Pants-type wearable items

Abstract

To provide a wearable item that resembles underwear but has a functional and intuitive appearance. [Solution] A wearable article in the form of pants, comprising a laminate comprising an inner sheet, an outer sheet, and a plurality of elastic members 96 extending in the transverse direction, wherein the longitudinal dimensions between adjacent elastic members form elastic gaps in front and rear elastic belt regions, the laminate further comprising elastic connecting portions 230 that continuously connect the elastic members in the stretch direction for at least about 10 mm in the stretch direction in regions adjacent to the side edges 89 of the front and rear elastic belt regions, and a plurality of separate connecting units 234 arranged between the elastic connecting portions in the transverse direction, the laminate includes separate connecting units of at least a first pattern PTT1 and a second pattern PTT2, and the separate connecting units of the first pattern and the second pattern differ in one or more of the longitudinal dimensions, transverse dimensions, longitudinal spacings, and transverse spacings.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a pant-type wearable article having an elastic belt, which has improved flexibility and an intuitive appearance of improved functionality. [Background technology]

[0002] Infants and other individuals with incontinence wear absorbent items such as diapers to receive and contain urine and other bodily waste. Pull-on absorbent items, also known as pant-style absorbent items, are worn by inserting the wearer's legs into the leg openings and sliding the item upwards to fit around the lower torso. Pant-style absorbent items are widely used for toddlers who can walk and are often toilet-trained, as well as for more active toddlers, even younger toddlers, for whom tape-fastening absorbent items tend to be more difficult to put on, and for younger toddlers who require a flexible fit around the waist and leg openings.

[0003] Pants-type articles can take various forms, having sufficient elasticity around and near the waist opening to facilitate the wearer or caregiver unfolding the article and inserting the wearer's legs into the leg openings to put on the article. The area around and near the waist is often referred to as the elastic belt. One type of pants-type article is a belt-type pant having a central chassis covering the wearer's crotch area and separate elastic belts defining the waist and leg openings, as described in PCT Publication 2006 / 17718(A). Another type of pants-type article is a one-piece pant where the outer cover of the article is configured to completely cover the entire garment-facing surface of the article, and the portion configured to stretch around the torso is considered the elastic belt area.

[0004] Regardless of the structure of the pant-type garment, it offers only a very small range of size or body-shape adjustment due to the structural limitations of the garment. Therefore, pant-type garments are typically configured to adapt to size and body-shape ranges by providing an elastic belt area that is highly stretchable and comfortable to wear, yet still provides a reliable fit, ensuring adequate protection against sagging and leakage. Furthermore, the elastic belt area may be the part most frequently touched and observed by the wearer or caregiver during use; therefore, the characteristics of the elastic belt area are most closely related to the function and quality of the garment. An appearance that intuitively aligns with the function of the garment or a particular part of the garment is advantageous. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] PCT Publication No. 2006 / 17718(A) [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0006] Based on the foregoing, there is a need for wearable articles that offer flexibility, elasticity for easy application, a snug fit to prevent sagging, and comfort and improved breathability for skin health. There is also a need for wearable articles that resemble underwear but have a functional and intuitive appearance. There is also a need to provide such wearable articles that can be manufactured economically. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The present invention relates to a wearable article that is continuous in the longitudinal and transverse directions, comprising a front elastic belt region, a rear elastic belt region, a crotch region, a pair of side seams joining the front and rear elastic belt regions to form a waist opening, and a pair of leg openings, wherein the crotch region extends longitudinally between the front and rear elastic belt regions. Each of the front and rear elastic belt regions is a laminate including an inner sheet, an outer sheet, and a plurality of elastic members extending in the transverse direction, and longitudinal dimensions between adjacent elastic members forming elastic gaps. The laminate further includes elastic bonding portions that continuously connect elastic members in the stretch direction for at least about 10 mm in regions adjacent to the side edges of the front and rear elastic belt regions, and a plurality of separate bonding units arranged between the elastic bonding portions in the transverse direction, wherein each separate bonding unit is applied to at least one of the inner sheet and the outer sheet, and there is at least one separate bonding unit arranged within each elastic interval. Multiple distinct bonding units form multiple longitudinal columns, each longitudinal column containing a set of longitudinally spaced units. Multiple distinct bonding units form multiple transverse columns, each transverse column containing a set of transverse spacings. The present invention relates to wearable articles in which an assembly of distinct bonding units provided by at least two longitudinal rows and at least two transverse rows forms a pattern of distinct bonding units, the laminate includes at least a first pattern and a second pattern of distinct bonding units, and the first and second patterns of distinct bonding units differ in one or more of the longitudinal dimensions, transverse dimensions, longitudinal spacing, and transverse spacing.

[0008] The present invention also relates to a package comprising such a wearable article, and a method for manufacturing such a wearable article. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] At the end of this specification are the claims, which specifically identify and individually claim the subject matter that is deemed to constitute the present invention. However, the present invention is best understood in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which specify substantially the same elements using similar reference numerals, and the following description. [Figure 1A] This is a perspective view of one embodiment of the wearable article of the present invention. [Figure 1B] This is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of the wearable article of the present invention in a contracted state, showing the front of the article. [Figure 2] This is a schematic plan view showing one embodiment of a wearable article according to the present invention, in which the seams are not joined and the surface facing the garment is flat and non-shrinkable. [Figure 3A] This is a schematic plan view of one embodiment of the laminate of the present invention, showing the area where the elastic members are positioned, the elastic adhesive bonds are formed, and the patterns of separate bonding units are arranged. [Figure 3B] This is another embodiment similar to Figure 3A, having a different pattern of distinct bonding units. [Figure 3C] This is another embodiment similar to Figure 3A, having a different pattern of distinct bonding units. [Figure 3D] This is another embodiment of the laminate, joined with the laminate in Figure 3A to form an elastic belt. [Figure 3E] This is an enlarged schematic plan view of Figure 3A. [Figure 3F] This is an enlarged schematic plan view of Figure 3B. [Figure 3G] This is another embodiment similar to Figure 3A, having a different pattern of distinct bonding units. [Figure 4A] This is a perspective view of an adhesive application device positioned adjacent to a forward-moving seat. [Figure 4B] This is a perspective view of an embodiment of a sheet carrier including a pattern roller having a continuous pattern surface and a plurality of base surfaces. [Figure 4C] This is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a fluid application device. [Figure 4D]It is a schematic side cross-sectional view of a laminate assembling apparatus including the adhesive device of FIG. 4A. [Figure 5] It is a schematic view of an example of a hanger-type sample holding fixture according to the "method for measuring the power of all articles". [Figure 6A] It is one embodiment of the artwork provided on the wearable article of the present invention, which is in a flat non-shrinking state showing the surface facing the clothing and having no seams joined. [Figure 6B] It is another embodiment of the artwork provided on the laminate of the present invention.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0010] Definition As used herein, the following terms shall have the meanings specified hereinafter. "Wearable article" refers to a wearable article that can be in the form of pants, tape-type diapers, incontinence briefs, feminine hygiene garments, etc. A "wearable article" can be configured to absorb and contain various excretions discharged from the body, such as urine, feces, menstrual blood, etc. A "wearable article" can be adapted to be joined to a separable disposable absorbent insert for providing an absorption and containment function, such as that disclosed in PCT Publication No. 2011 / 087503(A), and can serve as an outer cover.

[0011] "Pants" refers to a disposable absorbent article having pre-formed waist and leg openings. The pants can be worn by inserting the wearer's both legs into the leg openings and sliding the pants up to a position around the lower torso of the wearer. Pants are generally also referred to as "closed diapers", "pre-fastened diapers", "pull-on diapers", "training pants", and "diaper pants".

[0012] "Longitudinal direction" refers to a direction that extends substantially perpendicular from the waist edge of an article to the opposite waist edge and is generally parallel to the maximum linear dimension of the article.

[0013] "Transverse direction" refers to the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

[0014] "Proximal" and "distal" refer to positions closer to or further away from the longitudinal center of an object, respectively.

[0015] "Body-facing" and "clothing-facing" refer to the relative position of an element, its surface, or a group of elements, respectively. "Body-facing" means that the element or surface is closer to the wearer during wear than any other element or surface. "Clothing-facing" means that the element or surface is further away from the wearer during wear than any other element or surface (i.e., the element or surface is closer to the wearer's clothing that may be worn over a disposable absorbent article).

[0016] "To be positioned" means that an element is located in a specific place or position.

[0017] "Joined" refers to a configuration in which one element is directly attached to another element by directly adhering it to that element, and a configuration in which one element is indirectly attached to another element by adhering it to an intermediate member, and that intermediate member being further attached to another element.

[0018] A "film" refers to a sheet-like material in which the length and width of the material significantly exceed its thickness. Typically, a film has a thickness of approximately 0.5 mm or less.

[0019] "Permeability" and "impermeability" refer to the permeability of a material in relation to the intended use of disposable absorbent articles. Specifically, the term "permeability" means that a layer or layer structure has pores, openings, and / or interconnected voids through which liquid water, urine, or synthetic urine can pass through the thickness of the layer or layer structure in the absence of pressure. Conversely, the term "impermeability" means that a layer or layer structure cannot be penetrated by liquid water, urine, or synthetic urine in the absence of pressure (other than natural forces such as gravity). An impermeable layer or layer structure according to this definition may be permeable to water vapor, i.e., "vapor permeable."

