Method for manufacturing absorbent articles and absorbent articles

Abstract

To provide a technology capable of improving wearing feeling of an absorbent article.SOLUTION: A manufacturing method of an absorbent article having an absorber for absorbing liquid discharged from a wearer, includes a compression step for forming a compression part by compressing the absorber from the non-skin surface side, and a recess formation step for forming a recess on a position corresponding to the compression part on the skin surface side of the absorber by pressing the absorber.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a method for manufacturing an absorbent article and an absorbent article.

Background Art

[0002] In absorbent articles that absorb liquids such as urine and body fluids, it is known to squeeze the absorbent (for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In absorbent articles, it is known to squeeze the absorbent to provide squeezing grooves, and through the squeezing grooves, the liquid is diffused throughout the absorbent. However, the squeezed portion of the absorbent becomes hard, and when this portion touches the skin directly or indirectly, the wearing feeling of the absorbent article deteriorates.

[0005] In view of the above background, the present application discloses a novel absorbent article.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] To solve the above problems, in the present invention, the absorbent is squeezed from the non-skin side.

[0007] Specifically, the present invention is a method for manufacturing an absorbent article including an absorbent that absorbs liquid discharged by a wearer, the method including a squeezing step of forming a squeezed portion by squeezing the absorbent from the non-skin side, and a recess forming step of forming a recess at a position corresponding to the squeezed portion on the skin side of the absorbent by pressing the absorbent.

[0008] The above method for manufacturing an absorbent article may include, after the recess formation step, a skin-side sheet attachment step in which a skin-side sheet is attached to the skin-side side of the absorbent body in an stretched state.

[0009] The above method for manufacturing an absorbent article may include a skin-side sheet attachment step, in which a skin-side sheet is attached to the skin-side side of the absorbent body in an stretched state, prior to the recess formation step.

[0010] In the above-described method for manufacturing the absorbent article, at least a portion of the surface of the recess and the skin-facing sheet may be left unglued.

[0011] In the above-described method for manufacturing the absorbent article, at least a portion of the surface of the recess may be bonded to the skin-facing sheet.

[0012] In the above-described method for manufacturing an absorbent article, the compressed portion may be formed into a groove shape in the compression step, and the recess may be formed into a groove shape in the recess formation step.

[0013] The above-described method for manufacturing an absorbent article may include a non-skin side sheet attachment step in which the non-skin side sheet is attached to the non-skin side of the absorbent body, and the non-skin side sheet attachment step is made to detach at least a portion of the surface of the compressed portion from the non-skin side sheet.

[0014] In the above-described method for manufacturing an absorbent article, the absorbent body may have an absorbent core, and the method may include a hole-forming step in which through holes are formed that penetrate the absorbent core from the skin side to the non-skin side.

[0015] Furthermore, the present invention can be viewed from the perspective of an absorbent article. For example, the present invention is an absorbent article comprising an absorbent body that absorbs liquid discharged by the wearer, and the absorbent body may further comprise a compression portion formed on the non-skin side of the absorbent body and a recess formed on the skin side of the absorbent body at a position corresponding to the compression portion. [Effects of the Invention]

[0016] According to the above, a novel absorbent article can be provided.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0017] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a diaper according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of a diaper according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a plan view of a diaper in an extended state according to Embodiment 1 as viewed from the skin side. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of a diaper according to Embodiment 1 when cut along the width direction. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a flowchart regarding the manufacturing method of a diaper according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a view showing a manufacturing apparatus used in the manufacturing method of a diaper according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a perspective view of a squeezing portion forming apparatus of a manufacturing apparatus used in the manufacturing method of a diaper according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a flowchart regarding the manufacturing method of a diaper according to Modification 1-1 of Embodiment 1. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a view showing a manufacturing apparatus used in the manufacturing method of a diaper according to Modification 1-1 of Embodiment 1. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view of a diaper according to Modification 1-1 of Embodiment 1 when cut along the width direction. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a plan view of an absorber as viewed from the skin side. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a plan view of an absorber as viewed from the skin side. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is a flowchart regarding the manufacturing method of a diaper according to Modification 1-4 of Embodiment 1. [Figure 14] Figure 14 is a view showing a manufacturing apparatus used in the manufacturing method of a diaper according to Modification 1-4 of Embodiment 1. [Figure 15]Figure 15 is a plan view of the diaper in its extended state according to Embodiment 2, as seen from the skin-facing side. [Figure 16] Figure 16 is a cross-sectional view of the diaper according to Embodiment 2 when it is cut along the width direction. [Figure 17] Figure 17 is a flowchart relating to the manufacturing method of a diaper according to Embodiment 2. [Figure 18] Figure 18 is a cross-sectional view of the diaper according to Embodiment 3 when it is cut along the width direction. [Figure 19] Figure 19 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the vicinity of the recess in the diaper according to Embodiment 3. [Figure 20] Figure 20 is a plan view of the absorbent material as seen from the skin side. [Figure 21] Figure 21 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the vicinity of the recess in the diaper according to Embodiment 3. [Figure 22] Figure 22 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the vicinity of the recess in the diaper according to modified example 3-1 of Embodiment 3. [Figure 23] Figure 23 is a flowchart relating to a diaper manufacturing method according to modified example 3-2 of Embodiment 3. [Figure 24] Figure 24 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the vicinity of the recess in the diaper according to modified example 3-3 of Embodiment 3. [Figure 25] Figure 25 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the vicinity of the recess in the diaper according to modified example 3-4 of Embodiment 3. [Figure 26] Figure 26 is a plan view of the diaper in its extended state according to Embodiment 4, as seen from the skin-facing side. [Figure 27] Figure 27 is a cross-sectional view of the diaper according to Embodiment 4 when it is cut along the width direction. [Figure 28] Figure 28 is a perspective view of the compression section forming apparatus used in the diaper manufacturing method according to Embodiment 4. [Figure 29] Figure 29 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the vicinity of the recess in the diaper according to Embodiment 5. [Figure 30] Figure 30 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the vicinity of the recess in the diaper according to Embodiment 5. [Figure 31] Figure 31 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the vicinity of the recess in the diaper according to modified example 5-1 of Embodiment 5. [Figure 32] Figure 32 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the vicinity of the recess in the diaper according to modified example 5-1 of Embodiment 5. [Figure 33] Figure 33 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the vicinity of the recess in the diaper according to Embodiment 6. [Figure 34] Figure 34 is a flowchart relating to the manufacturing method of a diaper according to Embodiment 6. [Figure 35] Figure 35 shows the manufacturing apparatus used in the diaper manufacturing method according to Embodiment 6. [Figure 36] Figure 36 is a flowchart relating to a diaper manufacturing method according to modified example 6-1 of Embodiment 6. [Figure 37] Figure 37 is a plan view of the absorbent material as seen from the skin side. [Figure 38] Figure 38 is a flowchart relating to the manufacturing method of a diaper according to Embodiment 7. [Figure 39] Figure 39 is a plan view of the diaper in its extended state according to Embodiment 8, as seen from the skin-facing side. [Figure 40] Figure 40 is a cross-sectional view of the diaper according to Embodiment 8 when it is cut along the width direction. [Figure 41] Figure 41 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the vicinity of the recessed and convex portions of the diaper according to Embodiment 8. [Figure 42] Figure 42 is a flowchart relating to the manufacturing method of a diaper according to Embodiment 8. [Figure 43] Figure 43 shows the manufacturing apparatus used in the diaper manufacturing method according to Embodiment 8. [Figure 44] Figure 44 is a cross-sectional view of the press device of the manufacturing apparatus used in the diaper manufacturing method according to Embodiment 8, when cut in the direction of the rotation axis. [Figure 45] Figure 45 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the vicinity of the recessed and convex portions of the diaper according to modified example 8-1 of Embodiment 8. [Figure 46]Figure 46 is a flowchart relating to a method for manufacturing a diaper according to modified example 8-1 of Embodiment 8. [Figure 47] Figure 47 shows a manufacturing apparatus used in the diaper manufacturing method according to modified example 8-1 of Embodiment 8. [Figure 48] Figure 48 is a flowchart relating to a diaper manufacturing method according to modified example 8-2 of Embodiment 8. [Figure 49] Figure 49 shows a manufacturing apparatus used in the diaper manufacturing method according to modified example 8-2 of Embodiment 8. [Figure 50] Figure 50 is a plan view of the diaper in its extended state according to Embodiment 9, as seen from the skin-facing side. [Figure 51] Figure 51 is a cross-sectional view of the diaper according to Embodiment 9 when it is cut along the width direction. [Figure 52] Figure 52 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the vicinity of the recessed and convex portions of the diaper according to Embodiment 9. [Figure 53] Figure 53 is a cross-sectional view of the press device of the manufacturing apparatus used in the diaper manufacturing method according to Embodiment 9, when cut in the direction of the rotation axis. [Figure 54] Figure 54 is a plan view of the diaper in its extended state according to Embodiment 10, as seen from the skin-facing side. [Figure 55] Figure 55 is a cross-sectional view of the diaper according to Embodiment 10 when it is cut along the width direction. [Figure 56] Figure 56 is a flowchart relating to the manufacturing method of a diaper according to Embodiment 10. [Figure 57] Figure 57 is a plan view of the top sheet as seen from the skin-facing side. [Figure 58] Figure 58 shows a manufacturing apparatus used in the diaper manufacturing method according to Embodiment 10. [Figure 59] Figure 59 is a plan view of the diaper in its extended state according to Embodiment 11, as seen from the skin-facing side. [Figure 60] Figure 60 is a cross-sectional view of the diaper according to Embodiment 11 when it is cut along the width direction. [Figure 61]Figure 61 is a plan view of the absorbent material as seen from the skin side. [Figure 62] Figure 62 is a plan view of the diaper in its extended state according to Embodiment 12, as seen from the skin-facing side. [Figure 63] Figure 63 is a cross-sectional view of the diaper according to the embodiment when it is cut along the width direction. [Figure 64] Figure 64 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the compression area and the vicinity of the recess of the diaper according to Embodiment 12. [Figure 65] Figure 65 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the compression area and the vicinity of the recess of a diaper according to modified example 12-1 of Embodiment 12. [Figure 66] Figure 66 shows a manufacturing apparatus used in the diaper manufacturing method according to Embodiment 12. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0018] The following describes an absorbent article according to an embodiment of the present invention with reference to the drawings. Note that the configurations of the following embodiments are illustrative, and the present invention is not limited to these embodiments.

[0019] <Embodiment 1> In this embodiment, for a tape-type disposable diaper (an example of an "absorbent article" as defined in this application, and hereinafter simply referred to as "diaper"), the direction connecting the front panel positioned opposite the wearer's abdomen and the back panel positioned opposite the wearer's back is defined as the longitudinal direction. Between these front panel (one side in the longitudinal direction) and back panel (the other side in the longitudinal direction) (in the center in the longitudinal direction) lies the inseam section, positioned between the wearer's legs (opposite the crotch). Furthermore, when the diaper is worn by the wearer (hereinafter abbreviated as "worn state"), the side facing the wearer's skin (the inside when worn) is defined as the skin side, and the opposite side of the skin side (the outside when worn) is defined as the non-skin side. In addition, the direction connecting the skin side and the non-skin side is defined as the thickness direction, and the direction perpendicular to both the longitudinal direction and the thickness direction is defined as the width direction. Moreover, viewing from the thickness direction is defined as a plan view.

[0020] Figure 1 is a perspective view of the diaper according to this embodiment. Diaper 1 is worn in the wearing state. The diaper has a crotch area 1B which corresponds to the crotch area that covers the wearer's genitals, a front body area 1F which is located in front of the crotch area 1B and corresponds to the wearer's front body, and a back body area 1R which is located behind the crotch area 1B and corresponds to the wearer's back body. Tapes 2L and 2R are provided on both the left and right edges of the back body area 1R, which can be attached to a front patch 2F provided on the non-skin side of the front body area 1F. When the front body area 1F is positioned on the wearer's abdominal side and the back body area 1R is positioned on the wearer's back side, and the tapes 2L and 2R are attached to the front patch 2F, the diaper 1 is fixed to the wearer's body in a manner that surrounds the wearer's waist and thighs. Because the diaper 1 is fixed to the wearer's body in this manner, the wearer can stand and walk while wearing the diaper 1.

[0021] Diaper 1 has an absorbent material that can absorb and retain liquids, mainly located around the crotch area 1B. In addition, to prevent the formation of gaps between diaper 1 and the wearer's skin that could become pathways for liquid leakage, diaper 1 is provided with leg gathers 3AL and 3AR around the wearer's legs (thighs), three-dimensional gathers 3BL and 3BR are provided further inward in the width direction of diaper 1 than the leg gathers 3AL and 3AR, and a waist gather 3R is provided around the wearer's waist. The leg gathers 3AL and 3AR, three-dimensional gathers 3BL and 3BR, and waist gather 3R adhere closely to the wearer's skin due to the elastic force of the elastic material. Therefore, liquids discharged from the wearer's genitals are absorbed into the absorbent material of diaper 1 without leaking out. The elastic material can be appropriately selected from thread-like or band-like rubber, etc.

[0022] Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of diaper 1. Diaper 1 has a cover sheet 4 that forms the outer surface when worn. The cover sheet 4 is a sheet-like member with a roughly rectangular appearance, having constrictions 4KL and 4KR in the parts corresponding to the long sides, and forms the outer surface of diaper 1. The constrictions 4KL and 4KR are provided in the parts where the wearer's thighs are located. The cover sheet 4 is provided to reinforce the back sheet 5, which will be described later, and to improve the feel. For example, to suppress leakage of excrement, a liquid-impermeable nonwoven fabric made of thermoplastic resin can be used as its material. Examples of thermoplastic resins include polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP). The cover sheet 4 is not limited to a single-layer structure, but may also have a multilayer structure having an inner cover sheet and an outer cover sheet.

[0023] The diaper 1 has a back sheet 5 (an example of a "non-skin side sheet" as referred to in this application), an absorbent 6, and a top sheet 7 (an example of a "skin side sheet" as referred to in this application) which are sequentially laminated on the wearer-side surface of the cover sheet 4. The back sheet 5, absorbent 6, and top sheet 7 are all sheet-like members having a substantially rectangular appearance and are sequentially laminated on the cover sheet 4 with their longitudinal directions coinciding with the longitudinal direction of the cover sheet 4. The back sheet 5, like the cover sheet 4, is a sheet made of a liquid-impermeable thermoplastic resin to suppress leakage of excrement. The back sheet 5 is preferably made of a material that also has moisture permeability to suppress stuffiness when worn. The top sheet 7 is made of an air-through nonwoven fabric containing thermoplastic resin fibers and is positioned on the wearer's skin side so as to cover the absorbent surface of the absorbent 6. This top sheet 7 is liquid-permeable in part or all of it. Therefore, when diaper 1 is worn, any liquid excreted by the wearer enters the absorbent material 6 through the top sheet 7, which may come into contact with the wearer's skin, and is absorbed there. The top sheet 7 may also be hydrophilic. The longitudinal direction of diaper 1 is the same as the longitudinal direction of the absorbent material 6 and the top sheet 7.

[0024] The back sheet 5, absorbent material 6, and top sheet 7 all extend from the front body region 1F to the back body region 1R. Therefore, when the wearer's genital area is covered with the cover sheet 4, which consists of the back sheet 5, absorbent material 6, and top sheet 7, the longitudinal ends of the back sheet 5, absorbent material 6, and top sheet 7 are positioned on the wearer's ventral and dorsal sides. The wearer's genitals are covered by the absorbent material 6 from the wearer's ventral side to the back side. Therefore, whether the wearer is lying face down or face down when expelling fluid from their body, the expelled fluid will come into contact with the absorbent material 6 via the top sheet 7.

[0025] Furthermore, the diaper 1 is provided with elastic members 4SL and 4SR between the cover sheet 4 and the back sheet 5 so as to expand and contract in the longitudinal direction of the diaper 1, for forming the leg gathers 3AL and 3AR described above. The elastic members 4SL and 4SR are provided in an appropriate number (3 in this embodiment) determined according to the elastic force (contraction force) required in the design of the diaper 1.

