Absorbent article

Abstract

An absorbent article (1) comprises a liquid-absorbing absorbent core (10) and has a longitudinal direction, a width direction, and a thickness direction, these directions being orthogonal to each other while the absorbent article (1) is in an unfolded state, the absorbent article (1) being characterized in having self-adhesive joining parts (30), the joining parts (30) being provided on one side of a folding line along which the absorbent article (1) is folded when packaged, and on the other side of the folding line, with respect to a direction orthogonal to the folding line.

Description

absorbent articles

[0001] The present invention relates to an absorbent article.

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses diaper pants as an absorbent article, which include a chassis and a circular elastic belt, and also discloses that the seams (side seams) between the front waist region and the back waist region of the diaper pants are tucked into the chassis before packaging.

[0003] Patent No. 6013616

[0004] As described above, folding the side portions of the waist region and packaging the absorbent article allows for compact packaging. However, in Patent Document 1, the side portions of the waist region are simply tucked in, making it difficult to maintain this state. Therefore, for example, when disposing of diaper pants, even if a user tucks the side portions of the waist region into the chassis as they were when packaging, the folded waist region will not be maintained and the absorbent article will open up, making it difficult to discard in a compact state. On the other hand, the fold can be maintained by providing, for example, an adhesive to the absorbent article. However, simply providing an adhesive will cause the added adhesive to adhere to the wearer's skin or clothing when putting on the absorbent article, making it difficult to put on the absorbent article in the appropriate position.

[0005] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned problems, and its object is to provide an absorbent article that can be easily put on while maintaining a compact state.

[0006] The main invention for achieving the above object is an absorbent article having a liquid-absorbing absorbent core with a longitudinal direction, a width direction, and a thickness direction that are perpendicular to one another when unfolded, the absorbent article having self-adhesive joints, the joints being provided on one side of the fold line at the time of packaging and the other side of the fold line in a direction perpendicular to the fold line. Other features of the present invention will become clear from the description of this specification and the accompanying drawings.

[0007] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an absorbent article that can be easily put on and can be kept compact.

[0008] 1 is a schematic plan view of the urine absorption pad 1 in an unfolded and stretched state, as seen from the skin side. FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the urine absorption pad 1. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram of the pad 1 when packaged. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram of a self-adhesive joint 30. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of a modified example of the joint 30. FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram of a modified example of the joint 30. FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram of a modified example of the joint 30. FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram of a modified example of the joint 30. FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram of a tri-fold type pad 1. FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram of a self-adhesive joint 50 of the diaper 40. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram of a self-adhesive joint 50 of the diaper 40.

[0009] The present specification and the accompanying drawings make at least the following clear: (Aspect 1) An absorbent article having a longitudinal direction, a width direction, and a thickness direction that are perpendicular to one another in an unfolded state, and including a liquid-absorbent absorbent core, the absorbent article having self-adhesive joints, the joints being provided on one side of a fold line at the time of packaging and on the other side of the fold line in a direction perpendicular to the fold line.

[0010] According to Aspect 1, the absorbent article is folded in the orthogonal direction while the joints on one side are brought into contact with the joints on the other side, thereby exerting adhesive force and maintaining the folded, compact state of the absorbent article. Furthermore, if the joints are self-adhesive, the joints do not adhere to the wearer or clothing when the absorbent article is put on, making it easy to align the absorbent article with the wearer and ensuring ease of putting it on.

[0011] (Aspect 2) The absorbent article according to aspect 1, wherein, at the center line of the absorbent article in the longitudinal direction, when the absorbent article is folded, the joint has a portion that overlaps in the thickness direction to form two layers.

[0012] According to Aspect 2, when the absorbent article is folded in half in the longitudinal direction, the joints on one side and the other side come into contact with each other, thereby exerting adhesive force, thereby maintaining the absorbent article in a compact state in the longitudinal direction after being folded in half.

[0013] (Aspect 3) An absorbent article as described in Aspect 2, wherein the joint has a first joint provided on one side of the fold line and a second joint provided on the other side of the fold line, and when the absorbent article is divided into four in the longitudinal direction, the first joint is provided in the end region on one side and the second joint is provided in the end region on the other side.

[0014] According to the third aspect, the portion of the absorbent article that opens outward in the longitudinal direction from the joint can be reduced, and the absorbent article can be more easily maintained in a compact folded state.

[0015] (Aspect 4) An absorbent article as described in Aspect 3, wherein the joint has a first joint provided on one side of the fold line and a second joint provided on the other side of the fold line, and when the absorbent article is divided into four in the longitudinal direction, the first joint is provided in a first central region adjacent to the end region on one side, and the second joint is provided in a second central region adjacent to the end region on the other side.

[0016] According to the fourth aspect, the joints are located close to the folding position, making it easier for the user to align the joints on one side with the joints on the other side, and to bring the joints into contact with each other.

[0017] (Aspect 5) The absorbent article according to any one of Aspects 1 to 4, wherein the joining portion is provided on the skin side of the absorbent article.

[0018] According to Aspect 5, the absorbent article is maintained in a folded state with the skin side that has received and absorbed the excrement inside, allowing the absorbent article to be disposed of hygienically.Furthermore, the excrement and its odor can be contained inside the folded absorbent article.

[0019] (Aspect 6) The absorbent article according to any one of aspects 1 to 5, wherein the length of the joint in the longitudinal direction is longer than the length of the joint in the width direction.

[0020] According to aspect 6, the joints can be bonded together over a wide range in the longitudinal direction of the absorbent article, making it easier for the absorbent article to maintain a compact folded state.

[0021] (Aspect 7) The absorbent article according to any one of Aspects 1 to 6, wherein the joining portion is provided on a non-hydrophilic sheet.

[0022] According to Aspect 7, the non-hydrophilic sheet is less likely to absorb and retain excrement, so the bonded portions are less likely to come into contact with excrement, and this can prevent the adhesive strength between the bonded portions from decreasing.

[0023] (Aspect 8) The absorbent article according to any one of Aspects 1 to 6, wherein the joining portion is provided on a hydrophilic sheet.

[0024] According to the eighth aspect, the hydrophilic sheet allows the excreted liquid to diffuse and therefore does not easily form pools of liquid, so that it is possible to prevent the adhesive strength between the bonded portions from being reduced due to pools of liquid.

[0025] (Aspect 9) The absorbent article according to any one of Aspects 1 to 8, wherein the joining portion exhibits adhesive strength using a material other than a hook-and-loop fastener or an adhesive.

[0026] According to aspect 9, when the absorbent article is put on, the joints do not adhere to the wearer or clothing, etc., so that the absorbent article can be easily positioned relative to the wearer, ensuring ease of putting on.

[0027] (Aspect 10) The absorbent article according to aspect 5, wherein the average deviation of the surface roughness of the joining surface of the joining portion is 20 or less.

[0028] According to aspect 10, the contact with the skin at the joints can be improved and discomfort when worn can be reduced compared to when the average deviation of the surface roughness is greater than 20.