[0020] "Stretchable" and "stretchable" mean that the width or length of a component in a relaxed state can be stretched or increased.

[0021] "Elastic" or "elasticized" means that the components include at least one part made from an elastic material.

[0022] The terms "stretchable material," "extendable material," or "stretchable material" are used interchangeably and refer to materials that, when a biasing force is applied, can stretch to an elongated length of at least about 110% of their original relaxed length (i.e., can stretch 10% longer than their original length) without bursting or fracturing (i.e., can stretch 10% longer than their original length), and when the applied force is removed, exhibit a slight recovery of less than about 20% of their elongation without completely bursting or fracturing. Such a stretchable material is considered "elastic" or "elastomerous" if it recovers at least 40% of its elongation when the applied force is released. For example, an elastic material with an initial length of 100 mm can be stretched to at least 150 mm and, when the force is removed, will contract to at least 130 mm (i.e., exhibit a 40% recovery). If, upon release of the applied force, the material's recovery is less than 40% of its elongation, the stretchable material is considered "substantially inelastic" or "substantially non-elastomerous." For example, a stretchable material with an initial length of 100 mm can be stretched to at least 150 mm and, upon removal of the force, will contract to at least 145 mm (i.e., exhibiting a 10% recovery).

[0023] The "dimensions," "length," "width," "pitch," "diameter," "aspect ratio," "angle," and "area" of an article are all measured using a ruler or magnifying glass while the article is stretched to its fully extended circumference W1, in accordance with the "total article force measurement method" described herein, unless otherwise specified.

[0024] "Artwork" means a visual presentation to the naked eye that is provided by printing or other means and has color. Printing includes various methods and apparatus well known to those skilled in the art, such as lithography, screen printing, flexographic printing, and gravure inkjet printing techniques.

[0025] In this specification, the terms “color” or “colored” may include any primary color other than white, namely black, red, blue, purple, orange, yellow, green, and indigo, as well as any light or mixed colors thereof. White is defined as CIE L * a * b * According to the color system, at least 94 L * a value equal to 0 ± 2 * The value, and b equal to 0 ± 2 * It is defined as a color that has a value.

[0026] Detailed description of the present invention Figure 1A is a perspective view of the wearable article (20) of the present invention, Figure 1B is a schematic diagram showing the front side of the wearable article of the present invention in a contracted state, and Figure 2 is a schematic plan view of the wearable article in a flat, non-contracted state, showing the surface facing the garment with no seams joined. The wearable article (20) has a longitudinal center line LX which also serves as the longitudinal axis, and a transverse center line TX which also serves as the transverse axis. The wearable article (20) has a surface facing the body, a surface facing the garment, a front elastic belt region (84), a rear elastic belt region (86), a crotch region (30), and a side seam (32) that joins the front elastic belt region (84) and the rear elastic belt region (86) to form two leg openings and a waist opening.

[0027] The wearable article (20) may be a belt-type pant as shown in Figures 1A, 1B, and 2, comprising a central chassis (38) for covering the wearer's crotch area (30), a front elastic belt (84), and a rear elastic belt (86) (hereinafter referred to as the "front and rear elastic belts"), wherein the front and rear elastic belts (84, 86) extend transversely to form a separate annular elastic belt (40) defining the waist opening. In the case of belt-type pant, the separate annular elastic belt (40) may also be referred to as the elastic belt (40). In the case of belt-type pant as shown in Figures 1A, 1B, and 2, the front and rear elastic belts (84, 86) and the central chassis (38) are joined together to define the leg opening. In the case of belt-type pants, the front elastic belt (84) is the front region (26), the rear elastic belt (86) is the rear region (28), and the remainder is the crotch region (30). Although not shown, the wearable article (20) may be a one-piece pants configured such that the outer cover and elastic belt (40) of the central chassis (38) are common. In the case of one-piece pants, the portions extending transversely between the side seams (32) are considered to be the front region (26) and the rear region (28), respectively, and the remainder is the crotch region (30). In the case of one-piece pants, the front region (26) is considered to be the front elastic belt region (84), and the rear region (28) is considered to be the rear elastic belt region (86).

[0028] The central chassis (38) may include a top sheet, a back sheet, an absorbent core (62) positioned between the top sheet and the back sheet, and an outer cover layer (42) for covering the side of the back sheet facing the clothing. The top sheet may be a water-permeable substrate. The backsheet may be an impermeable film. The outer cover layer (42) may be a nonwoven fabric sheet. The central chassis (38) may house an absorbent core (62) for absorbing and containing bodily waste, which is placed on the central chassis (38), and an absorbent material-free region (61) surrounding the absorbent core (62). The absorbent material-free region (61) may be made from the top sheet and / or the backsheet and / or the outer cover layer (42) and / or other parts that make up the central chassis (38). In the embodiment shown in Figure 2, the central chassis (38) has a generally rectangular shape with side edges (48) extending in the left-right longitudinal direction and end edges (50) extending in the front-rear transverse direction. The absorbent core (62) may be present throughout the entire longitudinal dimension of the crotch area and extending at least partially in the front area (26), or at least partially in both the front and rear areas (26, 28). The central chassis (38) may have a front waist panel (52) located in the front region (26) of the absorbent article (20), a rear waist panel (54) located in the rear region (28), and a crotch panel (56) in the crotch region (30) between the front and rear waist panels (52, 54). The center of the front elastic belt (84) is joined to the front waist panel (52) of the central chassis (38), and the center of the rear elastic belt (86) is joined to the rear waist panel (54) of the central chassis (38). The front and rear elastic belts (84, 86) each have a left side panel and a right side panel (82) that do not overlap the central chassis (38). The central chassis has a crotch panel (56) positioned between the front waist panel (52) and the rear waist panel (54).

[0029] The absorbent core (62) may include an absorbent layer and a trapping layer. The absorbent layer is a region containing an absorbent material with high retention capacity, such as a superabsorbent polymer. The absorbent layer may be substantially cellulose-free. The superabsorbent polymer in the absorbent layer may be placed between a first material layer and a second material layer, which are immobilized by a fibrous layer of thermoplastic adhesive material. The first and second material layers may be nonwoven fiber webs containing synthetic fibers such as single-component fibers of PE, PET, and PP, side-by-side, core / sheath, or island-in-the-sea type fibers. Such synthetic fibers may be formed via a spunbond process or a melt-blown process. A trapping layer may be placed between the top sheet and the absorbent layer to facilitate the capture and distribution of bodily waste. The trapping layer may contain cellulose fibers.

[0030] Multiple absorbent layers may be arranged within the absorbent core (62). Parts of the absorbent layers may be configured to substantially lack absorbent material to form channels or multiple channels. Channels may be useful in allowing the absorbent core (62) to bend when swollen with fluid, thereby allowing the absorbent article to conform to the wearer's body after swelling and prevent sagging. Channels may also be formed within a trapping layer and may be configured to at least partially coincide with the channels of the absorbent layer in the thickness direction.

[0031] The elastic belt (40) of the article of the present invention dynamically generates a fitting force and acts to distribute the force that dynamically arises during wear. The front and rear elastic belts (84, 86) may be joined to each other only at the side edges (89) to form a side seam (32), a waist opening, and two leg openings. Elasticity may be provided around each leg opening. Elasticity around the leg opening may be provided by a combination of elasticity from the front belt (84), the rear belt (86), and the central chassis (38).

[0032] The longitudinal lengths of the backsheet and the outer cover layer (42) may be the same or different. For example, the outer cover layer (42) may be shorter than the length of the backsheet, such that the outer cover layer (42) is not present where the central chassis (38) overlaps with the elastic belt (40). Such a configuration may allow the elastic belt to have better ventilation. Furthermore, such a configuration may provide cost savings. The transverse widths of the backsheet and the outer cover layer (42) may be the same or different. For example, the backsheet may have a transverse width shorter than the transverse width of the outer cover layer (42). Such a configuration may allow the longitudinal side edges (48) of the crotch panel (56), which forms part of the leg opening, to have better ventilation. Furthermore, such a configuration may provide cost savings.

[0033] The front elastic belt (84) and the rear elastic belt (86) are configured to impart elasticity to the belt (40). Referring to Figures 1B and 2, the front belt (84) and the rear belt (86) may each include a laminate, the laminate including a plurality of transversely extending elastic members (96), an inner sheet (94), an outer sheet (92), and an outer sheet fold portion (not shown), the outer sheet fold portion being an extension of the outer sheet material formed by folding the outer sheet material at the distal edges (88) of the front and rear belts, and the belt elastic members (96) being sandwiched between these two sheets. The longitudinal dimension between adjacent elastic members (96) forms an elastic gap. The front elastic belt (84) and the rear elastic belt (86) may each be made only of the elastic members (96), the inner sheet (94), the outer sheet (92), and the outer sheet fold portion. The belt elastic members (96) extend transversely, and when the front elastic belt (84) and the rear elastic belt (86) are joined, they can provide an annular elastic belt (40). At least some of the elastic members (96) extend transversely substantially parallel to each other. All of the elastic members (96) may extend transversely substantially parallel to each other. Such articles can be manufactured economically. The front and rear elastic belts (84, 86) may each have a transversely continuous proximal and distal edge, with the proximal edge (90) being closer to the longitudinal center of the article than the distal edge (88). At least 10%, or at least about 15% to about 70%, of the front and rear elastic belts from the longitudinal waist opening may be a laminate of active elasticity along the entire transverse dimension LW of the front and rear elastic belts (84, 86). Referring to Figures 1B and 2, the front and rear elastic belts (84, 86) may be treated to remove elastic mobility from certain areas to form an inelastic region (221). For each front and rear elastic belt (84, 86), the area overlapping with the front and / or rear waist panels (52, 54) of the central chassis (38) may have its elastic mobility removed to define an inelastic region (221).