[0026] Furthermore, the diaper 1 has long, narrow, strip-shaped side sheets 8L and 8R. The side sheets 8L and 8R are liquid-impermeable sheets provided on the long side of the top sheet 7. Similar to the cover sheet 4, the side sheets 8L and 8R have constrictions 8KL and 8KR where the wearer's thighs are located. Elastic members 8EL and 8ER are arranged along the longitudinal direction of the side sheets 8L and 8R to form three-dimensional gathers 3BL and 3BR. When the diaper 1 is in the wearing position, that is, when the diaper 1 is in a U-shape when viewed from the side, the elastic members 8EL and 8ER contract, pulling the side sheets 8L and 8R in the longitudinal direction and causing them to rise from the top sheet 7, forming three-dimensional gathers 3BL and 3BR that prevent liquid leakage.

[0027] Furthermore, the cover sheet 4 is provided with an elastic member 4C that prevents a gap from forming between the diaper 1 and the wearer's waist circumference. This elastic member 4C is located inside the width direction of the diaper 1 and along the longitudinal direction of the diaper 1, relative to the elastic members 4SL and 4SR. The elastic member 4C is provided according to the elastic force (contraction force) required in the design of the diaper 1.

[0028] Furthermore, the elastic member 9ER for forming the waist gather 3R described above is provided between the backsheet 5 and the topsheet 7 at a position further back than the end of the absorbent body 6. The elastic member 9ER is provided between the backsheet 5 and the topsheet 7 with its longitudinal direction, which is the direction of stretching, oriented in the left-right direction of the diaper 1. Therefore, when the tapes 2L and 2R provided on both the left and right sides of the elastic member 9ER are attached to the front patch 2F on the wearer's abdominal side, the elastic member 9ER exerts a contractile force to make the diaper 1 fit snugly against the wearer, preventing the formation of a gap between the diaper 1 and the wearer's waist circumference.

[0029] The absorbent body 6 has an absorbent core and a core wrap sheet that encloses the entire absorbent core (see Figure 4). The core wrap sheet is made of tissue paper or a liquid-permeable nonwoven fabric. The absorbent core has a structure in which granular absorbent resin, such as SAP (Super Absorbent Polymer), a hydrophilic polymer with a cross-linked structure that can absorb and retain water, is held in the gaps between short fibers of cellulosic fibers such as pulp fibers, rayon fibers, or cotton fibers, or short fibers of synthetic fibers such as polyethylene, polypropylene, or polyethylene terephthalate that have been treated to be hydrophilic. Therefore, in the absorbent core, the volume change of the absorbent resin before and after absorbing liquid basically occurs within the short fibers that hold the absorbent resin in the gaps. Consequently, looking at the absorbent core as a whole, it can be said that the expansion rate of the thickness of the absorbent core after absorbing liquid is not as large as the expansion rate of the absorbent resin itself.

[0030] In this embodiment, SAP particles refer to a resin composition containing SAP that has been made into granules. The term "resin composition containing SAP" here is a concept that encompasses both compositions consisting solely of SAP and compositions in which SAP is the main component and other substances are added to an extent that does not adversely affect water absorption. Examples of "other substances" include additives (such as surface modifiers added to hydrophobicize the particle surface) and unreacted monomers remaining after the synthesis of SAP.

[0031] Figure 3 is a plan view of the diaper 1 in its extended state, seen from the skin side. Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the diaper 1 in the width direction when cut along line AA in Figure 3. Note that the front patch 2F, elastic members 4C, 4SR, 4SL, 8EL, 8ER, 9ER, and side sheets 8L, 8R are not shown in Figures 3 and 4.

[0032] The diaper 1 according to this embodiment includes compression sections 20 and recesses 21 formed in an oblique grid pattern on a rectangular absorbent body 6. The compression sections 20 are formed by compressing the absorbent body 6 from the non-skin side. The recesses 21 are formed after the compression sections 20 are formed by pressing the absorbent body 6, at positions corresponding to the compression sections 20 on the skin side of the absorbent body 6. Here, the corresponding positions are positions that overlap in the thickness direction of the diaper 1. The process for forming the compression sections 20 and recesses 21 will be described later.

[0033] In this embodiment, the compression section 20 and the recess 21 are formed in the shape of grooves extending diagonally in the absorbent material 6. The diaper 1 can diffuse urine expelled by the wearer throughout the absorbent material 6 along the recess 21 provided on the skin-facing side of the absorbent material 6. In addition, the diaper 1 can diffuse urine that has penetrated to the non-skin-facing side of the absorbent material 6 throughout the absorbent material 6 along the compression section 20. As a result, the diaper 1 can efficiently absorb urine expelled by the wearer throughout the absorbent material 6. Furthermore, by providing the compression section 20 and the recess 21 in the absorbent material 6, the absorbent material 6 can be made more flexible, thereby improving the fit to the wearer. In addition, by providing the recess 21 on the skin-facing side of the absorbent material 6, breathability on the skin-facing side can be ensured, suppressing stuffiness when worn.

[0034] Furthermore, the compression portion 20 is formed by compressing the absorbent material 6. Because the compressed portion becomes hard, if the compression portion 20 were to indirectly touch the wearer's skin through the sheet, it would feel rough and reduce the wearing comfort. However, in this embodiment, the compression portion 20 is formed on the non-skin side, so the compression portion 20 does not come into contact with the wearer's skin even indirectly through the sheet. Also, the recess 21 is formed by pressing rather than compression, so it is not as hard as the compression portion 20. Therefore, the diaper 1 can suppress the reduction in wearing comfort even if the recess 21 touches the wearer through the top sheet 7, thereby improving the wearing comfort.

[0035] Next, the method for manufacturing the diaper 1 according to this embodiment will be described. The method for manufacturing the diaper 1 according to this embodiment is characterized by the process of forming a compression portion 20 and a recess 21 in the absorbent body 6, so these processes will be mainly described below. Figure 5 is a flowchart showing an overview of the method for manufacturing the diaper 1 according to this embodiment. In the method for manufacturing the diaper according to this embodiment, first, the absorbent body 6 is compressed from the non-skin side to form a compression portion 20 (step S101, an example of the "compression process" in this application). Next, the absorbent body 6 is pressed to form a recess 21 at a position corresponding to the compression portion 20 on the skin side of the absorbent body 6 (step S102, an example of the "recess formation process" in this application). By pressing the absorbent body 6, the skin side of the absorbent body 6 at the position corresponding to the compression portion 20 is recessed towards the non-skin side, forming a recess 21. Next, the top sheet 7 is attached to the skin side of the absorbent body 6 in an extended state (step S103, an example of the "skin side sheet attachment process" in this application). In this embodiment, the top sheet attachment process is performed after the recess formation process.

[0036] Next, the method for manufacturing the diaper 1 according to this embodiment will be described in more detail based on Figures 6 and 7. Figure 6 is a diagram showing an example of a manufacturing apparatus for the diaper 1. The manufacturing apparatus M used in the manufacturing method of the diaper 1 includes a transport line M1, a compression section forming device M2, a press device M3, a coating device M4, and a top sheet supply roller M5. The transport line M1 is a conveyor that transports the absorbent material 6 and the top sheet 7 in a constant direction (in the direction of arrow A1 in the figure). In the manufacturing process, the absorbent material 6 and the top sheet 7 are continuous, and by dividing them individually, the absorbent material 6 and top sheet 7 for one diaper are obtained.

[0037] The compression section forming device M2 has an anvil roller M21 and a compression roller M22. Figure 7 is an enlarged perspective view of the compression section forming device M2. The anvil roller M21 is positioned on the side of the absorbent material 6 that faces the skin (upper side in the figure), and the compression roller M22 is positioned on the side of the absorbent material 6 that does not face the skin (lower side in the figure). The anvil roller M21 and the compression roller M22 are positioned opposite each other with a predetermined clearance between them. The compression roller M22 has a protrusion M22C that compresses the non-skin side of the absorbent material 6. The protrusion M22C is formed in an oblique grid pattern relative to the absorbent material 6 that passes over it. In Figure 7, the protrusion M22C that is hidden by the absorbent material 6 is also shown with a solid line for illustrative purposes. The anvil roller M21 and the compression roller M22 are made of metal such as iron. The compression section forming device M2 compresses the absorbent material 6, which has flowed from the upstream side of the conveyor line M1, from the non-skin side by the protrusion M22C by passing it between the anvil roller M21 and the compression roller M22 (step S101 shown in Figure 5). As a result, a compression section 20 is formed on the absorbent material 6.

[0038] A press device M3 is provided downstream of the compression section forming device M2 in the transport path of the transport line M1. The press device M3 has a press roller M31 and an anvil roller M32. The press roller M31 and the anvil roller M32 are positioned opposite each other with a predetermined clearance between them. The press roller M31 and the anvil roller M32 are made of metal such as iron. The press device M2 presses the absorbent material 6, which has flowed from the upstream side of the transport line M1, by passing it between the press roller M31 and the anvil roller M32 (step S102 shown in Figure 5). By pressing the absorbent material 6, the skin side at the position corresponding to the compression section 20 is recessed towards the non-skin side, forming a recess 21.

[0039] A coating device M4 is provided downstream of the press device M3 in the transport path of the transport line M1. The coating device M4 applies hot melt adhesive to the skin side of the absorbent material 6. The coating device M4 has multiple nozzles, and by discharging hot melt adhesive from each nozzle, it applies the hot melt adhesive to the absorbent material 6 in a stripe or dot pattern.

[0040] A top sheet supply roller M5 is provided downstream of the coating device M4 in the transport path of the transport line M1. The top sheet supply roller M5 places the continuous top sheet 7 from the long raw material roll onto the absorbent material 6 that is on the transport line M1. At this time, the top sheet 7 is placed on the absorbent material 6 in an extended state (step S103 shown in Figure 5).

[0041] In the manufacturing method of the diaper 1 according to this embodiment, a compressed portion 20 is formed by compressing the absorbent material 6 from the non-skin side, and a recess 21 is formed at a position corresponding to the compressed portion 20 on the skin side of the absorbent material 6 by pressing the absorbent material 6. Since the recess 21 is formed by pressing rather than compression, it is not as hard as the compressed portion 20. Therefore, according to the manufacturing method of the diaper 1 according to this embodiment, even if the recess 21 touches the wearer through the top sheet 7, a decrease in the feeling of wearing the diaper can be suppressed, thereby improving the feeling of wearing the diaper.

[0042] Furthermore, in this embodiment, after forming the recess 21, the top sheet 7 is attached to the skin-facing side of the absorbent 6 in an extended state. This prevents the top sheet 7 from falling into the recess 21, or only slightly falling into the recess 21, and prevents the recess 21 from touching the wearer's skin via the top sheet 7, thereby improving the wearing comfort.

[0043] Furthermore, if the absorbent 6 is compressed from the skin side with the top sheet 7 attached to the skin side of the absorbent 6, there is a risk that the top sheet 7 will be subjected to stress and may tear. In this embodiment, the absorbent 6 is compressed from the non-skin side before the top sheet 7 is attached to the skin side of the absorbent 6, so that the top sheet 7 is not compressed together, and by compressing the absorbent 6 from the non-skin side, the skin side of the core wrap sheet 6B is prevented from tearing due to compression. As a result, This prevents the SAP contained in the absorbent core 6A from spilling onto the skin side.

[0044] <Variation 1-1> Next, a method for manufacturing a diaper 1 according to Modification 1-1 of this embodiment will be described. The manufacturing method according to this modification is characterized in that the top sheet 7 is attached to the skin-facing side of the absorbent material 6 before forming the recess 21. Figure 8 is a flowchart showing an overview of the manufacturing method of the diaper 1 according to this modification. In the manufacturing method of the diaper according to this modification, a compression section 20 is formed (step S201, an example of the "compression step" in this application), then the top sheet 7 is attached to the skin-facing side of the absorbent material 6 in an extended state (step S202, an example of the "skin-facing sheet attachment step" in this application), and then the recess 21 is formed (step S203, an example of the "recess formation step" in this application).

[0045] Next, the method for manufacturing the diaper 1 according to this modified example will be described in more detail based on Figure 9. Figure 9 is a diagram showing an example of a manufacturing apparatus for diaper 1. The manufacturing apparatus M used in the method for manufacturing diaper 1 includes a conveyor line M1, a compression section forming device M2, a coating device M4, a top sheet supply roller M5, and a press device M6. In this modified example, instead of the press device M3, a press device M6 is provided downstream of the top sheet supply roller M5. The press device M6 has a press roller M61 and an anvil roller M62. The press roller M61 and the anvil roller M62 are arranged opposite each other with a predetermined clearance. The press roller M61 and the anvil roller M62 are made of metal such as iron. The press device M6 presses the absorbent material 6 and top sheet 7 that have flowed from the upstream side of the conveyor line M1 by passing them between the press roller M61 and the anvil roller M62, thereby forming a recess 21 on the skin-facing side of the absorbent material 6 (step S203 shown in Figure 8).

[0046] As in the manufacturing method of the diaper 1 according to this modified example, the top sheet 7 may be attached to the skin-facing side of the absorbent material 6, and then the absorbent material 6 may be pressed to form a recess 21 on the skin-facing side of the absorbent material 6. Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view in the width direction of the diaper 1, similar to Figure 4. As shown in Figure 10, according to the manufacturing method of the diaper 1 according to this modified example, the top sheet 7 can be dropped into the recess 21, and the recess 21 can function as a flow channel or ventilation channel formed on the skin-facing side of the diaper 1. In addition, the contact area between the wearer's skin and the top sheet 7 can be reduced, improving the feel against the skin.

[0047] <Variation 1-2> Next, a method for manufacturing the diaper 1 according to Modification 1-2 of this embodiment will be described. In this modification, a portion of the surface of the recess 21 and the top sheet 7 are not adhered to each other. Figure 11 is a plan view of the absorbent body 6, to which hot melt adhesive 30 has been applied, as seen from the skin side. In this way, by applying the hot melt adhesive 30 in a stripe pattern, the hot melt adhesive 30 can be applied to only a portion of the recess 21, and a portion of the surface of the recess 21 can be left unadhered. Even if the top sheet 7 is attached to the skin side of the absorbent body 6 after the hot melt adhesive 30 has been applied and a portion of the top sheet 7 falls into the recess 21, a portion of the surface of the recess 21 and the top sheet 7 can still be left unadhered. According to this modification, because a portion of the surface of the recess 21 and the top sheet 7 are left unadhered to each other, the hardness of the recess 21 can be less noticeable when the diaper 1 is worn.

[0048] Furthermore, to prevent adhesion between the entire surface of the recess 21 and the top sheet 7, the hot melt adhesive 30 is applied in a dot pattern between the recesses 21. Figure 12 is a plan view of the absorbent 6 with the hot melt adhesive 30 applied, as seen from the skin side. By applying the hot melt adhesive 30 in a dot pattern in this way, it is possible to avoid applying the hot melt adhesive to the entire area of ​​the recess 21. To prevent adhesion between the entire surface of the recess 21 and the top sheet 7, the hot melt adhesive can be applied as shown in Figure 12, thereby preventing adhesion between the entire surface of the recess 21 and the top sheet 7. According to this modified example, since the entire surface of the recess 21 and the top sheet 7 are not adhered, the hardness of the recess 21 can be less noticeable when the diaper 1 is worn.

[0049] <Variation 1-3> Next, a method for manufacturing the diaper 1 according to modified examples 1-3 of this embodiment will be described. In this modified method, at least a portion of the surface of the recess 21 is bonded to the top sheet 7. In this case as well, by applying the hot melt adhesive 30 in a stripe pattern as shown in Figure 11, the hot melt adhesive is applied to only a portion of the recess 21. Then, the top sheet 7 is attached to the skin-facing side of the absorbent material 6 by pressing, causing a portion of the top sheet 7 to fall into the recess 21, thereby bonding a portion of the surface of the recess 21 to the top sheet 7. Alternatively, by applying the hot melt adhesive to the entire surface of the recess 21, the entire surface of the recess 21 can be bonded to the top sheet 7. According to this modified method, by bonding at least a portion of the surface of the recess 21 to the top sheet 7, the recess 21 can be clearly formed on the skin-facing side of the diaper 1.

[0050] <Variation 1-4> Next, a method for manufacturing the diaper 1 according to modified examples 1-4 of this embodiment will be described. Figure 13 is a flowchart showing an overview of the method for manufacturing the diaper 1 according to this modified example. In the method for manufacturing the diaper according to this modified example, after the top sheet 7 is attached to the skin-facing side of the absorbent body 6 in an extended state (after step S103), the back sheet 5 is attached to the non-skin-facing side of the absorbent body 6 (step S104, an example of the "non-skin-facing sheet attachment step" as referred to in this application). In step S104, at least a part of the surface of the compression section 20 and the back sheet 5 are made non-adherent. As a result, a gap is formed between the compression section 20 and the back sheet 5, so that the compression section 20 can function as a flow path for diffusing urine. As a result, the diaper 1 makes it easier to diffuse urine on the non-skin-facing side of the absorbent body 6, and can absorb and retain more urine on the non-skin-facing side of the absorbent body 6. For this reason, even after urine absorption, the diaper 1 can maintain the shape of the recess 21 formed on the skin-facing side of the absorbent body 6, and breathability can be ensured by the recess 21. Furthermore, by covering the non-skin side of the absorbent material 6, which is the side that is compressed, with the backsheet 5, even if the non-skin side of the core wrap sheet 6B tears, it is possible to prevent the SAP from spilling out of the diaper 1.

