Absorbent panty-type items

Abstract

An absorbent article is disclosed, comprising: a front elastic belt extending laterally between a pair of side seams; a rear elastic belt extending laterally between a pair of side seams; a crotch region extending longitudinally between the front and rear elastic belts; and an absorbent body extending over the entire longitudinal dimension of the crotch region and further partially extending into the interior of each of the front and rear elastic belts, the absorbent body having a maximum transverse dimension W2 which is approximately 22% to approximately 50% of the transverse dimension W1 of the rear elastic belt, the rear elastic belt being divided into a rear lumbar zone, a protective zone and a buttock zone aligned from the distal edge to the proximal edge, each zone extending transversely and over the longitudinal dimension LS of the side seam In relation to the proportion, the elastic member is defined by its position from the distal edge to the proximal edge, and is positioned above the posterior lumbar zone, protective zone and buttock zone, respectively. The protective zone includes a main portion and a lumbar guard portion that overlap each other, the lumbar guard portion extends from a laterally extending closure end line toward the crotch area toward the open edge, and the lumbar guard portion is partially joined to the main portion to define a pair of closure side lines, and a pocket is formed by the closure end line, the pair of closure side lines and the open edge, the pocket has an area A2 of about 5% to about 15% of the posterior elastic belt having an area A1, and the closure end line is positioned proximal to the posterior distal edge of the backsheet.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a pant-type absorbent article that has protective means to prevent leakage of low-viscosity bodily excrement, while also maintaining other functions as a wearable pant-type article. [Background technology]

[0002] Infants and other individuals wear absorbent articles, such as diapers, to receive and contain urine and other bodily excretions. Pull-on or pant-type absorbent articles are worn by inserting the wearer's legs into the leg openings and sliding the article upward to a position around the lower torso. Pant-type absorbent articles having protective means to prevent leakage of low-viscosity bodily excretions from the waist opening are known, for example, in International Publication No. 2021 / 169166(A).

[0003] Pants-type garments can take on various structures, and the area around and near the waist opening is made with sufficient elasticity to facilitate the wearer or caregiver unfolding the garment and inserting the wearer's legs into the leg openings to put on the garment. Therefore, due to the structural limitations of the garment, pants-type garments offer only a very small range of size or body-fitting adjustments. For this reason, pants-type garments are usually configured to adapt to a range of sizes and body types by providing a highly elastic and comfortable, yet reliable, fit in the elastic belt area, so that sufficient protection against sagging and urinary leakage can be provided. It is desirable that such basic function of the elastic belt area can also be maintained by the introduction of the aforementioned protective measures. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] International Publication No. 2021 / 169166(A) [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0005] Based on the above, there is a need for absorbent articles that provide protective measures to prevent leakage of low-viscosity bodily waste from the waist opening while maintaining good fit, comfort during wear, leakage prevention, and flexibility. There is also a need to provide such absorbent articles that can be manufactured economically. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The present invention relates to an absorbent article having longitudinal and transverse directions, a pair of side seams, and a pair of leg openings, and the absorbent article is A front elastic belt extending laterally between a pair of side seams, A rear elastic belt extending laterally between a pair of side seams, A crotch region extending longitudinally between the front elastic belt and the rear elastic belt, An absorbent body extending over the entire longitudinal dimension of the crotch area and further partially extending into the interior of the front elastic belt and the rear elastic belt, comprising a liquid-permeable top sheet, a liquid-impermeable back sheet, and an absorbent material region sandwiched between them, having a maximum transverse dimension W2 which is approximately 22% to approximately 50% of the transverse dimension W1 of the rear elastic belt, Equipped with, The posterior elastic belt is divided into a posterior lumbar zone, a protective zone, and a buttock zone, aligned from the distal edge to the proximal edge, with each zone extending transversely and defined by its position from the distal edge to the proximal edge in relation to the ratio of the longitudinal dimension LS of the side seam, and an elastic member is positioned above each of the posterior lumbar zone, protective zone, and buttock zone. The protective zone includes a main section and a lumbar guard section that overlap each other, the lumbar guard section extending from a laterally extending closing end line toward an open edge toward the crotch area, the lumbar guard section being partially joined to the main section to define a pair of closing side lines, the pocket being formed by the closing end line, the pair of closing side lines and the open edge, the pocket having an area A2 of approximately 5% to approximately 15% of the rear elastic belt having an area A1, the closing end line being located proximal to the rear distal edge of the backsheet, The lumbar guard portion includes the elastic portion of the lumbar guard, and the main portion that overlaps with the elastic portion of the lumbar guard is defined as the correlated portion. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] This specification ends with claims that specifically identify and individually claim the subject matter that is deemed to constitute the present invention, but the present invention is considered to be better understood from the following description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which specify substantially the same elements using similar names. [Figure 1] This is a perspective view of one embodiment of the absorbent article of the present invention. [Figure 2A] This is a schematic plan view of one embodiment of the absorbent article of the present invention, showing the surface facing clothing in a flat, non-shrinkable state with the side seams removed. [Figure 2B] This is a schematic plan view of another embodiment of the absorbent article of the present invention, showing a body-facing surface in a flat, non-shrinkable state with the side seams removed. [Figure 3A] Figure 2A is a schematic plan view of the rear elastic belt, showing the flat, non-contracted surface facing the body, with no seams joined. [Figure 3B] Figure 2A is a schematic plan view of the rear elastic belt, showing the flat, non-contracted surface facing the body, with no seams joined. [Figure 3C] Figure 2A is a schematic plan view of the rear elastic belt, showing the flat, non-contracted surface facing the body, with no seams joined. [Figure 4]Schematic cross-sectional view of the embodiment of FIGS. 2A and 3A to 3C taken along line L2, with the thickness dimension exaggerated. [Figure 5] Schematic view of an example of a hanger-type sample holding fixture according to the "total article force measurement method" in this specification. [Figure 6A] Schematic view of an example of demonstration of vapor permeability and a shape memory object useful for such demonstration. [Figure 6B] Schematic view of an example of demonstration of vapor permeability and a shape memory object useful for such demonstration. [Figure 6C] Schematic view of an example of demonstration of vapor permeability and a shape memory object useful for such demonstration.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0008] Definition As used in this specification, the following terms shall have the meanings specified hereinafter. "Absorbent article" refers to a wearable article that can be in the form of pants, tape-type diapers, incontinence briefs, feminine sanitary clothing, etc., and is also configured to absorb and contain various excretions discharged from the body, such as urine, feces, and menstrual blood. An "absorbent article" can serve as an outer cover that is adaptable to be joined to a separable disposable absorbent insert for providing an absorption and containment function, such as that disclosed in International Publication No. 2011 / 087503(A).

[0009] "Pants" refers to a disposable absorbent article having pre-formed waist and leg openings. The pants can be worn by inserting the wearer's legs into the leg openings and pulling 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".

[0010] "Longitudinal direction" refers to a direction that extends substantially perpendicular from the waist edge of an article to the opposite waist edge and generally parallel to the maximum linear dimension of the article.

