a diagonal axis D of the at least one adhesive member 310. In some examples, the diagonal axis D extends from a first intersection 302 between the first longitudinal edge 336 and the first transverse edge 342 and a second intersection 304 between the second longitudinal edge 338 and the second transverse edge 344.

[0080] In some examples, the plurality of slits 320 further includes a set of upper slits 324 disposed between the central slit 322 and the first longitudinal edge 336. In some examples, each upper slit 324 of the set of upper slits 324 includes a first linear portion 326 and a second linear portion 328 inclined relative to the first linear portion 326 by an upper inclination angle UA.

[0081] In some examples, the upper inclination angle UA of each upper slit 324 is smaller than the upper inclination angle UA of an adjacent upper slit 324 located closer to the central slit 322, such that the upper inclination angle UA of the upper slit 324 located proximal to the central slit 322 has a maximum value and the upper inclination angle UA of the upper slit 324 located proximal to the first longitudinal edge 336 has a minimum value.

[0082] In some examples, the plurality of slits 320 further includes a set of lower slits 354 disposed between the central slit 322 and the second longitudinal edge 338. In some examples, each lower slit 354 in the set of lower slits 354 includes a first linear portion 356 and a second linear portion 358 inclined relative to the first linear portion 356 by a lower inclination angle LA.

[0083] In some examples, the lower inclination angle LA of each lower slit 354 is smaller than the lower inclination angle LA of an adjacent lower slit 354 located closer to the central slit 322, such that the lower inclination angle LA of the lower slit 354 located proximal to the central slit 322 has a maximum value and the lower inclination angle LA of the lower slit 354 located proximal to the second longitudinal edge 338 has a minimum value.

[0084] In some examples, at least one tab 330 is connected to the at least one adhesive layer 316 of the at least one adhesive member 310 and extends from the at least one adhesive member 310. In some examples, the at least one tab 330 includes a first tab 332 extending from the first node 302 along the diagonal axis D and a second tab 334 extending from the second node 304 along the diagonal axis D.

[0085] In some examples, both the first tab 332 and the second tab 334 are configured to receive opposing pulling forces F from a user. When opposing pulling forces F are applied to the first tab 332 and the second tab 334, the at least one adhesive member 310 peels from each of the at least one substrate 104 (shown in FIGS. 1A-3) and the exterior surface 102 (shown in FIG. 1A).

[0086] Figure 14A is a schematic perspective view of article 400. Figure 14B is a schematic bottom view of article 400. In some examples, article 400 may be functionally equivalent to article 100 of Figures 1A-3. Referring now to Figures 14A and 14B, article 400 includes at least one substrate 404. In the illustrated embodiment of Figures 14A and 14B, at least one substrate 404 is substantially circular in shape.

[0087] The article 400 further includes at least one adhesive member 410 (shown in FIG. 14B ) connected to the at least one substrate 404. The at least one adhesive member 410 includes an adhesive layer 416 (shown in FIG. 14B ) and at least one slit 420 (shown in FIG. 14B ) extending through the at least one adhesive member 410. The article 400 further includes at least one tab 430 connected to at least the adhesive layer 416 of the at least one adhesive member 410 and extending from the at least one adhesive member 416. In some examples, the at least one substrate 404 includes at least one notch 418 configured to at least partially receive the at least one tab 430 therethrough.

[0088] 14B, in some examples, the at least one slit 420 has a helical shape such that the at least one adhesive member 410 includes a helical coil 406 that corresponds to the helical shape of the at least one slit 420. In some examples, the helical coil 406 of the at least one adhesive member 410 includes an outer end 408. In some examples, at least one tab 430 extends from the outer end 408 of the helical coil 406.

[0089] The at least one tab 430 is configured to receive a pulling force F from a user. When the pulling force F is applied to the at least one tab 430, the at least one adhesive member 410 at least partially separates adjacent the at least one slit 420 and peels away from each of the at least one substrate 404 and the exterior surface 102 (shown in FIG. 1A ). Specifically, when the pulling force F is applied to the at least one tab 430, the helical coil 406 unwinds along the helical shape of the at least one slit 420 and passes through the at least one notch 418 in the at least one substrate 404 such that the at least one adhesive member 410 peels away from each of the at least one substrate 404 and the exterior surface 102 (shown in FIG. 1A ).