[0034] The elastic belt region (40) may be closely related to the function and quality of the article. Therefore, the material for forming the elastic belt region (40), as well as the gathered profile of the elastic belt region, are carefully selected by the manufacturer to provide the desired tactile and visual sensations. Tactile sensations such as flexibility and cushioning can enhance the perception of high quality. The appearance of the gathers may intuitively evoke the function of the article or the function of the elastic belt region (40). For example, relatively large, uniform gathers may evoke a fluffy and flexible feel. For example, a bubble-type texture may evoke a flexible and cushioned feel. Furthermore, other functions provided by the lamination, such as elasticity, comfort, flexibility, and breathability for ease of application, may enhance the perception provided by the appearance of the gathers. Gathers intuitively provided to have a certain appearance can intuitively convey the functional effects described above and provide the user with a favorable overall experience of using the article. The user may be the wearer or a caregiver.

[0035] Laminates having an intuitive appearance of the improved functionality of the present invention may be made by selecting materials for making the laminate and by providing a plurality of distinct bonding units (234) in a specific arrangement, which will be described in more detail below. The materials for providing the laminate may be selected from high-basis-weight nonwoven materials with a relatively high basis weight to either the outer sheet (92) or the inner sheet (94), and the other of the outer sheet (92) and the inner sheet (94) may be provided to have a difference in basis weight. Furthermore, the laminate may be made by bonding an elastic member (96) to one or both of the inner sheet (94) and the outer sheet (92) at appropriate denier, longitudinal pitch, and force.

[0036] Referring to Figures 3A to 3C, the laminate can be fabricated by bonding an elastic member (96) to at least one of the inner sheet (94) and the outer sheet (92) via a combination of elastic bonding portions (230) and a plurality of separate bonding units (234). In Figures 3A to 3C, the laminate is shown with the elastic member (96) and the elastic bonding portion (230), which is represented by a solid line. In Figures 3A to 3C, the plurality of separate bonding units (234) are shown only on the right side of the front elastic belt (84), and the side seam (32) is shown in an unbonded state.

[0037] As used herein, elastic joints (230) refer to joints that connect elastic members (96) along the side edges (89) of front and rear elastic belts (84, 86). Such elastic joints (230) may be provided by adhesive, heating, or ultrasound. The elastic joints (230) may be applied continuously to each elastic member (96) in the stretch direction adjacent to the side edges (89) of the front and rear elastic belts (84, 86) for a length of at least about 10 mm, or about 10 mm to about 60 mm, including a length designed for the side seam. The elastic joints (230) are provided to provide a relatively strong bond to the elastic members (96) and thus to firmly fix the elastic members (96) within the laminate. Fixation may be assisted by the side seam. Elastic joints (230) along a certain proportion or a higher proportion of the side edges (89) may be joined together. The elastic joint (230) can also be used for an effective process of deactivating a limited transverse dimension of the elastic member (96). Referring to Figures 2 and 3A–3C, the elastic member (96) can be deactivated in the portion overlapping with the absorbent core (62). In addition to the lateral edge region, elastic joints (230T) may be provided on both sides of a certain transverse dimension of the elastic member (96), which is designed to be deactivated, and the portion of the elastic member between the elastic joints (230T) is cut and deactivated. The deactivated portion of the elastic member is not shown in Figures 2 and 3A–3C. Such deactivation may be referred to herein as a belly cut, and the deactivated region may coincide with an inelastic region (221).

[0038] What is meant by a plurality of distinct bonding units (234) herein is a bonding portion applied to at least one of the inner sheet (94) and the outer sheet (92) to intermittently bond the inner sheet (94) and the outer sheet (92). Such distinct bonding units (230) may be provided by adhesive, heating, or ultrasound. Each distinct bonding unit has a longitudinal dimension of about 0.5 mm to about 20 mm, preferably about 0.5 mm to about 6.0 mm, and a transverse dimension of about 0.5 mm to about 6.0 mm, preferably about 0.5 mm to about 2.0 mm, and between any two distinct bonding units, there is a longitudinal spacing of at least about 0.2 mm and a transverse spacing of at least about 0.2 mm between them. All distinct bonding units may each be provided with the same longitudinal and transverse dimensions. Different distinct bonding units having different longitudinal and / or transverse dimensions may be used. The shape of the joint can be rectangular, circular, or elliptical.

[0039] The multiple distinct bonding units (234) are arranged such that at least one distinct bonding unit is located within each elastic interval. At least one distinct bonding unit located within each elastic interval means that a distinct bonding unit (234) exists within the elastic interval without contacting the elastic body (96) in its full longitudinal and transverse dimensions. For example, referring to Figure 3A, at least two distinct bonding units (234) are located within each elastic interval. By providing at least one distinct bonding unit within each elastic interval, the elastic members (96) are prevented from contacting each other. As long as at least one distinct bonding unit (234) is located within each elastic interval, the elastic coupling (230) prevents the elastic members (96) from moving away from their intended position by providing a secure coupling of the elastic members (96) along the side seams (32) and the outer periphery of the inelastic region (221). Multiple distinct bonding units (234) may also bond elastic members (96) to at least one of the inner sheet (94) and the outer sheet (92). With respect to the entire front elastic belt (84) or the entire rear elastic belt (86), there may be no elastic members (96) bonded to the inner sheet (94) or the outer sheet (92) by a distinct bonding unit (234). With respect to the entire front elastic belt (84) or the entire rear elastic belt (86), at least one to about 80% of the elastic members (96) may be bonded to the inner sheet (94) or the outer sheet (92) by a distinct vertical bonding unit (234). Multiple distinct bonding units (234) may be provided only to the outer sheet (92). Multiple distinct bonding units (234) may be provided only to the inner sheet (94). Referring to Figure 3A, multiple distinct bonding units (234) may be provided over the entire area of ​​the laminate. By providing multiple distinct bonding units (234) over the entire area of ​​the laminate, the multiple distinct bonding units (234) can function as bonding points between the inner and outer sheets (92, 94) in the region where the elastic member (96) is cut. The multiple distinct bonding units (234) can be provided in the region adjacent to the side edge (89), and therefore the regions where the elastic bonding points (230) are provided overlap.Alternatively, multiple distinct bonding units (234) may be provided only in areas where the elastic bonding portion (230) is not provided. Multiple distinct bonding units (234) may be provided at least in areas where the elastic member (96) is operationally elastic and where the elastic bonding portion (230) is absent.

[0040] As mentioned above, all of the separate joining units (234) can be provided with the same longitudinal and transverse dimensions. In this way, by providing each separate joining unit with sufficiently small dimensions, various patterns can be created by the assemblies of the separate joining units.

[0041] Figure 4A shows a perspective view of an embodiment of an apparatus (500) for applying hot melt adhesive to a sheet. The sheet may be either an outer sheet (92) or an inner sheet (94). An apparatus preferred to the present invention is described in PCT Publication No. 2014 / 085063. The apparatus (500) includes a slot die applicator (502) and a sheet carrier (504). As shown in Figure 4A, the sheet (506) advances in the machine direction and is partially wrapped around the sheet carrier (504). More specifically, the sheet (506) includes a first surface (508) positioned opposite a second surface (510). The first surface (508) of the sheet (506) is positioned on the outer surface (512) of the sheet carrier 504, and the second surface (510) of the sheet (506) advances through the slot die applicator (502). As will be discussed in more detail below, the second surface (510) of the sheet (506) advances through the slot die applicator (502), and the adhesive is transferred from the slot die applicator (502) onto the second surface of the sheet in substantially the same pattern as the pattern defined on the outer surface (512) of the sheet carrier (504). As will be discussed in more detail below, the sheet carrier (504) can be configured in various ways to deposit the adhesive (530) discharged from the slot die applicator (502) onto the sheet (506), resulting in various different patterns, for example, as shown in Figures 3A to 3G.

[0042] The slot die applicator (502) shown in Figure 4A is a general representation of a device used to apply adhesive to a sheet (506). The slot die applicator may include a slot opening (514), a first lip (516), and a second lip (518). The first lip (516) may also be referred to herein as the upstream die lip, and the second lip (518) may also be referred to herein as the downstream die lip. The slot opening (514) is located between the first lip (516) and the second lip (518). The adhesive may be discharged from the slot opening (514) onto the second surface (510) of the sheet (506) as the sheet carrier (504) advances the sheet through the first lip (516), slot opening (514), and second lip (518) of the slot die applicator (502). The longitudinal dimensions of the separate bonding units (234) are defined by the size of each slot opening (514) in the CD direction. In Figure 4A, the slot openings (514) are shown as a series of smaller openings separated by intervals having similar sizes to the openings. The sheet (506) is also intermittently compressed between the slot die applicator (502) and the sheet carrier (504) as the sheet (506) advances through the slot die applicator (502). Apparatus suitable for the present invention is described in PCT Publication No. 2014 / 085063. Hereinafter, various forms of slot die applicators can be used to apply adhesive to a sheet advancing according to the method and apparatus. For example, U.S. Patent No. 7,056,386 provides a description of slot die applicators that may be used. Other examples of commercially available slot die applicators include the EP11 series Slot Die Applicator from Nordson Corporation and the APEX series Slot Die Auto Adhesive Applicator from ITW Dynatec GmbH.

