U.S. patent application number 15/362863 was filed with the patent office on 2017-05-04 for absorbent articles with elastics in multiple layers.
The applicant listed for this patent is The Procter & Gamble Company. Invention is credited to Tina Marie Glahn, Kaoru Ishihara, Diana Woehnl Juratovac, Gary Dean Lavon, Anna Elizabeth Macura, Masaharu Nishikawa, Sarah Marie Wade, Ronald Joseph Zink.
Application Number | 20170119592 15/362863 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 48577240 |
Filed Date | 2017-05-04 |
United States Patent
Application |
20170119592 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Wade; Sarah Marie ; et
al. |
May 4, 2017 |
Absorbent Articles With Elastics In Multiple Layers
Abstract
Absorbent articles that include elastics in multiple layers are
disclosed herein.
Inventors: |
Wade; Sarah Marie;
(Springfield Township, OH) ; Glahn; Tina Marie;
(Cincinnati, OH) ; Lavon; Gary Dean; (Liberty
Township, OH) ; Juratovac; Diana Woehnl; (Columbus,
OH) ; Ishihara; Kaoru; (West Chester, OH) ;
Nishikawa; Masaharu; (Cincinnati, OH) ; Zink; Ronald
Joseph; (Blue Ash, OH) ; Macura; Anna Elizabeth;
(Loveland, OH) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
The Procter & Gamble Company |
Cincinnati |
OH |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
48577240 |
Appl. No.: |
15/362863 |
Filed: |
November 29, 2016 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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14742794 |
Jun 18, 2015 |
9572727 |
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15362863 |
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13893749 |
May 14, 2013 |
9114046 |
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14742794 |
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61646999 |
May 15, 2012 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61F 13/49061 20130101;
A61F 13/49019 20130101; A61F 13/49011 20130101; F04C 2270/0421
20130101; A61F 2013/49098 20130101; A61F 13/5622 20130101; A61F
13/4906 20130101; A61F 13/49012 20130101; A61F 13/64 20130101; A61F
2013/49088 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A61F 13/49 20060101
A61F013/49; A61F 13/56 20060101 A61F013/56 |
Claims
1. An absorbent article having a center chassis, the center chassis
comprising a topsheet, a backsheet and an absorbent core, the
absorbent article comprising: a front waist region and a front
waist edge; a back waist region and a back waist edge, wherein at
least one fastener is attached to the back waist region; a front
outer belt portion disposed in the front waist region, wherein at
least one longitudinally opposing edge of the front outer belt
portion is curved; a back inner belt portion disposed in the back
waist region; a back outer belt portion disposed in the back waist
region, wherein at least one longitudinally opposing edge of the
back outer belt portion is curved; an outer belt layer and a first
plurality of elastics disposed in the back inner belt portion and
inward of the back outer belt portion; a second plurality of
elastics disposed in the back outer belt portion and outward of the
back inner belt portion; wherein at least a portion of at least one
of the first and second pluralities of elastics comprise anchoring
elastics; wherein at least a portion of at least one of the first
and second pluralities of elastics comprise shaping elastics; and
wherein the absorbent article is disposable and wearable.
2. The absorbent article of claim 1, wherein the second plurality
of elastics comprise curved elastics and straight elastics, the
straight elastics being parallel to a lateral centerline on the
center chassis.
3. The absorbent article of claim 1, wherein the absorbent article
comprises a front inner belt portion disposed in the front waist
region and a third plurality of elastics disposed in the front
inner belt portion and inward of the front outer belt portion.
4. The absorbent article of claim 3, wherein the absorbent article
comprises a fourth plurality of elastics disposed in the front
outer belt portion.
5. The absorbent article of claim 1, wherein at least one of the
front waist edge and the back waist edge is curved.
6. An absorbent article having a center chassis, the center chassis
comprising a topsheet, a backsheet and an absorbent core, the
absorbent article comprising: a front waist region and a front
waist edge; a back waist region and a back waist edge; a front
inner belt portion disposed in the front waist region; a front
outer belt portion disposed in the front waist region,; a back
inner belt portion disposed in the back waist region; a back outer
belt portion disposed in the back waist region, wherein at least
one longitudinally opposing edge of the back outer belt portion is
permanently bonded by a side seam and at least one leg opening is
preformed; a first plurality of elastics disposed in the front
inner belt portion and inward of the front outer belt portion a
second plurality of elastics disposed in the front outer belt
portion and outward of the front inner belt portion; a third
plurality of elastics disposed in the back inner belt portion and
inward of the back outer belt portion; and a fourth plurality of
elastics disposed in the back outer belt portion and outward of the
back inner belt portion; an outer belt layer is disposed in the
back waist region, wherein the outer belt layer is selected from a
group consisting of a nonwoven, a film, and a laminate that
includes a nonwoven and a film; and the outer belt layer separates
the third plurality of elastics from the fourth plurality of
elastics; wherein at least a portion of at least one of the first,
second, third and fourth plurality of elastics comprise curved
elastics and straight elastics, the straight elastics being
parallel to a lateral centerline on the center chassis; wherein at
least a portion of at least one of the first, second, third and
fourth pluralities of elastics comprise anchoring elastics; wherein
at least a portion of at least one of the first, second, third and
fourth pluralities of elastics comprise shaping elastics; and
wherein the absorbent article is disposable and wearable and
wherein the front and back inner belt portions and the front and
back outer belt portions are disposed outward of the backsheet.