[0029] (Embodiment 11) The absorbent article according to any one of embodiments 1 to 10, wherein the average coefficient of friction of the joining surface of the joining portion is 0.2 or more.

[0030] According to Aspect 11, the slipperiness of the joint is reduced compared to when the average coefficient of friction is less than 0.2. This makes it difficult for the absorbent article to shift position relative to the wearer or the outer layer, thereby reducing discomfort when worn.

[0031] (Aspect 12) An absorbent article according to any one of Aspects 1 to 11, wherein when an adhesive strength measurement test is conducted in which the adhesive strength between the bonded portions is measured after repeated joining and peeling of the bonded portions, the adhesive strength between the bonded portions is 0.2 N / 25 mm or more.

[0032] According to Aspect 12, the adhesive strength is maintained even when the bonded portions are repeatedly bonded and peeled apart, compared to when the adhesive strength is less than 0.2 N / 25 mm. Therefore, even if the user repeatedly bonds and peels apart the bonded portions until one bonded portion and the other bonded portion properly abut, the absorbent article maintains its folded, compact state.

[0033] (Aspect 13) The absorbent article according to any one of Aspects 1 to 12, wherein the joint portion has a first joint portion provided on the one side of the fold line and a second joint portion provided on the other side of the fold line, and the area of ​​the first joint portion is different from the area of ​​the second joint portion.

[0034] According to aspect 13, it becomes easier for the user to align the joint with the smaller area with the joint with the larger area, making it easier to bring the joints into contact with each other.

[0035] (Aspect 14) An absorbent article according to any one of aspects 1 to 13, having a presence area where the absorbent core is present and an absence area where the absorbent core is not present, and the joint is provided in the presence area.

[0036] According to aspect 14, by providing the joints in areas with high rigidity, the force exerted by the user to bring the joints together can be easily transmitted, allowing the joints to be stably and firmly bonded together.

[0037] (Aspect 15) An absorbent article according to any one of aspects 1 to 13, having a presence area where the absorbent core is present and an absence area where the absorbent core is not present, and the joint is provided in the absence area.

[0038] According to Aspect 15, a joint can be provided around the periphery of the absorbent article, which makes it easier to maintain the folded state of the absorbent article. Also, the area of ​​the absorbent article that opens outside the joint can be reduced.

[0039] (Aspect 16) An absorbent article according to any one of aspects 1 to 13, having a presence area where the absorbent core is present and an absence area where the absorbent core is not present, and the joint is provided across the presence area and the absence area.

[0040] According to the sixteenth aspect, while the joints are provided on the peripheral edge of the absorbent article, the joints can be stably and firmly bonded together at the joints in the areas where the rigidity is high.

[0041] (Aspect 17) An absorbent article described in any of Aspects 1 to 13, wherein the joint has a first joint provided on one side of the fold line and a second joint provided on the other side of the fold line, and has a presence area where the absorbent core is present and an absence area where the absorbent core is not present, and one of the first joint and the second joint is provided in the presence area and the other is provided in the absence area.

[0042] According to aspect 17, the other joining portion can be provided on the peripheral edge of the absorbent article, and the other joining portion can be stably and firmly adhered to the one joining portion provided in the area with high rigidity.

[0043] (Aspect 18) The absorbent article according to any one of Aspects 1 to 17, wherein the joint is provided in a central region in the width direction when the absorbent article is divided into three in the width direction.

[0044] According to aspect 18, it is possible to evenly suppress the opening of the absorbent article on both sides of the joint in the width direction.

[0045] (Aspect 19) The absorbent article according to any one of Aspects 1 to 17, wherein the joints are provided in widthwise end regions when the absorbent article is divided into three sections in the width direction.

[0046] According to aspect 19, the user can align the ends of the absorbent article while bringing the joints on one side into contact with the joints on the other side.

[0047] (Aspect 20) An absorbent article according to any one of Aspects 1 to 19, wherein the joints have a plurality of pairs of a first joint provided on one side of the fold line and a second joint provided on the other side of the fold line.

[0048] According to aspect 20, the set of multiple intermittently arranged joints allows the absorbent article to maintain a compact folded state while preventing the rigidity of the absorbent article from being increased by the joints.

[0049] First Embodiment In the first embodiment, a urine absorption pad will be described as an example of an absorbent article according to the present invention. However, the absorbent article according to the present invention is not limited to urine absorption pads, and can also be applied to, for example, sanitary napkins, pants-type disposable diapers, shorts-type napkins, tape-type disposable diapers, pet diapers, and absorbent sheets for nursing care or pets.

[0050] <<<<Basic Structure of Urine Absorption Pad 1 >>>> Figure 1 is a schematic plan view of the urine absorption pad 1 in an unfolded and stretched state, as seen from the skin side. Figure 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the urine absorption pad 1. The urine absorption pad 1 (hereinafter also referred to as "pad") can be used by being placed inside a pants-type or tape-type disposable diaper, or it can be used as a standalone pad 1 by being placed directly inside the wearer's underwear (pants or shorts).

[0051] The pad 1 has a substantially rectangular planar shape in its unfolded state, with a longitudinal direction, a width direction, and a thickness direction that are perpendicular to one another. The longitudinal direction corresponds to the front-to-rear direction from the wearer's abdominal side to the dorsal side when the pad 1 is worn. In addition, in the thickness direction, the side that contacts the wearer's skin is referred to as the skin side, and the opposite side is referred to as the non-skin side. Since the pad 1 of this embodiment is symmetrical in the longitudinal direction, either side of the pad 1 in the longitudinal direction may correspond to the wearer's abdominal side. Furthermore, unlike tape-type or pants-type diapers, the pad 1 is worn without one longitudinal end and the other longitudinal end being connected along the wearer's waist.

[0052] The expanded state of the pad 1 refers to the state in which the entire pad 1 is expanded in a plane. The stretched state of the pad 1 refers to the state in which the pad 1 is stretched to the extent that wrinkles that have occurred in the pad 1 are substantially invisible, and the pad 1 is stretched to the extent that the dimensions of each member constituting the pad 1 (for example, the side sheet 4 described below) match or are close to the dimensions of the member alone.

[0053] The pad 1 comprises a liquid-absorbent core 10, a liquid-permeable top sheet 2 (e.g., nonwoven fabric) provided on the skin side of the absorbent core 10, a liquid-impermeable back sheet 3 (e.g., a resin film such as polyethylene or polypropylene) provided on the non-skin side of the absorbent core 10, and a pair of side sheets 4 provided on both widthwise sides of the pad 1. As shown in Fig. 2, the pair of side sheets 4 are folded inward in the widthwise direction from the widthwise side portions of the back sheet 3 on the non-skin side toward the skin side of the skin side sheet 2 so as to encase the absorbent core 10.