[0043] Figure 4B shows an embodiment of a sheet carrier (504) configured as a roller (520) adapted to advance a sheet (506) through a slot die applicator (502). The outer surface (512) of the sheet carrier (504) includes a plurality of pattern elements (522) projecting radially outward from a base surface (524). Each pattern element (522) includes a pattern surface (526), ​​and the radial projection of the pattern element (522) from the base surface (524) defines the distance, Hp, between the pattern surface (526) and the base surface (524). The base surface (524) is configured as a continuous surface (528), and the plurality of distinct pattern elements (522) are separated from each other by the continuous surface (528). The shape and size of the pattern surfaces (526) of each pattern element (522) may be identical or different from each other. As will be discussed in more detail below, as the sheet carrier (504) moves forward through the slot diaphragm applicator (502) to advance the sheet (506), the adhesive discharged from the slot diaphragm applicator is deposited on the sheet in a pattern substantially corresponding to the shape of the pattern surface on the sheet carrier. The adhesive (530) is deposited on the sheet (506) in a separate pattern area (532) that corresponds to and can reflect the shape of the pattern surface (526) on the sheet carrier (504). Figure 4B shows an exemplary pattern for providing the pattern shown in Figures 3A and 3D, in which the front belt (84) and rear belt (86) are produced simultaneously. The transverse dimensions of the separate bonding unit (234) are defined by the circumferential dimensions of the pattern surface (526).

[0044] Figure 4C shows a detailed cross-sectional view of the seat carrier (504) and seat (506) advancing through the slot die applicator (502). The seat (506) has an unrestrained caliper, Hs, and a first surface (508) located opposite a second surface (510). The first surface (508) of the seat (506) is positioned on the seat carrier (504). The seat (506) and seat carrier (504) are shown advancing together in the machine direction, MD, through the slot die applicator (502). More specifically, the second surface (510) of the seat (506) advances through a slot opening (514) located between the upstream lip (516) and the downstream lip (518) of the slot die applicator (502). As described above, the sheet carrier (504) is positioned adjacent to the slot die applicator (502) such that a minimum distance, Hg, is defined between the uncompressed pattern surface (526) of the pattern element (522) and the first lip (516) and the second lip (518) of the sheet (506) that is less than the unconstrained caliper, Hs. In addition, the sheet carrier (504) is positioned adjacent to the slot die applicator (502) such that a minimum distance, Hb, is defined between the base surface (524) and the first lip (516) and the second lip (518) that is greater than the unconstrained caliper, Hs, of the substrate. The apparatus (500) may also be configured such that the sum of the distance, Hp, and the distance, Hg, is greater than the unconstrained caliper, Hs, of the sheet (506).

[0045] Therefore, the portion (506a) of the sheet (506) located between the slot opening (514) of the slot dia applicator (502) and the advancing base surface (524) is not pressed against the base surface (524). As a result, the adhesive (530) is continuously discharged from the slot opening (514), but the adhesive (530) is not transferred to the second surface (510) of the sheet (506).

[0046] Figure 4C further shows the sheet (506), where the base surface (524) has advanced through the slot opening (514) of the slot die applicator (502) such that a portion (506b) of the sheet (506) is between the first lip (516) of the slot die applicator (502) and the leading edge (546) of the advancing pattern surface (526). As discussed earlier, the minimum distance Hg between the pattern surface (526) of the uncompressed pattern element (522) and the first lip (516) and the second lip (518) is less than the unconstrained caliper Hs of the sheet (506). Therefore, the portion (506b) of the sheet (506) between the pattern surface (526) and the first lip (516) presses against the pattern surface (526) and exerts force. Therefore, the pattern element (522) and / or the base surface (524) are compressed and deflected so that the pattern surface (526) moves away from the first lip (516), thereby defining the minimum distance, R2, between the pattern surface (526) and the non-flexible support surface (162). The adhesive (530) being discharged from the slot opening (514) is shown in Figure 6C as beginning to transfer to the second surface (510) of the sheet as the leading edge (546) of the pattern surface (526) and the adjacent portion of the sheet (506) begin to advance through the slot opening (514).

[0047] Figure 4D shows how the laminate of the present invention is assembled by a continuous length outer sheet material (562), a continuous length inner sheet material (564), and a continuous elastic strand (568) combined to form a continuous elastic laminate. As discussed above, a fluid application device (500) including a slot die applicator (502) and a sheet carrier (504) may be used to apply adhesive to the continuous length outer sheet material (562) or the continuous length inner sheet material (564), or the outer sheet material (562). Referring to Figure 4D, the continuous length outer sheet material (562) advances in the machine direction on a roller (520), passes through the slot die applicator (502) to which the adhesive is applied, and is then joined with the continuous elastic strand (568), while the continuous length inner sheet material (564) also advances in the machine direction. Before joining with the continuous inner / outer sheet material (562, 564), the elastic strand may be coated with adhesive over a certain length in the mechanical direction to provide an elastic bond (230).

[0048] Referring back to Figures 3A and 3E, the multiple distinct bond units (234) form multiple longitudinal columns (LC1, LC2, LC3...), which are groups of distinct bond units on the same imaginary line extending parallel to the longitudinal axis. Each longitudinal column (LC) contains a collection of longitudinal spacings (LS1, LS2, LS3...). The multiple distinct bond units (234) form multiple transverse columns (TC1, TC2, TC3...), which are groups of distinct bond units on the same imaginary line extending parallel to the transverse axis. Each transverse column (TC) contains a collection of transverse spacings (TS1, TS2, TS3...). The collections of distinct bond units provided by at least two longitudinal columns and at least two transverse columns form a pattern of distinct bond units. A two-dimensional pattern of distinct bond units can be fabricated by more than two longitudinal rows and / or more than two transverse rows. The laminate of the present invention comprises at least two distinct bond units of patterns. The distinct patterns are differences in the distinct bond unit patterns in one or more of the following: the longitudinal dimensions of the bond units forming the pattern, the transverse dimensions of the bond units forming the pattern, the longitudinal spacing (CLS), and the transverse spacing (CTS).

[0049] Referring to Figures 3A to 3D, each laminate may include a first pattern (PTT1) and a second pattern (PTT2) arranged adjacent to each other across a transverse boundary, the patterns differing by at least transverse spacing aggregates (CTS). The first pattern (PTT1) may be provided adjacent to the waist opening and adjacent to the leg opening. The second pattern (PTT2) may be provided within the inelastic region (221). Referring to Figures 3A and 3C, the first pattern (PTT1) adjacent to the waist and leg openings may have smaller transverse spacing aggregates (CTS) compared to that of the second pattern (PTT2). The transverse spacing of the second pattern may be about 1.2 to about 5 times that of the first pattern. By providing the first and second patterns (PTT1, PTT2) in this manner, the gathers provided by the first pattern (PTT1) may be more densely arranged, thus providing strength to the laminate at the waist / leg openings, while the gathers provided by the second pattern (PTT2) may be more loosely arranged, thus providing flexibility and a gentler fit in other areas of the laminate. Referring to Figure 3B, the first patterns (PTT1) and the second patterns (PTT2) adjacent to the waist and leg openings may be provided in very different designs. By providing the first and second patterns in very different designs, the gathers resulting from the patterns may also look very different. For example, the second pattern (PTT2) in Figure 3B may provide gathers that look like bubbles. Referring to Figure 3D, the patterns of the separate joining units of the front belt (84) and rear belt (86) may be adjusted to provide an underwear-like appearance. For example, the transverse boundary dividing the first pattern (PTT1) and the second pattern (PTT2) at the waist opening can be adapted to provide a continuous band-like appearance at the waist opening. For example, the first pattern (PTT1) may be provided adjacent to the respective leg openings of the front belt (84) and the rear belt (86), but do not necessarily share a transverse boundary.

[0050] Referring to Figure 3G, the laminate may include a third pattern (PTT3) for dividing the first pattern (PTT1) and the second pattern (PTT2). The third pattern (PTT3) in Figure 3G may be provided with smaller longitudinal and / or transverse spacings to provide a boundary appearance and further amplify the difference in appearance of gathers resulting from the first and second patterns (PTT1, PTT2).

[0051] Referring further to Figures 3A to 3C, the elastic members (96) overlapping the first pattern (PTT1) may be arranged at a first pitch spaced apart in the longitudinal direction, and the elastic members (96) overlapping the second pattern (PTT2) may be arranged at a second pitch spaced apart in the longitudinal direction. By somewhat aligning the pattern boundaries of the separate bonding units (234) with the pitch of the elastic members (96), the resulting gathered appearance can be further amplified.

[0052] Although not shown, two patterns of separate bonding units may include a first pattern and a second pattern arranged adjacent to each other across a longitudinal boundary, and these patterns differ by at least the longitudinal spacing of the aggregate. If the article comprises a front elastic belt (84), a rear elastic belt (86), and a central chassis (38) bridging the front and rear elastic belts, the first pattern may be provided on the areas of the front and rear elastic belts (84, 86) that do not overlap with the central chassis (38).