[0090] Figure 15A is a schematic perspective view of article 500. Figure 15B is a schematic bottom view of article 500. In some examples, article 500 may be functionally equivalent to article 100 of Figures 1A-3. Referring now to Figures 15A and 15B, article 500 includes at least one substrate 504. In the illustrated embodiment of Figures 15A and 15B, at least one substrate 404 is substantially circular in shape.

[0091] 15B, the article 500 further includes at least one adhesive member 510 connected to the at least one substrate 504. The at least one adhesive member 510 includes an adhesive layer 516 and at least one slit 520 extending through the at least one adhesive member 510. The article 500 further includes at least one tab 530 connected to at least the adhesive layer 516 of the at least one adhesive member 510 and extending from the at least one adhesive member 516.

[0092] In some examples, the at least one slit 520 has a helical shape such that the at least one adhesive member 510 includes a helical coil 506 that corresponds to the helical shape of the at least one slit 520. In some examples, the helical coil 506 of the at least one adhesive member 510 includes a central portion 508. In some examples, the at least one substrate 504 includes an aperture 505 (shown in FIG. 15A ) extending therethrough and aligned with the central portion 508 of the helical coil 506. In some examples, at least one tab 530 extends from the central portion 508 of the helical coil 506 through the aperture 505 of the at least one substrate 504.

[0093] The at least one tab 530 is configured to receive a pulling force F from a user. When the pulling force F is applied to the at least one tab 530, the at least one adhesive member 510 at least partially separates adjacent the at least one slit 520 and peels away from each of the at least one substrate 504 and the exterior surface 102 (shown in FIG. 1A ). Specifically, when the pulling force F is applied to the at least one tab 530, the helical coil 506 unwinds along the helical shape of the at least one slit 520 and passes through the aperture 505 in the at least one substrate 504 such that the at least one adhesive member 510 peels away from each of the at least one substrate 504 and the exterior surface 102 (shown in FIG. 1A ).

[0094] FIG. 16 is a schematic perspective view of article 600. In some examples, article 600 may be functionally equivalent to article 100 of FIGS. 1A-3. FIG. 17 is a schematic bottom view of article 600. Referring now to FIGS. 16 and 17, article 600 includes at least one substrate 604. In some examples, the at least one substrate 604 includes a plurality of substrates 604 connected to one another. In some examples, the plurality of substrates 604 are arranged in a rectangular array including three or more rows 606 and one or more columns 608.

[0095] 17 , in some examples, the plurality of substrates 604 includes a plurality of first end substrates 640 arranged in a first end row 646 of the plurality of rows 606, a plurality of second end substrates 642 arranged in a second end row 648 of the plurality of rows 606, and one or more intermediate substrates 644 arranged in one or more intermediate rows 650 of the plurality of rows 606. In some examples, the one or more intermediate rows 650 are disposed between the first end row 646 and the second end row 648.

[0096] The article 600 further includes at least one adhesive member 610 connected to the at least one substrate 604. In some examples, the at least one adhesive member 610 includes a plurality of adhesive members 610 corresponding to the plurality of substrates 604. In some examples, each adhesive member 610 of the plurality of adhesive members 610 is connected to a corresponding substrate 604 of the plurality of substrates 604. In some examples, each adhesive member 610 of the plurality of adhesive members 610 is connected to an adjacent adhesive member 610 of the plurality of adhesive members 610. Each of the plurality of adhesive members 610 includes an adhesive layer 616.

[0097] The article 600 further includes at least one tab 630 connected to at least the adhesive layer 616 of the at least one adhesive member 610 and extending from the at least one adhesive member 616. In some examples, the at least one tab 630 includes a pair of spaced-apart tabs 630-1, 630-2 extending from a corresponding adhesive member 610 of the plurality of adhesive members 610. In some examples, at least one tab 630-1, 630-2 of the pair of tabs 630-1, 630-2 is connected to an adjacent tab 630-1, 630-2 of the pair of tabs 630-1, 630-2 extending from an adjacent adhesive member 610, thereby connecting the corresponding adhesive member 610 to the adjacent adhesive member 610.