7. The absorbent article of claim 6, wherein both longitudinally
opposing edges of the back outer belt portion are permanently
bonded by a side seam and two leg openings are preformed.
8. The absorbent article of claim 6, wherein at least a portion of
the anchoring elastics overlie the side seam.
9. The absorbent article of claim 6, wherein at least a portion of
the anchoring elastics overlie the absorbent core.
10. An absorbent article having a center chassis, the center
chassis comprising a topsheet, a backsheet and an absorbent core,
the absorbent article comprising: a front waist region and a front
waist edge; a back waist region and a back waist edge; a front
inner belt portion disposed in the front waist region; a front
outer belt portion disposed in the front waist region,; a back
inner belt portion disposed in the back waist region; a back outer
belt portion disposed in the back waist region, a first plurality
of elastics disposed in the front inner belt portion and inward of
the front outer belt portion a second plurality of elastics
disposed in the front outer belt portion and outward of the front
inner belt portion; a third plurality of elastics disposed in the
back inner belt portion and inward of the back outer belt portion;
and a fourth plurality of elastics disposed in the back outer belt
portion and outward of the back inner belt portion; an outer belt
layer is disposed in one of the front and the back waist region and
is the outermost layer of one of the front outer belt portion and
the back outer belt portion, wherein the outer belt layer is
selected from a group consisting of a nonwoven, a film, and a
laminate that includes a nonwoven and a film; and the inner belt
layer separates the first plurality of elastics from the second
plurality of elastics; a fastener in one or both of the front waist
region and the back waist region; wherein at least a portion of at
least one of the first, second, third and fourth plurality of
elastics comprise curved elastics and straight elastics, the
straight elastics being parallel to a lateral centerline on the
center chassis; wherein at least a portion of at least one of the
first, second, third and fourth pluralities of elastics comprise
anchoring elastics, and at least portion of the anchoring elastics
overlie the fastener; wherein at least a portion of at least one of
the first, second, third and fourth pluralities of elastics
comprise shaping elastics; and wherein the absorbent article is
disposable and wearable and wherein the front and back inner belt
portions and the front and back outer belt portions are disposed
outward of the backsheet.
11. The absorbent article of claim 10, wherein the fastener
connects the front waist region and the back waist region and links
the anchoring elastics in the front waist region with the anchoring
elastics in the back waist region.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application is a continuation of application Ser. No.
14/742,794, filed Jun. 18, 2015, which is a continuation of
application Ser. No. 13/893,749, filed May 14, 2013, which claims
the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/646999, filed
May 15, 2012, the substance of which is incorporated herein by
reference.
FIELD
[0002] In general, embodiments of the present disclosure relate to
absorbent articles that are disposable and wearable. In particular,
embodiments of the present disclosure relate to disposable wearable
absorbent articles with elastics in multiple layers.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Disposable wearable absorbent articles include disposable
diapers and disposable incontinence undergarments (e.g., adult
incontinence products). A disposable wearable absorbent article can
receive and contain bodily waste while being worn by a wearer. Such
articles can be made with various materials in a number of
configurations. The design of a disposable wearable absorbent
article can affect the way that the article performs while it is
being worn.
[0004] Elastic materials can be configured as various elastic
structures in disposable wearable absorbent articles. These elastic
structures can function in different ways to provide various
benefits to the wearer. For example, lower force elastics or
elastics that are spaced apart can be configured as shaping
elastics. Shaping elastics can assist in providing a conforming fit
and distributing contact forces over the wearer's skin. As another
example, higher force elastics or elastics that are grouped closer
together can be configured as anchoring elastics. Anchoring
elastics can assist in holding the article in place on the wearer
by transferring loads from the article to particular parts of the
wearer's body.
[0005] Unfortunately, when a disposable wearable absorbent article
includes different elastic structures, those structures may not
work well together. For example, if a disposable wearable absorbent
article includes both shaping elastics and anchoring elastics, and
those different elastic structures are not allowed to act somewhat
independently from each other, then their functions may be
compromised. If the anchoring elastics transfer excessive loads to
the region comprising the shaping elastics, they may concentrate
forces against the wearer's skin, causing discomfort and red
marking. If the shaping elastics compromise the loads created by
the anchoring elastics, then the anchoring elastics may not
effectively transfer loads to intended parts of the wearer's body,
potentially allowing the article to sag. If a disposable wearable
absorbent article includes elastic structures that do not work well
together, then the article may feel uncomfortable, look
unattractive, and perform poorly while it is worn by a wearer.