[0054] An example of the absorbent core 10 is a liquid-absorbent fiber such as pulp fiber containing SAP (super absorbent polymer) molded into a predetermined shape. The absorbent core 10 is covered with a liquid-permeable core wrap sheet 11 (e.g., tissue). However, without being limited to the above, the absorbent core 10 may be an SAP sheet in which an SAP layer is attached to a hydrophilic sheet, an airlaid sheet in which liquid-absorbent fiber is molded into a sheet by an airlaid method, or the like, or may be configured with two or more layers laminated together. Furthermore, the absorbent core 10 does not have to be covered with the core wrap sheet 11.

[0055] Furthermore, a fixing member 20 is provided on the non-skin side of the pad 1, which joins the pad 1 to the inner surface of a pants-type diaper or underwear (outerwear). A fixing member 20 is provided at each of both longitudinal ends of the pad 1. The fixing member 20 is a rectangular member, and is provided so that its long side is aligned with the width direction of the pad 1. The fixing member 20 is preferably a member that can be peeled off from the inner surface of the outerwear without damaging the outerwear and can be reattached. The fixing member 20 in this embodiment is a tape having a hook material (e.g., a male member of a hook-and-loop fastener). Other examples of the fixing member 20 include tape coated with adhesive.

[0056] The pad 1 also has a pair of leg elastic members 5 arranged along the longitudinal direction on both widthwise sides. In Fig. 2, the leg elastic members 5 are fixed in a stretched state in the longitudinal direction between the backsheet 3 and the sidesheets 4. This makes it easier for both widthwise sides of the pad 1 to fit closely around the legs of the wearer.

[0057] The pad 1 also has a pair of leak-preventing walls 6 on both widthwise sides that can stand up against the skin. The leak-preventing walls 6 are formed by the side sheets 4 and leak-preventing wall elastic members 7. The leak-preventing wall elastic members 7 are fixed to the inner widthwise ends of the side sheets 4 in a stretched state along the longitudinal direction of the pad 1.

[0058] The basic configuration of the pad 1 has been described above, but the configuration of the pad 1 described above is an example and is not limited to this. For example, the planar shape of the pad 1 may be asymmetric in the longitudinal direction, or the pad 1 may not be provided with the fixing member 20.

[0059] <<<<Self-adhesive joint 30>>> Figure 3 is an explanatory diagram of the pad 1 when packaged. Figure 3A is a plan view of the pad 1 when packaged, and Figure 3B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the pad 1 when packaged. Figure 4 is an explanatory diagram of the self-adhesive joint 30. Figures 5 to 8 are explanatory diagrams of modified examples of the joint 30. Figures 4 to 8 are schematic plan views of the pad 1 as viewed from the skin side.

[0060] In the following description, the center line of the pad 1 in the longitudinal direction, i.e., the center line along the width direction that divides the pad 1 in half in the longitudinal direction, is also referred to as the "longitudinal center line CL." The center line of the pad 1 in the width direction, i.e., the center line along the longitudinal direction that divides the pad 1 in half in the width direction, is also referred to as the "width center line C."

[0061] The pad 1 is folded along the folding line FL1 at the time of packaging, and is then placed in a package containing bag in a compact state, one or more at a time, for shipment. The pad 1 of this embodiment is placed in the containing bag in a state folded in half (FIG. 3A) with the longitudinal center line CL as the folding line FL1 at the time of packaging. Therefore, the pad 1 is packaged compactly with its longitudinal length shortened.

[0062] Furthermore, the pad 1 has self-adhesive joints 30. In the longitudinal direction perpendicular to the folding line FL1 at the time of packaging, the joints 30 are provided on one side of the folding line FL1 and on the other side of the folding line FL1.

[0063] The pad 1 shown in FIG. 4 has a joint 30 on the skin-side surface. The joint 30 includes two joints 30a, 30b (first joints) on one side of the fold line FL1 in the longitudinal direction, and two joints 30c, 30d (second joints) on the other side of the fold line FL1 in the longitudinal direction. In other words, the pad 1 has four joints 30a to 30d, with a joint 30 provided on each of both widthwise sides of both longitudinal ends. Each of the joints 30a to 30d is rectangular. In the following description, the joint 30 on one side of the fold line FL1 will be referred to as the "joint on one side," and the joint 30 on the other side of the fold line FL1 will be referred to as the "joint on the other side."

[0064] The self-adhesive bonding portions 30 themselves have low tackiness (adhesion), but exhibit adhesive strength (stickiness) even when the bonding portions 30 are brought into contact with each other with relatively weak pressure, and have the property of being difficult to adhere to areas other than the bonding portions 30 even when strong pressure is applied. Specifically, the adhesive strength between the bonding portions 30 and areas other than the bonding portions 30 is preferably ¼ or less of the adhesive strength between the bonding portions 30 themselves. Furthermore, the bonding portions 30 can be peeled off and re-adhered without damaging the pad 1. The bonding portions 30 are formed using a self-adhesive adhesive 32.

[0065] The self-adhesive adhesive 32 is not particularly limited as long as it is safe to come into contact with the wearer's skin, and examples thereof include natural rubber, synthetic rubber, acrylic resin, polyurethane resin, silicone rubber, etc., which may be used alone or in combination.

[0066] According to the pad 1 described above, a user (e.g., a wearer or a caregiver) can fold the pad 1 longitudinally and abut the joints 30a and 30b on one side of the fold line FL1 against the joints 30c and 30d on the other side, thereby exerting adhesive force at the joints 30. This makes it difficult for the pad 1 to unfold, and the folded state of the pad 1 is maintained. In particular, the fold line FL1 used during packaging is a fold line for reducing the planar size of the pad 1 as shown in FIG. 3A . Therefore, by providing the joints 30 on both sides of the fold line FL1, the user can fold the pad 1 compactly in a direction perpendicular to the fold line FL1 used during packaging (here, the longitudinal direction). This allows the user to carry or dispose of the pad 1 while maintaining its compact state.

[0067] Furthermore, the bonding portion 30 is self-adhesive. Therefore, when putting on the pad 1, the bonding portion 30 does not adhere to the wearer's skin, the surface of the pad 1 other than the bonding portion 30, or clothing, making it easy to position the pad 1 on the wearer and ensuring ease of putting on the pad 1. Furthermore, because the bonding portion 30 on the skin side of the pad 1 does not adhere to the wearer's skin, it is possible to prevent the bonding portion 30 from causing discomfort when wearing the pad.

[0068] The fold line used for packaging is not limited to the fold line FL1 along the width direction, but may be, for example, a fold line along the length direction. In this case, it is preferable to provide joints 30 on both sides of the fold line in the width direction perpendicular to the fold line. This allows the pad 1 to be kept compactly folded in the width direction.

[0069] The joint portion 30 on one side of the fold line FL1 and the joint portion 30 on the other side of the fold line FL1 may be a pair of joint portions 30 spaced apart in the longitudinal direction as shown in Fig. 4, or may be continuous in the longitudinal direction as shown in the modified example of Fig. 6. In the case of Fig. 6, a portion of the joint portion 30 on one side of the fold line FL1 abuts against a portion of the joint portion 30 on the other side, thereby exerting adhesive force. In the case of Fig. 6, the joint portion 30 is present over a wide range in the longitudinal direction of the pad 1, making it more difficult for the pad 1 to unfold, and maintaining a compact state.