[0011] "Transverse direction" refers to the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

[0012] "Proximal" and "distal" refer to positions closer to or further away from the longitudinal center of an object, respectively.

[0013] "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).

[0014] "Placed" means that an element is located in a specific place or position.

[0015] "Joined" refers to a configuration in which one element is directly attached to another element, thereby fixing that element directly to the other element, and a configuration in which one element is attached to an intermediate member, and that intermediate member is attached to another element, thereby fixing that element indirectly to the other element.

[0016] 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.

[0017] "Permeability" and "impermeability" refer to the permeability of a material in the context of the intended use of disposable absorbent articles. Specifically, the term "permeability" refers to a layer or layer structure having pores, openings, and / or interconnected voids that allow liquid water, urine, or synthetic urine to pass through the thickness of the layer or layer structure in the absence of pressure. Conversely, the term "impermeability" refers to a layer or layer structure that, in the absence of pressure (other than natural forces such as gravity), does not allow liquid water, urine, or synthetic urine to pass through the thickness of the layer or layer structure. An impermeable layer or layer structure according to this definition may be permeable to water vapor, i.e., "vapor permeable."

[0018] "Stretchable" and "stretchable" mean that the width or length of a component in a relaxed state can be stretched or increased.

[0019] "Elastic" or "elasticized" means that the components include at least one part made from an elastic material.

[0020] "Stretchable material," "extendable material," or "stretchable material" are interchangeable terms used to describe a material that, when a biasing force is applied, can stretch to an extended length of at least approximately 110% of its original relaxed length (i.e., can stretch 10% longer than its original length) without bursting or fracturing (i.e., can stretch 10% longer than its original length), and when the applied force is released, exhibits a slight recovery of less than approximately 20% of its 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., exhibits a 40% recovery). If, upon release of an 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 10% recovery).

[0021] 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 elongated circumference W1, in accordance with the "total article force measurement method" specified herein, unless otherwise specified.

[0022] "Artwork" refers to 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.

[0023] In this specification, when "color" or "colored" is used, it 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 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 * Defined as a color that has a value.

[0024] Detailed description of the present invention Figure 1 is a perspective view of the absorbent article (20) of the present invention, and Figure 2A is a schematic plan view of the absorbent article, showing the surface facing clothing in its flat, non-shrinkable state, with the side seam (32) not joined and removed. The absorbent article (20) has a longitudinal center line L1 that also serves as the longitudinal axis, and a transverse center line T1 that also serves as the transverse axis. The absorbent article (20) has a surface facing the body, a surface facing clothing, a front elastic belt (84), a rear elastic belt (86), a crotch area (30), and a side seam (32) that joins the front elastic belt (84) and the rear elastic belt (86) to form two leg openings and a waist opening. In Figure 2A, the side edges (89) of the front and rear elastic belts (84, 86) indicate the inner edges of the side seam (32).

[0025] The absorbent article (20) may be a one-piece pant as shown in Figures 1 and 2A, configured such that the layer of the absorbent body (38) facing the clothing and the layers of the front and rear elastic belts (84, 86) facing the clothing are common. In the case of a one-piece pant, the portions extending transversely between the longitudinally extending side seams (32) are the front region (26) and the rear region (28), respectively, and the remaining portion with curved side edges is the crotch region (30), the front elastic belt (84) coincides with the front region (26), and the rear elastic belt (86) coincides with the rear region (28). The absorbent article (20) may also be a belt-type pant as shown in Figure 2B, formed by three separate parts that form the front region (26), the rear region (28), and the absorbent body (38). In the case of belt-type trousers, the front elastic belt (84) and the rear elastic belt (86) are portions that extend transversely between longitudinally extending side seams (32). Therefore, the accessory belt located proximal to the side seam (32) is not considered the rear elastic belt (86). In both one-piece trousers and belt-type trousers, the distal edge of the side seam (32) is considered the distal edge (88), and the proximal edge of the side seam (32) is considered the proximal edge (90). The distal edge (88) coincides with the waist opening.

[0026] The absorbent body (38) comprises a top sheet, a back sheet, and an absorbent material region (62) positioned between the top sheet and the back sheet. The top sheet may be a water-permeable substrate. The back sheet may be an impermeable film. The absorbent body (38) comprises an absorbent material region (62) for absorbing and containing bodily waste excreted on the absorbent body (38), and an absorbent material-free region (61) surrounding the periphery of the absorbent material region (62). The regions adjacent to the front and rear longitudinal edges of the absorbent body (38) are provided with a back sheet. The absorbent material-free region (61) may be made only from the top sheet and the back sheet, and any optional cuff material as described below. As shown in the embodiments of Figures 2A and 2B, the absorbent body (38) may have a generally rectangular shape, with side edges (48) extending longitudinally on the left and right sides, and front and rear lateral edges (50). As shown in Figure 2B, the absorbent material area (62) may have a generally hourglass shape. The absorbent material area (62) is present throughout the entire longitudinal dimension of the crotch area and may extend at least partially within the front and rear areas (26, 28). The backsheet may extend over the entire area of ​​the absorbent body (38). The absorbent body has a maximum transverse dimension W2 which is about 22% to about 50% of the transverse dimension W1 of the rear elastic belt. In the case of belt-type pants, the absorbent body (38) may further include an outer cover layer (not shown) to cover the side of the backsheet facing the garment. The outer cover layer may be a nonwoven fabric sheet.

[0027] Referring to Figures 1 and 2A, one preferred embodiment of the pant-type article of the present invention is an integrated type comprising an elastic cover (40) extending along the entire longitudinal dimension of the article and an absorbent body (38), wherein the elastic cover (40) comprises a front elastic belt (84) and a rear elastic belt (86). The elastic cover (40) may include a molded crotch area, which forms a leg opening. The elastic cover (40) may have a minimum transverse dimension W6 in the crotch area. By providing such a molded crotch area, the elastic cover (40) provides a good fit and comfortable wear around the leg opening. Furthermore, by providing a molded crotch area to form a leg opening, the absorbent body (38) is provided with a smaller transverse dimension than the elastic cover (40), which can also contribute to comfortable wear. Furthermore, by providing the absorbent body (38) with a smaller transverse dimension, the absorbent body (38) is made more closely fitted to the wearer, particularly the area where the absorbent material is present (62), so that liquid waste is handled well. The minimum transverse dimension W6 of the elastic cover (40) may be about 110% to about 150% of the maximum transverse dimension W2 of the absorbent body (38). Referring to Figures 2A and 2B, the shape of the absorbent body (38) may be rectangular, i.e., it may have a consistent transverse dimension W2 along its entire length. The molded crotch area of ​​the elastic cover (40) may further include a curved leg elastic body (65) to form a leg opening cuff (64) along the leg opening, as shown in Figure 1.

[0028] The absorbent material region (62) may comprise an absorbent layer and a capture layer. The absorbent layer is a region where an absorbent material having a high retention capacity, such as a superabsorbent polymer, is present. The absorbent layer may substantially not contain cellulose. The superabsorbent polymer of the absorbent layer may be disposed between a first material layer and a second material layer immobilized by a fibrous layer of a thermoplastic adhesive material. The first material layer and the second material layer may be a nonwoven fiber web 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 meltblown process. The capture layer may facilitate the capture and distribution of body excreta and may be disposed between the topsheet and the absorbent layer. The capture layer may contain cellulose fibers.