SUMMARY
[0006] In one aspect, an absorbent article has a center chassis
including a topsheet, a backsheet and an absorbent core. The
absorbent article includes a front waist region and a front waist
edge, a back waist region and a back waist edge, a front inner belt
portion disposed in the front waist region, a front outer belt
portion disposed in the front waist region, wherein at least one
longitudinally opposing edge of the front outer belt portion is
curved, a back inner belt portion disposed in the back waist
region, a back outer belt portion disposed in the back waist
region, a first plurality of elastics disposed in the front inner
belt portion and inward of the front outer belt portion, a second
plurality of elastics disposed in the front outer belt portion and
outward of the front inner belt portion, wherein the second
plurality of elastics comprise curved elastics and straight
elastics, the straight elastics being parallel to a lateral
centerline on the center chassis, a third plurality of elastics
disposed in the back inner belt portion and inward of the back
outer belt portion, and a fourth plurality of elastics disposed in
the back outer belt portion and outward of the back inner belt
portion, wherein at least a portion of at least one of the first,
second, third and fourth pluralities of elastics comprise anchoring
elastics, wherein at least a portion of at least one of the first,
second, third and fourth pluralities of elastics comprise shaping
elastics, and wherein the absorbent article is disposable and
wearable.
[0007] In another aspect, an absorbent article has a center chassis
including a topsheet, a backsheet and an absorbent core. The
absorbent article includes a front waist region and a front waist
edge, a back waist region and a back waist edge, a front inner belt
portion disposed in the front waist region, a front outer belt
portion disposed in the front waist region, a back inner belt
portion disposed in the back waist region, a back outer belt
portion disposed in the back waist region, wherein at least one
longitudinally opposing edge of the back outer belt portion is
curved, a first plurality of elastics disposed in the front inner
belt portion and inward of the front outer belt portion, a second
plurality of elastics disposed in the front outer belt portion and
outward of the front inner belt portion, a third plurality of
elastics disposed in the back inner belt portion and inward of the
back outer belt portion, and a fourth plurality of elastics
disposed in the back outer belt portion and outward of the back
inner belt portion, wherein the fourth plurality of elastics
comprise curved elastics and straight elastics, the straight
elastics being parallel to a lateral centerline on the center
chassis, wherein at least a portion of at least one of the first,
second, third and fourth pluralities of elastics comprise anchoring
elastics, wherein at least a portion of at least one of the first,
second, third and fourth pluralities of elastics comprise shaping
elastics, and wherein the absorbent article is disposable and
wearable.
[0008] In yet another aspect, an absorbent article has a center
chassis including a topsheet, a backsheet and an absorbent core.
The absorbent article includes a front waist region and a front
waist edge, a back waist region and a back waist edge, a front
inner belt portion disposed in the front waist region, a front
outer belt portion disposed in the front waist region, wherein at
least one longitudinally opposing edge of the front outer belt
portion is curved, a back inner belt portion disposed in the back
waist region, a back outer belt portion disposed in the back waist
region, wherein at least one longitudinally opposing edge of the
back outer belt portion is curved, a first plurality of elastics
disposed in the front inner belt portion and inward of the front
outer belt portion, a second plurality of elastics disposed in the
front outer belt portion and outward of the front inner belt
portion, wherein the second plurality of elastics comprise curved
elastics and straight elastics, the straight elastics being
parallel to a lateral centerline on the center chassis, a third
plurality of elastics disposed in the back inner belt portion and
inward of the back outer belt portion, and a fourth plurality of
elastics disposed in the back outer belt portion and outward of the
back inner belt portion, wherein the fourth plurality of elastics
comprise curved elastics and straight elastics, the straight
elastics being parallel to the lateral centerline on the center
chassis, wherein at least a portion of at least one of the first,
second, third and fourth pluralities of elastics comprise anchoring
elastics, wherein at least a portion of at least one of the first,
second, third and fourth pluralities of elastics comprise shaping
elastics, and wherein the absorbent article is disposable and
wearable.
[0009] Additional aspects of the disclosure are defined by the
claims of this patent.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0010] FIG. 1A illustrates a plan view of a belt type disposable
wearable absorbent article, which includes a first embodiment of
elastics in multiple layers.
[0011] FIG. 1B illustrates an exploded cross-sectional side view of
part of the front of the article of FIG. 1A, taken at a first
sectional line.
[0012] FIG. 1C illustrates an exploded cross-sectional side view of
part of the front of the article of FIG. 1A, taken at a second
sectional line.
[0013] FIG. 1D illustrates a plan view of a pant type disposable
wearable absorbent article, which includes the first embodiment of
elastics in multiple layers.
[0014] FIG. 1E illustrates a plan view of a front fastenable
disposable wearable absorbent article, which includes the first
embodiment of elastics in multiple layers.