[0051] Next, the method for manufacturing the diaper 1 according to this modified example will be described in more detail based on Figure 14. Figure 14 is a diagram showing an example of a manufacturing apparatus for diaper 1. The manufacturing apparatus M used in the manufacturing method of diaper 1 includes a transport line M1, a coating device M7, and a backsheet supply roller M8. The transport line M1 is a conveyor that transports the backsheet 5, absorbent material 6, and topsheet 7 in a certain direction (in the direction of arrow A1 in the figure). In the manufacturing process, the backsheet 5, absorbent material 6, and topsheet 7 are continuous, and by dividing them individually, one diaper's worth of backsheet 5, absorbent material 6, and topsheet 7 are obtained. The topsheet 7 is already attached to the absorbent material 6, and the absorbent material 6 and topsheet 7 are transported with the absorbent material 6 facing upwards.

[0052] The coating device M7 has multiple nozzles for dispensing hot melt adhesive and applies the hot melt adhesive to the absorbent body 6. When a portion of the surface of the compression section 20 and the backsheet 5 are to be made non-adherent, the hot melt adhesive is applied in a stripe pattern, as in Figure 11. When the entire surface of the compression section 20 and the backsheet 5 are to be made non-adherent, the hot melt adhesive is applied in a dot pattern between the compression section 20, as in Figure 12. A backsheet supply roller M8 is provided downstream of the coating device M7 in the transport path of the transport line M1. The backsheet supply roller M8 places the backsheet 5, which is a continuous piece, from a long roll of raw material onto the absorbent body 6 on the transport line M1. At this time, the backsheet 5 is placed on the absorbent body 6 in an extended state (step S104 shown in Figure 13). As in this modified example, by making at least a portion of the surface of the compression section 20 and the backsheet 5 non-adherent, the compression section 20 and the backsheet 5 A gap can be formed between the five points.

[0053] <Embodiment 2> Next, a diaper 1 according to Embodiment 2 will be described. Components identical to those of the diaper 1 and manufacturing apparatus M in the above embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals and their descriptions are omitted. Figure 15 is a plan view of the diaper 1 in its extended state, seen from the skin side. Figure 16 is a cross-sectional view of the diaper 1 in the width direction when cut along line BB in Figure 15. Note that the front patch 2F, elastic members 4C, 4SR, 4SL, 8EL, 8ER, 9ER, and side sheets 8L, 8R are not shown in Figures 15 and 16.

[0054] The diaper 1 according to this embodiment has a through-hole 22 extending from the skin side to the non-skin side of the absorbent core 6A. The through-hole 22 is formed in the center of the width direction of the absorbent body 6 on the front body area 1F side of the crotch area 1B. This position is where the wearer's urethra is located when the diaper 1 is worn. As shown in Figure 16, the through-hole 22 is formed by penetrating the absorbent core 6A from the skin side to the non-skin side. The diaper 1 according to this embodiment moves urine to the non-skin side of the absorbent body 6 through the through-hole 22. Furthermore, in the diaper 1 according to this embodiment, as in the modified example 1-4 of Embodiment 1 above, by making at least a part of the surface of the compression part 20 and the back sheet 5 non-adhered, if a gap is formed between the compression part 20 and the back sheet 5, the diaper 1 according to this embodiment can move urine to the non-skin side of the absorbent body 6 through the through-hole 22, thereby allowing a larger amount of urine to be diffused to the non-skin side of the absorbent body 6 by the compression part 20. Diaper 1 facilitates the diffusion of urine on the non-skin side of the absorbent material 6, allowing it to absorb and retain more urine on the non-skin side. As a result, diaper 1 can maintain the shape of the recess 21 formed on the skin side of the absorbent material 6 even after urine absorption, and the recess 21 ensures breathability.

[0055] Next, a method for manufacturing the diaper 1 according to this embodiment will be described. The manufacturing method according to this embodiment includes a hole-forming step in which through holes 22 are formed in the absorbent body 6. Figure 17 is a flowchart showing an overview of the manufacturing method for the diaper 1 according to this embodiment. In the manufacturing method according to this embodiment, through holes 22 are formed in the absorbent core 6A of the absorbent body 6 by a perforating device (step S301, an example of the "hole-forming step" referred to in this application). Subsequently, steps S302 to S305 are the same as steps S101 to S104 in Embodiment 1 above. In this embodiment, through holes 22 may also be formed so as to penetrate the core wrap sheet 6B.

[0056] <Other variations of Embodiments 1 and 2> Furthermore, although the compression section 20 and recessed area 21 are formed in a grid pattern in the above embodiment, the invention is not limited to this and may be formed in a dot pattern or a striped pattern. By providing the recessed area 21 on the skin-facing side of the absorbent material 6, the diaper 1 can reduce the area that comes into contact with the wearer's skin and improve the wearing comfort.

[0057] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the top sheet 7 may be composed of two nonwoven fabrics, and the lower sheet may be an example of a skin-facing sheet. Also, the absorbent body 6 may not have a core wrap sheet 6B.

[0058] <Embodiment 3> Next, a diaper 1 according to Embodiment 3 will be described. Note that components identical to those of the diaper 1 and manufacturing apparatus M in the above embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions are omitted.

[0059] Figure 18 is a cross-sectional view in the width direction of the diaper 1, similar to that in Figure 4. The diaper 1 according to this embodiment includes a compression section 20 (an example of the "second recess" referred to in this application) and a recess 21 (an example of the "first recess" referred to in this application) formed in an oblique grid pattern on a rectangular absorbent body 6. Compression section 20 The absorbent material 6 is formed by compressing it from the non-skin side. The recessed portion 21 is formed by pressing the absorbent material 6 after the compression portion 20 has been formed, at a position corresponding to the compression portion 20 on the skin side of the absorbent material 6.

[0060] In this embodiment, the compression section 20 and the recess 21 are formed in the shape of grooves extending diagonally in the absorbent material 6. The diaper 1 can diffuse urine expelled by the wearer throughout the absorbent material 6 along the recess 21 provided on the skin-facing side of the absorbent material 6. In addition, the diaper 1 can diffuse urine that has penetrated to the non-skin-facing side of the absorbent material 6 throughout the absorbent material 6 along the compression section 20. As a result, the diaper 1 can efficiently absorb urine expelled by the wearer throughout the absorbent material 6. Furthermore, by providing the compression section 20 and the recess 21 in the absorbent material 6, the absorbent material 6 can be made more flexible, thereby improving the fit to the wearer. In addition, by providing the recess 21 on the skin-facing side of the absorbent material 6, breathability on the skin-facing side can be ensured, suppressing stuffiness when worn.

[0061] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the top sheet 7 attached to the skin-facing side of the absorbent 6 is not adhered to at least a portion of the surface of the recess 21. Figure 19 is an enlarged view of the area around the recess 21 in Figure 18. In the example shown in Figure 19, the top sheet 7 is not adhered to the entire surface of the recess 21 and is adhered to the surface of the absorbent 6 on the outside of the recess 21 by the hot melt adhesive 30.

[0062] In this embodiment as well, as shown in Figure 11 in Embodiment 1 above, by applying the hot melt adhesive 30 in a stripe pattern, it is possible to form areas on the surface of the recess 21 that are adhered to the top sheet 7 and areas that are not adhered. Therefore, even if the top sheet 7 is attached to the skin-facing side of the absorber 6 after applying the hot melt adhesive 30 and a part of the top sheet 7 is pressed into the recess 21, the top sheet 7 can be left unglued from a part of the surface of the recess 21.

[0063] Furthermore, if the top sheet 7 is to be detached from the entire surface of the recesses 21, the hot melt adhesive 30 is applied in a dot pattern between the recesses 21. Figure 20 is a plan view of the absorbent material 6 with the hot melt adhesive 30 applied, as seen from the skin side. By applying the hot melt adhesive 30 in a dot pattern in this way, it is possible to avoid applying the hot melt adhesive to the entire area of ​​the recesses 21. Thus, to detach the top sheet 7 from the entire surface of the recesses 21, the hot melt adhesive should be applied in a dot pattern as shown in Figure 20. According to the diaper 1 of this embodiment, since the top sheet 7 is detached from at least a part of the surface of the recesses 21, the hardness of the recesses 21 can be less felt when wearing the diaper 1.

[0064] Next, we will describe the absorbent core 6 after the wearer has urinated once or more in the diaper 1, in which the top sheet 7 is not adhered to at least a portion of the surface of the recess 21. Figure 21 is a magnified view of the area around the recess 21 of the absorbent core 6 that has absorbed urine. The recess 21 collapses as the absorbent core 6A absorbs urine and expands. Note that the collapse of the compression part 20 is not shown in Figure 21. Also, the top sheet 7 falls into the recess 21 when pressed, and this fallen portion is stretched by the press, increasing its surface area. As a result, the portion of the top sheet 7 that fell into the recess 21 rises towards the skin side as the recess 21 collapses, and this portion becomes loose. Because the top sheet 7 has extra space in this loose portion, the absorbent core 6A below this portion can expand further towards the skin side. As a result, minute irregularities are formed in a grid pattern by this expanded portion and the other portions of the absorbent core 6. This raised portion is the part where the top sheet 7 is not adhered to the surface of the recess 21. The diaper 1 can form a space between itself and the skin due to these minute irregularities, and can ensure breathability between the skin and the absorbent material even after the absorbent material 6 has absorbed urine.

[0065] Next, the manufacturing method of the diaper 1 according to this embodiment will be described. As a method for manufacturing the diaper 1 described above, the manufacturing method described in Modification 1-1 of Embodiment 1 can be applied (see Figures 8 and 9). In the diaper manufacturing method according to this embodiment, as shown in the flowchart of Figure 8, the absorbent material 6 is compressed from the non-skin side to form a compressed portion 20 (step S201). Next, the top sheet 7 is attached to the skin side of the absorbent material 6 in an extended state (step S202). Next, the absorbent material 6 is pressed to form a recess 21 at a position corresponding to the compressed portion 20 on the skin side of the absorbent material 6 (step S203). By pressing the absorbent material 6, the skin side of the absorbent material 6 at the position corresponding to the compressed portion 20 is recessed towards the non-skin side, forming the recess 21. At this time, the top sheet 7 falls into the recess 21. The manufacturing apparatus M shown in Figure 9 can be used for the diaper manufacturing method according to this embodiment.

[0066] In the manufacturing method of the diaper 1 according to this embodiment, after attaching the top sheet 7 to the skin-facing side of the absorbent body 6, the absorbent body 6 is pressed to form a recess 21 on the skin-facing side of the absorbent body 6. This allows the top sheet 7 to be dropped into the recess 21, and the recess 21 can function as a flow channel or ventilation channel formed on the skin-facing side of the diaper 1. In addition, the contact area between the wearer's skin and the top sheet 7 can be reduced, improving the feel against the skin.

[0067] In the manufacturing method of the diaper 1 according to this embodiment, a compressed portion 20 is formed by compressing the absorbent material 6 from the non-skin side, and a recess 21 is formed at a position corresponding to the compressed portion 20 on the skin side of the absorbent material 6 by pressing the absorbent material 6. Since the recess 21 is formed by pressing rather than compression, it is not as hard as the compressed portion 20. Therefore, according to the manufacturing method of the diaper 1 according to this embodiment, even if the recess 21 touches the wearer through the top sheet 7, a decrease in the feeling of wearing the diaper can be suppressed, and the feeling of wearing the diaper can be improved.

[0068] Furthermore, if the absorbent core 6 is compressed from the skin side while the top sheet 7 is attached to the skin side of the absorbent core 6, there is a risk that the top sheet 7 will be subjected to stress and tear. In this embodiment, the absorbent core 6 is compressed from the non-skin side before the top sheet 7 is attached to the skin side of the absorbent core 6, so that the top sheet 7 is not compressed together, and by compressing the absorbent core 6 from the non-skin side, the skin side of the core wrap sheet 6B is prevented from tearing due to compression. This prevents the SAP contained in the absorbent core 6A from spilling onto the skin side.

[0069] <Variation 3-1> Next, a modified example 3-1 of this embodiment of diaper 1 will be described. Figure 22 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the vicinity of the recess 21 of the absorbent material 6, similar to Figure 18. In this modified example of diaper 1, the SAP 31 contained in the absorbent material 6 is arranged at a higher density on the skin-facing side of the absorbent material 6 than on the non-skin-facing side. The SAP 31 is contained in the absorbent core 6A and is arranged at a higher density on the skin-facing side. If the density of SAP 31 in the thickness direction is biased towards the skin-facing side, the absorbent material 6 will be more likely to expand towards the skin-facing side when absorbing urine, and will easily take on a convex shape on the skin-facing side as shown in Figure 21. Note that SAP 31 may be arranged in larger quantities in the portion that overlaps with the recess 21 when the absorbent material 6 is viewed in plan, within a range of 10% in the thickness direction from the skin-facing side.

[0070] Furthermore, after absorbing urine, SAP31 becomes gel-like, reducing its permeability to liquids. Therefore, by placing SAP31 on the skin-facing side of the absorbent material 6, diaper 1 can suppress the backflow of absorbed urine back to the skin side. In addition, even if SAP31 is densely arranged on the skin-facing side of diaper 1, the presence of recesses 21 on the skin-facing side of the absorbent material 6 reduces the contact area between the absorbent material 6 and the wearer's skin via the top sheet 7, preventing the wearer from feeling the hardness of the SAP. As a result, diaper 1 can improve wearing comfort.

[0071] <Modification 3-2> Next, a modified example 3-2 of this embodiment of diaper 1 will be described. Figure 23 is a flowchart showing an overview of the manufacturing method of diaper 1 according to this modified example. In this manufacturing method, after forming a recess 21 on the skin-facing side of the absorbent material 6 (after step S203), the back sheet 5 is attached to the non-skin-facing side of the absorbent material 6 (step S204).

[0072] In the manufacturing method of the diaper 1 according to this modified example, the manufacturing apparatus M shown in Figure 14 can be used. The coating apparatus M7 shown in Figure 14 has multiple nozzles for dispensing hot melt adhesive and applies the hot melt adhesive in a stripe or dot pattern. A backsheet supply roller M8 is provided downstream of the coating apparatus M7 in the transport path of the transport line M1. The backsheet supply roller M8 places the backsheet 5, which is a continuous piece, from a long roll of raw material onto the absorbent material 6 that is on the transport line M1. At this time, the backsheet 5 is placed on the absorbent material 6 in an extended state (step S204 shown in Figure 23). In the diaper 1, the non-skin side, which is the side of the absorbent material 6 that is compressed, is covered with the backsheet 5, so that even if the non-skin side of the core wrap sheet 6B tears, it is possible to prevent the SAP from spilling out of the diaper 1. In this modified example, the backsheet 5 is attached to the absorbent 6 after forming the recess 21 (after step S203) (step S204), but it is not limited to this, and the recess 21 may be formed after the backsheet 5 is attached to the absorbent 6. In this case, the backsheet 5 is attached to the absorbent 6 after the compressed portion 20 is formed on the absorbent 6. By attaching the backsheet 5 to the absorbent 6 after it has been compressed, the backsheet 5 is prevented from tearing due to compression, and even if the core wrap sheet 6B tears due to compression, the backsheet 5 can prevent the SAP from spilling from the non-skin side.

[0073] <Modified example 3-3> Next, a modified example 3-3 of this embodiment of diaper 1 will be described. Figure 24 is an enlarged view of the area around the recess 21 in Figure 4, similar to Figure 18. In this modified example, the core wrap sheet 6B is an example of a skin-facing sheet. In this case, the absorbent body 6 is composed of an absorbent core 6A, and the core wrap sheet 6B can be considered a separate component from the absorbent body 6. In this modified example, diaper 1 is provided with a core wrap sheet 6B that is not adhered to the surface of the recess 21 at least partially, so that after urine absorption, the recess 21 portion of the absorbent body 6 becomes convex towards the skin-facing side, thereby ensuring breathability.