[0053] Referring to the first pattern (PTT1) in either Figure 3A or Figure 3B and the second pattern (PTT2) in Figure 3B, there may be at least about 30%, preferably at least about 50%, of non-constant set longitudinal spacing (CLS). Although not required, referring to Figures 3E and 3F, all longitudinal columns (LCs) may have non-constant set longitudinal spacings of separate joining units. The set longitudinal spacing (CLS) of any adjacent longitudinal columns (LC1, LC2) will be different from each other. For example, longitudinal columns LC1 and LC2 may not have the same set longitudinal spacing (CLS).

[0054] Referring to Figures 3A and 3E, each of the multiple longitudinal rows (LCs) may include a first interval and a second interval, the second interval being greater than the first interval, and a certain number of at least two distinct bonded units (234) spaced apart by the first interval form a first array (AR1), the first array (AR1) being spaced apart by the second interval. Approximately 2 to approximately 10 distinct bonded units (234) may form the first array (AR1), and the second interval may be approximately 3 mm to approximately 15 mm. When observing multiple longitudinal rows (LC1, LC2, LC3), the longitudinal positions of the first array (AR1) may alternate in the transverse direction. Depending on the desired pattern of distinct bonded units, the longitudinal rows (LCs) may be spaced apart in the transverse direction at a pitch of approximately 3 mm to approximately 15 mm. The transverse pitch of the longitudinal rows (LCs) may be constant.

[0055] Referring to Figures 3B and 3F, separate joining units (234) spanning multiple longitudinal columns (LC) may be configured to provide angled alignments (AA1, AA2), which are a series of straight or curved lines of multiple separate joining units (234) spanning multiple longitudinal columns (LC). As shown in Figure 3F, the angled alignments (AA1, AA2) may be a series of straight lines. The angled alignments (AA1, AA2) may have angles of about 30 to about 60 degrees with respect to the longitudinal axis, be symmetrical with respect to the longitudinal axis, and repeat at a constant pitch in the longitudinal direction to provide a repeating pattern of a rhombus shape. The constant pitch in the longitudinal direction (LP) may be about 6 mm to about 25 mm.

[0056] The aforementioned patterns of separate joining units depicted in Figures 3A to 3C may be planned to have the dimensions in Table 1 in order to provide the intended patterns.

[0057] [Table 1]

[0058] As a result of the above-described configuration of separate bonding units (234) as shown in Figures 3A to 3C, the total bonding area provided by the separate bonding units (234) can be controlled while maintaining the integrity of the laminate and can further provide a strip-like appearance of the laminate. Different strip-like appearances can intuitively accompany certain functions of the laminate as described above. Having a relatively small total bonding area provided by the separate bonding units (234) reduces the constraints on the inner and outer sheets (92, 94) to the inner sheet (94) and the outer sheet (92), as well as to the elastic member (96). Although not bound by theory, it is thought that having fewer constraints on the elastic member (96) by the inner and outer sheet materials (92, 94) can enable improved stretchability of the elastic member (96) and provide ease of application.

[0059] Compared to an elastic belt made solely of elastic joints (230) in which all elastic members (96) are continuously connected, the elastic belt (40) of the present invention may have a lower stretch perimeter force according to the measurement method herein. Stretch perimeter force refers to the load at a particular level of stretch, and is thought to mimic the initial stretch experience felt by the wearer or caregiver when inserting a hand and stretching the article to open it. Furthermore, despite such a relatively low stretch perimeter force, the elastic belt (40) of the present invention may maintain a suitable fit perimeter force according to the measurement method herein. Fit perimeter force refers to the unloaded force at a particular level of stretch, and is thought to mimic the force felt by the wearer while wearing the article. Therefore, the article of the present invention has a stretch perimeter force of about 6.5 N or less and a fit perimeter force of at least about 2.5 N, according to the measurement method herein, and the ratio of stretch perimeter force / fit perimeter force is less than about 2.5, preferably less than about 2.3. A relatively low ratio of the stretched circumference force to the fitted circumference force means that there is little difference between the load and the unloaded force felt by the wearer, thus providing a sensory quality similar to that of underwear. Although not bound by theory, it is also thought that the inner and outer sheet materials (92, 94) having less restriction on the elastic member (96) may improve the overall breathability of the laminate and improve skin health. Although not bound by theory, it is also thought that multiple separate bonding units (234) provide a configuration in which, when the elastic belt (40) contracts, a higher proportion of the inner and outer sheet materials (92, 94) are available to form the outer surface of the laminate, while the elastic member (96) remains positioned within the thickness of the laminate. Thus, the laminate is provided with improved elasticity and thickness, and therefore provides improved comfort and flexibility when worn.

[0060] The bonding strength of the elastic bond (230) and the multiple separate bonding units (234) may be the same or different. The elastic bond (230) and the multiple separate bonding units (234) may be provided by the same bonding method, such as by an adhesive. The elastic bond (230) and the multiple separate bonding units (234) may be provided by the same hot-melt adhesive. Examples of hot-melt adhesives suitable for the present invention include trade names H4376 and H2401, available from Bostik.

[0061] Referring to Figure 3D, the article of the present invention may have a disposal tape (33) positioned in either the front or rear elastic region (84, 86) to assist in the disposal of the article after use. The portion of the elastic region supporting the disposal tape (33) may be reinforced so that the tensile forces generated when the disposal tape (33) is extended do not damage the laminate. The elastic region overlapping the disposal tape may be provided with a reinforcing adhesive (33A) positioned between the inner sheet (94) and the outer sheet (92).

[0062] Referring to Figure 2, the belt-type pants may be provided with end seals on the proximal edges (90) of the front and rear belts (84, 86) to keep the inner and outer sheets (92, 94) closed at the proximal edges (90), thus preventing the elastic member (96) from making contact. Such non-contact capability of the elastic member (96) may be particularly advantageous when the article is for a young wearer. Alternatively or additionally, the elastic member (96) positioned closest to the proximal edge (90) may be provided with an elastic joint (230) in an operationally elastic portion along the transverse dimension of the elastic member (96).

[0063] Referring to Figure 2, the elastic member (96) may be made of a plurality of elastic strands (96) extending parallel to each other in the transverse direction, and the laminate has regions in which the elastic strands (96) have a longitudinal pitch of about 3 mm to about 18 mm, or about 3 mm to about 12 mm, or about 3 mm to about 7 mm.

[0064] The overall tensile stress (N / m) of the front and rear elastic belts (84, 86) can be profiled to provide the functional benefits of the present invention, such as ease of stretching and application, and to prevent the article from sagging after loading while maintaining a constant force during wear. If the elasticity of the front and rear elastic belts (84, 86) is provided by a plurality of elastic members (96) extending transversely, the tensile stress can be adjusted by one or more of the following methods: 1) the elongation rate of the elastic members (96), 2) the density (dtex) of the elastic members (96), 3) the longitudinal pitch of the plurality of elastic members (96), and 4) the effective length of the elasticity of the elastic members (96) in the transverse direction. With respect to the elongation rate, "0% elongation rate" means the original length of the elastic member. If a portion of the elastic member (96) has had its elasticity removed, the remaining portion of the unaffected elastic member that is capable of imparting elasticity is defined as the "effective length of the elasticity of the elastic member."

[0065] Referring to Figures 2 and 3C, the anterior and posterior elastic belts (26, 28) can each be divided into three zones extending transversely, which can be defined by the respective positions of the distal edge (88) to the proximal edge (90) relative to the seam length LS. In the example in Figure 2, the entire length of the belt side edge (89) of the anterior region (26) is the anterior belt (84), which is joined with a certain length of the belt side edge (89) of the posterior region (28), and this is the posterior belt (86) which defines the seam length LS. If the seam length LS is considered to be 0% at the distal edge (88) and 100% at the proximal edge (90) of the side seam (32), the zones are defined as follows: 0-35% as the lumbar zone (102), 35-85% as the abdominal zone (104), and 85-100% as the leg zone (106), and so on. If an elastic member is located 35% from the distal edge (88), such elastic member is considered to be included in the lumbar zone (102). If an elastic member is located 85% from the distal edge 88, such elastic member is considered to be included in the lumbar zone (104).

[0066] Certain zones of the belt may contain elastic material having a density of approximately 500 dtex or less. Elastic material having a density of approximately 500 dtex or less may be placed over one or more of the lumbar zone (102) or leg zones (106). Elastic material having a density of approximately 500 dtex or less may be placed over the abdominal zone (104). At least 50% of the elastic members of each of the front belt (84) and rear belt (86) may have a density of approximately 500 dtex or less. Although not bound by theory, it is thought that elastic material with a relatively low density provides an easy initial stretch experience when the article (20) is stretched and opened while maintaining a good fit during wear. That is, using such elastic material with a relatively low density is advantageous in providing a controlled stretch perimeter force while maintaining a certain fit perimeter force.