[0015] FIG. 2A illustrates a plan view of a belt type disposable
wearable absorbent article, which includes a second embodiment of
elastics in multiple layers.
[0016] FIG. 2B illustrates an exploded cross-sectional side view of
part of the front of the article of FIG. 2A, taken at a sectional
line.
[0017] FIG. 2C illustrates a plan view of a pant type disposable
wearable absorbent article, which includes the second embodiment of
elastics in multiple layers.
[0018] FIG. 2D illustrates a plan view of a front fastenable
disposable wearable absorbent article, which includes the second
embodiment of elastics in multiple layers.
[0019] FIG. 3A illustrates a plan view of a belt type disposable
wearable absorbent article, which includes a third embodiment of
elastics in multiple layers.
[0020] FIG. 3B illustrates an exploded cross-sectional side view of
part of the front of the article of FIG. 3A, taken at a first
sectional line.
[0021] FIG. 3C illustrates an exploded cross-sectional side view of
part of the front of the article of FIG. 3A, taken at a second
sectional line.
[0022] FIG. 3D illustrates a plan view of a pant type disposable
wearable absorbent article, which includes the third embodiment of
elastics in multiple layers.
[0023] FIG. 3E illustrates a plan view of a front fastenable
disposable wearable absorbent article, which includes the third
embodiment of elastics in multiple layers.
[0024] FIG. 4A illustrates a plan view of a front fastenable
disposable wearable absorbent article, which includes a first
embodiment of shaping elastics.
[0025] FIG. 4B illustrates a plan view of a pant type disposable
wearable absorbent article, which includes the first embodiment of
shaping elastics.
[0026] FIG. 5A illustrates a plan view of a front fastenable
disposable wearable absorbent article, which includes a second
embodiment of shaping elastics.
[0027] FIG. 5B illustrates a plan view of a pant type disposable
wearable absorbent article, which includes the second embodiment of
shaping elastics.
[0028] FIG. 6A illustrates a plan view of a front fastenable
disposable wearable absorbent article, which includes a third
embodiment of shaping elastics.
[0029] FIG. 6B illustrates a plan view of a pant type disposable
wearable absorbent article, which includes the third embodiment of
shaping elastics.
[0030] FIG. 7A illustrates a plan view of a front fastenable
disposable wearable absorbent article, which includes a fourth
embodiment of shaping elastics.
[0031] FIG. 7B illustrates a plan view of a pant type disposable
wearable absorbent article, which includes the fourth embodiment of
shaping elastics.
[0032] FIG. 8A illustrates a plan view of a front fastenable
disposable wearable absorbent article, which includes a fifth
embodiment of shaping elastics.
[0033] FIG. 8B illustrates a plan view of a pant type disposable
wearable absorbent article, which includes a fifth embodiment of
shaping elastics.
[0034] FIG. 9A illustrates a plan view of a front fastenable
disposable wearable absorbent article, which includes a first
embodiment of anchoring elastics.
[0035] FIG. 9B illustrates a plan view of a pant type disposable
wearable absorbent article, which includes the first embodiment of
anchoring elastics.
[0036] FIG. 10A illustrates a plan view of a front fastenable
disposable wearable absorbent article, which includes a second
embodiment of anchoring elastics.
[0037] FIG. 10B illustrates a plan view of a pant type disposable
wearable absorbent article, which includes the second embodiment of
anchoring elastics.
[0038] FIG. 11A illustrates a plan view of a front fastenable
disposable wearable absorbent article, which includes a third
embodiment of anchoring elastics.
[0039] FIG. 11B illustrates a plan view of a pant type disposable
wearable absorbent article, which includes the third embodiment of
anchoring elastics.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0040] Embodiments of the present disclosure include disposable
wearable absorbent articles with different elastic structures that
work well together. The different elastic structures may be
separated into multiple layers. For example, a disposable wearable
absorbent article can include shaping elastics and anchoring
elastics, which are separated from each other by one or more layers
of material. Since the shaping elastics are separated from the
anchoring elastics, they can function independently of each other.
The shaping elastics can at least assist in providing a conforming
fit and distributing contact forces over the wearer's skin while
the anchoring elastics can at least assist in holding the article
in place on the wearer. As a result, the disposable wearable
absorbent articles of the present disclosure can be easier to
apply, feel comfortable, look attractive, and perform well while
worn by wearers.
[0041] Absorbent articles include products for human sanitary
protection, for human hygienic use, and the like. Some absorbent
articles are wearable. A wearable absorbent article is configured
to be worn on or around a lower torso of a body of a human wearer.
Examples of wearable absorbent articles include diapers, training
pants, and incontinence undergarments (including embodiments of
each of these for people of all ages).