[0098] In some examples, for each of the first end substrate 640 and the second end substrate 642 disposed in a corresponding row 608 of the one or more rows 608, one tab 630-1 of the pair of tabs 630-1, 630-2 is configured to receive a pulling force F from a user. In some examples, for each of the first end substrate 640 and the second end substrate 642 disposed in a corresponding row 608 of the one or more rows 608, the other tab 630-2 of the pair of tabs 630-1, 630-2 is connected to an adjacent tab 630-1, 630-2 extending from a corresponding adhesive member 610 of an adjacent intermediate substrate 604 disposed in the corresponding row 608. In some examples, for each intermediate substrate 650 arranged in a corresponding row 608 of one or more rows 608, a pair of tabs 630-1, 630-2 is attached to corresponding adjacent tabs 630-1, 630-2 extending from corresponding adhesive members 610 of opposite side substrates 604 arranged in the corresponding row 608.

[0099] Specifically, for each first end substrate 640 arranged in a corresponding row 608, the tab 630-2 is connected to an adjacent tab 630-1 extending from a corresponding adhesive member 610 of an adjacent intermediate substrate 604 arranged in the corresponding row 608. Furthermore, for each second end substrate 642 arranged in the corresponding row 608, the tab 630-2 is connected to an adjacent tab 630-2 extending from a corresponding adhesive member 610 of an adjacent intermediate substrate 604 arranged in the corresponding row 608.

[0100] Further, for each first end substrate 640 disposed in a corresponding row 608, the tab 630-1 is configured to receive a pulling force F from a user. Similarly, for each second end substrate 642 disposed in a corresponding row 608, the tab 630-1 is configured to receive a pulling force F from a user. In some examples, when a pulling force F is applied to one tab 630-1 of the pair of tabs 630-1, 630-2, the plurality of adhesive members 610 disposed in a corresponding row 608 of the one or more rows 608 are successively peeled from the exterior surface 102 (shown in FIG. 1A ) and the corresponding substrate 604.

[0101] 18 is a flow chart illustrating a method 700 of using an article 100, 400, 500, 600 having at least one substrate 104, 404, 504, 604, at least one adhesive member 110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 610 connected to the at least one substrate 104, 404, 504, 604, and at least one tab 130, 230, 330, 430, 530, 630 connected to the at least one adhesive member 110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 610. Method 700 will be described with reference to the articles 100, 400, 500, 600 of FIGS.

[0102] 1A-18, in step 702, the method 700 includes adhesively bonding at least one adhesive member 110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 610 to the exterior surface 102. 1A-18, in step 704, the method 700 further includes applying a tensile force F to the at least one tab 130, 230, 330, 430, 530, 630 to cause at least partial separation of the at least one adhesive member 110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 610 adjacent to the at least one slit 120, 220, 320, 420, 520, thereby peeling the at least one adhesive member 110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 610 from each of the at least one substrate 104, 404, 504, 604 and the outer surface 102.

[0103] In some examples, the at least one adhesive member 110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 610 delaminates from each of the at least one substrate 104, 404, 504, 604 and the exterior surface 102 by at least one of necking and rolling.

[0104] In some examples, the at least one adhesive member 610 includes a plurality of adhesive members 610 connected to one another. In some examples, applying a tensile force F to at least one tab 630 connected to one of the plurality of adhesive members 610 causes the plurality of adhesive members 610 to sequentially peel from each of the at least one substrate 604 and the exterior surface 102.

[0105] In some examples, the at least one slit 420, 520 has a helical shape such that the at least one adhesive member 410, 510 includes a helical coil 406, 506 that corresponds to the helical shape of the at least one slit 420, 520. In some examples, when a tensile force F is applied, the helical coil 406, 506 of the at least one adhesive member 410, 510 unwinds along the helical shape of the at least one slit 420, 520.

[0106] In some examples, the at least one slit 120 has a plurality of slits 120 spaced apart from one another to form a serpentine pattern 140 of the at least one adhesive member 110. In some examples, when a tensile force F is applied, the serpentine pattern 140 of the at least one adhesive member 110 unfolds along the plurality of slits 120.

[0107] In some examples, the method 700 further includes removing the release liner 106 from the at least one adhesive member 110 , 210 , 310 , 410 , 510 , 610 before bonding the at least one adhesive member 110 , 210 , 310 , 410 , 510 , 610 to the exterior surface 102 .