[0067] In the article of the present invention, the tensile stress in the posterior lumbar zone (102) may be provided higher than that in the anterior lumbar zone (102). The tensile stress in the posterior lumbar zone (102) may be provided at least about 10% higher than that in the anterior lumbar zone (102). The tensile stress in the anterior abdominal zone (104) may be provided higher than that in the posterior abdominal zone (104). The tensile stress in the anterior abdominal zone (104) may be provided at least about 20% higher than that in the posterior abdominal zone (104). The tensile stress in the posterior leg zone (106) may be provided significantly lower than that in the posterior abdominal zone (104), preferably at least about 20% lower. The tensile stress in the anterior leg zone (106) may be provided significantly lower than that in the anterior abdominal zone (104), preferably at least about 20% lower. While not bound by theory, such zone-by-zone profiling with respect to tensile stress is thought to provide the article of the present invention with an elastic belt (40) shaped to conform well to the human body, particularly the lower torso of an infant under 36 months of age, and thus provide the wearer with a good fit and comfort without compromising anti-sagging or anti-leakage.

[0068] In belt-type trousers, the longitudinal length LB of the rear elastic belt (86) and the longitudinal length LF of the front elastic belt (84) may be the same, or the rear elastic belt (86) may have a longer longitudinal length LB, as shown in Figure 2. Referring to Figures 1B and 2, when the wearable article is assembled to form the waist and leg openings, the wearable article (20) is folded along the transverse centerline TX such that the front distal edge (88) aligns with the rear distal edge (88). The front side edge (89) is also aligned with a portion of the rear side edge (89). The front belt (84) and the rear belt (86) are then joined at the front and rear side edges (89) by a seam (32). However, the front and rear proximal edges (90) may not be aligned with each other. The rear proximal edge (90) may be positioned closer longitudinally to the transverse centerline TX than the front proximal edge (90) such that the proximal portion of the rear side panel (82) extends beyond the front proximal edge (90) toward the crotch panel (56) of the central chassis (38). The side edge of the proximal portion of the rear side panel (82) may not be joined or attached anywhere. Thus, the proximal portion of the rear side panel 82 provides a buttock cover 95 as shown in Figure 1B.

[0069] The outer sheet (92) of the present invention may be a nonwoven fabric having a basis weight of about 10 gsm to about 55 gsm, or about 10 gsm to about 35 gsm, and may have a fiber diameter of about 0.8 dpf to about 6 dpf. The fiber diameter is described in denier / filament (dpf) units used in the industry, which is grams per 9,000 meters of fiber length. The outer sheet (92) nonwoven fabric can be produced by processes such as spunbond, spunlace, carding, or airlaid, and may include fibers and / or filaments made from polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), polyethylene phthalate (PET), polylactic acid / polylactide (PLA), or conjugated fibers (PE / PET, PE / PP, PE / PLA, etc.), as well as natural fibers such as cotton, or regenerated cellulose fibers such as viscose or liocell. The outer sheet (92) nonwoven fabric may be a multilayer or composite structure combining nonwoven fabrics made from different processes and fibers, such as a combination of spunbond nonwoven fabric and carded nonwoven fabric. The outer sheet (92) nonwoven fabric may be made from biodegradable materials or derived from renewable resources. Exemplary materials for the outer sheet (92) include air-through carded nonwoven fabrics having a thickness of at least about 50 μm, at least about 80 μm, or at least about 200 μm. Such materials may provide a lofty feel on the side facing the garment. Suitable materials for the outer sheet (92) nonwoven fabric of the present invention include air-through carded nonwoven fabric materials made from concentric two-component fibers, crimped fibers made through core eccentric two-component filaments, or side-by-side two-component filaments.Non-limiting examples of materials suitable for the outer sheet (92) nonwoven fabric of the present invention include 12-45 gsm air-through card nonwoven fabric substrates containing PE / PET bicomponent fibers, such as those available from Beijing Dayuan Nonwoven Fabric Co.Ltd. or Xiamen Yanjan New Material Co.Ltd., and 8-45 gsm spunmelt nonwoven fabric substrates containing PP monofilament or PE / PP bicomponent fibers, such as those available from Fibertex or Fitesa.

[0070] The inner sheet (94) of the present invention may be a nonwoven fabric having a basis weight of about 5 gsm to about 45 gsm, or about 5 gsm to about 35 gsm. The inner sheet (94) nonwoven fabric may have a fiber diameter of about 0.5 dpf to about 4 dpf. The inner sheet (94) nonwoven fabric can be produced by processes such as spunbond, spunlace, card, or airlaid, and may include fibers and / or filaments made from polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), polyethylene phthalate (PET), polylactic acid / polylactide (PLA), or conjugated fibers (PE / PET, PE / PP, PE / PLA, etc.), as well as natural fibers such as cotton, or regenerated cellulose fibers such as viscose or liocell. The inner sheet (94) nonwoven fabric may also be a multilayer or composite structure combining nonwoven fabrics produced by different processes and fibers, such as a combination of spunbond nonwoven fabric and carded nonwoven fabric. The inner sheet (94) nonwoven fabric may be made from biodegradable materials or derived from renewable resources. Non-limiting examples of materials suitable for the inner sheet (94) nonwoven fabric of the present invention include 12-30 gsm air-through card nonwoven fabric substrates made from PE / PET bicomponent staple fibers, such as those available from Beijing Dayuan Nonwoven Fabric Co.Ltd. or Xiamen Yanjan New Material Co.Ltd., and 8-30 gsm spunmelt nonwoven fabric substrates containing PP monofilaments or PE / PP bicomponent fibers, such as those available from Fibertex or Fitesa.

[0071] The basis weights of the outer sheet (92) and the inner sheet (94) can be adjusted such that the basis weight of the inner sheet (94) is less than or equal to that of the outer sheet (92). Thus, the outer sheet (92) can be provided with a high-quality, flexible, and resilient tactile sensation, while the inner sheet (94) can be kept thinner and conform to the outer sheet (92), thus saving costs. Furthermore, although not bound by theory, it is thought that providing such a basis weight relationship effectively transports skin sweat to the outer sheet (92) and to the outside of the laminate, while preventing the transported sweat from returning to the inner sheet (94). The hydrophilicity / hydrophobicity of the outer sheet (92) and the inner sheet (94) can be adjusted such that the hydrophilicity of the outer sheet (92) is higher than that of the inner sheet (94). Although not bound by theory, it is thought that such a gradient of hydrophilicity is advantageous for transporting skin sweat from the inner sheet (94) to the outer sheet (92) and to the outside of the laminate. The inner sheet (94) nonwoven fabric may be inherently hydrophobic. Hydrophobicity of the inner sheet (94) nonwoven fabric may be provided by treating the polymer resin with a hydrophobic melt additive during the fiber manufacturing process, or by applying a hydrophobic additive after the nonwoven fabric has been formed. The outer sheet (92) nonwoven fabric may be inherently hydrophobic, and therefore, a relatively higher hydrophilicity than that of the inner sheet (94) may be provided by treating the polymer resin with a hydrophilic melt additive during the fiber manufacturing process, or by applying a hydrophilic additive after the nonwoven fabric has been formed.

[0072] The wearable articles of the present invention may be provided colored and may have artwork provided on a material for creating a laminate. Regions of the laminate overlapping a first pattern (PTT1) may have a different color from regions of the laminate overlapping a second pattern (PTT1). Such colors may have a lightness higher than about 50 and a saturation lower than about 80. Colors of such lightness and saturation are thought to be associated with flexible perception.

[0073] Referring to Figures 3A-3D and 6A-6B, the wearable article of the present invention may have a first pattern (PTT1) of a separate bonding unit provided adjacent to a waist opening, and a first artwork (AW1) provided on a laminate adjacent to the waist opening and at least partially overlapping the first pattern (PTT1), the first artwork (AW1) comprising a series of stripes of a first color having longitudinal dimensions and spaced apart transversely. The series of stripes may have constant transverse dimensions and spacing, or may have non-constant transverse dimensions and spacing. Referring to Figure 6B, the stripes of the first artwork (AW1) have transverse spacing dimensions that increase from the side seam (32) toward the transverse center of the laminate. For example, when considering a pair of stripes and spacing as a unit (SU), the transverse dimensions of the stripes and spacing adjacent to the side seam (32) may be approximately 2:1, and the dimensions of the spacing within the unit gradually increase and replace the dimensions of the stripes, so that the transverse dimensions of the stripes and spacing adjacent to the transverse center may be approximately 1:2. Such gradual increase in the spacing within the unit from the side seam to the transverse center can take approximately 10 units or more. Furthermore, the longitudinal dimension of the stripe adjacent to the side seam (32) may be at least approximately 20 mm and may gradually increase toward the transverse center, and the longitudinal dimension of the stripe adjacent to the transverse center may be at least approximately 10 mm larger than that at the side seam (32) but not more than approximately 55 mm. By providing artwork adjacent to the waist opening in this manner, tension at the waist opening is reduced.

[0074] Referring to Figure 6A, the first pattern (PTT1) may be further provided adjacent to the leg opening, and the second artwork may be provided on a laminate that at least partially overlaps the first pattern (PTT1) adjacent to the leg opening. The second artwork may be provided in the same first color as the first artwork. Unlike the first artwork, the longitudinal dimension of the second artwork may decrease from the side seam (32) toward the transverse center of the article.

[0075] Alternatively, the laminate overlapping the first pattern (PTT1) provided along the waist opening may be colorless, i.e., it may not have any additional color on top of the material used to make the laminate. Such white may have an underwear-like appearance.