[0042] A disposable wearable absorbent article can include an
absorbent core. Throughout the present disclosure, the term
absorbent core refers to a part of a disposable wearable absorbent
article configured to absorb bodily exudates (such as urine,
menses, and feces) received into the article from a body of a
wearer. An absorbent core can be configured in various ways, as
will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. An
absorbent core can include one or more absorbent materials, such as
absorbent foams, highloft nonwovens, wood pulp and/or
superabsorbent particles, and may include one or more additional
compositions, materials, or structures for receiving, containing,
storing, and/or treating bodily waste, as known in the art.
[0043] An absorbent core can be part of an absorbent assembly,
comprising one or more layers such as a liquid-permeable topsheet,
an acquisition layer, a distribution layer, a storage layer, and a
liquid impermeable backsheet. Part, parts, or all of an absorbent
core and/or part, parts, or all of an absorbent assembly may also
include one or more of various structures, such as barrier leg
cuffs, a feces containment compartment, a wetness indicator,
fasteners for retaining the core within an article, disposal tapes,
etc. Further, part, parts, or all of an absorbent core and/or part,
parts, or all of an absorbent assembly may include one or more of
compositions such as lotions, perfumes, and a sensate. An absorbent
core and/or an absorbent assembly can be configured as a
bucket-shaped absorbent assembly, a removable absorbent core or
absorbent assembly, a replaceable absorbent core, etc.
[0044] A disposable wearable absorbent article can also include an
outer cover. Throughout the present disclosure, the term outer
cover refers to a part of a disposable wearable absorbent article
forming an outer surface of the article (sometimes referred to as a
backsheet), extending beyond the edges of the absorbent core,
usually covering a significant portion of the buttocks of the
wearer, and generally shaped to resemble the appearance of an
undergarment. An outer cover can be configured in various ways, as
described herein. In various embodiments, an outer cover can
coincide with and/or define at least a portion of the chassis of a
disposable wearable absorbent article.
[0045] Some absorbent articles are disposable. A disposable
absorbent article is configured to be disposed of after a single
use (e.g., not intended to be reused, restored, or laundered).
Examples of disposable absorbent articles include disposable
diapers, disposable training pants, disposable incontinence
undergarments, as well as feminine care pads and liners.
[0046] Elastic materials can be configured as various elastic
structures in disposable wearable absorbent articles. These elastic
structures can function in different ways to provide various
benefits to the wearer. For example, lower force elastics or
elastics that are spaced apart can be configured as shaping
elastics. Shaping elastics can at least assist in providing
conforming fit and distributing contact forces over the wearer's
skin. As another example, higher force elastics or elastics that
are grouped closer together can be configured as anchoring
elastics. Anchoring elastics can at least assist in holding the
article in place on the wearer by transferring loads from the
article to particular parts of the wearer's body.
[0047] The embodiments of FIGS. 1A through 3E describe different
types of disposable wearable absorbent articles with various
embodiments of elastics in multiple layers.
[0048] FIG. 1A illustrates a plan view of a belt type disposable
wearable absorbent article 100, which includes a first embodiment
of elastics in multiple layers. FIG. 1A illustrates a plan view of
a belt type disposable wearable absorbent article 100. The view of
FIG. 1A illustrates an inside (wearer-facing side) of the article
100.
[0049] Throughout the present disclosure, a reference to a belt
type disposable wearable absorbent article can refer to an
embodiment that is fastenable or to an embodiment without
fasteners. A reference to a belt type disposable wearable absorbent
article can also refer to an embodiment of an article with one or
more waist and/or leg openings that are preformed (i.e. formed
during manufacture of the article) or to an embodiment of an
article with waist and leg openings that are not preformed. Thus,
each embodiment of a disposable wearable absorbent article of the
present disclosure that is described as belt type can be configured
in any of these ways, as will be understood by one of ordinary
skill in the art.
[0050] In FIG. 1A, a longitudinal centerline 113 and a lateral
centerline 117 provide lines of reference for referring to relative
locations of parts of the article 100. When a first part is nearer
to the longitudinal centerline 113 than a second part, the first
part can be considered laterally inboard 112 to the second part.
Similarly, the second part can be considered laterally outboard 114
from the first part. The first part would be proximal relative to
the second part and the second part would be distal relative to the
first part. When a third part is nearer to the lateral centerline
117 than a fourth part, the third part can be considered
longitudinally inboard 116 to the fourth part. Similarly, the
fourth part can be considered longitudinally outboard 118 from the
third part. The third part would be proximal relative to the fourth
part and the fourth part would be distal relative to the third
part. Throughout the present disclosure, when one part is simply
referred to as inboard from another part, the one part is laterally
inboard and/or longitudinally inboard from the other part. In the
same way, when one part is simply referred to as outboard from
another part, the one part is laterally outboard and/or
longitudinally outboard from the other part.
[0051] FIG. 1A includes arrows indicating relative directions for
laterally inboard 112, laterally outboard 114, longitudinally
inboard 116, and longitudinally outboard 118, with respect to the
article 100. Throughout the present disclosure, unless otherwise
stated, a reference to a longitudinal dimension, measurement, line,
or direction refers to a dimension, measurement, line, or direction
substantially or completely parallel to the longitudinal centerline
113, and a reference to a lateral dimension, measurement, line, or
direction refers to a dimension, measurement, line, or direction
substantially or completely parallel to the lateral centerline
117.