[0074] <Modification 3-4> Next, a diaper 1 according to modification 3-4 of this embodiment will be described. Figure 25 is an enlarged view of the area around the recess 21 in Figure 4, similar to Figure 18. In this modification, the top sheet 7 has a first sheet 7A which is placed on the skin side, and a second sheet 7B which is placed on the non-skin side of the first sheet 7A. The second sheet 7A is an example of a skin-side sheet. In this modification, the diaper 1 is provided with a second sheet 7B which is not adhered to the surface of the recess 21 at least partially, so that after urine absorption, the portion of the recess 21 of the absorbent material 6 becomes convex on the skin side, thereby ensuring breathability.

[0075] <Embodiment 4> Next, a diaper 1 according to Embodiment 4 will be described. Components identical to those of the diaper 1 and manufacturing apparatus M in the above embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals and their descriptions are omitted. Figure 26 is a plan view of the diaper 1 in its extended state, seen from the skin side. Figure 27 is a cross-sectional view of the diaper 1 in the width direction when cut along the CC line in Figure 26. Note that the front patch 2F, elastic members 4C, 4SR, 4SL, 8EL, 8ER, 9ER, and side sheets 8L, 8R are not shown in Figures 26 and 27.

[0076] In the diaper 1 according to this embodiment, the absorbent material 6 is compressed from the skin side to form a compressed portion 23 (an example of the "first recess" referred to in this application) on the skin side of the absorbent material 6, and a recess 24 (an example of the "second recess" referred to in this application) on the non-skin side of the absorbent material 6. In this way, the skin side of the absorbent material 6 may be compressed. In the diaper 1 according to this embodiment as well, the top sheet 7 is formed on the surface of the compressed portion 23 By making at least a portion of it non-adherent, the firmness of the compression part 23 is less noticeable when the diaper 1 is worn, thereby improving the wearing comfort.

[0077] Next, a method for manufacturing the diaper 1 according to this embodiment will be described. The method for manufacturing the diaper 1 according to this embodiment is generally the same as the manufacturing method described in Modification 1-1 of Embodiment 1 described above (see Figures 8 and 9), except that the skin-facing side of the absorbent material 6 is compressed. For example, instead of the compression part forming device M2 of the manufacturing apparatus M shown in Figure 7, a compression part forming device M9 shown in Figure 28 is provided. Figure 28 is an enlarged perspective view showing the compression part forming device M9. The compression part forming device M9 has a compression roller M91 and an anvil roller M92. The compression roller M91 is positioned on the skin-facing side of the absorbent material 6 (upper side in the figure), and the anvil roller M92 is positioned on the non-skin-facing side of the absorbent material 6 (lower side in the figure). The compression roller M91 and the anvil roller M92 are positioned opposite each other with a predetermined clearance between them. The compression roller M91 has a protrusion M91C that compresses the skin-facing side of the absorbent material 6. The protrusions M91C are formed in an oblique grid pattern relative to the absorbent material 6 that passes through. The compression roller M91 and anvil roller M92 are made of metal such as iron. The compression part forming device M9 compresses the absorbent material 6, which has flowed from the upstream side of the conveyor line M1, from the skin side with the protrusions M91C by passing it between the compression roller M91 and the anvil roller M92 (step S201 shown in Figure 8). This forms a compression part 23 on the absorbent material 6. Next, similar to the embodiment 1 above, a top sheet attachment process (step S202 shown in Figure 8) is performed, and then the absorbent material 6 is pressed to form a recess 24 (similar to step S203 shown in Figure 8).

[0078] In the diaper 1 according to this embodiment, as in the diaper 1 according to the above embodiment, breathability can be ensured by the compression portion 23 before urine absorption. Furthermore, in the diaper 1, breathability can be ensured because the compression portion 23 of the absorbent material 6 becomes convex towards the skin side after urine absorption.

[0079] <Other modifications of Embodiments 3 and 4> Next, other modifications of Embodiments 3 and 4 will be described. In the above embodiments, the compression sections 20 and 23 and the recesses 21 and 24 are formed in a grid pattern, but are not limited to this, and may be formed in a dot pattern or a stripe pattern. By providing the recesses 21 on the skin-facing side of the absorbent material 6, the diaper 1 can reduce the area that comes into contact with the wearer's skin, thereby improving the wearing comfort. Furthermore, the absorbent material 6 may be configured without a core wrap sheet 6B.

[0080] <Embodiment 5> Next, a diaper 1 according to Embodiment 5 will be described. Note that components identical to those of the diaper 1 and manufacturing apparatus M in the above embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions are omitted.

[0081] In this embodiment, the compression section 20 and the recess 21 are formed in the shape of grooves extending diagonally in the absorbent material 6. The diaper 1 can diffuse urine expelled by the wearer throughout the absorbent material 6 along the recess 21 provided on the skin-facing side of the absorbent material 6. In addition, the diaper 1 can diffuse urine that has penetrated to the non-skin-facing side of the absorbent material 6 throughout the absorbent material 6 along the compression section 20. As a result, the diaper 1 can efficiently absorb urine expelled by the wearer throughout the absorbent material 6. Furthermore, by providing the compression section 20 and the recess 21 in the absorbent material 6, the absorbent material 6 can be made more flexible, thereby improving the fit to the wearer. In addition, by providing the recess 21 on the skin-facing side of the absorbent material 6, breathability on the skin-facing side can be ensured, suppressing stuffiness when worn.

[0082] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the top sheet 7 attached to the skin-facing side of the absorbent 6 is bonded to at least a portion of the surface of the recess 21. Figure 29 is an enlarged view of the area around the recess 21 in Figure 18. The recess 21 consists of a pair of wall portions 21L and 21R, and is positioned between the pair of wall portions 21L and 21R. It has a bottom portion 21B. The pair of wall portions 21L, 21R and the bottom portion 21B are made up of the surface of the absorber 6 (the surface of the core wrap sheet 6). In the example shown in Figure 29, the top sheet 7 is bonded to the entire surface of the recess 21, that is, the entire surface of the pair of wall portions 21L, 21R and the bottom portion 21B, with hot melt adhesive 30.

[0083] Next, we will describe the absorbent material 6 after the wearer has urinated once or more in the diaper 1, which has the entire surface of the top sheet 7 and the recess 21 bonded together. Figure 30 is a magnified view of the area around the recess 21 of the absorbent material 6 that has absorbed urine. The recess 21 collapses as the absorbent core 6A absorbs urine and expands. Note that the collapse of the compressed part 20 is not shown in Figure 30. The top sheet 7 falls into the recess 21 when pressed, and this fallen portion is stretched by the press, increasing its surface area. The portion of the top sheet 7 that fell into the recess 21 rises towards the skin side as the recess 21 collapses, but the skin-side surface of the part of the top sheet 7 that is bonded to the absorbent material 6 becomes loose, forming a loose portion 7C. The loose portion 7C has minute irregularities, which creates multiple minute spaces between the loose portion 7C and the skin. Diaper 1, with its tiny space, ensures breathability between the diaper and the wearer's skin even after urine absorption, improving comfort.

[0084] Thus, in this embodiment, the diaper 1 ensures breathability through groove-shaped recesses 21 before urine absorption, and after urine absorption, a loose portion 7C is formed on the skin-facing top sheet 7 where the recesses 21 were located, thereby ensuring breathability. By ensuring breathability before and after urine absorption, the diaper 1 can improve wearing comfort.

[0085] Next, a method for manufacturing the diaper 1 according to this embodiment will be described. As a method for manufacturing the diaper 1 according to this embodiment, the manufacturing method described in Modification 1-1 of Embodiment 1 above can be applied (see Figures 8 and 9).

[0086] In the manufacturing method of the diaper 1 according to this embodiment, after attaching the top sheet 7 to the skin-facing side of the absorbent body 6, the absorbent body 6 is pressed to form a recess 21 on the skin-facing side of the absorbent body 6. This allows the top sheet 7 to be dropped into the recess 21, and the recess 21 can function as a flow channel or ventilation channel formed on the skin-facing side of the diaper 1. In addition, the contact area between the wearer's skin and the top sheet 7 can be reduced, improving the feel against the skin.

[0087] In the manufacturing method of the diaper 1 according to this embodiment, a compressed portion 20 is formed by compressing the absorbent material 6 from the non-skin side, and a recess 21 is formed at a position corresponding to the compressed portion 20 on the skin side of the absorbent material 6 by pressing the absorbent material 6. Since the recess 21 is formed by pressing rather than compression, it is not as hard as the compressed portion 20. Therefore, according to the manufacturing method of the diaper 1 according to this embodiment, even if the recess 21 touches the wearer through the top sheet 7, a decrease in the feeling of wearing the diaper can be suppressed, and the feeling of wearing the diaper can be improved.

[0088] Furthermore, if the absorbent core 6 is compressed from the skin side while the top sheet 7 is attached to the skin side of the absorbent core 6, there is a risk that the top sheet 7 will be subjected to stress and tear. In this embodiment, the absorbent core 6 is compressed from the non-skin side before the top sheet 7 is attached to the skin side of the absorbent core 6, so that the top sheet 7 is not compressed together, and by compressing the absorbent core 6 from the non-skin side, the skin side of the core wrap sheet 6B is prevented from tearing due to compression. This prevents the SAP contained in the absorbent core 6A from spilling onto the skin side.

[0089] <Variation 5-1> Next, a modified example 5-1 of this embodiment of diaper 1 will be described. In this modified example of diaper 1, the top sheet 7 is bonded to a part of the surface of the recess 21. As shown in Figure 11 above, the hot melt adhesive 30 is applied in a stripe pattern to the recess On the surface of 21, areas that are adhered to the top sheet 7 and areas that are not can be formed. For this reason, after applying the hot melt adhesive 30, the top sheet 7 can be attached to the skin-facing side of the absorbent body 6, and a part of the top sheet 7 can be pressed into the recess 21, thereby adhering the top sheet 7 to a part of the surface of the recess 21. In the diaper 1 according to this modified example, after the absorbent body 6 has absorbed urine, the part of the top sheet 7 that had fallen into the recess 21 will rise to the skin-facing side as the recess 21 collapses. However, the skin-facing surface of the part of the top sheet 7 that is adhered to the absorbent body 6 on the non-skin-facing side will become loose, forming a loose portion 7C. The loose portion 7C will have minute irregularities, and multiple minute spaces will be formed between the loose portion 7C and the skin. The diaper 1 can ensure breathability between the diaper and the wearer's skin even after urine absorption by utilizing these minute spaces, thereby improving the wearing comfort.

[0090] Furthermore, the area where the hot melt adhesive 30 is applied has reduced water permeability. Therefore, by providing areas on the surface of the recess 21 where the hot melt adhesive 30 is applied and areas where it is not, it is possible to create areas with high and low water permeability. This allows urine to diffuse in the areas with low water permeability and penetrate the absorbent material 6 in the areas with high water permeability, thus balancing the permeability and diffusion of urine. Note that the top sheet 7 is bonded to the areas on the surface of the recess 21 where the hot melt adhesive 30 is applied, and the top sheet 7 is not bonded to the areas on the surface of the recess 21 where the hot melt adhesive is not applied.

[0091] <Modification 5-2> Next, a modified example 5-2 of this embodiment of diaper 1 will be described. Figure 31 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the vicinity of the recess 21 of the absorbent material 6, similar to Figure 29. Figure 32 is an enlarged view of the vicinity of the recess 21 of the absorbent material 6 after it has absorbed urine. In this modified example of diaper 1, the top sheet 7 is bonded to a part of the pair of wall portions 21L and 21R of the recess 21 with hot melt adhesive 30. When the absorbent material 6 expands after absorbing urine, the bottom portion 21B becomes the same height as the non-recessed portion of the absorbent material 6, and the skin-facing surface of the portion of the top sheet 7 that was bonded to the wall portions 21L and 21R becomes loose, forming a loose portion 7C. The loose portion 7C has minute irregularities, and multiple minute spaces are formed between the loose portion 7C and the skin. In addition, the absorbent material 6 in the area that was originally the bottom portion 21B remains slightly recessed, and a recess 7D is formed on the skin-facing side of the top sheet 7. Diaper 1 improves comfort by ensuring breathability between the diaper and the wearer's skin even after urine absorption, thanks to the small space created by the loose portion 7C and the recessed portion 7D.

[0092] <Modified example 5-3> Next, a modified example 5-3 of this embodiment of diaper 1 will be described. As a method for manufacturing diaper 1 according to this modified example, the manufacturing method described in modified example 3-2 of embodiment 3 described above can be applied (see Figure 23).

[0093] In this embodiment as well, the skin-facing side of the absorbent material 6 may be compressed, as shown in the modified example 3-4 above (Figures 26 to 28). Even when the skin-facing side of the absorbent material 6 is compressed in this way, the diaper 1 can still maintain breathability due to the small space formed between the loose portion 7C and the skin before urine absorption.

[0094] <Other variations of Embodiment 5> In the above embodiment, the compression sections 20, 23 and recesses 21, 24 are formed in a grid pattern, but are not limited to this, and may be formed in a dot pattern or stripe pattern. By providing the recesses 21 on the skin-facing side of the absorbent material 6, the diaper 1 can reduce the area that comes into contact with the wearer's skin, thereby improving the wearing comfort.

[0095] Furthermore, the absorbent 6 may have a configuration that does not include the core wrap sheet 6B. The embodiments and variations are interchangeable.

[0096] <Embodiment 6> Next, a diaper 1 according to Embodiment 6 will be described. Note that components identical to those of the diaper 1 and manufacturing apparatus M in the above embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions are omitted.

[0097] Figure 33 is an enlarged view of the area around the compression section 20 and recess 21 in Figure 4. The top sheet 7 is not adhered to the entire surface of the recess 21 and is adhered to the surface of the absorbent material 6 on the outside of the recess 21 by a hot melt adhesive 30. In the diaper 1 according to this embodiment, the absorbent material 6 has a group of SAP particles 32, which are superabsorbent polymers, arranged on the non-skin side of the absorbent core 6A.

[0098] In this embodiment, the diaper 1 has a group of SAP particles 32 arranged on the non-skin side of the absorbent core 6A, causing the fibers on the non-skin side of the absorbent core 6A and the SAP particles to intertwine and exert an anchoring effect. When the absorbent core 6A is squeezed or compressed, a restorative force is generated, but the anchoring effect of the SAP suppresses the restorative force of the absorbent core 6A. The diaper 1 suppresses the restorative force of the absorbent core 6A through the anchoring effect, thereby making it easier to maintain the shape of the squeezed portion 20. The anchoring effect is exerted more strongly as the density of SAP within the absorbent core 6A increases and the entanglement between the SAP and the absorbent core 6A strengthens.

[0099] Furthermore, by positioning the SAP particle group 32 on the non-skin side of the absorbent core 6A, the absorbent core 6A primarily absorbs and retains urine on the non-skin side, causing the non-skin side of the absorbent core 6A to expand after urine absorption. As a result, the absorbent core 6A does not expand easily on the skin side even after urine absorption, making it easier to maintain the shape of the recess 21 formed on the skin side. This allows the diaper 1 to maintain the shape of the recess 21 even after urine absorption, ensuring breathability and improving comfort.

[0100] Next, the method for manufacturing the diaper 1 according to this embodiment will be described. The method for manufacturing the diaper 1 according to this embodiment is characterized by the step of forming a compression portion 20 and a recess 21 in the absorbent body 6, so these steps will be mainly described below. Figure 34 is a flowchart showing an overview of the method for manufacturing the diaper 1 according to this embodiment. In the method for manufacturing the diaper according to this embodiment, first, SAP particles are scattered on the non-skin side of the absorbent core 6A (step S301, an example of the "SAP placement step" in this application). Next, the absorbent body 6 is compressed from the non-skin side to form a compression portion 20 (step S302, an example of the "compression step" in this application). Next, the absorbent body 6 is pressed to form a recess 21 at a position corresponding to the compression portion 20 on the skin side of the absorbent body 6 (step S303, an example of the "recess formation step" in this application). By pressing the absorbent body 6, the skin side of the absorbent body 6 at the position corresponding to the compression portion 20 is recessed towards the non-skin side, forming a recess 21. Next, the top sheet 7 is attached to the skin-facing side of the absorbent body 6 in an extended state (step S304, an example of the "skin-facing side sheet attachment step" as referred to in this application). In this embodiment, the top sheet attachment step is performed after the recess formation step.