[0070] 9A and 9B are explanatory diagrams of the configuration of the bonding portion 30 and are schematic cross-sectional views of the pad 1. As shown in Fig. 9A, the bonding portion 30 may be formed by applying a self-adhesive adhesive 32 to a sheet-like substrate 31. Alternatively, as shown in Fig. 9B, the bonding portion 30 may be formed by applying the self-adhesive adhesive 32 directly to the basic materials (side sheet 4, top sheet 2, back sheet 3, etc.) that constitute the outer surface of the pad 1.

[0071] As shown in FIG. 9A , when the bonding portion 30 is formed separately from the base material of the pad 1 and adhered to the base material of the pad 1, the bonding portion 30 becomes more noticeable. This makes the bonding portion 30 more easily recognizable to the user, and the user is more likely to be aware of the need to abut the bonding portions 30 when folding the pad 1. The substrate 31 of the separate bonding portion 30 is not particularly limited as long as it is a flexible sheet-like material, and examples include nonwoven fabric, resin film, paper, woven fabric, knitted fabric, etc. If the substrate 31 is a flexible sheet, the rigidity of the bonding portion 30 can be reduced, thereby reducing discomfort when wearing the pad 1 even if the bonding portion 30 is provided on the skin-side surface of the pad 1. On the other hand, in the case of FIG. 9B , the rigidity of the skin-side surface of the pad 1 can be reduced by the amount of the substrate 31, thereby further reducing discomfort when wearing the pad and reducing the number of materials used in the pad 1.

[0072] The thickness of the joint 30 is preferably 3 mm or less. This reduces the step at the joint 30 compared to when the thickness of the joint 30 is greater than 3 mm, thereby reducing discomfort when worn. The thickness can be measured in a non-contact manner using, for example, a laser displacement meter (Keyence Corporation's high-precision two-dimensional laser displacement meter LJ-G series (model: LJ-G030) or equivalent).

[0073] 10A and 10B are plan views of the bonded portion 30. In the bonded portion 30, the self-adhesive bonding agent 32 may be applied over the entire area (i.e., solidly coated), or may be applied in a predetermined pattern. Examples of predetermined patterns include the dot pattern shown in FIG. 10A and the wave pattern shown in FIG. 10B , as well as an Ω pattern, a spiral pattern, a stripe pattern, and a grid pattern. The shape of the pattern is not particularly limited. In this case, the bonded portion 30 is defined as an area surrounded by an imaginary line passing through the ends of the self-adhesive bonding agent 32 on the most one and most other sides in the width direction and extending in the longitudinal direction, and an imaginary line passing through the ends of the self-adhesive bonding agent 32 on the most one and most other sides in the longitudinal direction and extending in the width direction, among the group of self-adhesive bonding agents 32 applied in the predetermined pattern. While FIG. 4 illustrates a rectangular bonded portion 30, the shape of the bonded portion 30 is not particularly limited.

[0074] As described above, the joining portion 30 of this embodiment exhibits adhesive strength 30 by a self-adhesive bonding agent 32 such as rubber. In other words, the joining portion 30 exhibits adhesive strength using a material other than a hook-and-loop fastener or adhesive. Examples of hook-and-loop fasteners include those composed of a male member with multiple hook-shaped protrusions and a female member with multiple loops onto which the protrusions of the male member hook, and those consisting solely of the male member. In other words, the joining portion 30 is provided on the non-skin side of the pad 1 to be joined to the outer layer, and is different from the fixing member 20 (the male member of the hook-and-loop fastener).

[0075] Even with a joint formed using a hook-and-loop fastener or adhesive, the folded shape of the pad 1 is maintained. However, a male fastener exerts adhesive force not only when it contacts a female fastener but also when it contacts other materials such as nonwoven fabric, and hook-and-loop fasteners are different from self-adhesive materials. Similarly, adhesives also exert adhesive force when it contacts materials other than adhesives, and are different from self-adhesive materials. In this case, the joint adheres to the wearer's skin, the surface of the pad 1 other than the joint, or clothing, reducing ease of donning and causing discomfort when worn. In particular, hook-and-loop fasteners are highly rigid materials, and when they are provided on the skin side, they cause discomfort against the wearer's skin. Therefore, by using a material other than hook-and-loop fasteners or adhesives for the joint 30, ease of donning can be ensured and discomfort when worn can be reduced.

[0076] Furthermore, the bonding portions 30 are preferably provided on the skin-side surface of the pad 1. By doing so, when the pad 1 is folded with the skin-side surface that receives and absorbs excrement inside, the bonding portions 30 come into contact with each other, maintaining the folded state of the pad 1. This allows excrement and its odor to be contained inside the folded pad 1. Furthermore, exposure of the skin-side surface, which is the excrement surface, is reduced, making it difficult for the user's hands to come into contact with the excrement surface, allowing for hygienic disposal. Even before use, the pad 1 remains folded with the skin-side surface inside, allowing for hygienic storage and transport. Furthermore, the bonding portions 30 are self-adhesive and do not adhere to the wearer's skin, so there is little discomfort when wearing the pad 1 even when the bonding portions 30 are provided on the skin-side surface.

[0077] However, the above is not limiting, and the bonding portion 30 may be provided on the non-skin side of the pad 1. In this case, the pad 1 is still kept compactly folded with the non-skin side facing inward. Furthermore, since the self-adhesive bonding portion 30 is not attached to the outer layer (underwear or diaper), the ability of the pad 1 to follow the wearer's movements can be prevented from being excessively restricted by the outer layer.

[0078] When the pad 1 is folded along the longitudinal center line CL, the bonding portion 30 may have portions that overlap in the thickness direction to form two layers, as shown in Fig. 3B. In this embodiment, a pair of bonding portions (bonding portions 30a, 30b on one side and bonding portions 30c, 30d on the other side) of the bonding portion 30 overlap to form two layers. In the modified example of Fig. 6, portions of the bonding portion 30 overlap to form two layers.

[0079] By doing so, when the pad 1 is folded in half in the longitudinal direction, the joints 30a, 30b on one side come into contact with the joints 30c, 30d on the other side, exerting adhesive force and maintaining the compact folded state of the pad 1. When the pad 1 is folded in half, it is sufficient that at least a portion of the joints 30a, 30b on one side overlap the joints 30c, 30d on the other side, and then the joints 30 can be bonded together.

[0080] Preferably, when the pad 11 is folded in half, the joints 30a and 30b on one side completely overlap the corresponding joints 30c and 30d on the other side. To achieve this, the joints 30 should be arranged symmetrically with respect to the longitudinal centerline CL. Specifically, the joints 30 are arranged at positions spaced a predetermined distance L1 from the longitudinal centerline CL1 on one side and the other side in the longitudinal direction. Furthermore, the joints 30 are arranged at positions where the joints 30a and 30b on one side and the joints 30c and 30d on the other side overlap in the width direction (in the case of FIG. 4 , they are spaced a predetermined distance W1 from the width centerline C).