[0029] A plurality of absorbent layers may be arranged within the absorbent material region (62). A portion of the absorbent layer may be configured to substantially not have absorbent material to form a channel or a plurality of channels. The channels may be useful to enable the absorbent material region (62) to bend when swelling with fluid, whereby the absorbent article fits snugly against the wearer's body after expansion and prevents sagging of the article. The channels may also be formed within the capture layer and may be configured to at least partially coincide in the thickness direction with the channels of the absorbent layer.

[0030] Alternatively, the absorbent material region (62) may include a bulky material that includes a superabsorbent polymer. The term "bulky" refers to a low-density, bulky fabric compared to a flat paper-like fabric. The bulky web is characterized by a relatively high porosity. This means that there are a relatively large number of voids in which the superabsorbent polymer particles can be distributed. The bulky material (not including superabsorbent particles) may have a density in the range of less than 0.20 g / cm 3 at a pressure of 4.14 kPa (0.6 psi), particularly 0.05 g / cm 3 to 0.15 g / cm 3 The bulky layer (not including superabsorbent particles) may have a density of 0.20 g / cm 3Less than 0.02 g / cm³, especially 0.02 g / cm³. 3 ~0.15g / cm 3 It can have densities in the range of [this range]. The bulk layer (without superabsorbent particles) has a density of 0.15 g / cm³ at a pressure of 0.83 kPa (0.12 psi), as described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2021 / 0361497(A1). 3 Less than 0.01 g / cm³ 3 ~0.15g / cm 3 It may have a density in the range of 15 to 500 gsm and a basis weight of 15 to 500 gsm, preferably 30 to 200 gsm. The absorbent material region (62) containing the bulk material that contains the superabsorbent polymer may also accommodate channels.

[0031] Referring to Figure 1, the elastic cover (40) may include a curved leg elastic body for forming a leg opening cuff (64) along the leg opening, the outer cuff being made of the same material as the elastic cover (40). Furthermore, as shown in Figure 3A, the absorbent body (38) may include an inner leg cuff (66) made of a highly fluid-impermeable material and elasticized to provide a barrier along both lateral edges of the absorbent body (38). Such an inner leg cuff (66) may be attached to the remainder of the absorbent body by joining them to a top sheet, for example, along both longitudinal edges of the absorbent body (38), such that the inner leg cuff (66) is in an effective elastic state that provides a gasket effect around the leg opening, at least in the crotch region (30).

[0032] The front and rear elastic belts (84, 86) of the article of the present invention dynamically generate attachment forces and act to distribute forces that are dynamically generated during wear. The front and rear elastic belts (84, 86) are joined to each other outside the side edge (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 leg opening elastic body (65) provided along the molded crotch area of ​​the elastic cover (40), as shown in Figures 1 and 2A, or by a combination of elasticity from the front elastic belt (84), the rear elastic belt (86), and the leg cuff elastic body of the absorbent body (38), as shown in Figure 2B.

[0033] The front elastic belt (84) and the rear elastic belt (86) are configured to provide elasticity in the transverse direction. Referring to Figures 2A and 4, the front elastic belt (84) and the rear elastic belt (86) may each comprise a laminate comprising a plurality of transversely extending elastic members (96F, 96S), an inner sheet (94), an outer sheet (92), and one or more outer sheet folding portions (931, 932), the outer sheet folding portions being extensions of the outer sheet material formed by folding the outer sheet material at the distal edges (88) of the front and rear elastic belts or elsewhere, and the belt elastic members (96F, 96S) are sandwiched between these two sheets. The front elastic belt (84) and the rear elastic belt (86) can each be made only of an elastic member (96S), an inner sheet (94), an outer sheet (92), and outer sheet folding portions (931, 932). At least some of the elastic members (96F, 96S) extend transversely substantially parallel to each other. All of the elastic members (96F, 96S) may extend transversely substantially parallel to each other. Such articles can be manufactured economically. At least 10%, or at least about 15% to about 70%, of the front and rear elastic belts (84, 86) from the longitudinal waist opening may be a laminate that is in an effective elastic state along the entire transverse dimension W1 of the front and rear elastic belts (84, 86). For each of the front and rear elastic belts (84, 86), the region overlapping with the absorbent body (38) may have its elastic activity removed. Such a region from which elastic activity has been removed is referred to herein as the “elastic cut window,” and the remainder of the fully elastic member that can be imparted with elasticity is defined as the “effective elastic length of the elastic member.”

[0034] The tensile stress (N / m) of the entire 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 transversely extending elastic members (96F, 96S), the tensile stress can be adjusted by one or more of the following methods: 1) the elongation ratio of the elastic members (96F, 96S), 2) the density (dtex) of the elastic members (96F, 96S), 3) the longitudinal pitch of the plurality of elastic members (96F, 96S), and 4) the effective length of the elasticity of the elastic members (96F, 96S) in the transverse direction. In terms of elongation ratio, "0% elongation ratio" means the original length of the elastic member.

[0035] Referring to Figure 3A, each posterior elastic belt (86) may be divided into multiple zones extending transversely, defined by their position from the distal edge (88) to the proximal edge (90) in relation to the ratio of the seam length LS, in which case the distal edge (88) is considered 0% and the proximal edge (90) is considered 100%. The multiple zones may be configured to provide different functions to the posterior elastic belt (86), i.e., the posterior lumbar zone (102), protective zone (103), and gluteal zone (105), respectively, aligned from the distal edge (88) to the proximal edge (90), with each zone extending transversely. In the absorbent article of the present invention, the protective zone (103) comprises a main portion and a lumbar guard portion that overlap each other, the lumbar guard portion (WGP) extending from a closure end line (103B) extending transversely toward the crotch area toward an open edge, the lumbar guard portion (WGP) is partially joined to the main portion to define a pair of closure side lines (103S), and a pocket is formed by the closure end line (103B), the closure side lines (103S), and the open edge, the pocket has an area A2 of about 5% to about 15% or 10% to about 15% of the rear elastic belt area A1, and the closure end line (103B) is positioned proximal to the rear distal edge of the backsheet. Elastic members may be arranged in the lumbar zone (102), the main portion of the protective zone (103), and the buttock zone (105).

[0036] Referring to Figure 3A, the closing side line (103S) does not need to overlap with the backsheet in order to secure the area of ​​pocket A2. The pocket may have a transverse dimension W3, where W3 / W1 is approximately 15% to 60% or 35% to 50%. If W4 is the distance between the side edge (48) of the absorbent body (38) in the protective zone (103) and the nearest transverse edge of the rear belt, and W5 is the distance between the side edge (48) of the absorbent body (38) in the protective zone (103) and the nearest closing side line, then W5 / W4 may be approximately 5% to 30% or 10% to 20%. The pocket may have a longitudinal dimension LP, where LP is approximately 15% to 45% or 20% to 40% of LS.