[0101] Next, the method for manufacturing the diaper 1 according to this embodiment will be described in more detail with reference to Figure 35. Figure 35 is a diagram showing an example of a manufacturing apparatus for the diaper 1. The manufacturing apparatus M used in the method for manufacturing the diaper 1 includes a transport line M10, an SAP dispensing device M11, a transport line M20, a compression part forming device M2, a press device M3, a coating device M4, and a top sheet supply roller M5. The transport line M10 is a conveyor that transports the absorbent core 6A in a constant direction (in the direction of arrow A1 in the figure). The transport line M20 is a conveyor that transports the absorbent material 6 and the top sheet 7 in a constant direction (in the direction of arrow A1 in the figure). In the manufacturing process, the absorbent material 6 and the top sheet 7 are continuous, and by dividing them individually, the absorbent material 6 and top sheet 7 for one diaper are produced. Obtain sheet 7.

[0102] On the transport line M10, the absorbent core 6A is transported with the non-skin side facing upwards. The SAP dispensing device M11 dispenses SAP particles onto the non-skin side of the absorbent core 6A (step S301 shown in Figure 34). After the SAP particles are dispensed, the absorbent core 6A is wrapped in a core wrap sheet 6B (not shown). This creates the absorbent body 6. The absorbent body 6 is then transported to the transport line M20 where the next manufacturing process takes place.

[0103] In the conveyor line M20, the absorbent material 6 is conveyed with the skin-side facing upwards. The compression section forming device M2 passes the absorbent material 6, which has flowed from the upstream side of the conveyor line M20, between the anvil roller M21 and the compression roller M22, thereby compressing it from the non-skin-side side with the protrusion M22C (step S302 shown in Figure 34). As a result, a compression section 20 is formed on the absorbent material 6.

[0104] A press device M3 is provided downstream of the compression section forming device M2 in the transport path of the transport line M20. The press device M3 has a press roller M31 and an anvil roller M32. The press roller M31 and the anvil roller M32 are arranged opposite each other with a predetermined clearance between them. The press roller M31 and the anvil roller M32 are made of metal such as iron. The press device M2 presses the absorbent material 6, which has flowed from the upstream side of the transport line M20, by passing it between the press roller M31 and the anvil roller M32 (step S303 shown in Figure 34). By pressing the absorbent material 6, the skin side at the position corresponding to the compression section 20 is recessed towards the non-skin side, forming a recess 21.

[0105] A coating device M4 is provided downstream of the press device M3 in the transport path of the transport line M20. The coating device M4 applies hot melt adhesive to the skin side of the absorbent material 6. The coating device M4 has multiple nozzles, and by discharging hot melt adhesive from each nozzle, it applies the hot melt adhesive to the absorbent material 6 in a stripe or dot pattern.

[0106] A top sheet supply roller M5 is provided downstream of the coating device M4 in the transport path of the transport line M20. The top sheet supply roller M5 places the continuous top sheet 7 from the long raw material roll onto the absorbent material 6 that is on the transport line M20. At this time, the top sheet 7 is placed on the absorbent material 6 in an extended state (step S304 shown in Figure 34).

[0107] In the manufacturing method of the diaper 1 according to this embodiment, a compressed portion 20 is formed by compressing the absorbent material 6 from the non-skin side, and a recess 21 is formed at a position corresponding to the compressed portion 20 on the skin side of the absorbent material 6 by pressing the absorbent material 6. Since the recess 21 is formed by pressing rather than compression, it is not as hard as the compressed portion 20. Therefore, according to the manufacturing method of the diaper 1 according to this embodiment, even if the recess 21 touches the wearer through the top sheet 7, a decrease in the feeling of wearing the diaper can be suppressed, thereby improving the feeling of wearing the diaper.

[0108] Furthermore, in this embodiment, after forming the recess 21, the top sheet 7 is attached to the skin-facing side of the absorbent 6 in an extended state. This prevents the top sheet 7 from falling into the recess 21, or only slightly falling into the recess 21, and prevents the recess 21 from touching the wearer's skin via the top sheet 7, thereby improving the wearing comfort.

[0109] Furthermore, if the absorbent 6 is compressed from the skin side with the top sheet 7 attached to the skin side of the absorbent 6, there is a risk that the top sheet 7 will be subjected to stress and may tear. In this embodiment, the absorbent 6 is compressed from the non-skin side before the top sheet 7 is attached to the skin side of the absorbent 6, so that the top sheet 7 is not compressed together, and by compressing the absorbent 6 from the non-skin side, the skin side of the core wrap sheet 6B is prevented from tearing due to compression. As a result, This prevents the SAP contained in the absorbent core 6A from spilling onto the skin side.

[0110] Furthermore, the placement of the SAP particle group 32 on the non-skin side of the absorbent core 6A provides an anchoring effect, which suppresses the restorative force of the absorbent core 6A and makes it easier to maintain the shape of the compressed section 20.

[0111] <Variation 6-1> Next, a method for manufacturing the diaper 1 according to modification 6-1 of this embodiment will be described. Figure 36 is a flowchart showing an overview of the method for manufacturing the diaper 1 according to this modification. In the method for manufacturing the diaper according to this modification, after the top sheet 7 is attached to the skin-facing side of the absorbent body 6 in an extended state (after step S304), the back sheet 5 is attached to the non-skin-facing side of the absorbent body 6 (step S305, an example of the "non-skin-facing sheet attachment step" in this application). In step S305, at least a part of the surface of the compression part 20 and the back sheet 5 are made non-adherent. As a result, a gap is formed between the compression part 20 and the back sheet 5, so that the compression part 20 can function as a flow path for diffusing urine. As a result, the diaper 1 makes it easier to diffuse urine on the non-skin-facing side of the absorbent body 6, and can absorb and retain more urine on the non-skin-facing side of the absorbent body 6. For this reason, even after urine absorption, the diaper 1 can maintain the shape of the recess 21 formed on the skin-facing side of the absorbent body 6, and breathability can be ensured by the recess 21. Furthermore, by covering the non-skin side of the absorbent material 6, which is the side that is compressed, with the backsheet 5, even if the non-skin side of the core wrap sheet 6B tears, it is possible to prevent the SAP from spilling out of the diaper 1.

[0112] Next, the manufacturing method of diaper 1 according to this modified example will be described in more detail. In this modified example, the manufacturing apparatus M shown in Figure 14 above can be used.

[0113] The coating device M7 has multiple nozzles for dispensing hot melt adhesive and applies the hot melt adhesive to the absorbent body 6 in a stripe or dot pattern. A backsheet supply roller M8 is provided downstream of the coating device M7 in the transport path of the transport line M30. The backsheet supply roller M8 places the backsheet 5, which is a continuous piece, from a long roll of raw material onto the absorbent body 6 on the transport line M30. At this time, the backsheet 5 is placed on the absorbent body 6 in an extended state (step S305 shown in Figure 36). As in this modified example, by making at least a part of the surface of the compression section 20 and the backsheet 5 non-adherent, a gap can be formed between the compression section 20 and the backsheet 5.

[0114] Furthermore, urine that reaches the non-skin side of the absorbent material 6 spreads throughout the absorbent material 6 via the compression section 20. Since SAP is placed on the non-skin side of the absorbent core 6A, the absorbent material 6 holds the urine on the non-skin side, causing the non-skin side to expand. As a result, the absorbent core 6A does not expand easily on the skin side even after urine absorption, and it is easier to maintain the shape of the recess 21 formed on the skin side.

[0115] <Variation 6-2> Next, a method for manufacturing the diaper 1 according to modification 6-2 of this embodiment will be described. Figure 37 is a plan view of the absorbent body 6 to which the hot melt adhesive 30 has been applied, as seen from the skin side. In this modification, the grid points 21A where the grid-shaped recesses 21 intersect are not adhered to the top sheet 7.

[0116] In the manufacturing method of the diaper 1 according to this modified example, the hot melt adhesive 30 is applied in a stripe pattern, avoiding the grid points 21A, using the coating device M7 shown in Figure 14, as shown in Figure 37. This ensures that even if the top sheet 7 falls into the recess 21 during the manufacturing process of the diaper 1, the grid points 21A remain detached from the top sheet 7. The grid points 21A are hard areas within the recess 21, and by making the grid points 21A detachable from the top sheet 7, the skin of the wearer is protected. It can soften the contact and improve the wearing comfort.

[0117] <Embodiment 7> Next, the diaper 1 according to Embodiment 7 will be described. Note that the same components as those of the diaper 1 and manufacturing apparatus M according to the above embodiment are described below.

[0118] The diaper 1 according to this embodiment, like the diaper 1 according to Embodiment 2 described above shown in Figures 15 and 16, has through holes 22 extending from the skin side to the non-skin side of the absorbent core 6A. This allows the diaper 1 to easily diffuse urine on the non-skin side of the absorbent material 6, and to absorb and retain more urine on the non-skin side of the absorbent material 6. As a result, the diaper 1 can maintain the shape of the recess 21 formed on the skin side of the absorbent material 6 even after urine absorption, and the recess 21 ensures breathability.

[0119] Next, a method for manufacturing the diaper 1 according to this embodiment will be described. The manufacturing method according to this embodiment includes a hole-forming step in which through holes 22 are formed in the absorbent body 6. Figure 38 is a flowchart showing an overview of the manufacturing method for the diaper 1 according to this embodiment. In the manufacturing method according to this embodiment, first, SAP particles are scattered on the non-skin side of the absorbent core 6A (step S401, an example of the "SAP placement step" as referred to in this application). The process in step 401 is the same as the process in step S301. Next, through holes 22 are formed in the absorbent core 6A of the absorbent body 6 using a perforating device (step S402, an example of the "hole-forming step" as referred to in this application). Next, steps S403 to S406 are the same as steps S302 to S405 in the above embodiment 1. Note that the order of steps S401 and S402 can be interchanged. Furthermore, through holes 22 may be formed so as to penetrate the core wrap sheet 6B as well.

[0120] <Other modifications of embodiments 6 and 7> In the above embodiment, the compression section 20 and the recessed area 21 are formed in a grid pattern, but the invention is not limited to this, and they may be formed in a dot pattern or a striped pattern. By providing the recessed area 21 on the skin-facing side of the absorbent material 6, the diaper 1 can reduce the area that comes into contact with the wearer's skin, thereby improving the wearing comfort.

[0121] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the top sheet 7 may be composed of two nonwoven fabrics, and the lower sheet may be an example of a skin-facing sheet. Also, the absorbent body 6 may not have a core wrap sheet 6B. In addition, a group of SAP particles may be arranged on the skin-facing side of the absorbent core 6A. In this case, more SAP particles are arranged on the non-skin-facing side than on the skin-facing side of the absorbent core 6A. Note that the above embodiments and modifications can be combined with each other.

[0122] <Embodiment 8> Next, a diaper 1 according to Embodiment 8 will be described. Note that components identical to those of the diaper 1 and manufacturing apparatus M in the above embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions are omitted.

[0123] In absorbent articles, the recesses formed on the skin-facing side of the absorbent material expand and collapse as the absorbent material absorbs urine. When the recesses of an absorbent article collapse, the breathability that was provided by the recesses is lost. Therefore, absorbent articles have the problem that breathability decreases after the absorbent material absorbs urine, resulting in a reduced wearing comfort. Embodiments 8 to 11 aim to provide a technology that can improve the wearing comfort of absorbent articles.

[0124] Figure 39 is a plan view of the diaper 1 in its extended state, seen from the skin side. Figure 40 is a cross-sectional view of the diaper 1 in the width direction when cut along the DD line in Figure 39. Note that Figures 39 and 40 Therefore, the illustrations of the front patch 2F, elastic members 4C, 4SR, 4SL, 8EL, 8ER, 9ER, and side sheets 8L and 8R will be omitted.

[0125] The diaper 1 according to this embodiment includes recesses 40 and protrusions 41 formed in a diagonal grid pattern on a rectangular absorbent material 6. The recesses 40 are formed on the non-skin side of the absorbent material 6 and are concave on the skin side. The protrusions 41 are formed on the skin side of the absorbent material 6 and are convex on the skin side. The protrusions 41 are formed when the portion corresponding to the recesses 40 becomes convex on the skin side during the formation of the recesses 40. Here, the corresponding positions are positions that overlap in the thickness direction of the diaper 1. The process for forming the recesses 40 and protrusions 41 will be described later.

[0126] Furthermore, the recess 40 is formed as a groove extending diagonally into the absorbent material 6. The diaper 1 can diffuse urine that has penetrated to the non-skin side of the absorbent material 6 along the recess 40 across the entire absorbent material 6. As a result, the diaper 1 can efficiently absorb the urine excreted by the wearer across the entire absorbent material 6.

[0127] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 40, the diaper 1 has a protrusion 41 on the skin-facing side of the absorbent core 6, which causes the top sheet 7, positioned on the skin-facing side of the absorbent core 6, to also be raised by the protrusion 41 and protrude towards the skin. As a result, the diaper 1 reduces the contact area between the skin and the top sheet 7, while creating a gap between the top sheet 7 that is in contact with the wearer's skin and the skin, thereby ensuring breathability (air and moisture circulation) on the skin-facing side and improving the wearing comfort.

[0128] Furthermore, a top sheet 7 is attached to the skin-facing side of the absorbent core 6 so as to follow the contours of the protrusions 41. The top sheet 7 fixes the position and shape of the protrusions 41. In addition, the top sheet 7 on the protrusions 41 is stretched more than other parts because it is lifted towards the skin by the protrusions 41. Therefore, when the wearer urinates into the diaper 1 and the absorbent core 6 absorbs the urine and expands, the top sheet 7 on the protrusions 41 has more room than other parts, so the protrusions 41 protrude further towards the skin than other parts after the absorbent core 6 has absorbed the urine. As a result, the diaper 1 can reduce the contact area between the skin and the top sheet 7 even after urine absorption, while ensuring breathability on the skin-facing side to suppress stuffiness when worn, thereby improving the wearing comfort.

[0129] Furthermore, when a recess is formed on the skin-facing side of the absorbent material by compression, while breathability can be ensured by this recess before urine absorption by the absorbent material, after urine absorption by the absorbent material, the SAP expands and the recess collapses, resulting in a loss of breathability. However, according to the diaper 1 of this embodiment, by providing a protrusion 41 on the skin-facing side of the absorbent material 6, a gap is formed between the wearer and the top sheet 7, ensuring breathability. In addition, the diaper 1 maintains the shape of the protrusion 41 even after urine absorption by the absorbent material 6, thus ensuring breathability. As a result, the diaper 1 can improve wearing comfort.

[0130] Figure 41 is an enlarged view of the area around the recessed portion 40 and the convex portion 41 in Figure 40. The top sheet 7 is not adhered to the entire surface of the convex portion 41, but is adhered to the surface of the absorbent material 6 on the outside of the convex portion 41 by hot melt adhesive 30. Because the top sheet 7 is not adhered to the convex portion 41, the convex portion 41 tends to become more convex towards the skin side after urine absorption by the absorbent material 6.

[0131] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 41, the recess 40 has a substantially trapezoidal cross-sectional shape and comprises a bottom portion 40B and a pair of wall portions 41L and 41R provided on the left and right sides of the bottom portion 40B. The convex portion 41 has a substantially trapezoidal cross-sectional shape similar to the recess 40 and comprises a top portion 41T and a pair of wall portions 41L and 41R provided on the left and right sides of the top portion 41T. Here, the recess 40 only needs to be formed by compressing at least a part of the absorbent material 6, and in this embodiment, the region P between the wall portions 40L, 40R and the wall portions 41L, 41R in the absorbent core 6A is compressed. Diaper 1 This makes it easier to maintain the shape of the convex portion 41 as the region P of the absorbent core 6A is compressed. Furthermore, by making the compression rate of the skin-facing side of the top portion 41T of the convex portion 41 lower than the compression rate of the region P, which is the skin-facing side of the wall portions 41L and 41R, the top portion 41T, which indirectly contacts the skin via the top sheet 7, does not harden, thereby preventing a decrease in skin feel and thus preventing a decrease in wearing comfort.

[0132] Next, the method for manufacturing the diaper 1 according to this embodiment will be described. The method for manufacturing the diaper 1 according to this embodiment is characterized by the step of forming recesses 40 and protrusions 41 in the absorbent material 6, so these steps will be described mainly below. Figure 42 is a flowchart showing an overview of the method for manufacturing the diaper 1 according to this embodiment. In the method for manufacturing the diaper 1 according to this embodiment, first, recesses 40 and protrusions 41 are formed in the absorbent material 6 (step S501, an example of the "recess and unevenness formation step" in this application). Next, the top sheet 7 is attached to the skin-facing side of the absorbent material 6 so as to follow the protrusions 41 (step S502, an example of the "skin-facing side sheet attachment step" in this application). In this embodiment, the top sheet attachment step is performed after the recess and unevenness formation step.