[0081] 11A to 11C are explanatory diagrams of a tri-fold type pad 1. Up to this point, we have illustrated a case in which the pad 1 is folded in half along the longitudinal centerline CL as the folding line FL1 during packaging, but this is not limiting. For example, as shown in FIG. 11A, the pad 1 may be folded in thirds along two folding lines FL2 and FL3 along the width direction and packaged. In this case, the joints 30 may be positioned similarly to the pad 1 shown in FIG. 4 (FIG. 4). In other words, when the pad 1 is folded in half along the longitudinal centerline CL rather than along the folding lines FL2 and FL3 during packaging, the joints 30 may overlap. This allows the user to maintain the folded state of the pad 1 and dispose of it compactly. Furthermore, since the pad 1 only needs to be folded once for disposal, the disposal process for the user is simplified.

[0082] Alternatively, the pad 1 may be provided with a joint 30 so that the pad 1 remains folded along the two fold lines FL2 and FL3 during packaging. This allows the pad 1 to be disposed of more compactly. In this case, for example, as shown in FIG. 11B , joints 30e and 30f may be provided on the skin-side surface of the pad 1 on one side and the other side in the longitudinal direction perpendicular to the fold line FL2. Then, joint 30g may be provided on the skin-side surface of the pad 1 on one side of the fold line FL3 in the longitudinal direction, and joint 30h may be provided on the non-skin-side surface of the pad 1 on the other side of the fold line FL3 in the longitudinal direction, which is folded along the fold line FL2. This allows the pad 1 to remain folded in the same manner as when packaged.

[0083] Furthermore, even if the pad 1 is folded in half along the longitudinal centerline CL during packaging, the joints 30 may be made to abut against each other when folded at a position other than the longitudinal centerline CL. In this case, the pad 1 can still be disposed of more compactly. However, in the pad 1 shown in Figure 4, the portions of the pad 1 on one side of the folding position completely overlap with the portions of the pad 1 on the other side. Therefore, the inner surface (the excretion surface, or skin side, in the case of Figure 4) is not exposed when the pad 1 is folded, allowing for more hygienic disposal.

[0084] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 4, when the pad 1 is divided into four equal parts in the longitudinal direction, it is preferable that joints 30a and 30b (first joints) are provided in the end region R1 on one side, and joints 30c and 30d (second joints) are provided in the end region R4 on the other side.

[0085] By doing so, the outer longitudinal portions of the pad 1 are joined at the joint 30. Therefore, the portion of the pad 1 that is outer than the joint 30 in the longitudinal direction becomes smaller, and the portion of the pad 1 that opens outside the joint 30 becomes smaller. This makes it easier for the user to handle and dispose of the folded pad 1.

[0086] However, this is not limited to the above, and as in the modified example of Figure 5, when the pad 1 is divided equally into four parts in the longitudinal direction, joints 30a, 30b (first joints) may be provided in a first central region R2 adjacent to one end region R1 (in the region immediately on one side of the longitudinal center line CL), and joints 30c, 30d (second joints) may be provided in a second central region R3 adjacent to the other end region R4 (in the region immediately on the other side of the longitudinal center line CL).

[0087] In this case, the joints 30 are provided near the longitudinal center line CL along which the pad 1 is folded in half, making it easier for the user to align the joints 30a, 30b on one side with the joints 30c, 30d on the other side. Furthermore, the user can stably align the joints 30 while holding the highly rigid absorbent core 10. Therefore, the joints 30 are reliably abutted against each other, making it easier to maintain the folded state of the pad 1.

[0088] In the case of an absorbent article having an elastic member such as the pad 1, it is advisable to identify the four regions R1 to R4 obtained by dividing the absorbent article in the longitudinal direction while the absorbent article is in an unfolded and stretched state. The same applies below when identifying or comparing areas, lengths, and positions.

[0089] Furthermore, it is preferable that the length of the joint 30 in the longitudinal direction (L30 in FIG. 4) is longer than the length of the joint 30 in the width direction (W30). When the joint 30 is composed of multiple joints 30a to 30d as shown in FIG. 4, the lengths of the joints 30a to 30d are compared. It is preferable that the above length relationship is established for all of the multiple joints 30a to 30d.

[0090] This allows a wide longitudinal area of ​​the pad 1 to be bonded by the longitudinally long joints 30, making it easier to maintain the folded state of the pad 1. It also reduces the longitudinal area of ​​the pad 1 that is not bonded by the joints 30 and that opens or separates. In particular, when the joints 30 are provided on the skin side, excrement and its odor are contained inside the folded pad 1, allowing the pad 1 to be disposed of more hygienically.

[0091] Furthermore, the ratio of the planar area of ​​the joint 30 divided by the planar area of ​​the pad 1 in the unfolded and extended state (FIG. 4) is preferably 0.15% or more and less than 50%. When the joint 30 is composed of multiple joints 30a to 30d, the total area of ​​these joints is the planar area of ​​the joint 30.

[0092] This makes it easier for the bonded portions 30 to come into contact with each other, increasing adhesive strength, compared to when the area ratio of the bonded portions 30 is less than 0.15%. This makes it easier for the pad 1 to maintain a compact folded state. Furthermore, compared to when the area ratio of the bonded portions 30 is 50% or more, the increase in rigidity of the pad 1 due to the bonded portions 30 can be suppressed, ensuring flexibility of the pad 1. In particular, when the bonded portions 30 are provided on the skin-side surface, it is possible to prevent the absorbent surface of the pad 1 (the portion where the absorbent core 10 is located) from being covered by the bonded portions 30, thereby preventing the absorbent surface from becoming smaller.

[0093] 4, the pad 1 has a joint 30 provided on the side sheet 4. The side sheet 4 can be made of a water-repellent nonwoven fabric or the like. This can prevent excreted fluid blocked by the leak barrier 6 from seeping out. The joint 30 is preferably provided on a non-hydrophilic sheet (water-repellent sheet, hydrophobic sheet) such as the side sheet 4.

[0094] It is preferable that the bonding portion 30 (self-adhesive bonding agent 32 such as rubber) does not come into contact with moisture. A non-hydrophilic sheet is less likely to absorb and retain excrement than a hydrophilic sheet. Therefore, the bonding portion 30 provided on the non-hydrophilic sheet is less likely to come into contact with excrement, and a decrease in adhesive strength when bonding portions 30 face each other can be suppressed.

[0095] More preferably, when the pad 1 is folded in half along the longitudinal center line CL, the joint 30 does not face the hydrophilic sheet. In other words, if the joint 30 on one side of the fold line FL1 faces a portion other than the joint 30 on the other side, it should face a non-hydrophilic sheet such as the side sheet 4. This makes it difficult for the joint 30 on one side to come into contact with excretory fluid, and reduces the decrease in adhesive strength when the joints 30 face each other.