[0108] In the articles 100, 400, 500, 600 of the present disclosure, at least one tab 130, 230, 330, 430, 530, 630 is connected to at least an adhesive layer 116, 216, 316, 416, 516, 616 of at least one adhesive member 110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 610. The at least one tab 130, 230, 330, 430, 530, 630 may be accessible to a user of the article 100, 400, 500, 600. Pulling the at least one tab 130, 230, 330, 430, 530, 630 can cause at least partial separation of the at least one adhesive member 110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 610 adjacent the at least one slit 120, 220, 320, 420, 520, thereby causing the at least one adhesive member 110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 610 to peel from each of the at least one substrate 104, 404, 504, 604 and the exterior surface 102. Thus, a user can easily remove the article 100, 400, 500, 600 from the exterior surface 102.

[0109] The at least one adhesive member 110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 610 may include a bulk material that allows the at least one adhesive member 110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 610 to at least partially separate adjacent the at least one slit 120, 220, 320, 420, 520 when the at least one tab 130, 230, 330, 430, 530, 630 is pulled. Additionally, the at least one slit 120, 220, 320, 420, 520 may allow for a reduction in the force required to peel the at least one adhesive member 110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 610 (e.g., by necking) compared to conventional adhesive members that include a continuous bulk of adhesive.

[0110] The at least one slit 120, 220, 320, 420, 520 of the present disclosure may be continuous and may extend along the first major surface 112 or the second major surface 114 from the at least one tab 130, 230, 330, 430, 530, 630 to the end of the at least one adhesive member 110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 610. Thus, the at least one slit 120, 220, 320, 420, 520 may allow the at least one adhesive member 110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 610 to be formed as a single elongated continuous bulk material having a narrow cross-sectional area. This may allow for a smaller necking cross-sectional area of ​​the at least one adhesive member 110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 610 when a tensile force F is applied to the at least one tab 130, 230, 330, 430, 530, 630, thereby reducing the amount of tensile force F required to peel the at least one adhesive member 110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 610. Thus, the impact of peeling the at least one adhesive member 110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 610 on both the at least one substrate 104, 404, 504, 604 and the exterior surface 102 may be minimized.

[0111] In some examples, the at least one slit 120, 220, 320, 420, 520 includes multiple slits 220, 320 that are substantially parallel to one another. This may divide the necking region of the at least one adhesive member 210, 310 into multiple smaller necking regions with reduced cross-sectional areas. Thus, the at least one adhesive member 210, 310 of the present disclosure may further reduce the amount of tensile force F required to peel the at least one adhesive member 210, 310.

[0112] In some examples, the multiple smaller necking regions having reduced cross-sectional areas created in the at least one adhesive member 210, 310 through the multiple slits 220, 320 can be activated or stretched individually, sequentially, or in parallel when a tensile force F is applied to the at least one tab 230, 330. Further, in some examples, the at least one tab 230, 330 can include one or more tabs attached to each of the multiple adhesive regions 256 to aid in the removal of the at least one adhesive member 210, 310. In some examples, the multiple smaller necking regions having reduced cross-sectional areas can result in a lower tensile force F required to remove the at least one adhesive member 110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 610 from each of the at least one substrate 104, 404, 504, 604 and the exterior surface 102.

[0113] It should be noted that the at least one slit 120, 220, 320, 420, 520 in the at least one adhesive member 110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 610 does not significantly reduce adhesion of the at least one adhesive member 110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 610 to the outer surface 102 (such as the user's skin), while facilitating peeling of the at least one adhesive member 110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 610 from each of the at least one substrate 104, 404, 504, 604 and the outer surface 102 without any significant damage or residue. Furthermore, when the outer surface 102 is the user's skin, the at least one slit 120, 220, 320, 420, 520 may allow moisture to pass through the at least one adhesive member 110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 610, thereby improving the permeability and breathability of the at least one adhesive member 110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 610.

[0114] In the detailed description of the preferred embodiments, reference is made to the accompanying drawings that illustrate specific embodiments in which the present invention may be practiced. The illustrated embodiments are not intended to be exhaustive of all embodiments in accordance with the present invention. It is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and structural changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. Therefore, the following detailed description is not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the present invention is defined by the appended claims.

[0115] Unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing characteristic sizes, quantities, and physical properties used in the specification and claims should be understood to be modified by the term "about." Accordingly, unless otherwise indicated, the numerical parameters set forth in the foregoing specification and appended claims may vary depending upon the desired properties sought to be obtained by one of ordinary skill in the art utilizing the teachings of the present disclosure.

[0116] As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include embodiments having plural referents unless the content clearly dictates otherwise. As used in this specification and the appended claims, the term "or" is generally used in its sense including "and / or" unless the content clearly dictates otherwise.