[0052] The article 100 includes a front 124 and a back 126. The
front 124 is a portion of the article 100 disposed generally
proximate to and/or below the belly of a wearer, when the article
100 is worn by the wearer. A reference to the "front" can mean the
front itself, part, or parts, or substantially all, or all of an
element in the front, and/or a disposition in the front, depending
on the context of the reference. The back 126 is a portion of the
article 100 disposed generally proximate to and/or below the back
of a wearer, when the article 100 is worn by the wearer. A
reference to the "back" can mean the back itself, part, or parts,
or substantially all, or all of an element in the back, and/or a
disposition in the back, depending on the context of the reference.
The lateral centerline 117 of the article 100 divides the article
longitudinally into halves and forms a boundary between the front
124 and the back 126. The terminology for front and back, described
above, is used for disposable wearable absorbent articles
throughout the present disclosure, unless otherwise indicated.
[0053] The article 100 includes a belt 160 and a center chassis
120. A front belt portion 161 and a back belt portion 169 form the
belts 160. The article 100 includes an absorbent core 127 that
extends from the front belt portion 161 through the center chassis
120 to the back belt portion. The center chassis 120 includes a
topsheet 106 that is inward to the absorbent core 127 and a
backsheet 107 that is outward from the absorbent core 127.
[0054] The front 124 includes a front belt portion 161 with a front
waist area that is adjacent to a front waist edge 109 and is
one-third to one-quarter of the overall longitudinal length of the
article. The back 126 includes a back belt portion 169 with a back
waist area that is adjacent to a back waist edge 104 and is
one-third to one-quarter of the overall longitudinal length of the
article. The center chassis 120 includes a crotch region disposed
between the front waist region and the rear waist region, wherein
the crotch region includes the lateral centerline 117. The
absorbent core 127 extends from the front 124 to the back 126.
[0055] The front belt portion 161 has a front inner belt portion
162 and a front outer belt portion 165, as illustrated in FIGS. 1B
and 1C. The front inner belt portion 162 includes a plurality 195
of front shaping elastics 197. The plurality 195 is configured in
the same way as the plurality 495 of the embodiment of FIG. 4A. The
front outer belt portion 165 includes an anchoring system 130, with
anchoring elastics 141. The anchoring elastics 141 of the anchoring
system 130 are configured in the same way as the plurality of
shaping elastics 895 of the embodiment of FIG. 8B, except that the
elastics are anchoring elastics, which work together in the form of
a Circumferential Anchoring Member (CAM) as defined and described
herein, similar to the front CAM 1141 of the embodiment of FIG.
11B. Together, the plurality 195 of front shaping elastics 197 and
the plurality of anchoring elastics 141 form the first embodiment
of elastics in multiple layers.
[0056] The terms inner and outer as they apply to the inner belt
portion and outer belt portion are intended to provide a relative
position of the two portions in relationship to each other. In
other words, the inner belt portion is positioned closer to the
wearer-facing surface of the article than the outer belt portion
and the outer belt portion is positioned relatively closer to the
garment-facing surface of the article than the inner belt portion.
In certain embodiments the inner belt portion may form part of the
inner, wearer-facing, surface of the article and the outer belt
portion may form part, or all, of the outer, garment-facing,
surface of the article. One or both of the inner belt portion and
the outer belt portion may be disposed outwardly of the backsheet
or alternatively inward of the backsheet.
[0057] The inner and/or outer belts may be formed in a variety of
shapes. The inner and outer belts may be rectangular or may have
inner and outer longitudinally opposed edges that are concave with
regard to the waist edge and lateral axis. The shape may also
substantially follow the shape or curvature of the elastics
disposed in the respective belt structure.
[0058] In the embodiment of FIG. 1A, the back belt portion 169 has
no elastics. However, in various embodiments, the back belt portion
169 can be configured in the same way as the front belt portion 161
or the back belt portion 169 can have elastics configured in a
different way. Moreover, for the embodiment of FIG. 1A, as well as
any other embodiment disclosed herein, any configuration of shaping
and/or anchoring elastics disclosed in the front or the back of the
absorbent article may be combined in part or in whole with any
other configuration of elastics disclosed in the other respective
end of the absorbent article. In other words, absorbent article
embodiments are contemplated herein that are formed from any front
belt portion disclosed herein integrated in part or in whole with
any back belt portion disclosed herein.
[0059] FIG. 1B illustrates an exploded cross-sectional side view of
the front belt portion 161 of the article 100 of FIG. 1A, taken at
a first sectional line. FIG. 1B includes an inward direction 111
(toward the wearer, and away from the outer garment) and an outward
direction 119 (away from the wearer, and toward the outer garment).