[0096] Examples of non-hydrophilic sheets include nonwoven fabrics and resin films made of non-hydrophilic fibers such as polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA), and polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and hydrophilic sheets that have been treated to be water-repellent.

[0097] Conversely, as in the pad 1 of Figure 7, the bonding portion 30 may be provided on a hydrophilic sheet such as the topsheet 2. The hydrophilic sheet absorbs excreted liquid, but the excreted liquid tends to diffuse in the planar direction, making it difficult for the excreted liquid to pool. Therefore, by providing the bonding portion 30 on the hydrophilic sheet, the risk of the bonding portion 30 coming into contact with a pool of excreted liquid can be avoided, and a decrease in bonding strength when the bonding portions 30 face each other can be suppressed.

[0098] Examples of hydrophilic sheets include nonwoven fabrics made of hydrophilic fibers such as regenerated cellulose fibers (e.g., rayon) and natural fibers (e.g., cotton and pulp), and sheets made of non-hydrophilic nonwoven fabrics that have been subjected to a hydrophilic treatment.

[0099] Identification of non-hydrophilic and hydrophilic sheets can be performed by visual inspection to determine whether the sheet is one of the sheets listed above. Alternatively, it can be determined by measuring the contact angle between the sheet and ion-exchanged water when the sheet surface (the surface on which the bonding portion 30 is provided) is brought into contact with ion-exchanged water. Specifically, ion-exchanged water (approximately 20 picoliters) is dropped onto the surface of the sheet to be measured, and the contact angle is immediately measured using a contact angle meter (a contact angle meter MCA-J manufactured by Kyowa Interface Science Co., Ltd., or an equivalent device). Measurements are performed at multiple locations (e.g., five or more locations) on the sheet surface, and the average value is taken as the contact angle. The measurement ambient temperature is 22°C. A contact angle of less than 90 degrees is considered to be a hydrophilic sheet, and a contact angle of 90 degrees or greater is considered to be a hydrophobic sheet.

[0100] Furthermore, when the bonding portion 30 is provided on the skin-side surface of the pad 1, the surface roughness mean deviation (SMD) of the bonding surface (skin-side surface) of the bonding portion 30 is preferably 20 or less. This reduces the surface roughness and unevenness of the bonding portion 30 compared to when the surface roughness mean deviation (SMD) is greater than 20, improving the contact of the bonding portion 30 with the skin. Since the SMD of the male component of a hook-and-loop fastener is generally greater than 20, the self-adhesive bonding portion 30 can reduce the strain on the wearer's skin and reduce discomfort when worn compared to the male component of a hook-and-loop fastener.

[0101] Furthermore, it is preferable that the mean coefficient of friction (MIU) of the bonding surface of the bonding portion 30 is 0.2 or more. This reduces the slipperiness of the bonding portion 30 compared to when the mean coefficient of friction (MIU) is less than 0.2. This can prevent misalignment between the bonding portion 30 on the skin-side surface of the pad 1 and the wearer, and between the bonding portion 30 on the non-skin-side surface of the pad 1 and the outer layer (such as a pants-type diaper or underwear). This reduces discomfort when wearing the pad.

[0102] The surface roughness mean deviation (SMD) and mean coefficient of friction (MIU) can be measured using the following method. First, the joint 30 is cut out from the pad 1 to be measured to create a test piece. Next, using an automated surface testing machine KES-FB4-AUTO-A manufactured by Kato Tech Co., Ltd., the test piece is set on a smooth, flat metal test table. A terminal with a load of 25 gf is slid over the surface of the test piece (the joint surface of the joint 30) at a speed of 1.0 mm / sec to measure the surface roughness mean deviation (SMD) and mean coefficient of friction (MIU). The terminal measures 10 mm x 10 mm and is wound with 0.5 mm diameter piano wire. It is also desirable to create multiple test pieces and use the average values ​​measured for each test piece as the surface roughness mean deviation (SMD) and mean coefficient of friction (MIU).

[0103] Furthermore, when an "adhesion measurement test" is conducted to measure the adhesive strength between the joints 30 after repeatedly joining (bonding) and peeling the joints 30 together, it is preferable that the adhesive strength between the joints 30 is 0.2 N / 25 mm or more.

[0104] By doing so, the adhesive strength when the bonded portions 30 come into contact with each other is ensured even if the bonded portions 30 are repeatedly bonded and peeled together multiple times (three times), compared to when the adhesive strength after the test is less than 0.2 N / 25 mm. Therefore, even if the user folds the used pad 1 and repeatedly bonds and peels back the bonded portions 30 until the bonded portions 30 on one side and the bonded portions 30 on the other side come into proper contact with each other, the adhesive strength is ensured. Therefore, the pad 1 can be disposed of while maintaining its folded, compact state.

[0105] The adhesive strength measurement test can be performed using a tensile tester (e.g., Instron Model 5965 or equivalent). First, a test piece is prepared by cutting out the bonded portion 30 on one side of the fold line FL1 and the bonded portion 30 on the other side from the pad 1 to be measured. The test piece is rectangular with the longitudinal direction of the peel direction (tensile direction), and the "length in the peel direction x width" is, for example, "40 mm x 25 mm." However, since the entire area of ​​the test piece is the bonded portion 30, the size of the test piece is adjusted according to the size of the bonded portion 30. Next, the test piece of the bonded portion 30 on one side and the test piece of the bonded portion 30 on the other side are bonded and peeled three times. Then, with the test piece of the bonded portion 30 on one side and the test piece of the bonded portion 30 on the other side bonded, the ends of both test pieces in the peel direction are clamped in the chuck of the tensile tester (chuck distance: for example, 20 mm). Thereafter, the distance between the chucks is increased at a tensile speed of 100 mm / min until the sample piece at one bonded portion 30 peels from the sample piece at the other bonded portion 30. The maximum value (tensile load) measured during this period is defined as the adhesive strength (N / 25 mm) between the bonded portions 30.

[0106] In the pad 1 illustrated in Fig. 4, the four bonded portions 30a to 30d of the bonded portion 30 have the same shape and area. However, as shown in a modified example in Fig. 8, the area of ​​the bonded portion 30k (first bonded portion) on one side of the fold line FL1 may be different from the area of ​​the bonded portion 30l (second bonded portion) on the other side of the fold line FL1. For example, the area of ​​the larger bonded portion 30 is preferably 110% or more of the area of ​​the smaller bonded portion 30.

[0107] This makes it easier for the user to align the smaller-area joint (here, joint 30k) with the larger-area joint (here, joint 30l), making it easier to abut the joints 30 together. Furthermore, if the area and shape of the joints 30 on one side and the other side are the same, there is a risk that the user will feel mentally burdened by having to abut the joints 30 without misalignment. However, the above method eliminates this risk. However, if the area and shape of the joints 30 on one side and the other side are the same, as shown in Figure 4, the adhesive strength is increased when the joints 30 abut with less misalignment, allowing the joints 30 to be used more effectively.