[0133] Next, the method for manufacturing the diaper 1 according to this embodiment will be described in more detail based on Figures 43 and 44. Figure 43 is a diagram showing an example of a manufacturing apparatus for the diaper 1. The manufacturing apparatus M used in the method for manufacturing the diaper 1 includes a transport line M1, a press device M2, a coating device M4, and a top sheet supply roller M5. The transport line M1 is a conveyor that transports the absorbent material 6 and the top sheet 7 in a constant direction (in the direction of arrow A1 in the figure).

[0134] In the conveying line M1, the absorbent material 6 is conveyed with the skin side facing upward. The press device M2 has an upper roller M21 and a lower roller M22. Figure 44 is a cross-sectional view of the press device M2 when cut in the direction of the rotation axis. The upper roller M21 is positioned on the side of the absorbent material 6 that will be the skin side (upper side in the figure), and the lower roller M22 is positioned on the side of the absorbent material 6 that will not be the skin side (lower side in the figure). The upper roller M21 and the lower roller M22 are positioned opposite each other with a predetermined clearance. The lower roller M22 has a cylindrical shape, and a protrusion M22C for forming an oblique grid-shaped recess 40 in the absorbent material 6 is provided on the cylindrical side surface. The upper roller M21 has a cylindrical shape, and a recess M21D for forming an oblique grid-shaped protrusion 41 in the absorbent material 6 is provided on the cylindrical side surface. As the absorber 6 passes between the upper roller M21 and the lower roller M22, a recess 40 and a protrusion 41 are formed in the portion sandwiched between the protrusion M22C and the recess M21D. The clearance between the upper roller M21 and the lower roller M22 is D1 everywhere except for the protrusion M22C and the recess M21D, D1 between the top of the protrusion M22C and the bottom of the recess M21D, and D2 between the side of the protrusion M22C and the side of the recess M21D. D1 is approximately the same as the thickness of the absorber 6 in its natural state, and D2 is shorter than D1. As a result, the press device M2 can compress the region P between the walls 40L, 40R of the recess 40 and the walls 41L, 41R of the protrusion 41.

[0135] A coating device M4 is provided downstream of the press device M2 in the transport path of the transport line M1. The coating device M4 applies hot melt adhesive to the skin side of the absorbent material 6. The coating device M4 has multiple nozzles, and by discharging hot melt adhesive from each nozzle, it applies the hot melt adhesive to the absorbent material 6 in a stripe or dot pattern.

[0136] A top sheet supply roller M5 is provided downstream of the coating device M4 in the transport path of the transport line M1. The top sheet supply roller M5 places the continuous top sheet 7 from the long raw material roll onto the absorbent material 6 that is on the transport line M1. At this time, the top sheet 7 is placed on the absorbent material 6 with the protrusion 41 aligned (step S102 shown in Figure 42).

[0137] According to the diaper 1 manufactured by the manufacturing method of the diaper 1 of this embodiment, a gap is formed between the wearer and the top sheet 7 by providing a protrusion 41 on the skin-facing side of the absorbent material 6, allowing for breathability. This ensures breathability. Furthermore, diaper 1 maintains the shape of the protrusions 41 even after the absorbent material 6 has absorbed urine, thereby ensuring breathability. This improves the comfort of wearing diaper 1.

[0138] <Variation 8-1> Next, a modified example 8-1 of this embodiment of diaper 1 will be described. Figure 45 is an enlarged view of the area around the recess 40 and the protrusion 41, similar to Figure 41. In this modified example of diaper 1, the SAP particle group 32 is arranged on the non-skin side of the absorbent core 6A, causing the fibers on the non-skin side of the absorbent core 6A and the SAP particles to intertwine and exert an anchoring effect. When the absorbent core 6A is squeezed or compressed, a restorative force is generated, but the anchoring effect of the SAP suppresses the restorative force of the absorbent core 6A. Diaper 1 suppresses the restorative force of the absorbent core 6A through the anchoring effect, thereby making it easier to maintain the shape of the recess 40. The anchoring effect is exerted more strongly as the density of SAP within the absorbent core 6A increases and the entanglement between the SAP and the absorbent core 6A strengthens.

[0139] Furthermore, by arranging the SAP particle group 32 on the non-skin side of the absorbent core 6A, the absorbent core 6A primarily absorbs and retains urine on the non-skin side, causing the non-skin side of the absorbent core 6A to expand after urine absorption. If the skin side of the absorbent core 6A were to expand, the absorbent core 6A, including the protrusion 41, would become flat or nearly flat on the skin side. However, in this modified example, because the SAP particle group 32 is arranged on the non-skin side of the absorbent core 6A, it is less likely to expand on the skin side even after urine absorption. Therefore, the diaper 1 according to this modified example can more easily maintain the shape of the protrusion 41 formed on the skin side. As a result, the diaper 1 can maintain the protrusion 41 even after urine absorption, ensuring breathability and improving comfort.

[0140] Next, a method for manufacturing diaper 1 according to this modified example will be described. Figure 46 is a flowchart showing an overview of the method for manufacturing diaper 1 according to this modified example. In the method for manufacturing diaper according to this modified example, first, SAP particles are scattered on the non-skin side of the absorbent core 6A (step S601, an example of the "SAP placement step" as referred to in this application). The next steps S602 and S603 are the same as steps S501 and S502 shown in Figure 42, so their explanation will be omitted.

[0141] Next, the method for manufacturing the diaper 1 according to this modified example will be described in more detail based on Figure 47. Figure 47 is a diagram showing an example of a manufacturing apparatus for the diaper 1. The manufacturing apparatus M used in the method for manufacturing the diaper 1 includes a transport line M10, an SAP dispensing device M11, a transport line M1, a press device M2, a coating device M4, and a top sheet supply roller M5. The transport line M10 is a conveyor that transports the absorbent core 6A in a certain direction (in the direction of arrow A1 in the figure).

[0142] On the transport line M10, the absorbent core 6A is transported with the non-skin side facing upwards. The SAP dispensing device M11 dispensing SAP particles onto the non-skin side of the absorbent core 6A (step S601 shown in Figure 46). After the SAP particles have been dispensed, the absorbent core 6A is wrapped in a core wrap sheet 6B (not shown). This creates the absorbent body 6. The absorbent body 6 is then transported to the transport line M1 where the next manufacturing process takes place. The process on the transport line M1 is the same as the process in Embodiment 1 described above.

[0143] According to the manufacturing method of the diaper 1 in this modified example, the arrangement of the SAP particle group 32 on the non-skin side of the absorbent core 6A provides an anchoring effect, which suppresses the restorative force of the absorbent core 6A and makes it easier to maintain the shape of the recess 40.

[0144] <Modification 8-2> Next, a method for manufacturing the diaper 1 according to modification 8-2 of this embodiment will be described. Figure 48 is a flowchart showing an overview of the method for manufacturing the diaper 1 according to this modification. In the method for manufacturing the diaper according to this modification, the top sheet 7 is attached to the skin-facing side of the absorbent material 6 in an extended state. After that (after step S502 shown in Figure 42), the backsheet 5 is attached to the non-skin side of the absorbent material 6 (step S503, an example of the "non-skin side sheet attachment step" as referred to in this application). In step S503, at least a portion of the surface of the recess 40 and the backsheet 5 are made non-adherent. This creates a gap between the recess 40 and the backsheet 5, allowing the recess 40 to function as a channel for diffusing urine. As a result, the diaper 1 makes it easier for urine to diffuse on the non-skin side of the absorbent material 6, and can absorb and retain more urine on the non-skin side of the absorbent material 6. Therefore, even after urine absorption, the diaper 1 can maintain the protrusions 41 formed on the skin side of the absorbent material 6, and the protrusions 41 ensure breathability. In this modified example, the step S601 (SAP placement step) shown in Figure 46 may be performed before step S101. In this case, by covering the non-skin side of the absorbent material 6 with the backsheet 5, even if the non-skin side of the core wrap sheet 6B tears, it is possible to prevent the SAP from spilling out of the diaper 1.

[0145] Next, the method for manufacturing the diaper 1 according to this modified example will be described in more detail based on Figure 49. Figure 49 is a diagram showing an example of a manufacturing apparatus for diaper 1. The manufacturing apparatus M used in the method for manufacturing diaper 1 includes a transport line M30, a coating device M7, and a backsheet supply roller M8. The transport line M30 is a conveyor that transports the backsheet 5, absorbent material 6, and topsheet 7 in a certain direction (in the direction of arrow A1 in the figure). The topsheet 7 is already attached to the absorbent material 6, and the absorbent material 6 and topsheet 7 are transported with the absorbent material 6 facing upwards.

[0146] The coating device M7 has multiple nozzles for dispensing hot melt adhesive and applies the hot melt adhesive to the absorbent body 6 in a stripe or dot pattern. A backsheet supply roller M8 is provided downstream of the coating device M7 in the transport path of the transport line M30. The backsheet supply roller M8 places the backsheet 5, which is a continuous piece, from a long roll of raw material onto the absorbent body 6 that is on the transport line M1 (step S503 shown in Figure 48). At this time, the backsheet 5 is placed on the absorbent body 6 in an extended state. As in this modified example, by making at least a part of the surface of the recess 40 and the backsheet 5 non-adherent, a gap can be formed between the recess 40 and the backsheet 5.

[0147] Furthermore, urine that reaches the non-skin side of the absorbent material 6 spreads throughout the absorbent material 6 through the recessed area 40. Since SAP is placed on the non-skin side of the absorbent core 6A, the absorbent material 6 holds the urine on the non-skin side, causing the non-skin side to expand. As a result, the absorbent material 6 does not expand easily on the skin side even after urine absorption, and it is easier to maintain the shape of the protrusions 41 formed on the skin side.

[0148] <Embodiment 9> Next, a diaper 1 according to Embodiment 9 will be described. Components identical to those of the diaper 1 and manufacturing apparatus M in the above embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals and their descriptions are omitted. Figure 50 is a plan view of the diaper 1 in its extended state, seen from the skin side. Figure 51 is a cross-sectional view of the diaper 1 in the width direction when cut along line EE in Figure 50. Note that the front patch 2F, elastic members 4C, 4SR, 4SL, 8EL, 8ER, 9ER, and side sheets 8L, 8R are not shown in Figures 50 and 51. Figure 52 is an enlarged view of the two recesses 40 and protrusions 41 in Figure 51. The dashed line CL in Figure 50 is the center line in the width direction of the diaper 1. The width direction center of the diaper 1 coincides with the width direction center of the absorbent material 6.

[0149] As shown in Figure 52, in this embodiment, the top 41T of the protrusion 41 on the left side in the width direction of the absorbent body 6 is inclined to the right side in the width direction, and the top 41T of the protrusion 41 on the right side in the width direction of the absorbent body 6 is inclined to the left side in the width direction. As a result, the diaper 1 directs the urine expelled by the wearer to the center in the width direction, preventing lateral leakage of urine, and holds the feces expelled by the wearer in the center in the width direction. can.

[0150] Here, the two protrusions 41 shown in Figure 52 can be considered as a pair of adjacent protrusions 41 in this invention. By inclining the tops 41T of the pair of adjacent protrusions 41 toward each other, urine and feces can be guided between the pair of protrusions 41, allowing this space to function as a storage space. For example, if the protrusions 41 surrounding the anal contact position of the diaper 1 are considered as a pair of adjacent protrusions 41, and the tops 41T of this pair of protrusions 41 are inclined toward each other, the space between the pair of protrusions 41 can function as a storage space for accumulating feces.

[0151] Next, a method for manufacturing the diaper 1 according to this embodiment will be described. In the manufacturing method according to this embodiment, the press device M2 shown in Figure 53 is used. Figure 53 is a cross-sectional view of the press device M2 shown in Figure 43 when cut in the direction of the rotation axis. For example, as shown in Figure 53, by inclining the top M21T of the recess M21D of the upper roll M21 inward in the width direction, the top 41T of the convex portion 41 can be formed to be inclined inward in the width direction during the unevenness formation process. Note that the top 41T of the convex portion 41 on the left side in the width direction of the absorbent body 6 is inclined to the right side in the width direction, and the top 41T of the convex portion 41 on the right side in the width direction of the absorbent body 6 is inclined to the left side in the width direction. Note that by inclining the top M21T of the recess M21D of the upper roll M21 in this way, the convex portion 41 can be formed so that the top 41T is inclined.

[0152] <Embodiment 10> Next, a diaper 1 according to Embodiment 10 will be described. Components identical to those of the diaper 1 and manufacturing apparatus M in the above embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals and their descriptions are omitted. Figure 54 is a plan view of the diaper 1 in its extended state, seen from the skin side. Figure 55 is a cross-sectional view of the diaper 1 in the width direction when cut along the FF line in Figure 54. Note that the front patch 2F, elastic members 4C, 4SR, 4SL, 8EL, 8ER, 9ER, and side sheets 8L, 8R are not shown in Figures 54 and 55.

[0153] In this embodiment, holes 42 are formed in the top sheet 7. As shown in Figure 54, for example, multiple holes 42 are formed in a staggered pattern. Note that the arrangement pattern of the holes 42 does not have to be staggered; for example, it may be matrix-shaped. Also, although the holes 42 are formed in a circular shape, they may be elliptical or have other polygonal shapes. By providing holes 42 in the top sheet 7 of the diaper 1 according to this embodiment, the urine permeability and breathability of the top sheet 7 can be improved. As a result, the comfort of wearing the diaper 1 according to this embodiment can be improved.

[0154] Next, the manufacturing method of the diaper 1 according to this embodiment will be described. In the manufacturing method according to this embodiment, a top sheet 7 with notches is prepared, and a skin-side sheet attachment step is performed before the unevenness formation step. Figure 56 is a flowchart showing an overview of the manufacturing method of the diaper 1 according to this embodiment. In the manufacturing method of the diaper according to this embodiment, first, the prepared top sheet 7 is attached to the skin-side of the absorbent body 6 in an extended state (step S701, an example of the "skin-side sheet attachment step" in this application). Figure 57 is a plan view of the top sheet 7 prepared in the manufacturing method according to this embodiment, as seen from the skin-side. Multiple notches 43 extending in the width direction are formed in a staggered pattern on the top sheet 7. After step S701, recesses 40 and protrusions 41 are formed on the absorbent body 6 (step S702, an example of the "unevenness formation step" in this application). In this embodiment, the top sheet attachment step is performed before the unevenness formation step. As the top sheet 7 is pressed by the press device M2 during the unevenness formation process, the cuts 43 extending in the width direction are stretched in the longitudinal direction, forming a circular hole 42.

[0155] Next, the manufacturing apparatus used in the manufacturing method of diaper 1 according to this embodiment will be described based on Figure 58. Figure 58 is a diagram showing an example of the manufacturing apparatus for diaper 1. The manufacturing equipment M used in the manufacturing method includes a conveyor line M1, a coating device M4, a top sheet supply roller M5, and a press device M2.

[0156] In the transport line M1, the absorbent material 6 is transported with the skin side facing upwards. In this embodiment, the coating device M4, the top sheet supply roller M5, and the press device M2 are arranged in that order from the upstream side. As a result, the top sheet attachment process is performed before the unevenness formation process.

[0157] According to the manufacturing method of this embodiment, a hole 42 can be formed from a notch 43 by providing a notch 43 in the top sheet 7. By providing the hole 42, the diaper 1 can improve the urine permeability and breathability of the top sheet 7, thereby improving the wearing comfort.

[0158] <Embodiment 11> Next, a diaper 1 according to Embodiment 11 will be described. Components identical to those of the diaper 1 and manufacturing apparatus M in the above embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals and their descriptions are omitted. Figure 59 is a plan view of the diaper 1 in its extended state, seen from the skin side. Figure 60 is a cross-sectional view of the diaper 1 in the width direction when cut along the GG line in Figure 59. Note that the front patch 2F, elastic members 4C, 4SR, 4SL, 8EL, 8ER, 9ER, and side sheets 8L and 8R are not shown in Figures 59 and 60.