[0076] The wearable articles of the present invention may be supplied in a flexible package in which a certain number of wearable articles are packaged together and compressed to make the package compact. Applying more compressive force to the package may be beneficial to make the package as compact as possible, but there may be a threshold of compressive force that affects the topography of the wearable articles, such as gathers provided on the laminate. The package containing the wearable articles of the present invention may have an in-bag compression ratio of more than 0% to about 30%. As used herein, “in-bag compression ratio” means the height of the laminate in millimeters measured under compression in a ply bag of 1 to 10 diaper pads, subtracted from the pre-compression stack height of 10 diaper pads of the same type, and then multiplied by 100. For example, if the height is the same before and after compression, the in-bag compression ratio is 0%.

[0077] The wearable article of the present invention may be provided with a first mark to communicate the consumer benefit of the article, and the first mark may be further provided on the packaging.

[0078] Whole article strength measurement method The force is measured using an electric tensile testing machine or equivalent equipment equipped with a computer interface such as MTS Criterion C42 running TestWorks 4 Software (available from MTS SYSTEMS (CHINA) CO., LTD). The load cell is selected so that the force obtained on the specimen under test is 10-90% of the load cell's capacity. The equipment is calibrated according to the manufacturer's instructions. All tests are performed in a room maintained at 23±2°C and 50±5% relative humidity.

[0079] The tensile testing machine is fitted with a hanger-type specimen holder (300) as shown in Figure 5. Each holder is equipped with a rigid, linear, rubber-coated horizontal bar section (302) to prevent the specimen from slipping during testing. The outer diameter of the horizontal bar section (including the rubber coating) is 10.0 mm. The central axis of the horizontal bar section (302) is configured to remain parallel and in the same vertical plane throughout the entire testing process. The gauge length is determined by the following formula: Perimeter of the gauge point = 2 × (H + D + πD / 2) In the formula, H is the vertical gap between the horizontal bar sections (302), and D is the outer diameter of the bar.

[0080] Configure the device to perform the following steps:

[0081] [Table 2]

[0082] Insert the sample of article (20) onto the upper horizontal bar section (302) so that the bar passes through the waist opening and one leg opening of the article. Raise the crosshead until the sample hangs above the lower bar and no longer touches the lower bar (302). Lower the crosshead so that the tare weight of the load cell is subtracted and the lower bar (302) can be inserted through the waist opening and the other leg opening without extending or contracting the article. Adjust the article so that its longitudinal centerline LX is in the horizontal plane midway between the upper bar and the lower bar (302). Ensure that the center of the side portion in contact with the bar (302) is on the same vertical axis as the instrument's load cell. While holding the article in place by hand as needed, slowly raise the crosshead until the force is 0.05-0.1N, taking care not to apply unnecessary force. The gauge circumference at this point is the initial gauge circumference. The test is initiated by moving the crosshead upward at 254 mm / min until a force of 19.6 N is obtained, and then immediately returning the crosshead to its initial gauge circumference at the same speed. The force at the maximum circumference at 19.6 N and at 70% of the maximum circumference while the test segment is loaded and unloaded is recorded.

[0083] The maximum circumference (mm) at 19.6N is defined as the fully stretched circumference W1. The 70% stretched circumference W2 is defined as the fully stretched circumference (mm) × 0.7. The force (N) in the loaded segment of the test at 70% stretched circumference is defined as the stretched circumference force. The force (N) in the unloaded segment of the test at 70% stretched circumference is defined as the fitted circumference force. Five samples are analyzed, their average is calculated, and each is reported in units of 1 mm or 0.01 N.

[0084] Belt zone tensile stress measurement Tensile stress (N / m) is calculated by dividing the tension (N) by the width of the specimen (m). The force can be measured using an electronic tensile testing machine with a computer interface, such as the MTS Criterion C42 running TestWorks 4 Software (available from MTS SYSTEMS (CHINA) CO., LTD), or an equivalent instrument. Select a load cell so that the force obtained for the specimen under test is 10-90% of the load cell's capacity. Calibrate the instrument according to the manufacturer's instructions. All tests are conducted in a room maintained at 23±2°C and 50±5% relative humidity. The instrument is equipped with a single-wire contact grip having at least the same width as the test specimen.

[0085] To obtain a test specimen, the sample article is cut open along the side seam (32), and the front and rear elastic belt portions (40) are removed from the central chassis (38) by separating the adhesive between the waist belt and the central chassis. A cold spray may be used, taking care not to create wrinkles in the belt portion. Care should be taken not to spray any of the belt-shaped elastic bodies (96). According to the present invention, the obtained elastic belt 40 is divided into zones (102, 104, 106), taking care not to cut any of the elastic bodies (96). Before testing, the sample is pre-conditioned for 2 hours at 23°C ± 2°C and 50% ± 5% relative humidity.

[0086] The equipment is configured to perform the following steps: As described above, the initial gauge length is calculated from the initial gauge length determined during the overall force test of the article, using a separate identical article. Initial reference length = 0.5 initial reference length. The final gauge length is calculated from the total stretched / contracted circumference determined during the overall force test of the article, as described above.

[0087] [Table 3]

[0088] Secure one end of the specimen to the upper clamp and subtract the tare weight. Secure the other end of the specimen to the lower clamp. Approximately 5 mm of each end of the specimen is behind the contact line of the grip. Begin the test by extending the specimen to its final gauge length at a crosshead speed of 254 mm / min, and then immediately returning it to its original gauge length at the same speed. Extend the specimen in the transverse direction of the article during the test. Record the load release force when the specimen reaches 70% of its final gauge length during the load release segment of the test.

[0089] Five items are analyzed, and the load release force is recorded for each of the front and rear zones (102, 104, 106). For each zone, including the front and rear samples, the average tensile stress (N) is calculated in units of 0.01 N. The tensile stress for each zone is calculated by dividing the average tension (N) by the average longitudinal length (m), and reported in units of 0.1 N / m. [Examples]

[0090] Examples 1-3 and Comparative Examples 1-4 were obtained in this manner, and the tests described below were performed.

[0091] Example 1: A size 4 (L size) belt-type pants article having the configuration, elastic bond, and pattern of separate bonding units shown in Figure 3A and Table 1 above, as well as the elastic profile and other properties shown in Table 2 below.

[0092] Example 2: A size 4 (L size) belt-type pants article having the configuration, elastic bond, and pattern of separate bonding units shown in Figure 3B and Table 1 above, as well as the elastic profile and other properties shown in Table 2 below.

[0093] Example 3: A size 4 (L size) belt-type pants article having the configuration, elastic bond, and pattern of separate bonding units shown in Figure 3C and Table 1 above, as well as the elastic profile and other properties shown in Table 2 below.

[0094] Comparative Example 1: This product has the same structural configuration and elastic bonding as "Ichiban Pants" size 4, available from P&G in the PRC, but the outer sheet is replaced with the same material as in Examples 1-3.

[0095] Comparative Example 2: Baby Care Royal Weak Acid, size 4 (lot number 20210402), purchased from PRC in July 2021.

[0096] Comparative Example 3: "Huggies Penguin" size 4 (lot number 20210412) purchased from PRC in July 2021.

[0097] Comparative Example 4: "Goo.N Angel" size 4 (lot number 20201202) purchased from PRC in July 2021.

[0098] [Table 4] ( * 1) In Table 2, "abdominal cut" refers to the deactivation of elasticity in the transverse central area of ​​the elastic strand, resulting in an effective elastic length of 68%.

[0099] 1.Technical measurement The lumbar circumference force was measured according to the “Measurement of Forces on the Whole Article” method described herein, and the results are provided in Table 3 below. The tensile stress per zone was measured according to the “Measurement of Belt Zone Tensile Stress” method described herein, and the results are provided in Table 2 above.

[0100] [Table 5]

[0101] 2. Consumer Acceptance Test Sixty panelists were recruited who were caregivers of infants using size 4 (L size) diaper pants and had various usage experiences of major brands within a similar price range as those used in the test. The number of caregivers of male and female infants in the age group of 25 to 36 months was approximately equal. Two rounds of tests were conducted on a total of seven final product test samples.

[0102] In the first round of the test, five final product test samples (Example 1 and Comparative Examples 1 to 4) were provided to the panelists to feel by touching them one by one with their hands. Each respondent was asked to fill out a questionnaire individually after touching each test sample. As shown in Table 4, there were five values in the questionnaire, and each respondent was required to sort and evaluate these values for the test samples using a rating from 1 to 10, where "1 = insufficient" and "10 = very good", etc. The scores were averaged. Finally, each respondent was required to rank the test samples for the values using a ranking from 1 to 5 and score them as "1 = best, 5 = worst". The scores were averaged. The results of the first round of the test are summarized in Table 4.

[0103]

Table 6

[0104] According to the test results in Tables 3 and 4, Example 1, which satisfies the requirements of the present invention, has statistically significantly higher "functional intuitive appearance," "belt flexibility," and "overall evaluation" compared to Comparative Examples 1-4, and statistically significantly better "overall evaluation," "comfortable fit around the waist," and "pajama comfort" compared to Comparative Examples 2-4, while also having favorable perimeter length values ​​when stretched and when fitted. The gathers provided by the unique pattern of the distinct bonding units of Example 1 are thought to provide improved functional intuitive appearance and belt quality, influencing consumer perception of identifiability as well as the flexibility and comfortable fit of the belt.