[0108] Furthermore, the planar shape of the absorbent core 10 is smaller than the planar shape of the pad 1. Therefore, the pad 1 has a presence region RE where the absorbent core 10 is present and an absence region RN where the absorbent core 10 is not present.

[0109] In this case, it is preferable that the joints 30 are provided in the region RE where the absorbent core 10 is present, as in the pad 1 of Fig. 8. By positioning the joints 30 on the highly rigid absorbent core 10, the user can easily transmit the force that brings the joints 30 together. Furthermore, the user can stably bring the joints 30 together while grasping the highly rigid area where the absorbent core 11 is present. Therefore, adhesive force is reliably exerted at the contact surfaces of the joints 30, allowing for firm adhesion, which makes it easier to maintain the compact state of the pad 1.

[0110] Without being limited to the above, as in the pad 1 of Figure 7, the bonded portion 30 may be provided in the non-existence region RN of the absorbent core 10. The non-existence region RN is located on the periphery of the pad 1. Therefore, in the above case, the bonded portion 30 can be provided on the periphery of the pad 1. This makes it easier to maintain the folded state of the pad 1. Furthermore, it is possible to reduce the area of ​​the pad 1 that opens outward in the longitudinal or width direction from the bonded portion 30. In particular, when the bonded portion 30 is provided on the skin-facing side of the pad 1, the absorbent surface of the pad 1 (the portion where the absorbent core 10 is located) is not covered by the bonded portion 30, thereby ensuring the area of ​​the absorbent surface that receives and absorbs excrement.

[0111] 4 and 5, the bonding portions 30 may be provided across the presence region RE and the non-presence region RN. This allows the bonding portions 30 to be provided on the periphery of the pad 1 while being stably abutted against each other in the highly rigid presence region RE, thereby firmly adhering the bonding portions 30 to each other. Furthermore, when the bonding portions 30 are provided on the skin-facing side of the pad 1, a larger absorbent surface area is ensured compared to when the entire bonding portion 30 is located in the presence region RE.

[0112] Furthermore, although not shown, one of the bonded portion 30 (first bonded portion) on one side of the fold line FL1 and the bonded portion 30 (second bonded portion) on the other side may be provided in the presence region RE, and the other may be provided in the non-presence region RN. By doing so, one bonded portion 30 is provided on the periphery, preventing the pad 1 from opening outside the bonded portion 30. Furthermore, one bonded portion 30 can be stably abutted against the other bonded portion 30 located in the highly rigid presence region RE, allowing the bonded portions 30 to be firmly bonded together. Furthermore, when the bonded portion 30 is provided on the skin-side surface of the pad 1, a larger absorbent surface area is ensured compared to when both the bonded portions 30 on one side and the other side are located in the presence region RE.

[0113] Furthermore, it is preferable that the joints 30 have multiple pairs of joints 30 (first joints) provided on one side of the fold line FL1 and joints 30 (second joints) provided on the other side of the fold line FL1. For example, the pad 1 in FIG. 4 has two pairs: a pair of joints 30a on one side and a corresponding joint 30c on the other side, and a pair of joints 30b on one side and a corresponding joint 30d on the other side. In other words, the joints 30 are provided intermittently in the width direction. Although not shown, the joints 30 may be provided intermittently in the longitudinal direction on both sides of the fold line FL1, thereby providing multiple pairs of joints 30 on one side and a joint 30 on the other side.

[0114] By providing a plurality of sets of joints 30 that come into contact when the pad 1 is folded in this manner, the pad 1 is less likely to open, and it becomes easier to maintain the compact state of the pad 1. Furthermore, by providing the joints 30 intermittently, it is possible to reduce the rigidity of the pad 1, reduce materials, and alleviate discomfort when wearing the pad 1, compared to when the joints 30 are provided continuously in the longitudinal or width direction.

[0115] 4, the bonding portions 30 may be provided in widthwise end regions Ra1 and Ra3 when the pad 1 is divided into three equal parts in the width direction. This allows the user to align the ends of the pad 1 and bend it, thereby making it easier to bring the bonding portions 30 on one side into contact with the bonding portions 30 on the other side.

[0116] In this case, as in the pad 1 of Fig. 4, it is preferable that the joints 30 are provided not only in the end region Ra1 on one side in the width direction but also in the end region Ra3 on the other side in the width direction. In other words, it is preferable that two sets of joints 30 are provided, one on one side of the fold line FL1 and the other on the other side, and that the two sets of joints 30 are provided at both ends in the width direction of the pad 1. In this way, the four corners of the pad 1 are joined, making the pad 1 more difficult to open and making it easier to maintain a compact state.

[0117] 7, the joints 30 may be provided in a widthwise central region Ra2 when the pad is divided into three equal parts in the width direction. In this case, the number of joints 30 can be reduced while evenly suppressing opening on both sides of the pad 1 in the width direction. Reducing the number of sets of joints 30 on one side and the other side of the fold line FL1 also reduces the mental burden on the user of having to abut multiple sets of joints 30.

[0118] Second Embodiment In the second embodiment, a pants-type diaper 40 (hereinafter also referred to as the diaper 40) will be described as an example of an absorbent article. Figures 12 and 13 are explanatory diagrams of a self-adhesive joint 50 of the diaper 40.

[0119] The diaper 40 includes an absorbent body 41 and an outer cover member 42. The absorbent body 41 includes an absorbent core 411. The diaper 40 in the pants-type state has a vertical direction and a width direction that are perpendicular to one another, while the diaper 40 in the unfolded state (not shown) has a longitudinal direction, a width direction, and a thickness direction that are perpendicular to one another. The longitudinal direction of the diaper 40 corresponds to the vertical direction of the diaper 40 in the pants-type state and is a direction along the longitudinal direction of the absorbent body 41. Of the outer cover member 42, a ventral waist portion that contacts the wearer's ventral side and a dorsal waist portion that contacts the wearer's dorsal side are joined and connected to each other at side joint portions 43 on both sides in the width direction. This forms a waist opening and a pair of leg openings, forming a pants-type diaper.

[0120] Diapers 40 (especially large sized adult diapers 40) may be packaged in a state in which the portions of the outer cover 42 that extend outward in the width direction beyond the absorbent main body 41 are folded along fold lines FL4 and FL5, as shown in Figures 12A and 12B. Furthermore, as shown in Figures 13B and 13C, the diaper 40 may be packaged in a state in which it is folded vertically (longitudinal direction) along fold line FL6.

[0121] The diaper 40 may also have a self-adhesive joint 50, as in the pad 1 of the first embodiment. The joint 50 may be provided on one side and the other side of the folding lines FL4 to FL6 in a direction perpendicular to the folding lines FL4 to FL6 when packaged. By doing so, the user can fold the diaper 40 and bring the joint 50 on one side into contact with the joint 50 on the other side, thereby maintaining the diaper 40 in a compact folded state. Furthermore, because the joint 50 is self-adhesive, it does not adhere to clothing or the like when the diaper 40 is put on, ensuring ease of putting on the diaper.