This terminology for inward, inner, outward, and outer, is used for
disposable wearable absorbent articles throughout the present
disclosure, unless otherwise indicated.
[0060] The front inner belt portion 162 includes an inner belt
layer 163, the plurality 195 of front shaping elastics 197, and an
outer belt layer 164. The belt inner layer 163 is the innermost
belt layer. The plurality 195 of front shaping elastics 197 is
outward 119 from the inner belt layer 163. The outer belt layer 164
is outward 119 from the plurality of shaping elastics 197. In
various embodiments, the plurality 195 of front shaping elastics
197 can be joined to either or both of the inner belt layer 163 and
the outer belt layer 164.
[0061] The inner belt layer 163 and/or the outer belt layer 164 can
be a nonwoven, a film, a laminate that includes a nonwoven and a
film, or any other kind of material suitable for forming a layer of
material. In various alternative embodiments, the inner belt layer
163 or the outer belt layer 164 may be omitted. In various
alternative embodiments, the front inner belt portion 162 can also
include one or more additional materials or layers.
[0062] The front outer belt portion 165 includes an inner belt
layer 166, the anchoring system 130 formed from the plurality of
anchoring elastics 141 and an outer belt layer 167. The plurality
of anchoring elastics 141 is outward 119 from the inner belt layer
166. The outer belt layer of material 167 is outward 119 from the
plurality of anchoring elastics 141. The outer layer 167 is the
outermost layer of the belt portion 165. In various embodiments,
the plurality of anchoring elastics 141 can be joined to either or
both of the inner belt layer 166 and the outer belt layer 167.
[0063] The inner belt layer 166 and/or the outer belt layer 167 can
be a nonwoven, a film, a laminate that includes a nonwoven and a
film, or any other kind of material suitable for forming a layer of
material. In various alternative embodiments, the inner belt layer
166 or the outer belt layer 167 may be omitted. In various
alternative embodiments, the front outer belt portion 165 can also
include one or more additional materials or layers.
[0064] The shaping elastics 197 and the anchoring elastics 141 are
separated into multiple layers. Since the shaping elastics are
separated from the anchoring elastics, they can function somewhat
independently of each other. The shaping elastics can at least
assist in providing conforming fit and distributing contact forces
over the wearer's skin while the anchoring elastics can at least
assist in holding the article in place on the wearer. As a result,
embodiments of the belt type disposable wearable absorbent article
100 can feel comfortable, look attractive, and perform well while
being worn.
[0065] In the embodiment of FIG. 1B, the center chassis 120 is
outward 119 from the front inner belt portion 162, and the front
outer belt portion 165 is outward 119 from the center chassis 120.
However, in an alternative embodiment, the front outer belt portion
165 can be disposed outward 119 from front inner belt portion 162
and inward 111 to the center chassis 120. In another alternative
embodiment, the front inner belt portion 162 can be disposed
outward 119 from the center chassis 120 and inward to the front
outer belt portion 165. In these alternative embodiments, the outer
belt layer 164 can be joined to the inner belt layer 166, or these
two layers of material can even be substituted with a single layer
of material.
[0066] FIG. 1C illustrates an exploded cross-sectional view of the
front belt portion 161 of the article 100 of FIG. 1A, taken at a
second sectional line.
[0067] FIG. 1D illustrates a plan view of a pant type disposable
wearable absorbent article 102, which includes the first embodiment
of elastics in multiple layers. The first embodiment of elastics in
the pant type article 102 of FIG. 1D is configured in the same way
as the first embodiment of elastics in the belt type article 100 of
FIG. 1A, except for differences in type of chassis.
[0068] Throughout the present disclosure, a reference to a pant
type disposable wearable absorbent article can refer to an
embodiment that is fastenable or to an embodiment without
fasteners. A reference to a pant type disposable wearable absorbent
article can also refer to an embodiment of an article with one or
more waist and/or leg openings that are preformed (i.e. formed
during manufacture of the article) or to an embodiment of an
article with waist and leg openings that are not preformed. Thus,
each embodiment of a disposable wearable absorbent article of the
present disclosure that is described as pant type can be configured
in any of these ways, as will be understood by one of ordinary
skill in the art.
[0069] The article 102 includes a pant type chassis 122 with a
front 124 and a back 126. The article 102 also includes side panels
151. When the article 102 is formed for wearing, each front side
panel 151 is connected to a corresponding back side panel 151 at a
side panel connection.
[0070] Since the pant type disposable wearable absorbent article
102 has the first embodiment of elastics, with shaping elastics and
anchoring elastics separated into multiple layers, these elastics
can function somewhat independently of each other, and the article
102 can feel comfortable, look attractive, and perform well while
being worn.
[0071] FIG. 1E illustrates a plan view of a front fastenable
disposable wearable absorbent article 101, which includes the first
embodiment of elastics in multiple layers. The first embodiment of
elastics in the front fastenable article 101 of FIG. 1E is
configured in the same way as the first embodiment of elastics in
the belt type article 100 of FIG. 1A, except for differences in
type of chassis.