[0105] In the second round of testing, four final product test samples, including Examples 1 and 2 and Comparative Example 2, were tested. Each respondent was asked to touch each test sample and then fill out a questionnaire individually. The questionnaire had three values, as shown in Table 5, and each respondent was asked to categorize and evaluate the test samples using a rating from 1 to 10, where "1 = Inadequate, 10 = Excellent," etc. The scores were averaged. The results of the second round of testing are summarized in Table 5.

[0106] [Table 7]

[0107] According to the test results in Tables 3 and 5, Examples 1 and 2, which satisfy the requirements of the present invention, have statistically significantly higher "overall evaluation," "functional intuitive appearance," and "belt quality" compared to Comparative Example 2. The gathers provided by the unique patterns of the distinct bonding units in Examples 1 and 2 are thought to provide an improved functional intuitive appearance and belt flexibility, influencing consumer perception of identifiability and belt quality.

[0108] The dimensions and values ​​disclosed herein should not be understood as strictly limited to the exact numerical values ​​listed. Instead, unless otherwise specified, each such dimension is intended to mean both the listed value and the functionally equivalent range encompassing that value. For example, a dimension disclosed as "40 mm" is intended to mean "approximately 40 mm." Furthermore, any numerical range given throughout this specification includes any narrower numerical range that falls within such a broad numerical range.

[0109] All documents referenced herein, including cross-referenced documents or related patents or applications, are incorporated herein in their entirety by reference, unless expressly excluded or specifically limited. No reference to any document shall be deemed prior art to any invention disclosed or claimed herein, nor shall it be deemed to teach, suggest or disclose any such invention, either alone or in combination with any other reference(s). Furthermore, if any meaning or definition of a term in this document conflicts with any meaning or definition of the same term in a document incorporated by reference, the meaning or definition given to that term in this document shall apply.

[0110] While specific embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various other changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Therefore, it is intended that all such changes and modifications within the scope of the invention be covered in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A wearable article that is continuous in the longitudinal and transverse directions, comprising a front elastic belt region, a rear elastic belt region, a crotch region, and a pair of side seams joining the front elastic belt region and the rear elastic belt region to form a waist opening and a pair of leg openings, wherein the crotch region extends longitudinally between the front elastic belt region and the rear elastic belt region, Each of the front and rear elastic belt regions comprises a laminate comprising an inner sheet, an outer sheet, and a plurality of elastic members extending in the transverse direction, wherein the longitudinal dimension between adjacent elastic members forms an elastic gap. The laminate further comprises elastic bonding portions that continuously bond the elastic members over a distance of at least about 10 mm in the expansion and contraction direction in regions adjacent to the side edges of the front and rear elastic belt regions, and a plurality of separate bonding units arranged between the elastic bonding portions in the transverse direction, wherein each separate bonding unit is applied to at least one of the inner sheet and the outer sheet, and there is at least one separate bonding unit arranged within each elastic interval, and the plurality of separate bonding units form a plurality of longitudinal rows, and each longitudinal row includes an assembly of longitudinal intervals, The aforementioned plurality of separate combined units form a plurality of transverse columns, and each transverse column includes a collection of transverse intervals. A wearable article wherein an assembly of distinct bonding units provided by at least two longitudinal rows and at least two transverse rows forms a pattern of distinct bonding units, the laminate includes at least a first pattern and a second pattern of distinct bonding units, the first pattern and the second pattern of distinct bonding units differ in one or more of the longitudinal dimensions, transverse dimensions, the longitudinal spacing of the assembly, and the transverse spacing of the assembly.

2. The wearable article according to claim 1, wherein each separate bonding unit has a longitudinal dimension of approximately 0.5 mm to approximately 20 mm and a transverse dimension of approximately 0.5 mm to approximately 6.0 mm.

3. A wearable article according to claim 1 or 2, wherein any two separate bonding units are spaced at least about 0.2 mm apart longitudinally and at least about 0.2 mm apart transversely, and all of the separate bonding units are provided with the same longitudinal and transverse dimensions.

4. The wearable article according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the first pattern and the second pattern are arranged adjacent to each other across a transverse boundary, and the patterns differ by at least the set of transverse intervals.

5. The wearable article according to claim 4, wherein the first pattern is provided adjacent to the waist opening and adjacent to the leg opening.

6. The wearable article according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the laminate includes an inelastic region that does not have active elasticity, and the second pattern is arranged within the inelastic region.

7. A wearable article according to any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein the elastic members overlapping the first pattern are arranged at a first pitch spaced apart in the longitudinal direction, and the elastic members overlapping the second pattern are arranged at a second pitch spaced apart in the longitudinal direction.

8. A wearable article according to any one of claims 4 to 7, wherein the transverse spacing of the second pattern is about 1.2 to about 5 times the transverse spacing of the first pattern.

9. A wearable article according to any one of claims 4 to 8, further comprising a third pattern of separate bonding units, wherein the third pattern is positioned between the first pattern and the second pattern.

10. The wearable article according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the first pattern and the second pattern are arranged adjacent to each other across a longitudinal boundary, and the patterns differ by at least the aggregate of longitudinal spacing.

11. A wearable article according to claim 10, comprising a front elastic belt, a rear elastic belt, and a central chassis bridging the front elastic belt and the rear elastic belt, wherein the first pattern is provided on the region of the front and rear elastic belts that does not overlap the central chassis.

12. A wearable article according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the first pattern has aggregates of constant transverse spacing and aggregates of constant longitudinal spacing, and the second pattern has at least about 30%, preferably at least about 50%, of the non-constant longitudinal rows, wherein the aggregate spacing of the distinct bonding units in any adjacent longitudinal rows differs from one another.

13. The wearable article according to claim 12, wherein the first pattern is provided adjacent to the waist opening and adjacent to the leg opening.

14. The wearable article according to claim 12, wherein the second pattern is provided adjacent to the waist opening and adjacent to the leg opening.

15. A wearable article according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the laminate overlapping the first pattern has a different color from the laminate overlapping the second pattern.

16. The wearable article according to claim 15, wherein the color of the laminate overlapping the first pattern or the second pattern has a lightness higher than about 50 and a saturation lower than about 80.

17. A wearable article according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the first pattern is provided adjacent to the waist opening, and the first artwork is provided on the laminate that at least partially overlaps the first pattern adjacent to the waist opening, the first artwork extends over the entire transverse dimension of the laminate and includes a first color, and the first artwork has a first longitudinal dimension in the side seam and a second longitudinal dimension along the longitudinal axis, the second longitudinal dimension being greater than the first longitudinal dimension.

18. The wearable article according to claim 17, wherein the first artwork includes a plurality of stripes of the first color, the stripes having a transverse spacing dimension that increases from the side seam toward the transverse center of the laminate.

19. The wearable article according to claim 17 or 18, wherein the first pattern is further provided adjacent to the leg opening, and the second artwork is provided on the laminate that at least partially overlaps the first pattern adjacent to the leg opening, the second artwork includes the first color, the second artwork has a third longitudinal dimension at the side seam, and the longitudinal dimension of the second artwork decreases from the third longitudinal dimension toward the transverse center.

20. The wearable article according to claim 15, wherein the first pattern is provided along the waist opening, and the laminate overlapping the first pattern is colorless.

21. A wearable article according to any one of claims 1 to 20, further comprising a disposal tape disposed on one of the front elastic belt region and the rear elastic belt region, wherein a reinforcing adhesive is provided between the inner sheet and the outer sheet in the elastic belt region that overlaps the disposal tape.

22. A package comprising a plurality of wearable articles as described in any one of claims 1 to 21, wherein the package has an internal compression ratio of more than 0% to about 30%.

23. A package comprising a plurality of wearable articles as described in any one of claims 1 to 22, wherein the articles are provided with a first mark for communicating the consumer benefit of the wearable articles, and the first mark is further provided on the package.

24. A method for producing a pattern of distinct bonding units for a wearable article according to any one of claims 1 to 21 by applying adhesive discharged from a slot die applicator to at least one of an inner sheet and an outer sheet in a pattern of distinct bonding units, wherein the slot die applicator includes a slot opening, a first lip, and a second lip, the slot opening being located between the first lip and the second lip, the sheet having a first surface located opposite a second surface, and an unrestrained caliper, Hs, and the method is The steps include: continuously advancing the aforementioned seat in the direction of the machine; A step of engaging the sheet with a substrate carrier roller, wherein the roller comprises an inflexible support surface and a pattern element, the pattern element includes a pattern surface, the pattern element extends away from the inflexible support surface, and defines a first minimum distance, R1, between the pattern surface and the inflexible support surface. The steps include positioning the roller adjacent to the slot die applicator to define a minimum distance, Hg, less than the unconstrained caliper, Hs, of the sheet between the pattern surface of the pattern element and the first lip and the second lip, The steps include: while the first surface of the sheet is positioned on the roller, the second surface of the sheet is advanced through the slot dia applicator; A step of defining a second minimum distance, R2, between the pattern surface and the inflexible surface by advancing the sheet and the pattern element through the first lip, the slot opening, and the second lip of the slot die applicator while the first surface of the sheet is positioned on the roller, thereby intermittently deflecting the pattern surface toward the inflexible support surface, wherein R2 is less than R1. A method comprising the step of discharging adhesive from the slot opening of the slot die applicator onto the second surface of the sheet.

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