Methods, continuous reels, apparatus, and systems.

Abstract

To provide what is possible. [Solution] The present invention relates to a method for joining an absorbent article to a continuous strip. The method includes the step of adhering a portion of a moisture sensor strip to a first portion surface of an absorbent article, wherein the moisture sensor strip is not adhered to the first portion surface in the pocket area of ​​the absorbent article. A portion of a cover layer is adhered to a second portion surface of the absorbent article. Here, in the pocket area, the side edge areas of the cover layer are adhered to the absorbent article, while the areas between the side edge areas remain unadhesive. The cover layer overlaps to cover both longitudinal edges of the moisture sensor strip. The adhering portions of the moisture sensor strip and the cover layer are separated from the continuous strip. An access opening is provided to the pocket space, which is accessible from the access opening, enclosed by the pocket area of ​​the absorbent article, the side edge areas of the cover layer, and the areas between the side edge areas. The present invention further relates to a continuous reel of a continuous strip used in the method of the present invention, an apparatus used in the method of the present invention, and a system manufactured by the method of the present invention.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a method of joining an absorbent article and a continuous strip including a moisture sensor strip and a cover layer. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a continuous reel of the continuous strip used in the method of the present invention, an apparatus used in the method of the present invention, and a system manufactured by the method of the present invention.

Background Art

[0002] One of the greatest challenges that modern society will face in the future is the aging of the population. The number of caregivers and the elderly in nursing facilities is out of balance, and fewer caregivers will be responsible for more residents, resulting in several difficulties.

[0003] Already today, caregivers check on the residents according to a strict schedule, which not only results in a severe workload but also makes it difficult to determine which urgent needs should be prioritized. More importantly, since each caregiver is assigned the residents to be in charge of each shift, efficient schedule management becomes even more important.

[0004] Even in the context of home care, family caregivers face similar problems. In addition to work, other family members, and other obligations, they must also take care of the care recipients, and are exposed to a great deal of time pressure and high stress. Taking care of infants is also a time-consuming task for ordinary families, parents, and caregivers.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] There are mainly two situations where absorbent articles are needed. First is the incontinent state, which can be understood as a disease with various causes. Second is the situation in the field of infant care, which is caused by the fact that children cannot control excretion autonomously.

[0006] Incontinence refers to the uncontrolled release of waste from the bladder and / or intestines. Urinary incontinence is a condition in which urination occurs unintentionally or uncontrollably due to a loss of bladder control. While some forms of incontinence, particularly urinary / bladder incontinence, are relatively common, this condition usually affects the elderly and frail and is more common among women.

[0007] Another current challenge in nursing care facilities is night shifts, and one of the main difficulties is the vast size of the facilities and the reduced number of caregivers during this time. Consequently, the physical burden on caregivers becomes a problem.

[0008] Furthermore, due to a shortage of caregivers, it is common for caregivers to have to fill in for other caregivers or to be temporarily hired from outside. In such cases, it is important that caregivers quickly become familiar with their duties and are smoothly integrated into the care facility's workflow.

[0009] U.S. Patent Publication No. 2022 / 0401269 and International Publication No. 2021 / 064121 describe a method for adhering an absorbent article to a moisture monitoring system comprising a top layer and a sensor film with a sensor system printed on a sheet. Furthermore, the patent also describes the gap formed by the sensor film, adhesive, back sheet of the absorbent article, and pockets for the measurement unit.

[0010] European Publication No. 3451988 and International Publication No. 2018 / 229017 describe a substrate for an absorbent article having slits, comprising a sensor track, a strip layer optionally adhered to the skin-side substrate surface to form a pocket, an insulating layer adhered to a first surface of the substrate on the sensor track, and a groove-like pocket formed between the first surface and the insulating layer.

[0011] International Publication No. 2018 / 229280 discloses the substrate of European Patent Publication No. 3451988 and describes the system and electrotechnical aspects of the measurement system.

[0012] European Patent Publication No. 4014936 discloses a substrate of European Patent Publication No. 3451988 and describes a sensor system for measuring multiple physical properties.

[0013] International Publication No. 2021 / 224033 discloses the substrate of European Patent Publication No. 3451988 and describes the structure of the detection device.

[0014] U.S. Patent Publication No. 2020 / 0256819 describes a detection sensor comprising an optional peelable sensor substrate for attaching a detection sensor to clothing, an optional adhesive layer, a sensor substrate, a conductive layer formed on the upper surface of the sensor substrate (having two sensor electrodes and two sensor terminals), a fecal detection layer, and an adhesive layer (optionally for attaching the detection sensor to clothing or for attaching an optional nonwoven fabric layer).

[0015] International Publication No. 2022 / 008584 describes a lining with a conductive pattern printed on it, a cover strip layer, and an absorbent core layer, comprising the steps of cutting an opening in the lining, sealing the cover strip layer located between the cover strip layer and the absorbent core layer to the lining by an adhesive pattern on the cover strip layer or the lining, and forming a pocket between the edge and front and / or rear end of the cover strip layer.

[0016] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to overcome or mitigate at least some of the drawbacks of the prior art and to provide a method for manufacturing an absorbent article equipped with a sensor that automatically detects moisture in the absorbent article. In this respect, the article is characterized by its ease of handling.

[0017] This problem is solved by the subject matter of the independent claim. Advantageous embodiments of the present invention can be further derived from the dependent claims. [Means for solving the problem]

[0018] A first aspect of the present invention relates to a method for joining an absorbent article to a continuous strip including a moisture sensor strip and a cover layer. This method (basic embodiment) includes the step of adhering a portion of the moisture sensor strip to a first portion surface of the absorbent article, in which a first adhesive is applied between the moisture sensor strip and the first portion surface. In the pocket region of the absorbent article, the moisture sensor strip is not adhered to the first portion surface. A further step of the method includes adhering a portion of the cover layer to a second portion surface of the absorbent article, in which a second adhesive is applied between the cover layer and the second portion surface. In the pocket region of the absorbent article, the side edge regions of the cover layer are adhering to the absorbent article, while the region between the side edge regions remains unadhesive, and the cover layer overlaps to cover both longitudinal edges of the moisture sensor strip. As a further step, the adhering portion of the moisture sensor strip and the adhering portion of the cover layer are separated from the continuous strip. Furthermore, an access opening is provided to the pocket space enclosed by the pocket region of the absorbent article, the side edge regions of the cover layer, and the region between the side edge regions. This pocket space is accessible through an access opening.

[0019] This specification provides a method for converting an absorbent article into an absorbent article equipped with a sensor suitable for measuring moisture content. This conversion can be performed during the manufacturing process of the absorbent article or after the absorbent article has been manufactured.

[0020] Preferably, dielectric spectroscopy is used as a suitable measurement method. Here, the amplitude and phase shift between the applied sinusoidal voltage and the measured current are observed. This method allows for the separation of the conductive (real) and capacitive (imaginary) parts of the impedance, and furthermore, the accuracy of the impedance measurement is improved by the four-wire measurement. Therefore, products manufactured in the manufacturing process according to the present invention are designed to have their moisture content measured using the above method. Accordingly, the advantages described later, which affect the characteristics within the measurement method by design, are always directed toward the above measurement method.

[0021] Absorbent articles include, but are not limited to, sanitary products and feminine hygiene products. Examples include (disposable) diapers, sanitary napkins, panty liners, incontinence pads, and sweat wipes. These can be used not only for humans but also for animals such as pets. Absorbent articles absorb liquids released from the wearer, including, for example, liquid excrement and bodily fluids. Absorbent articles have an extremely wide range of applications, particularly as incontinence products in the form of adult and children's diapers. Absorbent articles also include template products that are processed into final products in further steps.

[0022] A continuous strip constitutes a strip that can have the characteristic of being quasi-endless. Of course, it is not mathematically infinite. In practical terms, quasi-endless means that it can be used multiple times in this process. In other words, it is possible to pass the process through multiple times. Because a continuous strip consists of repeating components, the continuous strip supplies the elements required for each process, and the continuous strip is not consumed after the process is applied. Instead, it can be reused to repeat the manufacturing process of the process product.

[0023] A moisture sensor strip consists of a strip suitable for measuring humidity. In this method, this is understood to mean that the sensor comprises at least a component that initially detects a measurement signal. This may be commonly referred to as a measuring sensor, but not as a sensor in the literal sense. In other words, it is understood here as a measuring means that detects a desired quantity to be measured by the underlying measurement method. Furthermore, the sensor may also include other components, such as a component that processes the measurement signal.

[0024] The cover layer includes strips that form an outer layer and functions as a shielding layer. This further minimizes external interference during the detection process and further improves the comfort for the wearer. Also, it protects by covering the moisture sensor strip. From the perspective of comfort, it is desirable for the cover layer to be breathable. In particular, in order to minimize the impact on the measurement process, the cover layer should not have hydrophilic properties. In particular, this prevents the measured values during capacitance measurement from being distorted. In addition, the thickness of the cover layer is preferably designed to shield the sensors arranged in the lower layer. This prevents external influences such as compression inside the thigh from causing an increase in capacitance. An appropriately designed thickness also ensures sufficient tensile strength and simplifies processing on the production line.

[0025] The term "strip" used for the continuous strip and the cover layer is not limited to a specific shape. Therefore, various shapes are conceivable. For example, the shape of the moisture sensor strip includes rectangle, square, circle, ellipse, etc. The same applies to the cover layer.

[0026] The first adhesive and the second adhesive include types of adhesives suitable for adhering the respective elements according to the method of the present invention. Therefore, the first adhesive and the second adhesive may be different from each other. However, the first adhesive and the second adhesive may also include the same adhesive.

[0027] By using the first adhesive, the moisture sensor strip is fixed in place and a uniform distance is ensured between the sensor surface and the absorbent article. Depending on the measurement method used, this improves the measurement accuracy by preventing movement and positioning of the user, etc. In particular, it reduces the capacitance deviation between different absorbent articles joined by a continuous strip. The first adhesive and the second adhesive also improve insulation from liquids. The first adhesive and the second adhesive should be compatible with the surfaces to which they are applied. Preferably, they have a low surface energy.