[0037] If the distal edge of the side seam is considered 0% and the proximal edge of the side seam is considered 100%, the protective zone may be located within approximately 15% to 80% of the LS. The protective zone, i.e., LP, does not necessarily extend over the entire longitudinal dimension, but rather within approximately 15% to 80% of the LS. If the distal edge of the side seam is considered 0% and the proximal edge of the side seam is considered 100%, the protective zone may be located within approximately 20% to 75%, or approximately 30% to 75%, or approximately 30% to 65%, or approximately 35% to 65% of the LS. Although not bound by theory, by providing a protective zone of such dimensions on the rear elastic belt (86), the wearer's buttock crease is effectively covered by the lumbar guard portion WGP so that low-viscosity excrement, such as easily flowable feces, can be effectively drawn into the pocket.

[0038] Referring to Figures 2A, 3A-3C and 4, the waist guard portion WGP is described by utilizing an embodiment provided on the rear elastic belt (86) of a one-piece trouser. The waist guard portion WGP is made up of an extension of the outer sheet (92) that extends beyond the longitudinal dimension of the inner sheet (94), and the extension of the outer sheet (92) encloses a first elastic member (96F) and is further folded inward twice to position the waist guard portion WGP at the intended position relative to the side seam length LS. As a result of the two folds, the first elastic member (96F) is sandwiched between a first outer sheet fold portion (931) and a second outer sheet fold portion (932), with the first outer sheet fold portion (931) forming the garment-facing side of the waist guard portion WGP and the second outer sheet fold portion (932) forming the body-facing surface. Referring to Figures 3A to 3C, a certain longitudinal dimension from the distal edge of the second outer sheet fold portion (932) is coupled to the rest of the belt, such coupling is shown as SWFA, while a portion of the longitudinal dimension is not coupled. The most distal location of the uncoupled region is the closed baseline (103B), and the common proximal edge of the first outer sheet fold portion (931) and the second outer sheet fold portion (932) is the open edge (103M). The lumbar guard portion WGP is defined as having a longitudinal dimension extending from the closed baseline (103B) and the open edge (103M) and a transverse dimension corresponding to the width of the belt on which it is provided. The left and right transverse edges of the lumbar guard portion WGP are also coupled to the rest of the belt, such coupling is shown as SWFA and defines a pair of closed side lines (103S). The uncoupled region thus provided is the pocket (103P). Although not bound by theory, by providing the pocket (103P) in this configuration, it is possible to prevent low-viscosity excrement that enters the pocket (103P) from flowing out or seeping towards the waist opening.

[0039] Referring to Figures 3A and 4, the lumbar guard elastic portion WGEP is provided by a first elastic member (96F), and elasticity may be imparted by one or more elastic strands, elastic ribbons, mechanically activated nonwoven fabrics, or the like. The lumbar guard elastic portion WGEP (1031) is defined as having a longitudinal dimension LE extending from the open edge (103M) to the distal edge of the first elastic member (96F). If the first elastic member (96F) consists of multiple elastic strands, the distal edge of the lumbar guard elastic portion WGEP is the position of the most distally located elastic strand. There may be 2 to 10 elastic strands, or 2 to 5 elastic strands, or 2 to 8 elastic strands, or 3 to 4 elastic strands, or 3 to 8 elastic strands, or 4 to 6 elastic strands arranged on the lumbar guard elastic portion. The LE is smaller than the longitudinal dimension of the lumbar guard portion WGP so that a pocket (103P) with storage capacity can be provided. The LE may be approximately 40 mm or less, or approximately 35 mm or less, or approximately 30 mm or less, or approximately 25 mm or less, or 15 mm to approximately 40 mm, or approximately 10 mm to approximately 35 mm, or approximately 10 mm to approximately 25 mm. In Figures 3A to 3C, the pocket (103P) has a rectangular shape, but the pocket (103P) may take other shapes by modifying the joining region SWFA so that a closing baseline (103B) and a pair of closing side lines are formed. For example, the closing baseline (103B) may be concave or convex toward the pocket (103B) to match the wearer's anatomical structure. The longitudinal dimension of the pocket (103P), defined as the shortest distance between the closed baseline (103B) and the open edge (103M), may be approximately 20 mm to 45 mm, or approximately 24 mm to 42 mm. The lumbar guard elastic section (WGEP) may have a longitudinal dimension LE, which is approximately 5% to 21% of the LS. Considering the distal edge of the side seam as 0% and the proximal edge of the side seam as 100%, the lumbar guard elastic section (WGEP) may be positioned within approximately 40% to 80% or 40% to 75% of the LS.

[0040] Referring to Figures 3A and 4, the main portion of the rear elastic belt overlapping the lumbar guard elastic portion WGEP is defined as the correlation portion CP. That is, the correlation portion CP has the same longitudinal dimension (1031) as the lumbar guard elastic portion WGEP. The correlation portion CP may or may not be elastic, and the tensile stress of the lumbar guard elastic portion WGEP is higher than the tensile stress of the correlation portion CP. The correlation portion CP may be elastic, and the tensile stress of the lumbar guard elastic portion WGEP is approximately 125% to approximately 180% of the tensile stress of the correlation portion CP. Although not bound by theory, such a tensile stress difference allows the lumbar guard elastic portion WGEP to be in close contact with the wearer, while pulling the open edge (103M) away from the correlation portion CP, thereby opening the pocket (103P) proximally. Thus, the pocket (103P) is configured to have good storage capacity. The correlation portion CP may have an elastic cut window so that a portion of it is elasticized, while its lateral center does not interfere with the opening of the pocket (103P). When the lumbar guard elastic portion WGEP is elasticized by arranging multiple elastic strands (96F), the most proximal elastic strand is positioned 2 mm to 5 mm away from the open edge (103M). To prevent the lumbar guard position WGP from causing discomfort to the wearer, it is possible to avoid placing elastic strands on the outermost edge of the open edge (103M). The lumbar guard elastic portion WGEP may be arranged with multiple elastic strands (96F) having a relatively small pitch between them. The elastic strands (96F) of the lumbar guard elastic portion WGEP may be arranged at a pitch of approximately 12 mm or less, or approximately 10 mm or less, or approximately 6 mm or less, or approximately 2 mm to approximately 8 mm, or approximately 3 mm to approximately 9 mm, or approximately 2 mm to approximately 6 mm.

[0041] The elastic strands (96F) for providing the lumbar support elastic portion WGEP may be colored so that the presence and function of the lumbar support elastic portion WGP are clearly communicated to the wearer or caregiver. At least two of the elastic strands for providing the lumbar support elastic portion WGEP may have a color visible from the body-facing side of the article. The colors may be selected from green, blue, purple, or a combination thereof so as not to be confused with the containment color but to be easily recognizable. The same or similar colors may be used for other elastic strands (96S) positioned on the belt to provide a harmonious appearance. For example, these elastic strands on the front lumbar zone (102) or the rear lumbar zone (102) may have the same or similar colors.

