Absorbent Article Elastic Segmentation for Crotch Tension
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Solution Overview
Problem
Disposable absorbent articles with continuous elastics across the crotch region often cause excessive tension, leading to a narrower crotch area, discomfort, and compromised fit, especially in adult incontinence products, due to concentrated elastic tension.
Innovation Solution
The solution involves spacing out elastics in the force zones adjacent to the transverse centerline, gradually increasing the space between elastics approaching the centerline, and creating elastic-free areas above and below the transverse axis to reduce tension and maintain comfort and coverage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If elastics are run continuously across the core and central panel, then the appearance becomes more underwear-like, but excessive tension causes the crotch area to narrow and discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic configuration is segmented into discrete elastic sections rather than continuous elastics. Each elastic section is spaced apart from others, creating elastic-free zones between them. This segmentation reduces concentrated tension in any single area while maintaining the overall elastic function across the absorbent article.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the absorbent article have different elastic characteristics. Elastic sections are strategically positioned in certain areas while leaving other areas elastic-free. This local differentiation allows tension to be distributed appropriately - providing support where needed while avoiding excessive tension in the crotch region.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If elastics are cut to prevent continuous running across the core, then excessive tension is reduced, but coverage over the buttocks decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic system is divided into multiple discrete elastic sections that extend across different regions including the buttocks area. Each section provides localized support and coverage, collectively achieving comprehensive coverage without creating excessive concentrated tension.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic sections are arranged in a multi-dimensional pattern across the absorbent article, extending in both longitudinal and transverse directions. This dimensional arrangement ensures adequate coverage over the buttocks and other regions while distributing tension across multiple points rather than concentrating it.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If elastics are spaced out to decrease tension, then comfort is improved, but the number of elastics per area is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic system is segmented into multiple discrete sections spaced throughout the absorbent article. While the number of elastics in any single localized area is reduced compared to continuous elastics, the total number of elastic sections across the entire article is maintained or increased to provide distributed support.
Solution Approach 2:
Elastic sections are distributed across multiple dimensions and regions of the absorbent article, including front, back, and side areas. This multi-regional distribution compensates for reduced local density by providing comprehensive coverage through strategically positioned elastic sections throughout the entire structure.
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 3A
AI summary
An absorbent article may comprise front and back belts, each of the belts may comprise multiple elastic strands and multiple spacers. The absorbent article may also comprise multiple elastic strands and spacers in the crotch region.