[0122] Specifically, as shown in FIG. 12A , in the width direction perpendicular to the fold line FL4 during packaging, the seam 50a may be provided to the right (one side) of the fold line FL4 and the seam 50b may be provided to the left (other side) of the fold line FL4. Alternatively, the seam 50b may be provided to the right (one side) of the fold line FL5 and the seam 50a may be provided to the left (other side) of the fold line FL5. In this manner, as shown in FIG. 12B , the user folds both widthwise ends of the outer cover member 42 inward in the width direction and brings the central seam 50a into contact with the side seams 50b and 50c, thereby achieving adhesive strength at the seams 50. This allows the user to carry and dispose of the diaper 40 while maintaining a compact width.

[0123] The joint 50 on one side of the fold line FL4 and the joint 50 on the other side of the fold line FL5 may be a continuous common joint as shown in FIG. 12A, or may be two spaced-apart joints.

[0124] 13B, in the vertical direction (longitudinal direction) perpendicular to the fold line FL6 at the time of packaging, the seam 50d may be provided above (one side) the fold line FL6 and the seam 50e may be provided below (the other side). In this way, as shown in FIG. 13C, the user can vertically fold the diaper 40 and bring the seam 50d and the seam 50e into contact with each other, thereby exerting adhesive force at the seam 50. This allows the user to carry or dispose of the diaper 40 while maintaining a compact vertical state.

[0125] The above-described folding lines FL4 to FL6 and the seam 50 are merely examples, and the present invention is not limited to these. For example, the diaper 40 may have only the folding line FL6 along the width direction, or may have both the seams 50a to 50c shown in Fig. 12A and the seams 50d and 50e shown in Fig. 13B.

[0126] The diaper 40 also has a presence region where the absorbent core 411 is present and an absence region where the absorbent core 411 is not present. In the diaper 40 shown in Fig. 12A, one of the joints 50a on one side of the fold line FL4 and the joints 50b on the other side (joint 50a) is located in the presence region, while the other (joint 50b) is located in the absence region. Similarly, one of the joints 50c on one side of the fold line FL5 and the joints 50a on the other side (joint 50a) is located in the presence region, while the other (joint 50c) is located in the absence region.

[0127] In this case, the joints 50b and 50c located in the exterior member 42, which does not have the absorbent core 411 and has low rigidity and is easily bent, can be brought close to the joint 50a, which has high rigidity, and can be stably abutted against each other. Therefore, the joints 50 can be firmly bonded to each other.

[0128] ===Other=== The above embodiments are intended to facilitate understanding of the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention. The present invention may be modified or improved without departing from the spirit thereof, and it goes without saying that the present invention includes equivalents thereof.

[0129] REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 1 Urine absorption pad (absorbent article) 2 Top sheet, 3 Back sheet, 4 Side sheet, 5 Leg-hole elastic member, 6 Leakage-preventing wall portion, 7 Leakage-preventing wall elastic member, 10 Absorbent core, 11 Core wrap sheet, 20 Fixing member, 30 Joint portion, 30a Joint portion (first joint portion), 30b Joint portion (first joint portion), 30c Joint portion (second joint portion), 30d Joint portion (second joint portion), 40 Pants-type diaper (absorbent article), 41 Absorbent main body, 411 Absorbent core, 42 Outer member, 43 Side joint portion, 50 Joint portion,

Claims

1. An absorbent article having a longitudinal direction, a width direction, and a thickness direction that are orthogonal to each other in the unfolded state, and comprising a liquid-absorbent absorbent core, having a self-adhesive joint portion, and characterized in that the joint portion is provided on one side and the other side of the fold line in a direction orthogonal to the fold line during packaging.

2. The absorbent article according to claim 1, characterized in that, on the center line of the absorbent article in the longitudinal direction, when the absorbent article is folded, the joint portion has a portion that overlaps in the thickness direction to form two layers.

3. The absorbent article according to claim 2, characterized in that the joint portion has a first joint portion provided on one side of the fold line and a second joint portion provided on the other side of the fold line, and when the absorbent article is divided into four in the longitudinal direction, the first joint portion is provided in an end region on one side, and the second joint portion is provided in an end region on the other side.

4. The absorbent article according to claim 2, characterized in that the joint portion has a first joint portion provided on one side of the fold line and a second joint portion provided on the other side of the fold line, and when the absorbent article is divided into four in the longitudinal direction, the first joint portion is provided in a first central region adjacent to the end region on one side, and the second joint portion is provided in a second central region adjacent to the end region on the other side.

5. The absorbent article according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the joint portion is provided on the skin side surface of the absorbent article.

6. The absorbent article according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the length of the joint portion in the longitudinal direction is longer than the length of the joint portion in the width direction.

7. The absorbent article according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the joint portion is provided on a non-hydrophilic sheet.

8. The absorbent article according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the joint portion is provided on a hydrophilic sheet.

9. An absorbent article according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the joining portion exhibits adhesive force with a material other than a hook-and-loop fastener and an adhesive.

10. An absorbent article according to claim 5, wherein the average deviation of the surface roughness of the joint surface of the joining portion is 20 or less.

11. An absorbent article according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the average coefficient of friction of the joint surface of the joining portion is 0.2 or more.

12. An absorbent article according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein when an adhesive force measurement test is performed to measure the adhesive force between the joining portions after repeatedly joining and peeling the joining portions, the adhesive force between the joining portions is 0.2 N / 25 mm or more.

13. An absorbent article according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the joining portion has a first joining portion provided on one side of the fold line and a second joining portion provided on the other side of the fold line, and the area of the first joining portion is different from the area of the second joining portion.

14. An absorbent article according to any one of claims 1 to 4, having an existing region where the absorbent core exists and a non-existing region where the absorbent core does not exist, and the joining portion is provided in the existing region.

15. An absorbent article according to any one of claims 1 to 4, having an existing region where the absorbent core exists and a non-existing region where the absorbent core does not exist, and the joining portion is provided in the non-existing region.

16. An absorbent article according to any one of claims 1 to 4, having an existing region where the absorbent core exists and a non-existing region where the absorbent core does not exist, and the joining portion is provided across the existing region and the non-existing region.

17. The absorbent article according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the joint portion has a first joint portion provided on one side of the fold line and a second joint portion provided on the other side of the fold line, and has an existing region where the absorbent core exists and a non-existing region where the absorbent core does not exist, and one of the first joint portion and the second joint portion is provided in the existing region and the other is provided in the non-existing region.

18. The absorbent article according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the joint portion is provided in a central region in the width direction when the absorbent article is divided into three in the width direction.

19. The absorbent article according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the joint portion is provided in an end region in the width direction when the absorbent article is divided into three in the width direction.

20. The absorbent article according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the joint portion has a plurality of sets of a first joint portion provided on one side of the fold line and a second joint portion provided on the other side of the fold line.

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