[0028] The thickness of the first adhesive to be applied is selected such that the moisture sensor strip is insulated from the absorbent article and is securely adhered. Further, considering an appropriate measurement method, the thickness is selected such that the penetration depth of the moisture sensor strip is reduced. The adhesive is preferably homogeneous in order to reduce variations in recorded values of different absorbent articles and non-uniform effects due to swelling of the core of the absorbent article (which cause high variations in recorded values).

[0029] The first and second part surfaces of the absorbent article preferably have different shapes and have shapes corresponding to the moisture sensor strip part and the cover layer part, respectively. In particular, the second part surface can include the first part surface.

[0030] In the pocket space region, since there is no first adhesive between the moisture sensor strip and the first part surface of the absorbent article, a contact element for electrically connecting additional hardware components can be detachably connected to the electrodes of the moisture sensor strip via the pocket space.

[0031] By using this method, any absorbent article can be easily converted into an absorbent article equipped with a measuring device or an absorbent article suitable for moisture measurement without changing the main materials and components of the absorbent article. The production line of the absorbent article can be modified so that the method of the present invention is integrated into the manufacturing process of the absorbent article. Alternatively, it is also possible to apply the process of the present invention to existing absorbent articles after the manufacturing process is completed.

[0032] In a preferred embodiment of the basic embodiment of the present invention, the pocket space is configured to receive a clip comprising an integrated circuit, a first rotatable element, and a second rotatable element connected to the first rotatable element at its folding edge. Here, the size of the pocket space conforms to the size of the first rotatable element. Furthermore, the pocket space is configured to be penetrated by the teeth of the second rotatable element in the closed position of the clip in order to attach the clip to the cover layer. The pocket space is also configured to align the clip with the moisture sensor strip such that the contact pads of the moisture sensor strip and the contact pins of the clip are electrically connected to each other, and the moisture sensor strip is positioned between the teeth. In other words, a suitable clip has two movable parts. The first rotatable element is inserted into the pocket space, and the second rotatable element is used for fixing to the pocket space and providing contact between the clip and the sensor. The teeth of the clip penetrate and fix through the cover layer. The pocket space formed by the method of the present invention is configured to be tight enough to align the clip with the moisture sensor strip. At the same time, the dimensions of the pocket space are such that the contact pin can be accurately and easily aligned with the contact pad, such as the peripheral trace of the interdigitate electrode, while also securely fixing the clip. Therefore, the material of the cover layer includes a material selected with a sufficiently low basis weight so that the teeth can penetrate the pocket space so that the clip is held in place. The clip clamps the moisture sensor strip between the clip's contact pin and the movable part of the closing hinge. This applies pressure to the back of the moisture sensor strip, pressing it against the contact pin.

[0033] Preferably, in this method, a plurality of identical pocket portions are provided, each having a plurality of corresponding side edge regions of the cover layer and a plurality of regions formed between the side edge regions, and a plurality of corresponding pocket spaces surrounded by them are similarly formed. This makes it possible to provide pocket spaces at different positions and to attach clips including metal fittings at selected positions.

[0034] In a first preferred embodiment of the present invention (a so-called roll-to-roll process), the continuous strip is provided as a continuous reel including a moisture sensor strip bonded to a cover layer, and a portion of the continuous strip, including the portion of the moisture sensor strip and the portion of the cover layer, is unwound before being bonded to the absorbent article. Thus, in this method, the moisture sensor strip and the cover layer are not used separately from each other, but rather as a kind of semi-finished product, i.e., a pre-formed raw material, or as a laminate consisting of the two components. The moisture sensor strip and the cover layer are bonded to each other according to the relative arrangement of the invention. This greatly simplifies and simultaneously allows for more precise application of both components. Since the two components are already bonded, they no longer slip relative to each other. Therefore, it is not necessary to simultaneously and accurately ensure the position of the moisture sensor strip relative to the absorbent article, the position of the cover layer relative to the absorbent article, and the position of the moisture sensor strip relative to the cover layer; it is sufficient that the bonded component consisting of the portion of the moisture sensor strip and the portion of the cover layer is accurately positioned relative to the absorbent article. Furthermore, the unwinding process allows this control to be carried out continuously and section by section. Even after the moisture sensor strip and cover layer have been applied to the absorbent material, both components will no longer slip or move and will maintain their position.

[0035] According to a second preferred embodiment of the present invention (also known as the roll-to-roll method), the moisture sensor strip is provided as a first continuous reel, and the cover layer is provided as a second continuous reel. This provides flexibility during the process. By providing the moisture sensor strip and the cover layer in the form of a first and second continuous reel, respectively, after applying the moisture sensor strip from the first continuous reel to the absorbent article, the cover layer can cover not only the longitudinal edges but also the transverse edges of the moisture sensor strip. As a result, the moisture sensor strip is completely covered by the cover layer, overlapping all around, providing additional protection. Furthermore, providing two reels allows for reel replacement. Depending on the application, different requirements may arise for the moisture sensor strip and the cover layer. By providing them separately, the appropriate moisture sensor strip and cover layer can be selected according to the application, and it is proven to be particularly suitable for absorbent articles. This also ensures that the cover layer is compatible with the moisture sensor strip.

[0036] A first modification of the method of the second preferred embodiment includes the step of bonding the moisture sensor strip to the cover layer by applying a third adhesive to at least a portion between the portion of the moisture sensor strip and the portion of the cover layer, before bonding a portion of the moisture sensor strip to a first portion surface of the absorbent article and before bonding a portion of the cover layer to a second portion surface of the absorbent article. This combines the advantages of improved relative positioning of the moisture sensor strip and the cover layer and positioning accuracy on the absorbent article with the advantage of improved flexibility due to the advantageous fit of the moisture sensor strip and the cover layer used with each other. According to a second modification of a second preferred embodiment of the present invention, the method includes the step of bonding a portion of the moisture sensor strip to a first portion surface of an absorbent article, and then further bonding the moisture sensor strip to the cover layer by applying a third adhesive between the moisture sensor strip and the cover layer. In this case, the moisture sensor strip is placed on the absorbent article and is already secured by a fabric closure before the cover layer is bonded to the moisture sensor strip and the absorbent article. This allows the user of the method to select and control to what extent the cover layer covers the moisture sensor strip at its lateral edges, while also ensuring that the moisture sensor strip is not fixed and does not shift when the cover layer is applied.

[0037] In a further preferred embodiment of a second modification of the second preferred embodiment, the moisture sensor strip remains adhesive-free in the pocket region of the absorbent article, in the region between the side edge regions. Therefore, the moisture sensor strip is freely movable within the pocket region. This prevents a moisture sensor strip that is bonded within the pocket region from being unable to ideally connect to hardware that may be electrically connected to the moisture sensor strip. Maintaining free mobility allows for adjustment to the desired position, compensating for inaccuracies due to tolerances.

[0038] In a further preferred embodiment in the first embodiment or the first modification of the second embodiment, the moisture sensor strip is intermittently bonded to the cover layer. Here, the non-bonded area of ​​the moisture sensor strip is positioned to overlap the pocket area before bonding to the absorbent article. This combines the advantage of bonding the moisture sensor strip and the cover layer before bonding to the absorbent article with the advantage of the moisture sensor strip remaining adhesive-free and mobile in the pocket area.

[0039] According to the third embodiment (the so-called retrofit method), the continuous reel further includes a first adhesive, a second adhesive, and at least one release paper covering the first and second adhesives, and further includes a step of removing the release paper after unwinding a portion of the continuous strip and before bonding a portion of the moisture sensor strip and / or before bonding a portion of the cover layer to the absorbent article. This further simplifies the attachment of the moisture sensor strip portion and the cover layer portion to the absorbent article. The first and second adhesives are already present for attachment and no additional application is required. The need to apply adhesive to the absorbent article is also avoided. This requires high precision to prevent the presence of excess adhesive that needs to be removed or damages the backing. Furthermore, the adhesive can be easily exposed by simply removing the release paper. In addition, because complex additional equipment for applying adhesive can be avoided, more people can attach the moisture sensor strip portion and the cover layer portion to the absorbent article, especially in medical facilities.

[0040] A preferred embodiment of the third embodiment further includes winding the removed release paper onto a release paper roll and applying pressure to the continuous strip portion with a pressure roller while bonding the moisture sensor strip portion and the cover layer portion to the absorbent article, wherein the continuous reel and the release paper roll are connected to each other by a transmission device including a coupling. The connection of the continuous reel and the release paper roll applies permanent tension to the continuous strip portion, so that the unwinding process of the continuous strip portion is not interrupted. By applying pressure to the continuous strip portion with a pressure roller while bonding the moisture sensor strip portion and the cover layer portion to the absorbent article, reliable material adhesion of the moisture sensor strip portion and the cover layer portion to the absorbent article is established. Furthermore, the unwound release paper is automatically wound up so as not to interfere with the user.

[0041] In the third embodiment, the pressure of the crimping roller is preferably adjusted by the preload of a spring. This makes it possible to change and adjust the static pressure provided by the crimping roller as needed. This is particularly necessary for absorbent articles of varying thicknesses. In such cases, it is advantageous to adjust the pressure to always ensure the contact pressure necessary for reliable bonding.

[0042] In the preferred method according to the third embodiment, the first and second crimping rollers form a gap, into which the absorbent article is inserted to bond the moisture sensor strip portion and the cover layer portion to the absorbent article. This further reduces incorrect application. The first and second crimping rollers and the gap formed between them provide, on the one hand, appropriate contact pressure and on the other hand, a guide that facilitates the user in correctly connecting the moisture sensor strip portion and the cover layer portion to the absorbent article.