[0159] In this embodiment, holes 44 are formed on the skin-facing side of the core wrap sheet 6B. As shown in Figure 59, for example, multiple holes 44 are formed in a staggered pattern. Note that the arrangement pattern of the holes 44 does not have to be staggered; for example, it may be matrix-shaped. Also, although the holes 44 are formed in a circular shape, they may be elliptical or have other polygonal shapes. In this embodiment, the diaper 1 can improve the urine permeability and breathability of the skin-facing side of the absorbent material 6 by providing holes 42 on the skin-facing side of the core wrap sheet 6B. As a result, the diaper 1 in this embodiment can improve the wearing comfort.

[0160] Next, a method for manufacturing the diaper 1 according to this embodiment will be described. In the manufacturing method according to this embodiment, an absorbent core 6A and a core wrap sheet 6B that encloses the absorbent core 6A and has a cut on the skin-facing side are prepared, and the unevenness forming process is performed with the absorbent core 6A enclosed in the core wrap sheet 6B. After preparing the absorbent body 6 having the structure in which the absorbent core 6A is enclosed in the core wrap sheet 6B, either the manufacturing method according to Embodiment 8 shown in Figure 42 or the manufacturing method according to Embodiment 10 shown in Figure 56 can be adopted. Note that if the manufacturing method according to Embodiment 10 shown in Figure 56 is adopted, a hole 42 will be provided in the top sheet 7. The diaper 1 may have a hole 42 in addition to the hole 44.

[0161] Figure 61 is a plan view of the absorbent 6 prepared by the manufacturing method according to this embodiment, as seen from the skin side. Multiple staggered notches 45 extending in the width direction are formed in the core wrap sheet 6B of the absorbent 6. In this embodiment, when the absorbent core 6A is pressed by the press device M2 in the unevenness formation process while wrapped in the core wrap sheet 6B, the notches 45 extending in the width direction are stretched in the longitudinal direction to form circular holes 44.

[0162] According to the manufacturing method of this embodiment, holes 44 can be formed from the cuts 45 in the core wrap sheet 6B. By providing the holes 44, the diaper 1 can improve the urine permeability and breathability on the skin-facing side of the absorbent material 6, thereby improving wearing comfort.

[0163] <Other variations of Embodiments 8-11> In the above embodiment, the recesses 40 and protrusions 41 are formed in a grid pattern, but the invention is not limited to this, and may be formed in a dot pattern or a stripe pattern. By providing the protrusions 41 on the skin-facing side of the absorbent material 6, the diaper 1 can reduce the area that comes into contact with the wearer's skin, thereby improving the wearing comfort. Cut.

[0164] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, the top sheet 7 may be composed of two nonwoven fabrics, and the lower sheet may be an example of a skin-facing sheet. Also, the absorbent 6 may not have a core wrap sheet 6B. In addition, in embodiments 9 to 11 above, the SAP placement process shown in Figures 46 and 47 may be performed before the unevenness formation process. Also, a group of SAP particles may be placed on the skin-facing side of the absorbent core 6A. In this case, more SAP particles are placed on the non-skin-facing side than on the skin-facing side of the absorbent core 6A. Note that the above embodiments and modifications can be combined with each other.

[0165] <Embodiment 12> Next, a diaper 1 according to Embodiment 12 will be described. Note that components identical to those of the diaper 1 and manufacturing apparatus M in the above embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions are omitted.

[0166] Figure 62 is a plan view of the diaper 1 in its extended state, seen from the skin side. Figure 63 is a cross-sectional view of the diaper 1 in the width direction when cut along the HH line in Figure 62. Note that the front patch 2F, elastic members 4C, 4SR, 4SL, 8EL, 8ER, 9ER, and side sheets 8L, 8R are not shown in Figures 62 and 63.

[0167] The diaper 1 according to this embodiment includes a compression section 20 formed on the non-skin side of the absorbent material 6 and a recess 21 formed on the skin side of the absorbent material 6. The compression section 20 is formed by compressing the absorbent material 6 from the non-skin side. The recess 21 is formed after the compression section 20 is formed by pressing the absorbent material 6, at a position corresponding to the compression section 20 on the skin side of the absorbent material 6. Here, the corresponding position is a position that overlaps in the thickness direction of the diaper 1. The process of forming the compression section 20 and the recess 21 will be described later.

[0168] As shown in Figure 62, the compression section 20 has a first compression section 20A and a second compression section 20B that intersect each other, and a compression intersection section 20C where the first compression section 20A and the second compression section 20B intersect in an X shape. The recess 21 has a first recess 210A and a second recess 210B that intersect each other, and a recess intersection section 21C where the first recess 210A and the second recess 210B intersect in an X shape. The first recess 210A is formed at a position corresponding to the first compression section 20A, the second recess 210B is formed at a position corresponding to the second compression section 20B, and the recess intersection section 21C is , formed at a position corresponding to the compression intersection 20C. The first compression section 20A and the first recess 210A extend from the front right to the rear left of the diaper 1. The second compression section 20B and the second recess 210B extend from the front left to the rear right of the diaper 1. Multiple portions 20A and first recesses 210A are formed so as to extend parallel to each other, and multiple second compression portions 20B and second recesses 210B are formed so as to extend parallel to each other. The rectangular absorbent body 6 is formed by a diagonal grid pattern with multiple first compression sections 20A and second compression sections 20B, and the rectangular shape is formed by multiple first recesses 210A and second recesses 210B. The shape of the absorbent body 6 is obliquely latticed. Thus, the compression section 20 and the recess 21 are formed in an oblique latticed pattern relative to the rectangular absorbent body 6.

[0169] In this embodiment, the first compression section 20A and the second compression section 20B, and the first recess 210A and the second recess 210B are formed in the shape of grooves extending diagonally in the absorbent material 6. Diaper 1 allows urine expelled by the wearer to be diffused throughout the absorbent material 6 along the recess 21 provided on the skin-facing side of the absorbent material 6. Furthermore, diaper 1 allows urine that has seeped into the non-skin-facing side of the absorbent material 6 to be diffused throughout the absorbent material 6 along the compression section 20. This allows diaper 1 to efficiently absorb urine expelled by the wearer throughout the entire absorbent material 6. Additionally, by providing the compression section 20 and recess 21 on the absorbent material 6, diaper 1 makes the absorbent material 6 more flexible. Therefore, the fit to the wearer can be improved. In addition, by providing a recess 21 on the skin-facing side of the absorbent material 6, the diaper 1 can ensure breathability on the skin-facing side and suppress stuffiness when worn.

[0170] Furthermore, the compression portion 20 is formed by compressing the absorbent material 6. Since the compressed portion of the absorbent material 6 becomes hard, if the compression portion 20 were to indirectly touch the wearer's skin through the sheet, it would feel rough and reduce the wearing comfort. However, in this embodiment, the compression portion 20 is formed on the non-skin side of the absorbent material 6, so the compression portion 20 does not come into contact with the wearer's skin even indirectly through the sheet. In addition, the recess 21 is formed by pressing rather than compression, so it is not as hard as the compression portion 20. Therefore, the diaper 1 can suppress the reduction in wearing comfort even if the recess 21 touches the wearer through the top sheet 7, thereby improving the wearing comfort.

[0171] Figure 64 is a magnified view of the area around the compression portion 20 and recess 21, similar to Figure 4. The top sheet 7 is not adhered to the surface of the recess intersection 21C, and is adhered to the surface of the absorbent material 6 on the outside of the recess intersection 21C by hot melt adhesive 30. In the diaper 1 according to this embodiment, by making the top sheet 7 not adhered to the surface of the recess intersection 21C, the surface of the recess intersection 21C is less likely to come into contact with the wearer's skin via the top sheet 7, and the wearer is less likely to feel the hardness of the recess intersection 21C. As a result, the diaper 1 can be made more comfortable to wear.

[0172] Next, the manufacturing method of the diaper 1 according to this embodiment will be described. As the manufacturing method of the diaper 1 according to this embodiment, the manufacturing method of the diaper 1 according to Embodiment 1 described above, shown in Figures 5 to 7, can be applied. In the manufacturing process of the diaper 1 according to this embodiment, the absorbent body 6 is transported with the skin side facing upwards in the transport line M1 shown in Figure 6. Also, in the manufacturing process of step S103 shown in Figure 6, the top sheet 7 is placed on top of the absorbent body 6 in an extended state. Furthermore, the surface of the recessed intersection 21C and the top sheet 7 are made non-adherent. For example, the hot melt adhesive is applied to the absorbent body 6 by the coating device M4, avoiding the surface of the formation area of ​​the recessed intersection 21C. As a result, even if the top sheet 7 falls into the recessed intersection 21C, the surface of the recessed intersection 21C and the top sheet 7 can be made non-adherent.

[0173] In the manufacturing method of the diaper 1 according to this embodiment, a compressed portion 20 is formed by compressing the absorbent material 6 from the non-skin side, and a recess 21 is formed at a position corresponding to the compressed portion 20 on the skin side of the absorbent material 6 by pressing the absorbent material 6. Since the recess 21 is formed by pressing rather than compression, it is not as hard as the compressed portion 20. Therefore, according to the manufacturing method of the diaper 1 according to this embodiment, even if the recess 21 touches the wearer through the top sheet 7, a decrease in the feeling of wearing the diaper can be suppressed, thereby improving the feeling of wearing the diaper.

[0174] Furthermore, in this embodiment, after forming the recess 21, the top sheet 7 is attached to the skin-facing side of the absorbent 6 in an extended state. This prevents the top sheet 7 from falling into the recess 21, or only slightly falling into the recess 21, and prevents the recess 21 from touching the wearer's skin via the top sheet 7, thereby improving the wearing comfort.

[0175] <Variation 12-1> Next, a modified example 12-1 of this embodiment of diaper 1 will be described. Figure 65 is an enlarged view of the area around the compression section 20 and recess 21 of diaper 1, similar to Figure 64. As shown in Figure 65, in this modified example of diaper 1, the top sheet 7 is dropped into the recess 21, and the top sheet 7 is aligned with the surface of the recess intersection 21C. The top sheet 7 is not adhered to the surface of the recess intersection 21C. In diaper 1, force is easily applied to the recess intersection 21C, which causes the core wrap sheet 6B of the recess intersection 21C to tear easily. Also, if there is a gap between the top sheet 7 and the surface of the recess intersection 21C, when force is applied to diaper 1 from the outside, the top sheet 7 on the recess intersection 21C may tear. However, as in the diaper 1 of this embodiment, by aligning the top sheet 7 with the surface of the recessed intersection 21C, it is possible to prevent the top sheet 7 from tearing even when external force is applied.

[0176] Next, a method for manufacturing the diaper 1 according to this modified example 12-1 will be described. The manufacturing method according to this modified example is characterized in that the top sheet 7 is attached to the skin-facing side of the absorbent body 6 before forming the recess 21. As a method for manufacturing the diaper 1 according to this modified example, the method for manufacturing the diaper 1 according to modified example 1-1 of the above-described embodiment 1 shown in Figures 8 and 9 can be applied. After attaching the top sheet 7 to the skin-facing side of the absorbent body 6, the recess 21 may be formed on the skin-facing side of the absorbent body 6 by pressing the absorbent body 6 and the top sheet 7 together. Figure 66 is a plan view of the absorbent body 6 with hot melt adhesive 30 applied, as seen from the skin-facing side. In the method for manufacturing the diaper 1 according to this modified example, the surface of the recess intersection 21C is not adhered to the top sheet 7. For example, in the manufacturing method of this modified example, the hot melt adhesive 30 is applied in a stripe pattern, avoiding the recess intersection 21C, using the application device M4 shown in Figure 9, as shown in Figure 66. As a result, even if the top sheet 7 is aligned with the surface of the recess intersection 21C during the recess formation process, the surface of the recess intersection 21C and the top sheet 7 can be kept separate.

[0177] <Variation 12-2> Next, a method for manufacturing the diaper 1 according to modified example 12-2 of this embodiment will be described. As a method for manufacturing the diaper 1 according to this modified example, the method for manufacturing the diaper 1 according to modified example 1-4 of the above-described embodiment 1, shown in Figures 13 and 14, can be applied. In this modified example as well, at least a part of the surface of the compression section 20 and the back sheet 5 are not adhered to each other. Also, urine that reaches the non-skin side of the absorbent material 6 spreads along the compression section 20 over the entire absorbent material 6. Since SAP is placed on the non-skin side of the absorbent core 6A, the absorbent material 6 holds the urine on the non-skin side, causing the non-skin side to expand. For this reason, the absorbent core 6A does not expand easily on the skin side even after urine absorption, and it is easier to maintain the shape of the recess 21 formed on the skin side.

[0178] In this modified example, as in Modified Example 12-1 above, the recess formation step may be performed after the top sheet attachment step.

[0179] <Other variations of Embodiment 12> In the above embodiment, the compression section 20 and the recess 21 are formed in a grid pattern, but are not limited to this, and may be formed in a dot pattern or a stripe pattern. By providing the recess 21 on the skin-facing side of the absorbent material 6, the diaper 1 can reduce the area that comes into contact with the wearer's skin, thereby improving the wearing comfort. In addition, in the compression intersection section 20C in the above embodiment, two compression sections, the first compression section 20A and the second compression section 20B, intersect, but three or more compression sections may intersect in the compression intersection section 20C. In addition, in the recess intersection section 21C in the above embodiment, two recesses, the first recess 210A and the second recess 210B, intersect, but three or more recesses may intersect in the recess intersection section 21C. The recesses may intersect.

[0180] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the top sheet 7 may be composed of two nonwoven fabrics, and the lower sheet may be an example of a skin-facing sheet. Also, the absorbent body 6 may not have a core wrap sheet 6B. In addition, a group of SAP particles may be arranged on the skin-facing side of the absorbent core 6A. In this case, more SAP particles may be arranged on the non-skin-facing side than on the skin-facing side of the absorbent core 6A. Note that the above embodiments and modifications can be combined with each other.

[0181] Although the diaper 1 in the above embodiment was a tape-type diaper, the method and apparatus for manufacturing absorbent articles according to the present invention are applicable to the manufacture of pant-type diapers. Furthermore, the above embodiments and variations can be combined with each other.

[0182] Furthermore, in absorbent articles, the recesses formed on the skin-facing side of the absorbent material expand and collapse as the absorbent material absorbs urine. When the recesses of an absorbent article collapse, the breathability that was provided by the recesses is lost. Therefore, absorbent articles have the problem that breathability decreases after the absorbent material absorbs urine, resulting in a reduced wearing comfort. According to the diaper of the above embodiment, it is possible to improve the wearing comfort of the absorbent article.

[0183] The present invention aims to provide a technology that can improve the wearing comfort of absorbent articles. According to the present invention, it is possible to improve the wearing comfort of absorbent articles.

[0184] Furthermore, this application includes the following supplementary matters. <Note 1> An absorbent article that absorbs liquids discharged by the wearer, absorbent material, A recess formed on the skin-facing side of the absorbent material, An absorbent article equipped with [a specific feature].

[0185] <Note A1> A method for manufacturing an absorbent article equipped with an absorbent material that absorbs liquids discharged by the wearer, A compression step in which the absorbent material is compressed from the non-skin side to form a compressed portion, A recess-forming step involves pressing the absorbent material to form a recess at a position corresponding to the compressed portion on the skin-facing side of the absorbent material, A method for manufacturing an absorbent article, including [the specified element]. <Appendix A2> Following the recess formation step, a skin-side sheet attachment step is performed, in which the skin-side sheet is attached to the skin-side side of the absorbent body in an extended state. A method for manufacturing an absorbent article as described in Appendix A1, including the following: <Note A3> Before the recess formation step, a skin-side sheet attachment step is performed, in which the skin-side sheet is attached to the skin-side side of the absorbent body in an extended state. A method for manufacturing an absorbent article as described in Appendix A1, including the following: <Note A4> To make at least a portion of the surface of the recess and the skin-side sheet non-adherent, A method for manufacturing absorbent articles as described in Appendix A2 or A3. <Note A5> At least a portion of the surface of the recess and the skin-side sheet are bonded together. A method for manufacturing absorbent articles as described in Appendix A2 or A3. <Note A6> In the aforementioned pressing process, the pressing section is formed in a groove shape, In the recess formation step, the recess is formed in the shape of a groove. A method for manufacturing an absorbent article as described in any one of the appendices A1 to A5. <Note A7> A non-skin side sheet attachment step, comprising attaching a non-skin side sheet to the non-skin side of the absorbent body, wherein at least a portion of the surface of the compressed portion and the non-skin side sheet are made non-adherent. A method for manufacturing an absorbent article as described in any one of the appendices A1 to A6, including the above. <Note A8> The absorbent body has an absorbent core, Hole forming step of forming through holes in the absorbent core that penetrate from the skin side to the non-skin side. A method for manufacturing an absorbent article as described in any one of the appendices A1 to A7, including the above. <Note A9> An absorbent article equipped with an absorbent material that absorbs liquids discharged by the wearer, The compression portion formed on the non-skin side of the absorbent material, A recess formed at a position corresponding to the compression portion on the skin-facing side of the absorbent material, An absorbent article equipped with [a specific feature].

