Elastomeric Panel Fastening via Segmented Adhesive Strips
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing absorbent articles with elastically elongatable panels face challenges in cost-effectiveness and reliable fastening material attachment, often requiring additional reinforcement materials and complex processes.
Innovation Solution
A compound material web with elastic and non-elastic regions is created by integrating an elastically extensible film strip and a fastening material strip, where the fastening material has regions with and without hook projections, allowing for direct attachment to the nonwoven web and reducing the need for additional reinforcement, using a strip-type adhesive application for cost savings and improved elasticity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a continuous layer of adhesive is applied to reinforce the elastically stretchable film strip, then the material strength is improved, but the ability to elongate in cross-direction deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The adhesive is applied as discontinuous strips or spots rather than a continuous layer, segmenting the reinforcement into discrete locations that provide strength where needed while leaving other areas free to elongate
Solution Approach 2:
The adhesive reinforcement is localized to specific areas of the film strip where structural support is required, particularly in regions that will overlap with fastening materials, while maintaining elasticity in non-reinforced areas
2Strength
If fastening material is attached to the outer side of the web with continuous adhesive reinforcement, then the attachment strength is improved, but the fastening reliability deteriorates due to insufficient bonding area
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening material is provided with discrete regions free of hook projections, creating segmented bonding zones that allow the elastomeric material to directly bond to the nonwoven web in these specific areas
Solution Approach 2:
The bonding interface is extended by allowing the elastomeric material itself to bond to the web in addition to the adhesive bonding, effectively utilizing both the adhesive layer and the elastomeric material as bonding media
3Strength
If two opposing non-elastic material strips are provided as reinforcement, then the material strength is improved, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
One of the two opposing reinforcement strips is eliminated, extracting the unnecessary component while maintaining sufficient strength through the remaining single strip and the elastomeric material bonding
Solution Approach 2:
The reinforcement function is merged into a single strip combined with the elastomeric material bonding system, rather than requiring two separate opposing strips, thereby reducing material usage while maintaining structural integrity
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution enables the production of cost-effective, reliably attachable elastically elongatable panels for absorbent articles, enhancing material integration and reducing the risk of tearing, while minimizing the use of expensive adhesives and additional reinforcement materials.
Implementation Method 1
an elastomeric material disposed on the nonwoven web, wherein the elastomeric material provides elastic elongation in a cross-direction of the nonwoven web
Implementation Method 2
The elastically extensible film strip and the strip of fastening material are attached to a top surface of the nonwoven web using a strip-type adhesive application
Data Source
AI summary
Closure elements that include elastic and non-elastic regions are disclosed as well as absorbent articles that include closure elements.