[0043] In a preferred embodiment of the third embodiment, the end of the continuous strip is positioned in front of the first and second crimping rollers, and the absorbent article accepts the end of the continuous strip when it is inserted into the gap. This makes it even easier for the user to apply the process. Since the release paper is already unwound, the absorbent article comes into contact with the exposed first and / or second adhesives. As a result, when the absorbent article is inserted, the portion of the continuous strip adheres to the absorbent article and is gradually positioned on top of it. That is, the user only needs to insert the absorbent article into the gap. The positioning and adhesion of the portion of the continuous strip onto the absorbent article occurs automatically. The removal of the release paper from the portion of the continuous strip and the winding up also occur automatically.

[0044] Another aspect of the present invention relates to a continuous reel of a continuous strip used in any of the basic embodiment, the first preferred embodiment, the third preferred embodiment, or any of the embodiments described above (basic embodiment), the continuous reel comprising a moisture sensor strip including two interdigitate electrodes (IDEs) printed with conductive material-based ink on a polymer substrate, preferably polyethylene terephthalate (PET), a substrate, a cover layer made of a nonwoven fabric material, an access opening to a pocket space, and a third adhesive disposed at least intermittently between the first surface of the moisture sensor strip and the first surface of the cover layer material. The PET substrate comprises two interdigitate electrodes (IDEs) printed with conductive material-based ink. Furthermore, it includes a cover layer made of a nonwoven fabric material, an access opening to a pocket space, and a third adhesive disposed at least intermittently between the first surface of the moisture sensor strip and the first surface of the cover layer material. The third adhesive is not disposed within the pocket space. After a portion of the continuous strip is joined to the absorbent article and, if necessary, connected to a sensor clip consisting of other hardware including, for example, the aforementioned integrated circuit for dielectric spectroscopy, the moisture / filling level of the absorbent article can be determined, preferably based on capacitance measurement via an IDE. Here, the capacitance depends on the wetting state of the absorbent core of the absorbent article and the associated change in dielectric constant. This IDE provides an electric field penetration depth suitable for measuring the dielectric properties of the absorbent core, but is not applied to the wearer's body. Penetration depth is the point at which electromagnetic waves pass through the medium at 1 / e (approximately 37%) of their initial amplitude. Both interdigital conductive regions are spaced apart and electrically insulated from each other. The interdigital structure of the sensor generates an ambient electric field within a limited range of penetration depth, and this electric field interacts with the dielectric material within the penetration depth. The interdigital electrodes are printed on the surface of a PET substrate and, by contacting a suitable clip, allow impedance measurement along the entire length of the moisture sensor strip. This allows the capacitance value of the absorbent article to be calculated, and the filling level of the absorbent article can be determined using a suitable calculation algorithm.Furthermore, the moisture sensor strip portion is coupled solely by capacitive coupling without electrical contact with the absorbent material. When the absorbent core is wetted with an aqueous solution, the dielectric constant of the absorbent core changes, resulting in a measurable change in capacitance. Due to the interdigital structure, the maximum penetration depth of the sensor is approximately 10 millimeters, which is sufficient to measure the dielectric properties of the absorbent core, but not to the absorbent article carrier body. The moisture sensor strip is composed of a flexible, flat PET substrate, allowing the product to adhere to the outside of the absorbent article and conform to its shape during manufacturing, folding, packaging, unpacking, and wear by the user / patient. Preferably, the IDE is manufactured using roll-to-roll screen printing, but other methods such as flexographic printing and (rotor) gravure printing can also be used.

[0045] Conductive material-based inks preferably contain printable conductive materials, particularly conductive carbon material (particles) in a polymer binder, conductive polymers, copper, and / or silver. In particular, the conductive carbon material (particles) in the polymer binder makes the IDE flexible, allowing measurement regardless of its position while the user / patient is wearing the absorbent article. Carbon is an abundant and inexpensive resource. The particle clusters are held in the printing paste by a non-conductive binder. No sintering occurs between the particles. The cost is competitive with metal pastes, and the particle clusters have a low environmental impact.

[0046] Ink transfer can be achieved using additive manufacturing processes such as rotary screen printing, flexographic printing, and gravure printing. These processes offer high reproducibility, high speed, and cost-effectiveness, and can be used in a roll-to-roll manner. Carbon-based inks have high scratch resistance and low electrical contact resistance, allowing for easy connection of the clip's contact pins to the sensor. The carbon layer exhibits oxidation resistance under standard conditions, eliminating the need for a top layer like etched copper-clad laminates (flexible PCBs) or printed copper-silver wiring, and eliminating the need for plating (e.g., gold plating) of contact points. After curing, carbon-based inks remain stable even when bent at the bending radius expected during the manufacture of absorbent materials, without significant degradation of conductivity. This property has been measured up to a bending radius of 8 mm.

[0047] PET is inexpensive, flexible, and non-stretchable. It can be cured at temperatures up to 130°C, enabling rapid curing of conductive inks. Heat treatment is possible to prevent substrate shrinkage during ink curing, and surface modification can improve printability and paste adhesion. PET also has high chemical resistance to organic solvents commonly used in conductive screen printing pastes. Printing on flat substrates like PET film offers the advantages of improved conductivity because the ink does not penetrate the porous structure, and improved structural stability because bending the porous substrate could deform the penetrated conductive tracks.

[0048] Therefore, in the basic embodiment, the first preferred embodiment, the third preferred embodiment, or the aforementioned preferred embodiments of the present invention, the moisture sensor strip and the cover layer are not used separately from each other, but rather as a kind of semi-finished product, i.e., as a prefabricated raw material, or as a laminate consisting of the two components. Furthermore, the moisture sensor strip and the cover layer are bonded to each other according to their relative arrangement according to the present invention. This greatly simplifies and simultaneously allows for more precise application of both components. Since the two components are already bonded, they no longer slide relative to each other. Therefore, it is not necessary to simultaneously and accurately ensure the position of the moisture sensor strip relative to the absorbent article, the position of the cover layer relative to the absorbent article, and the position of the cover layer relative to the moisture sensor strip; it is sufficient that the bonded component consisting of the moisture sensor strip portion and the cover layer portion is accurately positioned relative to the absorbent article.

[0049] The third adhesive may be the same as the first adhesive and / or the second adhesive, or it may be different from both.

[0050] According to a further preferred embodiment of the basic embodiment, the continuous reel includes predefined separation regions for separating segments of the continuous reel, the separation regions being provided in the moisture sensor strip and the cover layer. Preferably, these regions include perforations. This allows the user to determine the appropriate location for separating the segments of the continuous reel. Furthermore, the cutting operation becomes significantly easier. The user does not need additional tools such as scissors or knives. Handling is simplified and, in particular, accuracy is improved because inaccuracies are eliminated.

[0051] According to a first embodiment of the continuous reel according to the present invention, the continuous reel includes a plurality of identical segments in the longitudinal direction of the continuous reel, each segment including a first adhesive disposed on the second surface excluding the pocket portion of the moisture sensor strip and a second adhesive disposed on the first surface of the cover layer. Here, in the pocket portion of the cover layer, the second adhesive is disposed in the side edge region of the pocket portion of the cover layer, and the second adhesive is absent in the region between the side edge regions. The continuous reel further includes at least one release paper covering the first and second adhesives. This provides the user with a continuous reel for use in the process according to the present invention, and the application of the two components is greatly simplified and made more precise as the moisture sensor strip is bonded to the cover layer. All the necessary adhesives are provided by the continuous reel, the arrangement of the moisture sensor strip and cover layer is fixed, and the above advantages are achieved in relation to the process of the present invention.

[0052] In a more preferred embodiment, the separation regions are arranged between identical segments. This results in a continuous reel that provides multiple identical segments that are suitable for attachment to absorbent articles and are easily separable from one another. Thus, the user can then obtain a product that allows them to provide various absorbent articles in a simple and practical manner using a portion of the continuous strip.

[0053] Another aspect of the present invention relates to a method used in a second preferred embodiment or modification thereof of the present invention, and to a first continuous reel manufactured according to the basic embodiment, a preferred embodiment of the basic embodiment, and a first embodiment of a continuous reel according to the present invention, comprising a moisture sensor strip including two interdigitate electrodes printed with a conductive material-based ink on a polymer substrate (preferably polyethylene terephthalate), wherein the distance between the outer edges of the two interdigitate electrodes is 10 mm to 25 mm, preferably 13 mm to 22 mm, more preferably 15 mm to 18 mm, and particularly preferably 16 mm. Also preferably, a plurality of pairs of two finger-shaped electrodes printed with a conductive material-based ink on a PET substrate are arranged adjacent to each other laterally. This provides a first continuous reel in the method of the present invention that can be manufactured particularly simply and at low cost. The parallel arrangement in particular enables efficient manufacturing processes such as a roll-to-roll manufacturing process. Roll-to-roll production of moisture sensor strips on PET allows for the manufacture of low-cost, highly conductive sensors, thereby making impedance spectroscopy available. This specification provides a method for manufacturing low-cost, standalone moisture sensor strip rolls based on printed electronics. That is, the moisture sensor strip preferably has a width corresponding to the distance between the outer edges of the electrodes. It has been demonstrated that a corresponding distance between the outer edges of two interdigitate electrodes is particularly advantageous. The sensor area is reduced to a level that maintains sufficient reliability so that measurement noise is manageable and the evaluation algorithm functions. At the same time, cost reduction of the first continuous reel is possible, taking the aforementioned criteria into consideration. In particular, for use in the method according to the second preferred embodiment of the present invention, for the manufacture of the continuous reel (basic embodiment, preferred embodiment of the basic embodiment, and first embodiment of the continuous reel according to the present invention), and for modification with the manufactured continuous reel, this provides an advantageous first continuous reel, the advantages of which are further improved by the following preferred embodiments. It is advantageous to use a stable yet flexible substrate. This protects the electrodes from excessive forces that may occur during the manufacturing process of absorbent articles and during "activation".When printing directly onto the backing sheet of an absorbent material, the electrodes come into direct contact with the absorbent material, interfering with capacitance measurement. Ink printed on the backing sheet of an absorbent material can become unstable due to shrinkage, peeling, and detachment of the printed electrodes even with slight force, requiring a thinner electrode layer. This results in electrode resistance significantly exceeding 100kΩ, making capacitance measurement difficult and greatly increasing measurement noise. Furthermore, conductivity non-uniformity can be reduced. The characteristics of the moisture sensor strip are easier to control during the manufacturing process than when printing directly onto the backing sheet.