[0042] Referring to Figure 4, the longitudinal edge (50) of the absorbent body (38) can be positioned and joined between the lumbar guard portion WGP and the rest of the belt. This is to avoid having sharp edges of the absorbent body (38) on the surface facing the body, and similarly to avoid leakage from the edges. The absorbent body (38) comprises an absorbent material area (62) which may be surrounded by an absorbent material-free area (61), and the absorbent material area (62) has a greater thickness than the absorbent material-free area (61). The absorbent material area (62) may partially overlap the area of ​​the pocket (103P) to provide at least some absorbency to this area. At least about 3%, or at least about 10%, of the area of ​​the pocket (103P) can overlap the absorbent material area (62) toward the proximal edge. Even in such cases, the total thickness of the lumbar guard elastic portion WGEP, the correlation portion CP, and the portion of the absorbent body (38) sandwiched between them can be maintained at approximately 5 mm or less, preferably approximately 4 mm or less. This is because the elasticity of the lumbar guard elastic portion WGEP prevents the thickness of the rest of the article from interfering with the opening of the pocket (103P) facing proximal. If the absorbent body (38) is equipped with a capture system, the capture system can be avoided from overlapping with the pocket (103P). In order to provide the lumbar guard portion WGP relative to the absorbent body (38) in the manner described above, the distance between the lumbar opening and the longitudinal edge of the absorbent body (38) can be adjusted, i.e., shifted toward the rear or front. For example, if the lumbar guard portion WGP is provided on the rear elastic belt (86), the distance between the lumbar opening and the longitudinal edge of the absorbent body (38) can be made shorter toward the rear than toward the front.

[0043] Referring to Figure 3A, the absorbent body (38) may further include a pair of inner cuffs (66) provided along the side edges (48) to provide a barrier along both side edges (48) of the absorbent body (38). The inner cuffs (66) may be made from a material having high fluid impermeability and may be elasticized by a plurality of inner cuff elastic bodies (67). The lumbar guard portion WGP may be configured in a specific manner with respect to the inner cuffs (66) to improve its function. The inner cuffs (66) may be in an effective elastic state at the proximal edge of the lumbar guard portion (103M). By providing an effectively elastic leg cuff in such a position, the elasticity from the leg cuff and the lumbar guard elastic portion WGEP combine to hold the inner cuffs (66) and the lumbar guard portion WGP in close contact with the wearer and may further help to provide additional storage capacity to the pocket (103P).

[0044] Referring to Figure 3A, the rear elastic belt (86) can be divided into three zones extending transversely, which can be defined by their position from the distal edge (88) to the proximal edge (90) in relation to the ratio of the seam length LS, the rear lumbar zone (102) from 0% to the distal edge of the lumbar guard portion WGP, the protective zone (103) from the distal edge to the proximal edge of the lumbar guard portion WGP, and the gluteal zone (105) from the proximal edge of the lumbar guard portion WGP to 100%. Elastic members can be positioned in each of the lumbar zone (102), protective zone (103), and gluteal zone (105).

[0045] Referring to Figure 4, the elastic cover (40) of the present invention can be made by a relatively simple structure comprising only an inner sheet (94), an outer sheet (92), a first outer sheet folding portion (931), a second outer sheet folding portion (932), and first and second elastic members (96F, 96S) contained within these layers. Any part of the elastic cover (40) with the lumbar guard portion WGP may be made of fewer than six layers, or three to four layers, with a total thickness of about 5 mm or less or about 4 mm or less. Providing a simple and relatively thin structure is advantageous for maintaining the breathability and flexibility of the belt. Furthermore, the elastic cover (40) may be made of elastic strands commonly used in the art having a density of 940 dtex or less. In certain zones of the elastic cover (40), an elastic body having a density of about 500 dtex or less may be placed, thus providing a soft fit. The articles of the present invention may have good elasticity for easy application, good fit to prevent leakage of low-viscosity bodily waste from the lumbar opening, good comfort and flexibility, and protective means to maintain good breathability. The articles may have a lumbar perimeter force of about 9 N or less, or about 8 N or less, according to the total article force measurement method specified herein.

[0046] Referring to Figures 3C and 4, the rear elastic belt (86) may have an attachment-free area (AFA) between the second outer sheet folding portion (932) and the main portion that has no attachments, for example, the second waist folding adhesive (SWFA). The attachment-free area (AFA) has a longitudinal dimension of at least 8 mm and extends across the entire transverse dimension. By providing such an attachment-free area (AFA), a bulky and soft feel can be provided on the surface facing the body.

[0047] Referring to Figures 1, 2A, and 4, even when the rear elastic belt (86) is equipped with a waist guard portion WGP, the remainder of the rear elastic belt (86), particularly the surface of the rear elastic belt (86) facing the clothing, can be maintained in a simple structure. This allows the article to have other functions desired for a pant-type absorbent article, such as having a waste tape (33) attached to the surface of the rear elastic belt (86) facing the clothing, as shown in Figure 6C. Therefore, the absorbent article does not need to have fastening means.

[0048] Demonstration of vapor permeability The absorbent article (20) of the present invention can be used to demonstrate, visually, that the layers provided to the lumbar guard portion WGP are thin and / or that the number of layers is controlled. That is, the lumbar guard elastic portion WGEP may have a total thickness of about 5 mm or less or about 4 mm or less, and may be made of fewer than 6 layers or 3 to 4 layers. Accordingly, the present invention also relates to a method for demonstrating the vapor permeability of an absorbent article in the surrounding environment, the method including the following: 1) A steam supply source (401) is prepared to supply steam having a temperature of approximately 35°C to approximately 95°C, preferably approximately 45°C to approximately 85°C, in the opposite direction to gravity. 2) The step of positioning at least a portion of the lumbar support elastic portion WGEP facing the wearer in a position where it can receive steam from the steam supply source (401), 3) A step of placing a shape memory object (402) having a deformation temperature of at least 30°C on the side facing the garment where the steam is to be received, wherein the time at which the shape memory object (402) is placed is considered the start time, 4) A step of deforming a shape memory object (402), wherein the deformation begins within approximately 10 seconds, preferably within approximately 5 seconds, from the start time, and the deformation is completed within approximately 2 to approximately 30 seconds, preferably approximately 3 to approximately 10 seconds, from the start of the deformation.

[0049] The ambient environment refers to an environment with a temperature of approximately 8°C to 25°C, a relative humidity of approximately 20% to 80%, preferably approximately 30% to 70%, an airflow of less than approximately 1.5 m / s, and located in a room with a roof or in a closed room.

[0050] The steam source (401) may be any object capable of supplying steam and / or a hot airflow at least 40°C, including but not limited to a container containing hot water, a humidifier, a hair dryer, a steam iron, or any other object or appliance commonly found in a home or basic research facility.