[0117] As used herein, spatial terms, including but not limited to "proximal," "distal," "lower," "upper," "below," "downward," "above," and "above," are utilized for ease of description to describe the spatial relationship between an element or elements and another element. Such spatial terms encompass different orientations of the device during use or operation in addition to the specific orientations illustrated and described herein. For example, if an object shown in a figure is turned upside down or flipped over, parts previously described as being below or below other elements will now be above or above those other elements.

[0118] As used herein, for example, when an element, component, or layer is described as forming a "matching interface" with, or being "on," "connected," "bonded," "laminated on," or "contacting" another element, component, or layer, it can mean, for example, that the particular element, component, or layer is directly on, directly connected to, directly bonded to, directly laminated on, or in direct contact with the particular element, component, or layer, or that intervening elements, components, or layers are on, connected to, bonded to, or in contact with the particular element, component, or layer. When an element, component, or layer is referred to, for example, as being "directly on," "directly connected to," "directly bonded to," or "directly in contact with," another element, there are, for example, no intervening elements, components, or layers present.

[0119] Various embodiments have been described. These and other embodiments are within the scope of the following claims.

Claims

1. at least one substrate; at least one adhesive member having a first major surface and a second major surface opposite the first major surface, the first major surface being connected to the at least one substrate, the at least one adhesive member comprising: an adhesive layer forming the second major surface of the at least one adhesive member, the adhesive layer comprising an adhesive configured to bond the at least one adhesive member to an exterior surface; and at least one adhesive member further comprising at least one slit extending through the at least one adhesive member from the first major surface to the second major surface; at least one tab connected to at least the adhesive layer of the at least one adhesive member and extending from the at least one adhesive member, the at least one tab configured to receive a pulling force from a user, wherein upon application of the pulling force to the at least one tab, the at least one adhesive member at least partially separates adjacent the at least one slit and peels away from each of the at least one substrate and the exterior surface.

2. 2. The article of claim 1, wherein the at least one adhesive member further comprises: a first longitudinal edge extending along a longitudinal axis; a second longitudinal edge opposite the first longitudinal edge and extending at least partially along the longitudinal axis; a first transverse edge extending between the first longitudinal edge and the second longitudinal edge along a transverse axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis; and a second transverse edge opposite the first transverse edge and extending along the transverse axis between the first longitudinal edge and the second longitudinal edge.

3. The article of claim 2 , wherein the at least one slit comprises a plurality of slits spaced apart relative to the transverse axis and extending at least partially along the longitudinal axis.

4. 4. The article of claim 3, wherein the plurality of slits comprises a first set of slits and a second set of slits alternating with the first set of slits, each first slit in the first set of slits extending partially from the first transverse edge toward the second transverse edge such that each first slit is spaced from the second transverse edge, and each second slit in the second set of slits extending partially from the second transverse edge toward the first transverse edge such that each second slit is spaced from the first transverse edge.

5. 5. The article of claim 4, wherein the at least one adhesive member further comprises a plurality of elongated portions extending at least partially along the longitudinal axis between the first transverse edge and the second transverse edge, wherein adjacent elongated portions of the plurality of elongated portions are at least partially separated from one another by a corresponding first slit of the first set of slits or a corresponding second slit of the second set of slits, and the adjacent elongated portions are connected to one another at the first transverse edge or the second transverse edge such that the plurality of elongated portions together form a serpentine pattern.

6. 6. The article of claim 5, wherein the plurality of elongated portions include end elongated portions disposed on the second longitudinal edge, the first set of slits being disposed proximal to the second longitudinal edge and comprising end first slits at least partially separating the end elongated portions from adjacent elongated portions, and the at least one tab being connected to the end elongated portions and disposed adjacent the end first slits.

7. The article of claim 6 , wherein the end first slit and the end elongated portion each extend along the longitudinal axis.

8. 7. The article of claim 6, wherein the first slit at the end comprises a first slit portion extending from the first transverse edge along the longitudinal axis, a second slit portion extending from the first slit portion and inclined relative to the first slit portion, and a third slit portion extending from the second slit portion along the longitudinal axis partially toward the second transverse edge.

9. 7. The article of claim 6, wherein the end elongated portions comprise a first elongated portion connected to the adjacent elongated portion and extending along the longitudinal axis, a second elongated portion extending from the first elongated portion and angled relative to the first elongated portion, and a third elongated portion extending from the second elongated portion along the longitudinal axis, and the at least one tab extending from the third elongated portion.