[0054] In a more preferred embodiment, the two interdigitate electrodes are electrically insulated from each other and have electrode fingers less than 100 mm in length, preferably less than 50 mm, and more preferably less than 10 mm, with a spacing of 1 mm to 5 mm, preferably 1 mm to 4 mm, more preferably 1 mm to 3 mm, and particularly preferably 2 mm between them. The detection depth is approximately equal to the distance between the individual fingers, thereby limiting the object of measurement to absorbent materials and preventing the inclusion of body parts in the measurement. Furthermore, the finger structure expands the detection area without increasing the detection depth compared to simply using two parallel conductive wires. Wide parallel wires have a high detection depth and are therefore vulnerable to external interference. Thus, the dimensions according to the present invention are particularly suitable for precisely defined measurements within a limited measurement range.

[0055] In a more preferred embodiment, the two interdigitate electrodes are designed to generate an electric field with a penetration depth of 1 mm to 10 mm, preferably 1.3 mm to 4 mm, more preferably less than 1.6 mm to 3 mm, and particularly preferably 2 mm to 2.5 mm. This achieves a particularly favorable balance between penetration depth and susceptibility to external interference, as the sensor operates bidirectionally in principle. If the penetration depth is too low, only the surface is measured, and if the penetration depth is too high, the measurement range extends into the human body, making it susceptible to external interference. This optimizes the design of the IDE so that the penetration depth of the electric field generated during impedance measurement does not exceed 10 mm. This means that changes in the volume value are due to the presence of excrement (urine, feces) in the absorbent material and not due to the user / patient's body. The pattern of the IDE is preferably repeated in one direction, which means that the moisture sensor strip is suitable for cutting according to the size of the absorbent material to which it is applied. The IDE can be made in contact at any point along the periphery / edge of the electrode. The sensor's offset capacitance (initial capacitance) is determined by the sensor's length, the type of absorbent material, and the mounting method, including the type and thickness of the adhesive. These specifications are predefined for specific absorbent material types.

[0056] According to a more preferred embodiment of the present invention, the width of each of the two interdigitate electrodes and / or each electrode finger is 1 mm to 4 mm, preferably 1.4 mm to 3 mm, more preferably 1.8 mm to 2.5 mm, and particularly preferably 2 mm. These dimensions make it possible to reduce the sensor area to such an extent that measurement noise remains within an acceptable range and a reliable signal that can be processed by the evaluation algorithm is obtained.

[0057] In a more preferred embodiment, the two interdigitate electrodes have a resistance of less than 25 kΩ per 55 cm, preferably less than 20 kΩ per 55 cm, more preferably less than 15 kΩ per 55 cm, and particularly preferably less than 14 kΩ per 55 cm. 14 kΩ per 55 cm is the maximum value that allows for particularly reliable capacitance measurement. Furthermore, the mixing of the real and imaginary parts of the impedance increases, meaning that resistance affects capacitance. In addition, higher electrode resistance also leads to higher measurement noise. Particularly preferably, all values ​​mentioned herein apply to each electrode of the two interdigitate electrodes.

[0058] According to another preferred embodiment, the deviation of the ohm resistance is at most 29%, preferably at most 27%, and particularly preferably at most 25%. This ensures that the real components of the ohm resistance and total resistance do not exceed a certain maximum value and do not affect the capacitance measurement, thus providing reliable measurements.

[0059] In a more preferred embodiment, the height of the polymer substrate is 10 μm to 500 μm, preferably 35 μm to 65 μm, more preferably 45 μm to 55 μm, and particularly preferably 50 μm. Using a thickness of 50 μm as the height provides a substrate that is not too thin to be easy to handle and cure, and not too thick to be hard, uncomfortable, or expensive. Instead, the substrate maintains flexibility. The reduced stretchability increases the stability of the ink. Typically, absorbent articles are activated before use, and force is applied parallel to the absorbent article to loosen the absorbent material. If the ink is not printed on a stable substrate, stretching can damage the electrodes. In this respect, the selected dimensions reduce the risk of damage, so such continuous reels are particularly suitable for use in the corresponding process. The use of adhesives, particularly hot melt adhesives, ensures that the polymer substrate (especially PET substrates) maintains its structure and functionality due to the effects of heat when bonding the moisture sensor strip to the absorbent article and / or cover layer.

[0060] The polymer, particularly the PET substrate, should preferably have a thermal conductivity of less than 1.0 W / (m·K), preferably less than 0.5 W / (m·K), and especially preferably less than 0.2 W / (m·K). This prevents excessive heat from reaching and damaging the ink electrodes.

[0061] In contrast, the ink should preferably have a thermal conductivity of 100 W / (m·K) or higher, more preferably 125 W / (m·K) or higher, and particularly preferably 150 W / (m·K) or higher.

[0062] In preferred embodiments of the present invention, the electrodes have a height of 1 μm to 50 μm, preferably 1 μm to 16 μm, more preferably 8 μm to 14 μm, even more preferably 10 μm to 12 μm, and particularly preferably 10 μm, and are arranged coplanar on a polymer substrate. These ranges have been demonstrated to be particularly stable and resistant in the corresponding methods. If the layer is too thin, the electrode material may be damaged by mechanical wear. Furthermore, if the layer is too thin, the resistance value becomes very high. If the layer is too thick, the flexibility of the material is impaired. In addition, cost-effectiveness optimization is achieved by considering the above criteria. Particularly when using adhesives such as hot melt adhesives, it is realized that the ink maintains its structure and functionality even when bonding the moisture sensor strip to the absorber and / or cover layer by heat or mechanical action.

[0063] Preferably, the length of the moisture sensor strip is 400mm to 750mm, more preferably 450mm to 700mm, even more preferably 500mm to 650mm, even more preferably 520mm to 600mm, and particularly preferably 546mm. That is, the cut electrode and the moisture sensor strip have these dimensions, respectively.

[0064] According to another preferred embodiment of the present invention, at least one of the first adhesive, second adhesive, and third adhesive is either an assembly adhesive, a cold melt adhesive, or a hot melt adhesive. Assembly adhesives can be applied quickly and easily to absorbent articles on a production line. Cold melt adhesives can be described as hot melt adhesives with a low melting point and application temperature, typically around 130°C or lower. Hot melt adhesives are also available. These are applied on a production line using a heated application device, enabling very high-speed processing. To obtain a uniform thickness, application by slot nozzle is preferred over spray application or segment application.

[0065] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the processing temperature of the hot-melt adhesive is 115°C to 140°C. In other words, the usage temperature or melting point of the hot-melt adhesive is 115°C to 140°C. This means that the hot-melt adhesive is used at 115-140°C for materials such as PET, for example, where the normal allowable temperature range is up to 110°C. Surprisingly, however, it has been demonstrated that no damage occurs to the substrate, cover layer, or printing ink. Therefore, this property applies to each method of the invention to which a continuous reel is applicable. Thus, this relates to the manufacturing method of a continuous reel (basic embodiment, preferred embodiment of the basic embodiment, and first embodiment of a continuous reel according to the present invention) and its use within the scope of a second preferred embodiment or its variations according to the present invention. This is particularly effective in combination with the first and third adhesives, but is also effective when used in combination with the second adhesive. The use of the hot-melt adhesive, particularly in combination with the aforementioned temperature range, allows for particularly uniform application of the adhesive. This has a favorable effect on the measurement process and the resulting measurements, because there are no localized differences in the thickness of the adhesive layer, and therefore conductivity non-uniformity does not occur or is reduced. The distances between the corresponding layers formed by the cover layer, moisture sensor strip, and electrodes, as well as the distances between them and the absorbent article, are particularly uniform. Reliable adhesion is also achieved. Compared to pressure-sensitive adhesives, excessive pressure on the system is avoided.

[0066] According to another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the thickness of the hot-melt adhesive is less than 10 μm, preferably less than 7 μm, and particularly preferably less than 5 μm. This further enhances the aforementioned effects and optimizes the adhesion, uniformity, and bonding of the adhesive layer, the reliability of the electrodes, the prevention of damage to the cover layer, moisture sensor strip, and electrodes, and the interaction between them in terms of distance.

[0067] In a more preferred embodiment, the elastic limit (yield strength) of the substrate is obtained when the strain of the substrate is in the range of 1.5 to 2.5%, preferably at a 2% strain. That is, the elastic limit of the substrate is the mechanical stress (N / m) at which the material exhibits elastic behavior. 2 The yield point is the threshold where relative elongation occurs at 1.5–2.5%, preferably 2%. The yield point is the point on the stress-strain curve that marks the limit of elastic behavior and the beginning of plastic behavior. Below the yield point, the material deforms elastically and returns to its original shape when the applied stress is removed. Above the yield point, part of the deformation becomes permanent and irreversible, known as plastic deformation. In the yield strength test (ISO 6892-1), a small specimen with a fixed cross-sectional area is taken and subjected to a tensile test with a controlled, gradually increasing load. The load is continued until the specimen deforms or breaks. Longitudinal and / or transverse strains are recorded using a mechanical or optical extensometer. It has been demonstrated that the functionality (or conformity to specifications) of the electrode is guaranteed as long as the elongation of the substrate remains within this yield point (elastic limit).

[0068] More preferably, at least one of the first, second, and third adhesives is a pressure-sensitive adhesive, preferably comprising an acrylate polymer, rubber, natural rubber, and / or synthetic thermoplastic elastomer. Pressure-sensitive polyacrylate (PSA) adhesives can be screen-printed onto absorbent articles, moisture-sensing strips, and / or cover layers and cured, thereby enabling subsequent adhesion of the corresponding components. Alternatively, pressure-sensitive adhesives can be used in the form of pre-cured transfer tapes. PSAs are useful in home care / nursing facilities because they are supplied in continuous reels with the adhesive already applied to the release paper / liner, making them easy to apply.