[0051] The shape memory object (402) may include any shape memory material that can change shape at a deformation temperature of at least 30°C, such as nickel-titanium shape memory metal alloys (see reference: Hodgson, DE; Wu, MH; Biermann, RJ (1990), "Shapememory Alloys", Properties and Selection: Nonferrous Alloys and Special-Purpose materials, pp. 897-902). Materials having either a unidirectional or bidirectional shape memory effect may be used, with the bidirectional shape memory effect being preferred. The shape memory object (402) may be designed by assembling shape memory material components into a specific shape, or by using the shape memory material as an articulated or skeletal unit to connect with other components made from non-shape memory materials. The shape memory material components may be in the form of sheets, strips, wires, or coils, and may be made in a wide range of sizes, thicknesses, colors, and shapes, and may be combined with non-shape memory components. In this specification, deformation of the shape memory object (402) means a change in shape that is easily recognizable to the naked eye. Preferably, the deformation of the shape memory object (402) is very clearly recognizable to the average consumer from a distance of several meters.

[0052] Referring to Figure 6A, an embodiment of the shape memory object (402) in the surrounding environment is shown. Specifically, a sheet of nickel-titanium shape memory alloy material is cut to have a petal-like contour, several petals are assembled into a flower shape, and fastened using threaded fasteners. The embodiment of the flower-shaped shape memory object (402) may have golden petals and dimensions of approximately 2 cm to 4 cm in height and width. Temperature-dependent shape changes target a first shape of a bud with curled, closed petals at low temperatures, as shown in Figure 6A, and a second shape of a blooming flower with open petals when the temperature reaches approximately 30°C or higher, as shown in Figure 6B. Referring to Figure 6B, the resulting shape memory object (402) in the second shape may have a width of approximately 4 cm to 8 cm, and the deformation is easily recognizable.

[0053] Although not shown, the shape memory object (402) may include shape memory material fabricated in a joint or skeletal-like unit, and non-shape memory components may be attached to such unit, for example, resembling an animal or a vehicle. The first and second shapes may be adjusted to indicate that the orientation of the shape memory object (402) has changed or moved.

[0054] Referring to Figure 6C, one embodiment of the demonstration is shown. A steam source (401), which is a beaker containing heated water, is placed with its mouth facing upward. The wearer-facing side of an article (20) including at least a portion of the lumbar guard elastic portion WGEP is placed over the mouth of the beaker facing the water surface. The article (20) may be securely attached to the outer wall of the beaker by a rubber band or the like to effectively receive the steam. A shape-memory object (402) is placed on the clothing-facing side of the article in this position, and is deformable. The shape-memory object (402) can be placed in the desired position using tweezers to avoid premature transfer of the operator's body heat to the shape-memory object (402). The placement of an optional waste tape (33) may avoid such waste tape (33) provided on the rear belt of the pants article (20), as it may interfere with steam permeability.

[0055] In an alternative embodiment of the demonstration, the front and rear longitudinal ends of the article may be fixed so that the wearer-facing side of the article (20), which includes at least a portion of the waist guard elastic portion WGEP, faces downward, and a hairdryer is blown from below the article onto the wearer-facing side of the article (20), and the shape-memory object (402) is placed on the garment-facing side of the portion receiving the hot steam so that it can be deformed. The start of blowing with the hairdryer and the positioning of the shape-memory object (402) may be coordinated to occur simultaneously.

[0056] The temperature and type of the steam source (401), the temperature and shape of the shape memory object (402), and the distance between the steam source and the article can be adjusted so that the deformation of the shape memory object (402) is supplied for a sufficiently rapid duration that is easily perceptible to an observer. Furthermore, the article (20) and the steam source (401) are positioned so that the material of the article (20) is not distorted by the heat from the steam source (401). To ensure good perception by the observer, if the time the shape memory object (402) is placed is considered the start time, the deformation begins within about 10 seconds, preferably within about 5 seconds, from the start time, and the deformation is completed within about 2 to about 30 seconds, preferably about 3 to about 10 seconds, from the start of the deformation.

[0057] Linear dimension measurement and area calculation To obtain a sample for this measurement, the side seam (32) of the article is opened, and the garment-facing side of the entire article is attached to the surface of an opaque backing board using hook material or double-sided tape material. The backing board should be large enough to support the entire area of ​​the article. At the time of attachment, each elastic body is stretched to its "maximum stretched state," and in this case, unless any damage to any material is observed, the following conditions a) to c) are met. a) The side seams are straight. b) The central chassis or the belt elastic region is free from wrinkles. c) The left and right portions of the article are symmetrical when viewed with respect to the longitudinal axis.

[0058] In most articles, the front and rear elastic belt regions can be stretched to a "circumference of 30 N" as measured under the following "total article force measurement method" to satisfy the above conditions. If material failure is observed before reaching the stretch level in which the above conditions are satisfied, the point at which the material has not yet failed is considered the "maximum stretched state." Material failure may include decomposition of nonwoven materials, rupture of elastic strands, etc.

[0059] The dimensions to be measured are the following dimensions of the sample, some of which are measured differently depending on the contour of the article. Figures 2A, 2B, and 3A are representative article contours to illustrate how the dimensions are measured and are not intended to be an exhaustive list of article contours of the present invention. Linear dimensions are reported in 1 mm units. Area calculations are in 1 mm units. 2 Report the result to the nearest whole number. Measure five samples and calculate their average value. W1: Transverse dimension of the rear elastic belt W2: Maximum transverse dimension of the absorbent body W3: Cross-sectional dimensions of the pocket W4: Distance between the side edge of the absorbent body in the protective zone and the nearest lateral edge of the rear belt. W5: Distance between the side edge of the absorbent body in the protective zone and the nearest closing side line. W6: Minimum transverse dimension of the elastic cover LS: Longitudinal dimension of the side seam LP: Longitudinal dimension of the pocket LE: Longitudinal dimension of the elastic portion of the lumbar guard A1:W1×LS A2:W3×LP

[0060] Total thickness The total thickness is measured at 0.1 psi using a caliper measuring device such as the PEACOCK307 from Ono Sokki Inc. The sample for this measurement is prepared in the same manner as the measurement described in "Linear Dimension Measurement and Area Calculation" above.

[0061] The approximate center of the lumbar guard elastic portion is identified in both the longitudinal and transverse directions. The thickness of the article at this approximate center is measured including at least the lumbar guard elastic portion, the correlation portion, and the absorbent body portion sandwiched between them. Dimensions are reported in units of 0.01 mm. Five samples are measured, and the average value is calculated.

[0062] Whole article strength measurement method Measure the force using an electronic tensile testing machine or equivalent instrument with a computer interface, such as the MTS Criterion C42 (available from MTS SYSTEMS (CHINA) CO., LTD), running TestWorks 4 Software. Select a load cell so that the force result on 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 performed in a room maintained at 23±2°C and 50±5% relative humidity.

[0063] The tensile testing machine is mounted on 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 within the same vertical plane throughout the entire test procedure. 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.

[0064] Configure the device to perform the following steps.

[0065] [Table 1]

[0066] 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 article can be inserted through the waist opening and the other leg opening without stretching the article. Adjust the article so that its longitudinal centerline L1 is in the horizontal plane midway between the upper and lower bars (302). Ensure that the center of the side portion in contact with the bar (302) is on the same vertical axis as the load cell of the instrument. 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 reached, and then immediately returning the crosshead to its initial gauge circumference at the same speed. The maximum circumference at 19.6 N, as well as the force at 70% of the maximum circumference while the test segment is loaded and while the segment is unloaded, are recorded.