10. The article of claim 3 , wherein each slit of the plurality of slits extends from the first transverse edge to the second transverse edge.

11. 4. The article of claim 3, wherein each slit of the plurality of slits extends from the first transverse edge partially toward the second transverse edge such that each slit is spaced from the second transverse edge.

12. The article of claim 3 , wherein the at least one tab extends from the first transverse edge and is positioned adjacent to the plurality of slits.

13. At least one tab a first tab extending from the first transverse edge and positioned adjacent the plurality of slits; a second tab extending from the second transverse edge and positioned adjacent the plurality of slits.

14. The article of claim 1 , wherein the at least one tab tapers away from the at least one adhesive member and is D-shaped.

15. The at least one slit comprises a plurality of slits spaced apart from one another, the plurality of slits comprising: a central slit extending along a diagonal axis of the at least one adhesive member, the diagonal axis extending from a first intersection between the first longitudinal edge and the first transverse edge and a second intersection between the second longitudinal edge and the second transverse edge; a set of upper slits disposed between the central slit and the first longitudinal edge, each upper slit of the set of upper slits including a first linear portion and a second linear portion inclined relative to the first linear portion by an upper inclination angle; 3. The article of claim 2, comprising: a set of lower slits disposed between the central slit and the second longitudinal edge, each lower slit of the set of lower slits including a first linear portion and a second linear portion inclined relative to the first linear portion by a lower inclination angle.

16. 16. The article of claim 15, wherein the upper inclination angle of each upper slit is smaller than the upper inclination angle of an adjacent upper slit located closer to the central slit, such that the upper inclination angle of the upper slit located proximal to the central slit has a maximum value and the upper inclination angle of the upper slit located proximal to the first longitudinal edge has a minimum value.

17. 16. The article of claim 15, wherein the lower inclination angle of each lower slit is smaller than the lower inclination angle of an adjacent lower slit located closer to the central slit, such that the lower inclination angle of the lower slit located proximal to the central slit has a maximum value and the lower inclination angle of the lower slit located proximal to the second longitudinal edge has a minimum value.

18. 16. The article of claim 15, wherein the at least one tab includes a first tab extending from the first intersection along the diagonal axis and a second tab extending from the second intersection along the diagonal axis.

19. 10. The article of claim 1, wherein the at least one tab comprises a curved portion extending from the at least one adhesive member and a disc-shaped portion connected to the curved portion distal to the at least one adhesive member.

20. 10. The article of claim 1, wherein the at least one tab comprises a straight portion extending from the at least one adhesive member and a disc-shaped portion connected to the straight portion distal to the at least one adhesive member.

21. The article of claim 1 , wherein the at least one slit has a helical shape and the at least one adhesive member comprises a helical coil corresponding to the helical shape of the at least one slit.

22. 22. The article of claim 21, wherein the helical coil of the at least one adhesive member includes an outer end, and the at least one tab extends from the outer end of the helical coil.

23. 22. The article of claim 21, wherein the helical coil of the at least one adhesive member comprises a central portion, the at least one substrate comprises an aperture extending through the at least one substrate and aligned with the central portion of the helical coil, and the at least one tab extends from the central portion of the helical coil through the aperture in the at least one substrate.

24. The article of claim 1 , wherein the at least one substrate includes at least one notch configured to at least partially receive the at least one tab through the at least one substrate.

25. The at least one adhesive member is a core layer having a first core major surface facing at least one substate and a second core major surface opposite the first core major surface, the adhesive layer being disposed on the second core major surface; 10. The article of claim 1, further comprising: another adhesive layer disposed on the first core major surface and bonding the at least one adhesive member to the at least one substrate.

26. 26. The article of claim 25, wherein the core layer comprises a foam.

27. 26. The article of claim 25, wherein the at least one tab is further connected to the core layer and the further adhesive layer.

28. The article of claim 1 , wherein the at least one tab and the at least one adhesive member have the same layered structure.

29. 10. The article of claim 1, wherein the adhesive layer further forms the first major surface of the at least one adhesive member and is bonded to the at least one substrate, the adhesive layer further comprising a plurality of reinforcing elements embedded in the adhesive.

30. 30. The article of claim 29, wherein the plurality of reinforcing elements comprises at least one of cylindrical members and planar members.