[0069] In a more preferred embodiment, the first adhesive is an electrically insulating adhesive film with a thickness of 1 to 100 μm, preferably 5 to 75 μm, and more preferably 10 to 50 μm. The first adhesive ensures secure adhesion between the moisture sensor strip and the absorbent article while simultaneously providing additional insulation against the possibility of liquids.

[0070] According to another preferred embodiment of the present invention, a pressure-sensitive adhesive is printed onto an absorbent article and / or moisture-sensing strip, and the pressure-sensitive adhesive is cured. Preferably, the pressure-sensitive adhesive is screen-printed. This separates the preparation and provision of the adhesive from the actual bonding process.

[0071] The cover layer preferably includes a first layer made of a nonwoven fabric material, the nonwoven fabric material preferably includes polypropylene and / or PET.

[0072] More preferably, the cover layer comprises a first layer and a second layer, the first layer comprising a nonwoven fabric material, preferably polypropylene and / or PET, and the second layer comprising a polymer film, preferably a polyethylene film. The choice of materials ensures that the cover layer allows for processing in an absorbent article manufacturing line and has sufficient tensile strength to form stable pockets without tearing, while also having sufficient flexibility for potential clips to penetrate the material.

[0073] A further aspect of the present invention relates to the use of the first continuous reel in a method according to a second preferred embodiment of the present invention or a variation thereof.

[0074] Another aspect of the present invention relates to an apparatus used in a method according to a third embodiment (modified) of the present invention, comprising a first roll for receiving a continuous reel according to the first embodiment or a preferred embodiment of the continuous reel according to the present invention, and a second roll for receiving the removed release paper. Furthermore, the apparatus comprises a first pressure roller and a second pressure roller, a gap of variable width formed between the first and second pressure rollers, and a connecting element configured to operably connect the first and second rollers and to synchronize the rotation of the first and second rollers. Furthermore, the apparatus comprises a pre-tensioned spring positioned on the first or second pressure roller and configured to adjust the pressure of the pressure roller by adjusting the width of the gap. The apparatus makes it possible to subsequently connect an absorbent article that has already been manufactured to a segment of the continuous reel, thereby attaching a sensor for moisture measurement. The absorbent article is pressed into the gap. Thereafter, a portion of the moisture sensor strip and / or a portion of the cover layer come into contact with the absorbent article. Since the release paper has been removed in advance, the first adhesive and / or the second adhesive come into contact with the absorbent article. Furthermore, since some segments may be covered with release paper, the release paper is continuously removed during insertion. Adhesion is performed by pressure from a crimping roller. In this process, the absorbent article is inserted in stages, and one complete segment from among several segments is gradually adhered to the absorbent article. The absorbent article is then removed. The applied segments can be separated either before or after removal. The two rolls are connected by a connecting element to ensure constant tension on the release paper and to avoid interrupting the unwinding process. Herein, the present invention provides an apparatus that enables the simple and rapid connection of absorbent articles to a continuous reel, thereby enabling subsequent conversion into absorbent articles capable of moisture measurement.

[0075] Another aspect relating to a system manufactured by a basic embodiment of the method of the present invention includes an absorbent article, a continuous strip including a moisture sensor strip having two interdigitate electrodes printed with a conductive material-based ink on a PET substrate, and a cover layer and an access opening. Furthermore, the system includes a first adhesive disposed between a first partial surface of the absorbent article and a second surface of the moisture sensor strip excluding the pocket region of the absorbent article, and a second adhesive disposed between the second partial surface of the absorbent article and the first surface of the cover layer, wherein in the pocket region of the absorbent article, the second adhesive is disposed in the side edge region of the cover layer, and the second adhesive is absent in the region between the side edge regions, and the cover layer overlaps so as to cover both longitudinal edges of the moisture sensor strip. Furthermore, the system includes a pocket space enclosed by the pocket region of the absorbent article, the side edge region of the cover layer, and the region between the side edge regions, and this pocket space is accessible through an access opening.

[0076] Preferably, the third adhesive is further provided, at least intermittently, between the first surface of the moisture sensor strip and the first surface of the cover layer material.

[0077] In a further preferred embodiment of the system, the system comprises an integrated circuit, a first rotatable element, a second rotatable element connected to the first rotatable element at a folded edge, and teeth. Here, the first rotatable element is positioned within a pocket space, and in the closed position of the clip, the teeth penetrate the cover layer to secure the clip to the cover layer. The clip is also aligned with a moisture sensor strip, with the contact pads of the moisture sensor strip and the contact pins of the clip electrically connected, and the moisture sensor strip is aligned between the teeth. Using the integrated circuit, a modulated voltage is applied to the IDE and the current response between the electrodes is measured. Frequency-dependent impedance is calculated, and based on this, frequency-dependent capacitance is calculated. The clip preferably includes an elastomer element, particularly preferably a silicone element. The silicone element is configured to hold the moisture sensor strip in place when the clip is in the closed position, to maintain electrical contact, and to apply sufficient pressure to ensure low contact resistance.

[0078] A clip connected to a moisture sensor strip preferably includes an integrated circuit capable of generating sinusoidal voltages at different frequencies. These voltages are applied to one electrode (the driving electrode) of the moisture sensor strip. The other electrode (the sensor electrode) is used to measure the current flowing through the sensor. At each frequency step, the frequency-dependent capacitance is calculated from the amplitudes of the voltage and current, and the phase difference between them. This is equivalent to measuring the complex impedance and calculating the capacitance from the imaginary part. The real part (ohmic resistance) is not used. The frequency-dependent capacitance is fitted to a power law, and the capacitance value is calculated from the fitting coefficient. This power law fitting is also used for noise suppression.

[0079] Different embodiments of the disclosures described herein can be advantageously combined unless otherwise stated herein.

[0080] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in more detail below with reference to the drawings. [Effects of the Invention]

[0081] The present invention provides a method for manufacturing an absorbent article equipped with a sensor that automatically detects moisture content within the absorbent article. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0082] [Figure 1] Figure 1a is a side view of a first continuous reel according to a preferred embodiment for use in a second embodiment of the present invention or a method according to a modified form thereof; Figure 1b is a cross-sectional view of a section of the first continuous reel shown in Figure 1a; and Figure 1c is a top view of a portion of the first continuous reel shown in Figure 1a. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a snapshot of a second preferred embodiment, or a method of joining an absorbent article to a continuous strip including a moisture sensor strip and a cover layer, according to that preferred embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3a shows a part of the continuous strip structure in Figure 2, Figure 3b shows the joint between the absorbent material and the continuous strip section, Figure 3c shows the joint between the continuous strip section and the absorbent material in Figure 2, and Figure 3d is a perspective view of the joint between the continuous strip section and the absorbent material in Figure 3b. [Figure 4] Figure 4a shows a system having a partial cross-sectional view according to the present invention, manufactured by the manufacturing method according to the present invention, and Figure 4b shows the system of Figure 4a with the clip positioned outside the pocket space. [Figure 5] Figure 5a is a perspective view of the apparatus according to the present invention used in a third preferred embodiment (modified) of the present invention, and Figure 5b is a cross-sectional view of the apparatus of Figure 5a. [Figure 6]Figure 6a is a flowchart showing a method for joining an absorbent article to a continuous strip including a moisture sensor strip and a cover layer according to a basic embodiment of the present invention; Figure 6b is a flowchart showing a method for joining an absorbent article to a continuous strip including a moisture sensor strip and a cover layer according to a first modification of a second preferred embodiment; Figure 6c is a flowchart showing a method for joining an absorbent article to a continuous strip including a moisture sensor strip and a cover layer according to a second modification of a second preferred embodiment; and Figure 6d is a flowchart showing a method for joining an absorbent article to a continuous strip including a moisture sensor strip and a cover layer according to a third embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0083] The embodiments shown in the drawings will be described in detail. The effects and features of the embodiments will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, the same reference numerals indicate the same components, and redundant explanations will be omitted. However, the present invention can be embodied in various different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments illustrated herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided merely as examples to adequately convey aspects and features of the present invention to those skilled in the art.

[0084] Figure 1a shows a side view of a first continuous reel 40 according to a preferred embodiment used in a method in a second preferred embodiment or a variation thereof of the present invention. The first continuous reel 40 comprises a moisture sensor strip 41 consisting of two interdigitate electrodes (IDEs) 422. Preferably, the IDEs 422 are screen printed and cured on a flexible, planar PET substrate 421 using conductive carbon-based ink. The moisture sensor strip 41 is provided on a roll formed by the first continuous reel 40. The moisture sensor strip 41 can be used as a cut strip, sized according to the length of the absorbent article, or in a roll-to-roll process. The moisture sensor strip 41 is preferably manufactured using roll-to-roll screen printing, but other methods such as flexographic printing and (rot)gravure printing can also be used. The inner diameter d, outer diameter y, and width w depend on the application. The width w is preferably optimized from the viewpoint of comfort and cost. A larger sensor yields a higher signal, but increases cost and decreases comfort.

[0085] Figure 1b shows a cross-section of a portion of the first continuous reel. Here, the relationship between the height of the IDE422 printed with conductive carbon-based ink and the thickness of the PET substrate 421 is qualitatively shown. The PET substrate 421 is preferably 50 μm thick, which is thin enough to be easy to handle and cure, and does not become too hard, unpleasant, or too expensive.