[0067] The maximum circumference at 19.6 N is defined as the circumference at full elongation (mm). Circumference at full elongation (mm) × 0.7 is defined as the circumference at 70% elongation. Lumbar circumference force is defined as the force at which the circumference reaches 70% elongation during the loading (extension) segment of the test. Five samples are analyzed, their average is calculated, and each is reported in units of 0.01 N.

[0068] 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 (available from MTS SYSTEMS (CHINA) CO., LTD) running TestWorks 4 Software, or an equivalent instrument. Select a load cell such that the resulting force on the specimen under test is between 10% and 90% of the load cell's capacity. Calibrate the instrument according to the manufacturer's instructions. All tests are performed in a room maintained at 23±2°C and 50±5% relative humidity. The instrument is equipped with a single-wire contact grip at least the same width as the specimen under test.

[0069] To obtain a test specimen, the elastic cover (40) or the front and rear belt regions (26, 28) are removed from the absorbent body (38) by cutting open the sample article along the side seam (32) and separating the bond between them, and the lumbar guard portion WGP is further separated from the belt to which it is attached. A cold spray may be used, taking care not to create wrinkles in the belt portion. Care is taken not to spray any of the belt elastic members (96F, 96S). Taking care not to cut any of the elastic members (96F, 96S), the elastic belt sample obtained according to the present invention is divided into zones (102, 103, 1031-WGEP, 1031-CP, 105). Before testing, the sample is pre-conditioned for 2 hours at 23°C ± 2°C and 50% ± 5% relative humidity.

[0070] Configure the equipment to perform the following steps: As described above, calculate the initial gauge length from the initial gauge circumference determined during the whole-item force test using a separate identical item. Initial gauge length = 0.5 × initial gauge circumference. Calculate the final gauge length from the fully stretched circumference determined during the whole-item force test, as described above.

[0071] [Table 2]

[0072] Secure one end of the specimen to the upper clamp and subtract the load tare. 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 release force when the specimen reaches 70% of its final gauge length during the release segment of the test.

[0073] Five items are analyzed, and the load release force is recorded for each zone. The average tensile force (N) is calculated in units of 0.01 N. The tensile stress for each zone is calculated by dividing the average tensile force (N) by the average sample width (m), and reported in units of 0.1 N / m. [Examples]

[0074] Example 1 The present invention provides a one-piece absorbent pant in size 4 (L size) having the elastic profiling of the rear elastic belt as shown in Table 1 below. The protective zone, including the lumbar guard portion WGP, is located at 39% to 65% of the LS on the rear elastic belt. The lumbar guard elastic portion WGEP is located at 52% to 65% of the LS on the rear elastic belt and has three elastic strands. Two elastic strands on the correlated portion CP have elastic cut windows.

[0075] Comparative Example 1 The absorbent pants, a size 4 (L size) one-piece garment sold under the trademark name "Pampers Luxurious Skin" for the Chinese market, had its core replaced with a core manufactured by Fujian Tengbang Newmaterial Co., Ltd., lot number FJTB2K257B01. The replaced core differed from the "Pampers Luxurious Skin" core only in the pore size of the nonwoven fabric material. The replaced core had the same dimensions as the "Pampers Luxurious Skin" core and possessed the same superabsorbent polymer absorption capacity. The front elastic belt and absorbent body had very similar size, structure, and elastic profiling to Example 1. The size of the rear elastic belt was the same as in Example 1, but without the lumbar guard portion WGP, and had the elastic profiling of the rear elastic belt at the corresponding position as shown in Table 1 below.

[0076] [Table 3]

[0077] In Example 1 and Comparative Example 1, the circumferential force around the waist was measured using the total material force measurement method as specified herein, and the tensile stress of the waist guard elastic portion WGEP and correlation portion CP was measured using the belt zone tensile stress measurement method as specified herein. The results are shown in Table 2 below.

[0078] [Table 4]

[0079] Consumer acceptance We recruited 80 panelists, including nearly equal numbers of men and women, who were caregivers of infants weighing 9-14 kg and aged 0-36 months, using size 4 (L size), and who had diverse experience using major brands in a similar price range. At the time of recruitment, each panelist was asked whether their infant had experienced leakage of low-viscosity feces. Each panelist was asked to use each test sample for 5 days in various orders and was provided with enough samples to test each sample. Panelists were asked to report the number of samples containing urine / feces and the number of times urine / feces leakage occurred from the posterior lumbar region occurred. Panelists were also asked to rate the test samples against these values ​​using a 5-point scale (overall rating), which was scored as follows: "Poor" = 0, "Acceptable" = 25, "Good" = 50, "Very Good" = 75, and "Excellent" = 100. Panelists were also asked to evaluate the test samples using a 5-point scale (relative classification scale), where they were scored as follows: "Best diaper I've ever used" = 100, "Better than the diapers I used" = 75, "No difference compared to the diapers I used" = 50, "Worse than the diapers I used" = 25, and "Worst diaper I've ever used" = 0. The evaluation results and leakage rates are shown in Table 3.

[0080] [Table 5] * Statistical significance at the 90% confidence level

[0081] Examples 1 and Comparative Example 1 provide good fit, comfort during wear, leakage prevention, and flexibility. Compared to Comparative Example 1, Example 1 provides statistically significant protection against fecal leakage from the posterior lumbar opening. Example 1 can be manufactured at substantially the same rate as Comparative Example 1, with an additional material cost of approximately 5% or less.

[0082] The dimensions and values ​​disclosed herein should not be understood as being 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."

[0083] All documents cited herein, including cross-referenced or related patents or applications, are incorporated herein in their entirety by reference unless expressly excluded or otherwise limited. No citation of 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 one or more other references. Furthermore, to the extent that any meaning or definition of a term in this document conflicts with any meaning or definition of the same term in any document incorporated by reference, the meaning or definition given to that term in this document shall prevail.

[0084] 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. An absorbent article having longitudinal, transverse, a pair of side seams and a pair of leg openings, A front elastic belt extending laterally between the pair of side seams, A rear elastic belt extending laterally between the pair of side seams, A crotch region extending longitudinally between the front elastic belt and the rear elastic belt, An absorbent body extending over the entire longitudinal dimension of the crotch area and further partially extending into the interior of the front elastic belt and the rear elastic belt, comprising a liquid-permeable top sheet, a liquid-impermeable back sheet, and an absorbent material region sandwiched between them, having a maximum transverse dimension W2 which is approximately 22% to approximately 50% of the transverse dimension W1 of the rear elastic belt, Equipped with, The rear elastic belt is divided into a rear lumbar zone, a protective zone, and a buttock zone aligned from the distal edge to the proximal edge, each zone extending in the transverse direction and defined by its position from the distal edge to the proximal edge in relation to the ratio of the longitudinal dimension LS of the side seam, and an elastic member is positioned on each of the rear lumbar zone, the protective zone, and the buttock zone. The protective zone includes a main portion and a lumbar guard portion that overlap each other, the lumbar guard portion extending from a laterally extending closing end line toward an open edge toward the crotch region, the lumbar guard portion being partially joined to the main portion to define a pair of closing side lines, a pocket formed by the closing end line, the pair of closing side lines and the open edge, the pocket having an area A2 of about 5% to about 15% of the rear elastic belt having an area A1, the closing end line being located proximal to the rear distal edge of the backsheet, The aforementioned lumbar guard portion includes a lumbar guard elastic portion, and the main portion that overlaps with the lumbar guard elastic portion is defined as the correlation portion. Absorbent material.