[0186] <Note B1> An absorbent article that absorbs liquids discharged by the wearer, absorbent material, The first recess formed on the skin-facing side of the absorbent, A skin-side sheet attached to the skin-side side of the absorbent, wherein the skin-side sheet is not adhered to at least a portion of the surface of the first recess, An absorbent article equipped with [a specific feature]. <Note B2> The aforementioned first recess is groove-shaped. Absorbent articles as described in Appendix B1. <Note B3> The skin-side sheet is not adhered to the entire surface of the first recess. Absorbent articles as described in Appendix B1 or B2. <Note B4> The absorbent material includes SAP, which is a highly absorbent polymer. Absorbent articles as described in any one of the appendices B1 to B3. <Note B5> The SAP is arranged such that the skin-facing side of the absorbent material is denser than the non-skin-facing side. Absorbent articles as described in Appendix B4. <Note B6> The absorbent material is provided with a second recess formed on the non-skin side, The first recess is formed at a position corresponding to the second recess, Absorbent articles as described in any one of the items B1 to B5 in the appendix. <Note B7> The absorbent material is equipped with a non-skin side sheet attached to the non-skin side of the absorbent material. Absorbent articles as described in any one of the appendices B1 to B6.

[0187] <Note C1> An absorbent article that absorbs liquids discharged by the wearer, absorbent material, The first recess formed on the skin-facing side of the absorbent, A skin-side sheet attached to the skin-side side of the absorbent, the skin-side sheet being bonded to at least a portion of the surface of the first recess, An absorbent article equipped with [a specific feature]. <Note C2> The skin-side sheet is bonded to the entire surface of the first recess. Absorbent articles as described in Appendix C1. <Note C3> The aforementioned first recess is groove-shaped. Absorbent articles as specified in Appendix C1 or C2. <Note C4> The skin-facing sheet is bonded to a portion of the surface of the first recess. Absorbent articles as described in Appendix C3. <Note C5> The first recess has a pair of wall portions and a bottom portion disposed between the pair of wall portions, The aforementioned skin-facing sheet is bonded to a part of the wall portion. Absorbent articles as described in Appendix C3 or C4. <Appendix C6> The absorbent material is provided with a second recess formed on the non-skin side, The first recess is formed at a position corresponding to the second recess, The absorbent article described in any one of the appendices C1 to C5. <Note C7> The absorbent material is equipped with a non-skin side sheet attached to the non-skin side of the absorbent material. An absorbent article as described in any one of the appendices C1 to C6.

[0188] <Note D1> A method for manufacturing an absorbent article equipped with an absorbent material that absorbs liquids discharged by the wearer, The SAP arrangement step involves arranging a group of SAP particles, which are a highly absorbent polymer, on the non-skin side of the absorbent material. A compression step in which the absorbent material is compressed from the non-skin side to form a compressed portion, A recess-forming step involves pressing the absorbent material to form a recess at a position corresponding to the compressed portion on the skin-facing side of the absorbent material, A method for manufacturing an absorbent article, including [the specified element]. <Note D2> In the aforementioned pressing process, the pressing section is formed in a groove shape, In the recess formation step, the recess is formed in the shape of a groove. A method for manufacturing the absorbent article described in Appendix D1. <Note D3> A non-skin side sheet attachment step, comprising attaching the non-skin side sheet to the non-skin side of the absorbent body, wherein at least a portion of the surface of the compressed portion and the non-skin side sheet are made non-adherent. A method for manufacturing an absorbent article as described in Appendix D1 or D2, including the following: <Note D4> The absorbent body has an absorbent core, Hole forming step of forming through holes in the absorbent core that penetrate from the skin side to the non-skin side. A method for manufacturing an absorbent article as described in any one of the appendices D1 to D3, including the following: <Note D5> After the recess forming step, a skin-side sheet adhering step of adhering a skin-side sheet to the skin-side of the absorber in a stretched state A method for manufacturing an absorbent article according to any one of appendices D1 to D4, including this step <Appendix D6> In the squeezing step, the squeezing portion is formed in a lattice pattern In the recess forming step, the recesses are formed in a lattice pattern The lattice points of the recesses are non-adhesive to the skin-side sheet The method for manufacturing an absorbent article according to appendix D5 <Appendix D7> An absorbent article comprising an absorber for absorbing liquid discharged by a wearer, A group of particles of SAP, a superabsorbent polymer, disposed on the non-skin side of the absorber,[[ID=佃]] A squeezing portion formed on the non-skin side of the absorber, A recess formed at a position corresponding to the squeezing portion on the skin side of the absorber, An absorbent article comprising these components

[0189] <Appendix E1> A method for manufacturing an absorbent article comprising an absorber for absorbing liquid discharged by a wearer, An unevenness forming step of forming a convex portion by partially making the skin side of the absorber convex while forming a recess by partially denting the non-skin side of the absorber, A skin-side sheet adhering step of adhering a skin-side sheet to the skin side of the absorber, A method for manufacturing an absorbent article including these steps <Appendix E2> In the unevenness forming step, the recess is formed in a groove shape on the non-skin side of the absorber, and the convex portion is formed on the skin side of the absorber corresponding to the recess, The method for manufacturing an absorbent article according to appendix E1 <Appendix E3> Before the unevenness forming step, a SAP arranging step of arranging a group of particles of SAP, a superabsorbent polymer, on the non-skin side of the absorber A method for manufacturing an absorbent article according to appendix E1 or E2, including this step <Note E4> A non-skin side sheet attachment step, comprising attaching the non-skin side sheet to the non-skin side of the absorbent body, wherein at least a portion of the surface of the recess and the non-skin side sheet are made non-adherent. A method for manufacturing an absorbent article as described in any one of the appendices E1 to E3, including the following: <Note E5> In the aforementioned uneven surface formation step, the tops of adjacent pairs of protrusions are formed to be inclined in directions facing each other. A method for manufacturing an absorbent article as described in any one of the appendices E1 to E4. <Note E6> The skin-side sheet attachment step is performed after the unevenness formation step. In the skin-side sheet attachment step, the skin-side sheet is attached to the skin-side side of the absorbent body with the protrusions aligned with the skin-side portion. A method for manufacturing an absorbent article as described in any one of the appendices E1 to E5. <Note E7> Prepare the skin-side sheet with notches, and perform the skin-side sheet attachment step before the uneven surface formation step. In the process of forming the uneven surface, the skin-side sheet is pressed to make the skin-side sheet conform to the protrusions. A method for manufacturing an absorbent article as described in any one of the appendices E1 to E5. <Note E8> The absorbent body comprises an absorbent core and a core wrap sheet that encloses the absorbent core and has a slit on the skin-facing side. The uneven surface formation process is performed while the absorbent core is wrapped in the core wrap sheet. A method for manufacturing an absorbent article as described in any one of the appendices E1 to E7. <Note E9> An absorbent article equipped with an absorbent material that absorbs liquids discharged by the wearer, The absorbent material has a recessed portion on the non-skin side, The absorbent material has a convex portion that is partially raised on the skin-facing side, A skin-side sheet is attached to the skin-side side of the absorbent body so as to follow the convex portion, An absorbent article equipped with [a specific feature].

[0190] <Note F1> A method for manufacturing an absorbent article equipped with an absorbent material that absorbs liquids discharged by the wearer, A pressing step to form a compressed portion by pressing the absorbent material from the non-skin side, the pressing step to form the compressed portion having a first compressed portion and a second compressed portion that intersect each other, and a compressed intersection portion where the first compressed portion and the second compressed portion intersect, A recess forming step in which a recess is formed at a position corresponding to the compressed portion on the skin side of the absorbent by pressing the absorbent, the recess having a first recess and a second recess that intersect each other, and a recess intersection portion where the first recess and the second recess intersect, A skin-side sheet attachment step in which a skin-side sheet is attached to the skin-side side of the absorbent body in an extended state, comprising a skin-side sheet attachment step in which the surface of the recessed intersection and the skin-side sheet are made non-adherent, A method for manufacturing an absorbent article, including [the specified element]. <Note F2> The compression section is lattice-shaped and has a plurality of first compression sections and second compression sections. The recess is lattice-shaped, having a plurality of first recesses and second recesses. A method for manufacturing the absorbent article described in Appendix F1. <Note F3> The skin-side sheet attachment step is performed before the recess formation step. In the recess formation step, the absorbent and the skin-side sheet are pressed together to bring the skin-side sheet along the surface of the recess intersection. A method for manufacturing an absorbent article as described in Appendix F1 or F2. <Note F4> A non-skin side sheet attachment step, comprising attaching the non-skin side sheet to the non-skin side of the absorbent body, wherein at least a portion of the surface of the compressed portion and the non-skin side sheet are made non-adherent. The method for manufacturing an absorbent article according to any one of appended notes F1 to F3, which includes <Appended Note F5> An absorbent article comprising an absorber that absorbs liquid discharged by a wearer, A squeezing part formed on the non-skin side of the absorber, the squeezing part having a first squeezing part and a second squeezing part that cross each other, and a squeezing intersection part where the first squeezing part and the second squeezing part cross each other, A recess formed at a position corresponding to the squeezing part on the skin side of the absorber, the recess having a first recess and a second recess that cross each other, and a recess intersection part where the first recess and the second recess cross each other, A skin-side sheet adhered to the skin side of the absorber, the skin-side sheet being non-adhesive to the surface of the recess intersection part, An absorbent article comprising

Explanation of Reference Signs

[0191] 1 ·· Diaper 1B ·· Inseam region 1F ·· Front body region 1R ·· Back body region 2F ·· Front patch 2L, 2R ·· Tape​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​M2･･･Compression part forming device M3 Press Machine M4·Coating device M5 Top Sheet Supply Roller M6 Pressing Machine M7 Coating Device M8 Backsheet feeder roller

Claims

1. A method for manufacturing an absorbent article equipped with an absorbent material that absorbs liquids discharged by the wearer, A compression step in which the absorbent material is compressed from the non-skin side to form a compressed portion, A recess-forming step involves pressing the absorbent material to form a recess at a position corresponding to the compressed portion on the skin-facing side of the absorbent material, A method for manufacturing an absorbent article, including [the specified element].

2. Following the recess formation step, a skin-side sheet attachment step is performed, in which the skin-side sheet is attached to the skin-side side of the absorbent body in an extended state. A method for producing an absorbent article according to claim 1, including the following:

3. Before the recess formation step, a skin-side sheet attachment step is performed, in which the skin-side sheet is attached to the skin-side side of the absorbent body in an extended state. A method for producing an absorbent article according to claim 1, including the following:

4. To make at least a portion of the surface of the recess and the skin-side sheet non-adherent, A method for manufacturing an absorbent article according to claim 2 or 3.

5. At least a portion of the surface of the recess and the skin-side sheet are bonded together. A method for manufacturing an absorbent article according to claim 2 or 3.

6. In the aforementioned pressing process, the pressing section is formed in a groove shape, In the recess formation step, the recess is formed in the shape of a groove. A method for manufacturing an absorbent article according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. A non-skin side sheet attachment step, comprising attaching a non-skin side sheet to the non-skin side of the absorbent body, wherein at least a portion of the surface of the compressed portion and the non-skin side sheet are made non-adherent. A method for manufacturing an absorbent article according to any one of claims 1 to 6, including the following:

8. The absorbent body has an absorbent core, Hole forming step of forming through holes in the absorbent core that penetrate from the skin side to the non-skin side. A method for manufacturing an absorbent article according to any one of claims 1 to 7, including the following:

9. SAP arrangement step: Arranging a group of SAP particles, which are a highly absorbent polymer, on the non-skin side of the absorbent material. A method for producing an absorbent article according to claim 1, including the following:

10. Following the recess formation step, a skin-side sheet attachment step is performed, in which the skin-side sheet is attached to the skin-side side of the absorbent body in an extended state. A method for producing an absorbent article according to claim 9, including the following:

11. In the aforementioned pressing process, the pressing section is formed in a grid shape, In the recess formation step, the recesses are formed in a grid pattern, The grid points of the recess are not adhered to the skin-side sheet. A method for manufacturing an absorbent article according to claim 10.

12. A method for manufacturing an absorbent article equipped with an absorbent material that absorbs liquids discharged by the wearer, In the pressing process, the pressing section is formed having a first pressing section and a second pressing section that intersect each other, and a pressing intersection section where the first pressing section and the second pressing section intersect. In the recess formation step, the recess is formed having a first recess and a second recess that intersect each other, and a recess intersection portion where the first recess and the second recess intersect. A skin-side sheet attachment step in which a skin-side sheet is attached to the skin-side side of the absorbent body in an extended state, comprising a skin-side sheet attachment step in which the surface of the recessed intersection and the skin-side sheet are made non-adherent, A method for producing an absorbent article according to claim 1, including the following:

13. The compression section is lattice-shaped and has a plurality of first compression sections and second compression sections. The recess is lattice-shaped, having a plurality of first recesses and second recesses. A method for manufacturing an absorbent article according to claim 12.

14. The skin-side sheet attachment step is performed before the recess formation step. In the recess formation step, the absorbent and the skin-side sheet are pressed together to bring the skin-side sheet along the surface of the recess intersection. A method for manufacturing an absorbent article according to claim 12 or 13.

15. An absorbent article equipped with an absorbent material that absorbs liquids discharged by the wearer, The compression portion formed on the non-skin side of the absorbent material, A recess is formed on the skin-facing side of the absorbent material at a position corresponding to the compression portion, and the recess has a softer surface than the compression portion, An absorbent article equipped with [a specific feature].

16. The aforementioned recess is the first recess, A skin-side sheet attached to the skin-side of the absorbent, wherein the skin-side sheet is not adhered to at least a portion of the surface of the first recess. The absorbent article according to claim 15, comprising the following:

17. The first recess is groove-shaped. The absorbent article according to claim 16.

18. The skin-side sheet is not adhered to the entire surface of the first recess. The absorbent article according to claim 16 or 17.

19. The absorbent material contains SAP, which is a highly absorbent polymer. The absorbent article according to any one of claims 16 to 18.

20. The SAP is arranged such that the skin-facing side of the absorbent material is more densely packed than the non-skin-facing side. The absorbent article according to claim 19.

21. The absorbent material is provided with a second recess formed on the non-skin side, The first recess is formed at a position corresponding to the second recess. The absorbent article according to any one of claims 16 to 20.

22. The absorbent material is equipped with a non-skin side sheet attached to the non-skin side of the absorbent material. The absorbent article according to any one of claims 16 to 21.

23. The aforementioned recess is the first recess, A skin-side sheet attached to the skin-side side of the absorbent, wherein the skin-side sheet is adhered to at least a portion of the surface of the first recess, The absorbent article according to claim 15, comprising the following:

24. The skin-facing sheet is bonded to the entire surface of the first recess. The absorbent article according to claim 23.

25. The first recess is groove-shaped. The absorbent article according to claim 23 or 24.

26. The skin-facing sheet is bonded to a portion of the surface of the first recess. The absorbent article according to claim 23.

27. The first recess has a pair of wall portions and a bottom portion disposed between the pair of wall portions, The aforementioned skin-facing sheet is bonded to a part of the wall portion. The absorbent article according to claim 26.

28. The absorbent material is provided with a second recess formed on the non-skin side, The first recess is formed at a position corresponding to the second recess. The absorbent article according to any one of claims 23 to 27.

29. The absorbent material is equipped with a non-skin side sheet attached to the non-skin side of the absorbent material. The absorbent article according to any one of claims 23 to 28.

30. An absorbent article equipped with an absorbent material that absorbs liquids discharged by the wearer, A group of SAP particles, which are a highly absorbent polymer, are arranged on the non-skin side of the absorbent material. The absorbent article according to claim 15, comprising the following:

31. The compression section comprises a first compression section and a second compression section that intersect each other, and a compression intersection section where the first compression section and the second compression section intersect. The recess has a first recess and a second recess that intersect each other, and a recess intersection where the first recess and the second recess intersect. A skin-side sheet attached to the skin-side side of the absorbent body, wherein the skin-side sheet is not adhered to the surface of the recessed intersection, The absorbent article according to claim 15, comprising the following:

Images