[0086] Figure 1c shows a top view of a portion of the first continuous reel 40 shown in Figure 1a. This shows a preferred design of the IDE 422 placed on a moisture sensor strip 41 printed on a PET substrate 421. The IDE 422 preferably has a height of about 12 μm in a coplanar layout. The electrode fingers of the IDE 422 are preferably less than 10 mm in length and spaced 1 mm to 2 mm apart. The design of the IDE 422 is optimized so that the penetration depth of the electric field generated during impedance measurement does not exceed 5 mm. This allows it to be determined that changes in capacitance values ​​are due to the presence of excrement (urine, feces) inside the absorbent article and not to the user / patient's body. Since the pattern of the IDE 422 is repeated in one direction, the first continuous reel 40 can be cut to fit the size of the absorbent article to be fitted. The IDE 422 can be made to contact any point on the periphery / end of the electrode. The offset (initial) capacitance of the sensor is determined by the length of the absorbent article, the type of absorbent article, and the mounting means (e.g., type and thickness of adhesive). These specifications are predefined for specific types of absorbent articles.

[0087] Figure 2 shows a snapshot of a method for joining an absorbent article 10 to a continuous strip including a moisture sensor strip 41 and a cover layer 51, according to a second preferred embodiment or a preferred embodiment thereof. The absorbent article includes, in particular, a template product that is converted into a final product. The absorbent article 10 (also called the pre-production 10 of the absorbent article) is such a template product. It is available as a quasi-infinite amount of raw material that can be processed in further steps. Here, we assume that the finished absorbent article 20 (also called the finished absorbent article 20), in this case the diaper 20, is obtained by cutting a quasi-infinite amount of absorbent article 10.

[0088] The cover layer 51 is preferably breathable and composed of a nonwoven fabric material such as polypropylene or PET.

[0089] As shown in the left region of Figure 2, the absorbent article 10 is positioned at the bottom, the first continuous reel 40 is positioned above it, and the second continuous reel 50 is positioned above it. The first continuous reel 40 is preferably as shown in Figures 1a-1c. Thus, the first continuous reel 40 includes a moisture sensor strip 41, and the second continuous reel 50 includes a cover layer 51. Here, the moisture sensor strip 41 and the cover layer 51 are unwound from reels 40 and 50, respectively. The illustrated snapshots of the roll-to-roll process include both the first and second modifications of the second preferred embodiment.

[0090] Although not shown, assuming such an adhesive exists, there is a first adhesive applied between the moisture sensor strip 41 and the first partial surface 31 to adhere a portion of the moisture sensor strip 42 to the first partial surface 31 of the absorbent articles 10 and 20. In the pocket region 33 of absorbent article 10, and in absorbent article 20, the moisture sensor strip 41 is not adhered to the first partial surface 31. There is also a second adhesive applied between the cover layer 51 and the second partial surface 32, which adheres a portion of the cover layer 52 to the second partial surface 32 of absorbent articles 10 and 20. In absorbent articles 10 and 20, the side edge region 521 of the cover layer 51 is adhered to absorbent articles 10 and 20, while the region between the side edge regions 521 is not coated with adhesive, and the cover layer 51 covers both longitudinal edges of the moisture sensor strip 41.

[0091] As shown in the right-hand region of Figure 2, the separation edge of the finished absorbent article 20 is already indicated. A portion of the moisture sensor strip 42 is placed on the absorbent article 20 and adhered to the first portion surface 31 of the absorbent article 20. Furthermore, a portion of the cover layer 52 is adhered to the second portion surface 32 of the absorbent article 20, and the cover layer 51 overlaps to cover both longitudinal edges of the moisture sensor strip. In the pocket region 33 of the absorbent article 20, the side edge regions 521 of the cover layer 51 are adhered to the absorbent article 20, while the region between the side edge regions 521 is left unadhesive (see Figure 3b for the side edge regions 521). Figure 2 shows an access opening 522 to the pocket space 523 enclosed by the pocket region 33 of the absorbent article 20, the side edge regions 521 of the cover layer 51, and the region between the side edge regions 521, and the pocket space 523 is accessible through the access opening 522.

[0092] In the first or second modified example of the second embodiment of the present invention, a third adhesive is also present, applied between at least a portion of the moisture sensor strip 41 and a portion of the cover layer 51, but is not shown.

[0093] Figure 3a shows a portion of the continuous strip of Figure 2, which refers to a first modification of a second preferred embodiment. Here, before bonding a portion of the moisture sensor strip 42 to the first portion surface 31 of the absorbent articles 10,20, and before bonding a portion of the cover layer 52 to the second portion surface 32 of the absorbent articles 10,20, the moisture sensor strip 41 is bonded to the cover layer 51 by a third adhesive applied between at least a portion of the moisture sensor strip 41 and a portion of the cover layer 51. Thus, a kind of semi-finished product or laminate is formed, which is then bonded to the absorbent articles 10,20 as described above.

[0094] Figure 3b shows the bonding of a portion of the continuous strip of Figure 3b to the absorbent article. The dashed line indicates a region located between two side edge regions 521, in which the cover layer 51 is not bonded to the absorbent article 20 on one side, and preferably the moisture sensor strip 41 is not bonded to the absorbent article 20 and the cover layer 51 on the other side. This dashed line also indicates a pocket region 33.

[0095] Figure 3c shows a finished absorbent article 20 joined to a portion of the continuous strip from Figure 2. The finished absorbent article 20 is separated from the previous absorbent article 10 along the separation edge and constitutes the final product.

[0096] Figure 3d is a perspective view showing the absorbent article joined to a portion of the continuous strip shown in Figure 3b. Here, the materials used for both the cover layer 51 and the moisture sensor strip 41 demonstrate that the finished absorbent article 20 in its assembled form retains flexibility while the joint is securely held by a well-selected adhesive.

[0097] Figure 4a shows a system 80 manufactured by the method according to the present invention, showing a partial cross-sectional view according to the present invention. System 80 comprises a finished absorbent article 20, a moisture sensor strip 41 having two interdigitate electrodes 422 printed with conductive material-based ink on a PET substrate 421, a cover layer 51, and a continuous strip including an access opening 522. System 80 further includes a first adhesive (not shown) disposed between a first partial surface 31 of the absorbent article 20 and a second surface of the moisture sensor strip 41, excluding the pocket region 33 of the absorbent article 20. The second surface of the moisture sensor strip 41 faces the outer surface of the absorbent article 20. A second adhesive (not shown) is disposed between the second partial surface 32 of the absorbent article 20 and the first surface of the cover layer 51. Here, in the pocket region 33 of the absorbent article 20, the second adhesive is disposed on the side edge region 521 of the cover layer 51. The first surface of the cover layer 51 faces the outer surface of the absorbent article 20. The area between the side edge regions 521 is devoid of the second adhesive, and the cover layer 51 overlaps to cover both longitudinal edges of the moisture sensor strip 41. Furthermore, a pocket space 523 is shown, enclosed by the pocket region 33 of the absorbent article 20, the side edge regions 521 of the cover layer 51, and the area between the side edge regions 521. The pocket space 523 is accessible through an access opening 522. Also shown is an integrated circuit (not shown), a first pivotable element 61, a second pivotable element 62 connected to the first pivotable element 61 at a bent edge 63, and a clip 60 comprising teeth 64. The first pivotable element 61 is positioned within the pocket space 523, and in the closed position of the clip 60 (not shown), the teeth 64 penetrate the cover layer 51, thereby securing the clip 60 to the cover layer 51. The clip 60 is aligned with the moisture sensor strip 41, and the contact pads (not shown) of the moisture sensor strip 41 and the contact pins 66 of the clip 60 are electrically connected, and the moisture sensor strip 41 is aligned between the teeth 64. The teeth 64 of the clip 60 penetrate the cover layer 51 to maintain position. The pocket space 523 is preferably made narrow to improve the alignment between the clip 60 and the moisture sensor strip 41.The dimensions of the pocket space 523 are configured so that the contact pins can be accurately and easily aligned with the peripheral conductive track of the IDE 422, while simultaneously ensuring that the clip 60 is securely held in place. When the clip 60 is not inserted, for example when the absorbent article 20 is packaged, no volume / bulk is added to the absorbent article 20. A sufficiently low basis weight nonwoven fabric is selected, which allows the teeth to penetrate the pocket space 523 and further ensures that the clip 60 is held in place. The clip 60 sandwiches the moisture sensor strip 41 between its contact pin 66 and the rotatable elements 61,62 on the folded edge 63. This applies pressure to the back surface of the moisture sensor strip 41, pressing it against the contact pin. A silicone pin 65 within the wearable clip holds the moisture sensor strip 41 in place when the clip is in the closed position, ensuring that sufficient pressure is applied to maintain electrical contact and ensure low contact resistance.

[0098] Figure 4b shows the system 80 of Figure 4a, with the clip 60 positioned outside the pocket space 523.

[0099] Figure 5a is a perspective view of an apparatus 70 according to the present invention, used in a method in a third preferred embodiment (modification) of the present invention. The apparatus 70 comprises a first roll 71 for receiving a continuous reel 78 according to a first embodiment of the continuous reel according to the present invention, or a continuous reel according to a preferred embodiment thereof. The apparatus 70 further comprises a second roll 72 for receiving the removed release paper 77, a first crimping roller 73, and a second crimping roller 74. A gap 75 of variable width is formed between the first crimping roller 73 and the second crimping roller 74. A connecting element (not shown) is configured to operably connect the first roll 71 and the second roll 72 and to synchronize the rotation of the first roll 71 and the second roll 72. A pre-pressure spring (not shown) is also positioned on the first crimping roller 73 or the second crimping roller 74 and is configured to adjust the pressure on the crimping rollers 73, 74 by adjusting the width of the gap 75. The continuous reel 78, positioned on the first roll 71, includes a moisture sensor strip 41 consisting of two interdigitate electrodes (IDEs) 422, an access opening 522 to a pocket space 523, and a third adhesive positioned at least intermittently between the first surface of the moisture sensor strip 41 and the first surface of the cover layer 51 material. Here, the third adhesive is not positioned within the pocket space 523. The continuous reel 78 further includes a plurality of identical segments in the longitudinal direction of the continuous reel 78, each segment comprising a first adhesive positioned on the second surface of the moisture sensor strip 41 excluding the pocket portion, a second adhesive positioned on the first surface of the cover layer 51, where in the pocket portion of the cover layer 51, the second adhesive is positioned in the side edge region 521 of the pocket portion of the cover layer 51, and the second adhesive is not present in the region between the side edge regions 521, and at least one release liner covering the first adhesive and the second adhesive. The continuous reel 78 preferably includes predefined separation regions, preferably perforations, for separating segments of the continuous reel 78. The separation regions are provided in the moisture sensor strip 41 and the cover layer 51. Also shown are a portion of the continuous strip 76 76 positioned in front of the first crimping roller 73 and the second crimping roller 74 79.