2. The absorbent article according to claim 1, wherein the closing side line does not overlap with the back sheet.

3. The absorbent article according to claim 2, wherein the pocket has a transverse dimension W3 and W3 / W1 is approximately 15% to approximately 60%.

4. The distance W4 between the side edge of the absorbent body in the protective zone and the nearest lateral edge of the rear belt, The distance W5 between the side edge of the absorbent body in the protective zone and the nearest closing side line, Equipped with, W5 / W4 is approximately 5% to 30%. The absorbent article according to claim 2.

5. The absorbent article according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, when the distal edge of the side seam is considered to be 0% and the proximal edge of the side seam is considered to be 100%, the protective zone is located within approximately 15% to approximately 80% of the LS.

6. The absorbent article according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the pocket has a longitudinal dimension LP, and LP is about 15% to about 45% of LS.

7. The rear elastic belt is formed by an inner sheet, an outer sheet, a first outer sheet folding portion, a second outer sheet folding portion, a first set of elastic strands, and a second set of elastic strands. The longitudinal dimension of the second outer sheet folding portion is defined by the first waist folding point and the second waist folding point, the first plurality of elastic strands are sandwiched between the first outer sheet folding portion and the second outer sheet folding portion, and the second plurality of elastic strands are sandwiched between the inner sheet and the outer sheet. The first outer sheet folding portion, the second outer sheet folding portion, and the first elastic strand form the lumbar guard elastic portion. The absorbent article according to claim 1 or 2.

8. An absorbent article having a longitudinal direction, a transverse direction, a pair of side seams having a longitudinal dimension LS, and a pair of leg openings, A front belt extending laterally between the pair of side seams, A rear belt extending laterally between the pair of side seams, A crotch region extending longitudinally between the front elastic belt and the rear elastic belt, An absorbent body extending over the entire longitudinal dimension of the crotch area and further partially extending into the interior of the front elastic belt and the rear elastic belt, comprising a liquid-permeable top sheet, a liquid-impermeable back sheet, and an absorbent material region sandwiched between them, having a maximum transverse dimension W2 which is approximately 22% to approximately 50% of the transverse dimension W1 of the rear elastic belt, Equipped with, The rear elastic belt is formed by an inner sheet, an outer sheet, a first outer sheet folding portion, a second outer sheet folding portion, a first set of elastic strands, and a second set of elastic strands. The longitudinal dimension of the second outer sheet folding portion is defined by the first waist folding point and the second waist folding point, the first plurality of elastic strands are sandwiched between the first outer sheet folding portion and the second outer sheet folding portion, and the second plurality of elastic strands are sandwiched between the inner sheet and the outer sheet. The first outer sheet folding portion, the second outer sheet folding portion, and the first elastic strand form a waist guard elastic portion, the waist guard elastic portion having a longitudinal dimension defined by the distance between the first waist folding point and the first elastic strand located furthest distally, the waist guard elastic portion being partially coupled to the remainder of the rear belt and defining a pair of closing side lines and uncoupled regions between the closing side lines, The distance between the aforementioned closing lines has a transverse dimension W3, W3 / W1 is approximately 15% to approximately 60%, and the closing lines do not overlap with the back sheet. Absorbent material.

9. The absorbent article according to claim 1 or 8, wherein, when the distal edge of the side seam is considered to be 0% and the proximal edge of the side seam is considered to be 100%, the lumbar guard elastic portion is located within approximately 40% to approximately 80% of the LS.

10. The lumbar guard elastic portion has a longitudinal dimension LE, and LE is about 5% to about 21% of LS, the absorbent article according to claim 1 or 8.

11. The absorbent article according to claim 1 or 8, comprising an elastic cover that extends along the entire longitudinal dimension of the article and includes the front elastic belt and the rear elastic belt, wherein the absorbent body has a maximum transverse dimension W2 and the elastic cover has a minimum transverse dimension W6 which is about 110% to about 150% of W2.

12. The absorbent article according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the rear elastic belt has an attachment-free area between the second outer sheet folding portion and the main portion, the attachment-free area has no attachment portion whatsoever, the attachment-free area has a longitudinal dimension of at least 8 mm and extends over the entire transverse dimension.

13. The absorbent article according to claim 1 or 8, wherein the absorbent body comprises a pair of inner cuffs, the inner cuffs being in an effective elastic state at the point where they intersect with the proximal edge of the lumbar guard portion.

14. The absorbent article according to claim 1 or 8, wherein the tensile stress of the lumbar guard elastic portion is approximately 125% to approximately 180% of the tensile stress of the correlation portion.

15. The lumbar guard elastic portion is made elastic by arranging a plurality of elastic strands, and the most proximal elastic strand is positioned 2 mm or more to about 5 mm away from the open edge, as described in claim 1 or 8 of the absorbent article.

16. The absorbent article according to claim 15, wherein the plurality of elastic strands of the lumbar guard elastic portion are arranged at a pitch of about 12 mm or less, preferably about 10 mm or less.

17. The absorbent article according to claim 15, wherein at least two of the elastic strands of the lumbar guard elastic portion have a color visible from the side of the article facing the body.

18. The absorbent article according to claim 1 or 8, wherein the total thickness of the lumbar guard elastic portion, the correlation portion, and the absorbent main body portion sandwiched between them is approximately 5 mm or less.

19. The absorbent article according to claim 1 or 8, wherein the lumbar region force measured by the total material force measurement method described herein is approximately 9 N or less, preferably approximately 8 N or less.

20. A method for demonstrating the vapor permeability of an absorbent article described in claim 18 in the surrounding environment, 1) A steam supply source is prepared to supply steam having a temperature of approximately 35°C to approximately 95°C, preferably approximately 45°C to approximately 85°C, in the opposite direction to gravity. 2) The step of positioning at least a portion of the elastic portion of the waist guard facing the wearer in a position where it can receive steam from the steam supply source, 3) A step of placing a shape memory object having a deformation temperature of at least 30°C on the side of the garment facing the position that receives steam, wherein the time at which the shape memory object is placed is considered the start time, 4) A step of deforming the shape memory object, wherein the deformation begins within approximately 10 seconds, preferably within approximately 5 seconds, from the start time, and the deformation is completed within approximately 2 to approximately 30 seconds, preferably approximately 3 to approximately 10 seconds, from the start of the deformation. Methods that include...

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