31. The article of claim 1 , further comprising a release liner releasably attached to the adhesive layer, the release liner being removed prior to bonding the adhesive layer to the exterior surface.

32. The article of claim 1 , wherein the adhesive is a pressure sensitive adhesive or a stretch release adhesive.

33. 10. The article of claim 1, wherein the at least one substrate comprises a major portion connected with the at least one adhesive member, the major portion being one of a polygon, a circle, an oval, and an ellipse.

34. 2. The article of claim 1, wherein the at least one substrate comprises a plurality of substrates connected to one another, the at least one adhesive member comprises a plurality of adhesive members corresponding to the plurality of substrates, each adhesive member of the plurality of adhesive members connected to a corresponding substrate of the plurality of substrates, and each adhesive member of the plurality of adhesive members connected to an adjacent adhesive member of the plurality of adhesive members, such that application of the pulling force to the at least one tab connected to one of the adhesive members causes the plurality of adhesive members to be successively peeled from the outer surface and the corresponding substrate.

35. 35. The article of claim 34, wherein for each adhesive member, the at least one tab comprises a pair of spaced apart tabs extending from a corresponding adhesive member of the plurality of adhesive members, at least one tab of the pair of tabs being connected to an adjacent tab of the pair of tabs extending from the adjacent adhesive member, thereby connecting the corresponding adhesive member to the adjacent adhesive member.

36. The plurality of substrates are arranged in a rectangular array including three or more rows and one or more columns, the plurality of substrates comprising a plurality of first end substrates arranged in a first end row of the plurality of rows, a plurality of second end substrates arranged in a second end row of the plurality of rows, and one or more intermediate substrates arranged in one or more intermediate rows of the plurality of rows, the one or more intermediate rows being disposed between the first end row and the second end row, and for each of the first end substrate and the second end substrate arranged in a corresponding column of the one or more columns: one tab of the pair of tabs is configured to receive the pulling force from the user; 36. The article of claim 35, wherein the other tab of the pair of tabs is connected to the adjacent tab extending from the corresponding adhesive member of the adjacent intermediate substrate disposed in the corresponding row.

37. 37. The article of claim 36, wherein for each of the intermediate substrates arranged in a corresponding row of the one or more rows, the pair of tabs is attached to the corresponding adjacent tabs extending from the corresponding adhesive members of the substrates on either side of the intermediate substrates arranged in the corresponding row.

38. The article of claim 1 , wherein the at least one tab is adhesive-free.

39. The article of claim 1 , wherein the at least one tab comprises an adhesive layer.

40. 2. The article of claim 1, wherein the at least one adhesive member comprises a plurality of adhesive regions disposed adjacent the at least one slit, each of the plurality of adhesive regions having a cross-sectional area that is less than a total cross-sectional area of ​​the at least one adhesive member.

41. 1. A method of using an article having at least one substrate, at least one adhesive member connected to the at least one substrate, and at least one tab connected to the at least one adhesive member, the method comprising: adhesively bonding the at least one adhesive member to an outer surface; applying a pulling force to the at least one tab to cause at least partial separation of the at least one adhesive member adjacent at least one slit, thereby peeling the at least one adhesive member from each of the at least one substrate and the exterior surface.

42. 42. The method of claim 41, wherein the at least one adhesive member debonds from each of the at least one substrate and the exterior surface by at least one of necking and rolling.

43. 42. The method of claim 41, wherein the at least one adhesive member comprises a plurality of adhesive members connected to one another, and applying the pulling force to the at least one tab connected to one of the plurality of adhesive members causes the plurality of adhesive members to sequentially peel from each of the at least one substrate and the exterior surface.

44. 42. The method of claim 41, wherein the at least one slit has a helical shape, the at least one adhesive member comprises a helical coil corresponding to the helical shape of the at least one slit, and wherein, upon application of the tensile force, the helical coil of the at least one adhesive member unwinds along the helical shape of the at least one slit.

45. 42. The method of claim 41, wherein the at least one slit comprises a plurality of slits spaced apart from one another to form a serpentine pattern of the at least one adhesive member, and wherein upon application of the pulling force, the serpentine pattern of the at least one adhesive member unfolds along the plurality of slits.

46. 42. The method of claim 41, further comprising removing a release liner from the at least one adhesive member prior to bonding the at least one adhesive member to the exterior surface.

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