[0100] Figure 5b shows a cross-section of the apparatus in Figure 5a. Here, it is clear that the portion of the continuous strip 76 that constitutes part of the moisture sensor strip 42 and part of the cover layer 52 is unwound before being bonded to the absorbent articles 10,20. The direction of movement of the unfolded portion of the continuous strip 76 is indicated by the direction of movement D1. Furthermore, it is shown that the release paper 77 is removed after the portion of the continuous strip 76 has been unfolded, and before the portion of the moisture sensor strip 42 is bonded, and / or before the portion of the cover layer 52 is bonded to the absorbent articles 10,20. The peeled release paper 77 is deflected by a small roll indicated by a rotating arrow, and then moves along the direction of movement D3 before the peeled release paper 77 is wound onto the release paper roll 72. The exposed portion of the moisture sensor strip 42 and / or the portion of the cover layer 52 form an end, and the absorbent articles 10,20 can receive the end 79 when the portion of the continuous strip 76 is inserted into the gap 7 by the absorbent articles 10,20.

[0101] Figure 6a shows a method for joining an absorbent article to a continuous strip including a moisture sensor strip and a cover layer, according to a basic embodiment of the present invention. This method will be described with reference to Figures 2 and 3a-3c. This figure is particularly suitable for, but not limited to, a roll-to-roll process of this form. In the first step S100, a portion of the moisture sensor strip 42 is bonded to the first partial surface 31 of the absorbent articles 10,20. Here, no adhesion occurs between the moisture sensor strip 41 and the first partial surface 31 in the pocket region 33 of the absorbent articles 10,20. This non-adhered region is shown by a dashed line in Figure 3b. In the second step S200, a portion of the cover layer 51 is bonded to the second partial surface 32 of the absorbent articles 10,20 by applying a second adhesive between the cover layer 51 and the second partial surface 32. Here, the area between the side edge regions 521 is bonded to the absorbent articles 10,20, while the area between the side edge regions 521 remains unadhered. This state is also shown in Figure 3b. The cover layer 51 also overlaps the moisture sensor strip (41) so as to cover both longitudinal edges. After step S200, in step S300, the adhesive portion of the moisture sensor strip 42 and the adhesive portion of the cover layer 52 are separated from the continuous strip. Steps S100 and S200 are very well represented by the left region of Figure 2, but the situation after step S300, i.e., separation, is as shown in the right region of Figure 2. In the final step of the first embodiment, an access opening 522 is provided for a pocket space 523 surrounded by the pocket region 33 of the absorbent articles 10, 20, the side edge region 521 of the cover layer 51, and the region between the side edge regions 521. This pocket space 523 is accessible through the access opening 522.

[0102] Figure 6b shows a method for joining an absorbent article to a continuous strip including a moisture sensor strip and a cover layer, according to a first modification of a second preferred embodiment. Therefore, the contents of steps S100 to S400 remain unchanged, except the process begins at step S100A. In step S100A, the moisture sensor strip 41 is bonded to the cover layer 51 by applying a third adhesive between at least a portion of the moisture sensor strip 41 and a portion of the cover layer 51. Therefore, Figure 2 is no longer applicable to embodiments of the method of this invention, because in that figure, at least the cover layer and the moisture sensor strip are not bonded before the moisture sensor strip is bonded to the absorbent article. However, other features such as relative arrangement and the final product remain valid.

[0103] Figure 6c shows a method for joining an absorbent article to a continuous strip including a moisture sensor strip and a cover layer, according to a second modification of a second preferred embodiment. The steps shown there correspond to the steps shown in Figure 6b, except that the steps begin with step S100, i.e., bonding a portion of the moisture sensor strip 41 to the first portion surface 31 of the absorbent article, followed by step S100A, i.e., bonding the moisture sensor strip 41 to the cover layer 51. Thus, the configuration shown in the left region of Figure 2 also applies to this embodiment of the method of the present invention.

[0104] Figure 6d shows a method for joining an absorbent article to a continuous strip including a moisture sensor strip and a cover layer according to a third embodiment. This method will be described with reference to Figures 4a and 4b and Figures 5a and 5b. These figures are particularly suitable for, but not limited to, modifications of this embodiment. Figures 5a and 5b show the apparatus used in this method. The continuous strip is provided as a continuous reel 78 including a moisture sensor strip 41 bonded to a cover layer 51, and in step S100B, a portion of the continuous strip 76 including a portion of the moisture sensor strip 42 is unwound together with the portion of the cover layer 52. In step S100C, the release paper is removed. In step S100D, the removed release paper, deflected by the apparatus as shown in Figure 5b, is wound onto a release paper roll 72. The end of the continuous strip 76 is positioned in front of the first crimping roller 73 and the second crimping roller 74, and when the absorbent articles 10, 20 are inserted, the portion of the continuous strip 76 is inserted into the gap 75, and the absorbent articles 10, 20 accept the end. Then, in step S100E, pressure is applied to the portion of the continuous strip using the crimping rollers 73 and 74. Here, steps S100 to S400, which have already been described, are followed. At this time, the adhesion of the portion of the moisture sensor strip 42 to the first portion surface 31 of the absorbent articles 10, 20 and the adhesion of the portion of the cover layer 52 to the second portion surface 32 of the absorbent articles 10, 20 are performed simultaneously. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0105] 10. Previous products of absorbent articles 20. Finished products of absorbent articles 31 1st part surface 32 Second part surface 33 Pocket Area 40 consecutive reels 41 Moisture Sensor Strip 42 Moisture Sensor Strip 421 PET substrate 422 Interdigitated electrodes (IDE) 50 Second consecutive reel 51 Cover layer 52 Cover layer 521 Lateral area 522 Access openings 523 Pocket Space 60 clips 61 First Movable Element 62 Second Movable Elements 63 Folded edge 64 teeth 65 Silicone Pins 66 Contact pins 70 equipment 71 Roll 1 72. Second roll (release paper roll) 73 First Crimping Roller 74. Second crimping roller 75 gaps 76 consecutive strips 77 Removed release paper 78 consecutive reels 79 Part of the end of a continuous strip 80 Systems D1 Movement direction D2 Movement direction D3 Direction of movement

Claims

1. A method for joining absorbent articles (10, 20) to a continuous strip including a moisture sensor strip (41) and a cover layer (51), The process includes a step of bonding a portion (42) of the moisture sensor strip to the first partial surface (31) of the absorbent article (10, 20) by applying a first adhesive between the moisture sensor strip (41) and the first partial surface (31), wherein in the pocket region (33) of the absorbent article (10, 20), the moisture sensor strip (41) is not bonded to the first partial surface (31). The process includes a step of bonding a portion (52) of the cover layer to the second partial surface (32) of the absorbent article (10, 20) by applying a second adhesive between the cover layer (51) and the second partial surface (32), wherein in the pocket region (33) of the absorbent article (10, 20), the side edge region (521) of the cover layer (51) is bonded to the absorbent article (10, 20), the region between the side edge regions (521) is not coated with adhesive, and the cover layer (51) overlaps to cover both longitudinal edges of the moisture sensor strip (41). The process includes separating the adhesive portion (42) of the moisture sensor strip and the adhesive portion (52) of the cover layer from the continuous strip. A method providing an access opening (522) to a pocket space (523) surrounded by the pocket region (33) of the absorbent articles (10, 20), the side edge region (521) of the cover layer (51), and the region between the side edge regions (521), wherein the pocket space (523) is accessible through the access opening (522).

2. The method according to claim 1, The pocket space (523) receives a clip (60) equipped with an integrated circuit, the clip includes a first rotatable element (61) and a second rotatable element (62) connected to the first rotatable element (61) at a folding edge (63), wherein the size of the pocket space (523) is adapted to the size of the first rotatable element (61). In the closed position of the clip (60) for attaching the clip (60) to the cover layer (51), the teeth (64) of the second rotatable element (62) penetrate it. A method comprising aligning the clip (60) with the moisture sensor strip (41), wherein the contact pad of the moisture sensor strip (41) and the contact pin (66) of the clip (60) are electrically connected to each other, and the moisture sensor strip (41) is positioned between the teeth (64).

3. A method according to claim 1 or 2, The method wherein the continuous strip is provided as a continuous reel (78) including the moisture sensor strip (41) bonded to the cover layer (51), and a portion of the continuous strip (76) including the moisture sensor strip (42) and the cover layer (52) is unwound before being bonded to the absorbent articles (10, 20).

4. A method according to claim 1 or 2, The method wherein the moisture sensor strip (41) is provided as a first continuous reel (40), and the cover layer (51) is provided as a second continuous reel (50).

5. The method according to claim 4, Before bonding a portion (42) of the moisture sensor strip to the first partial surface (31) of the absorbent article (10, 20), and before bonding a portion of the cover layer (52) to the second partial surface (32) of the absorbent article (10, 20), the following steps are further included: A method for bonding the moisture sensor strip (41) to the cover layer (51) by applying a third adhesive between at least a portion of the moisture sensor strip (41) and a portion of the cover layer (51).

6. The method according to claim 4, After adhering a portion (42) of the moisture sensor strip to the first partial surface (31) of the absorbent article (10, 20), the following steps are taken: A method for bonding the moisture sensor strip (41) to the cover layer (51) by applying a third adhesive between the moisture sensor strip (41) and the cover layer (51).

7. The method according to claim 6, The moisture sensor strip (41) is a method that maintains a state in which no adhesive is applied in the area between the side edge areas (521) in the pocket area (33) of the absorbent article (10, 20).

8. A method according to claim 3 or 5, A method wherein the moisture sensor strip (41) is intermittently bonded to the cover layer (51), and the non-bonded portion of the moisture sensor strip (41) is positioned to overlap with the pocket region (33) before the moisture sensor strip (41) is bonded to the absorbent articles (10, 20).

9. The method according to claim 3, The continuous reel (78) further includes a first adhesive, a second adhesive, and at least one release paper for covering the first adhesive and the second adhesive. A method further comprising the step of removing the release paper after unwinding the portion of the continuous strip (76) and before adhering the portion (42) of the moisture sensor strip to the absorbent article (10, 20) and / or before adhering the portion (52) of the cover layer to the absorbent article (10, 20).

10. The method according to claim 9, A step of winding the removed release paper (77) onto a release paper roll (72), The method further comprises the step of bonding a portion of the moisture sensor strip (42) and a portion of the cover layer (52) to the absorbent article (10, 20) while applying pressure to the portion of the continuous strip (76) with a pressure roller (73, 74), wherein the continuous reel (78) and the release paper roll (72) are connected to each other by a transmission device including a coupling.

11. The method according to claim 10, A method in which the pressure of the crimping rollers (73, 74) is adjusted by a preloaded spring.

12. A method according to claim 10 or 11, The pressure is applied by a first crimping roller (73) and a second crimping roller (74) forming a gap (75), and the absorbent articles (10, 20) are inserted into the gap to bond a portion (42) of the moisture sensor strip and a portion (52) of the cover layer to the absorbent articles, in a method.

13. The method according to claim 12, A method wherein the end of the continuous strip (76) is positioned in front of the first crimping roller (73) and the second crimping roller (74), and the absorbent articles (10, 20) receive the end of the continuous strip (76) when it is inserted into the gap (75).

14. A continuous reel (78) of a continuous strip used in any one of claims 1 to 3 and 8 to 13, A moisture sensor strip (41) comprising two interdigitate electrodes (IDEs) (422) printed with a conductive material-based ink on a polymer substrate, preferably a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) substrate, A cover layer (51) including the nonwoven fabric material and an access opening (522) to the pocket space (523), The third adhesive is disposed at least intermittently between the first surface of the moisture sensor strip (41) and the first surface of the cover layer (51) material, In this case, the third adhesive is not placed in the pocket space (523) of the continuous reel (78).

15. A continuous reel (78) according to claim 14, The continuous reel (78) is provided with predefined separation regions for separating segments of the continuous reel (78), the separation regions being provided in the moisture sensor strip (41) and the cover layer (51).

16. A continuous reel (78) according to claim 14 or 15, Used in the method according to any one of claims 3, 9 to 13, The continuous reel (78) includes a plurality of identical segments in the longitudinal direction of the continuous reel (78), Each segment is The first adhesive is disposed on the second surface of the moisture sensor strip (41), excluding the pocket portion, The second adhesive is disposed on the first surface of the cover layer (51), Here, in the pocket portion of the cover layer (51), the second adhesive is placed in the side edge region (521) of the pocket portion of the cover layer (51), and the second adhesive is not present in the region between the side edge regions (521). Each segment is a continuous reel (78) comprising at least one release paper covering the first adhesive and the second adhesive.

17. A continuous reel (78) according to claim 15 or 16, The separation region is a continuous reel (78) arranged between the same segments.

18. A first continuous reel (40) for use in the method of any one of claims 4 to 7 and for manufacturing a continuous reel (78) according to any one of claims 14 to 17, It consists of a moisture sensor strip (41) including two interdigitate electrodes (IDEs) (422) printed with conductive material-based ink on a polymer substrate (421), The distance between the outer edges of the two interdigitate electrodes (422) is 10 mm to 25 mm, and a first continuous reel (40) has a plurality of pairs of the two interdigitate electrodes (422), each printed on the PET substrate (421) with a conductive material-based ink, arranged adjacent to one another in the lateral direction.

19. A continuous reel (40, 78) according to any one of claims 14 to 18, The two interdigitate electrodes (422) are electrically insulated from each other and are provided with electrode fingers less than 100 mm in length and spaced 1 mm to 5 mm apart, in a continuous reel (40, 78).

20. A continuous reel (40, 78) according to claim 19, The two interdigitated electrodes (422) are a continuous reel (40, 78) designed to generate an electric field with a penetration depth of 1 mm to 10 mm.

21. A continuous reel (40, 78) according to any one of claims 14 to 20, A continuous reel (40, 78) having two interdigitate electrodes (422) and / or each electrode finger having a width of 1 mm to 4 mm.

22. A continuous reel (40, 78) according to any one of claims 14 to 21, The two interdigitated electrodes (422) are continuous reels (40, 78) having an ohm resistance of less than 25 kΩ per 55 cm.

23. A continuous reel (40, 78) according to claim 22, A continuous reel (40, 78) in which the deviation of the aforementioned ohm resistance is a maximum of 29%.

24. A continuous reel (40, 78) according to any one of claims 14 to 23, A continuous reel (40, 78) having a polymer substrate (421) with a height of 10 μm to 500 μm.

25. A continuous reel (40, 78) according to any one of claims 14 to 24, A continuous reel (40, 78) wherein the height of the electrodes is 1 μm to 50 μm, and the electrodes are arranged on the same plane on the polymer substrate (421).

26. A continuous reel (40, 78) according to any one of claims 14 to 25, A continuous reel (40, 78) having a moisture sensor strip (41) with a length of 400 mm to 750 mm.

27. A continuous reel (40, 78) according to any one of claims 14 to 26, A continuous reel (40, 78) wherein at least one of the first adhesive, the second adhesive, and the third adhesive is one of an assembly adhesive, a cold melt adhesive, and a hot melt adhesive.

28. A continuous reel (40, 78) according to claim 27, A continuous reel (40, 78) wherein the processing temperature of the hot melt adhesive is 115°C to 140°C.

29. A continuous reel (40, 78) according to claim 27 or 28, A continuous reel (40, 78) having a hot melt adhesive thickness of less than 10 μm.

30. A continuous reel (40, 78) according to any one of claims 14 to 29, A continuous reel (40, 78) wherein the elastic limit of the substrate (421) is within a strain range of 1.5% to 2.5% of the substrate (421).

31. A continuous reel (40, 78) according to any one of claims 14 to 30, A continuous reel (40, 78) wherein at least one of the first adhesive, the second adhesive, and the third adhesive is a pressure-sensitive adhesive, preferably comprising an acrylate polymer, rubber, natural rubber, and / or a synthetic thermoplastic elastomer.

32. A continuous reel (40, 78) according to any one of claims 14 to 31, A continuous reel (40, 78) of the first adhesive, which is an electrically insulating adhesive film with a thickness of 1 μm to 100 μm.

33. A continuous reel (40, 78) according to claim 32, The pressure-sensitive adhesive is printed onto the absorbent articles (10, 20) and / or the moisture sensor strip (41), and the pressure-sensitive adhesive is cured on a continuous reel (40, 78).

34. A continuous reel (40, 78) according to any one of claims 14 to 33, The cover layer (51) includes a first layer and a second layer, The first layer comprises the nonwoven fabric material, The nonwoven fabric material preferably comprises polypropylene and / or PET. The second layer comprises a polymer film, preferably a polyethylene film, in a continuous reel (40, 78).

35. Use of the first continuous reel (40) according to any one of claims 18 to 34, as used in the method according to any one of claims 4 to 7.

36. Apparatus (70) used in the method according to any one of claims 9 to 13, A first roll (71) that receives a continuous reel (78) according to any one of claims 16 to 34, A second roll (72) for receiving the removed release paper (77), A first crimping roller (73) and a second crimping roller (74), A gap (75) of variable width is formed between the first crimping roller (73) and the second crimping roller (74), A connecting element configured to operably connect the first roll (71) and the second roll (72) and to synchronize the rotation of the first roll (71) and the second roll (72), A device (70) comprising: a preload spring positioned on the first crimping roller (73) or the second crimping roller (74), configured to adjust the pressure on the crimping rollers (73, 74) by adjusting the width of the gap (75).

37. A system (80) manufactured using the method described in claim 1, Absorbent articles (10, 20) and A continuous strip including a moisture sensor strip (41) having two interdigitate electrodes (422) printed with conductive material-based ink on a PET substrate (421), a cover layer (51), and an access opening (522), A first adhesive is disposed between the first partial surface (31) of the absorbent article (10, 20) and the second surface of the moisture sensor strip (41) excluding the pocket region (33) of the absorbent article (10, 20), The absorbent article (10, 20) comprises a second adhesive disposed between the second partial surface (32) and the first surface of the cover layer (51), wherein in the pocket region (33) of the absorbent article (10, 20), the second adhesive is disposed on the side edge region (521) of the cover layer (51), there is no second adhesive in the region between the side edge regions (521), and the cover layer (51) overlaps to cover both longitudinal edges of the moisture sensor strip (41). A system (80) comprising a pocket space (523) surrounded by the pocket region (33) of the absorbent articles (10, 20), the side edge region (521) of the cover layer (51), and the region between the side edge regions (521), wherein the pocket space (523) is accessible through the access opening (522).

38. The system (80) according to claim 37, The system (80) further includes a third adhesive disposed at least intermittently between the first surface of the moisture sensor strip (41) and the first surface of the cover layer (51) material.

39. The system (80) according to claim 37 or 38, The integrated circuit further comprises a first rotatable element (61), a second rotatable element (62) connected to the first rotatable element (61) at a bent edge (63), and a clip (60) including teeth (64). The first rotatable element (61) is positioned within the pocket space (523), In the closed position of the clip (60), the teeth (64) penetrate the cover layer (51) and fix the clip (60) to the cover layer (51). The clip (60) is aligned with the moisture sensor strip (41), A system (80) in which the contact pad of the moisture sensor strip (41) and the contact pin (66) of the clip (60) are electrically connected to each other, and the moisture sensor strip (41) is positioned so as to be aligned between the teeth (64).

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