[0072] The article 101 includes a front fastenable chassis 121 with
a front 123 and a back 125. The article 101 also includes fasteners
154 in the back 125. When the article 102 is formed for wearing,
each of the fasteners 154 in the back 125 connects to a portion of
the front 123 to form a fastening connection.
[0073] While the present disclosure refers to front fastenable
disposable wearable absorbent articles, the present disclosure also
contemplates alternate embodiments of disposable wearable absorbent
articles, as described herein, wherein the disposable wearable
absorbent articles are rear-fastenable or side-fastenable or
belt-fastenable. Thus, each embodiment of a disposable wearable
absorbent article of the present disclosure that is described as
front fastenable can also be configured in any of these ways, as
will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. Useful
fasteners may include tape tabs, hook-and-loop fasteners,
interlocking fasteners such as tabs & slots, buckles, buttons,
snaps, and/or hermaphroditic fastening components. Exemplary
surface fastening systems are disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos.
3,848,594; 4,662,875; 4,846,815; 4,894,060; 4,946,527; 5,151,092;
and 5,221,274, while an exemplary interlocking fastening system is
disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,432,098. The fastening system may also
include primary and secondary fastening systems, as disclosed in
U.S. Pat. No. 4,699,622. Additionally exemplary fasteners and
fastener arrangements, the fastening components forming these
fasteners, and the materials that are suitable for forming
fasteners are described in U.S. Published Application Nos.
2003/0060794 and 2005/0222546 and U.S. Pat. No. 6,428,526.
[0074] Since the front fastenable disposable wearable absorbent
article 101 has the first embodiment of elastics, with shaping
elastics and anchoring elastics separated into multiple layers,
these elastics can function somewhat independently of each other,
and the article 101 can feel comfortable, look attractive, and
perform well while being worn.
[0075] FIG. 2A illustrates a plan view of a belt type disposable
wearable absorbent article 200, which includes a second embodiment
of elastics in multiple layers. FIG. 2A illustrates a plan view of
a belt type disposable wearable absorbent article 200. The view of
FIG. 2A illustrates an inside (wearer-facing side) of the article
200.
[0076] In FIG. 2A, a longitudinal centerline 213 and a lateral
centerline 217 provide lines of reference for referring to relative
locations of parts of the article 200. FIG. 2A includes arrows
indicating relative directions for laterally inboard 212, laterally
outboard 214, longitudinally inboard 216, and longitudinally
outboard 218, with respect to the article 200.
[0077] The article 200 includes a front 224 and a back 226. The
article 200 includes a belt 260 and a center chassis 220. A front
belt portion 261 and a back belt portion 269 form the belt 260. The
article 200 includes an absorbent core 227 that extends from the
front belt portion 261 through the center chassis 220 to the back
belt portion 269. The center chassis 220 includes a topsheet 206
that is inward from the absorbent core 227 and a backsheet 207 that
is outward from the absorbent core 227.
[0078] The front 224 includes a front belt portion 261 with a front
waist area that is adjacent to a front waist edge 209 and is
one-third to one-quarter of the overall longitudinal length of the
article. The back 226 includes a back belt portion 269 with a back
waist area that is adjacent to a back waist edge 204 and is
one-third to one-quarter of the overall longitudinal length of the
article. The center chassis 220 includes a crotch region disposed
between the front waist region and the rear waist region, wherein
the crotch region includes the lateral centerline 217. The
absorbent core 227 extends from the front 224 to the back 226.
[0079] The front belt portion 261 has a front inner belt portion
262 and a front outer belt portion 265, as illustrated in FIG. 2B.
The front inner belt portion 262 includes a plurality 295 of front
shaping elastics 297 (e.g., the first plurality of elastics). The
plurality 295 is configured in the same way as the plurality 495 of
the embodiment of FIG. 4A. The front outer belt portion 265
includes an anchoring system 230, with anchoring elastics 241
(e.g., the second plurality of elastics). The anchoring elastics
241 of the anchoring system 230 form a CAM, similar to the front
CAM 1141 of the embodiment of FIG. 11B. Together, the plurality 295
of front shaping elastics 297 and the plurality of anchoring
elastics 241 form the second embodiment of elastics in multiple
layers.
[0080] For embodiments comprising pluralities of elastics in only
one of the front and back waist regions, and in the inner belt
portions and outer belt portions, the plurality of elastics
disposed in the inner belt portion in the waist region is referred
to hereinafter as the first plurality of elastics. The plurality of
elastics disposed in the outer belt portion in the waist region is
referred to hereinafter as the second plurality of elastics.
[0081] For embodiments comprising pluralities of elastics in both
front and back waist regions, and in the inner belt portions and
outer belt portions, the plurality of elastics disposed in the
inner belt portion in the front waist region is referred to
hereinafter as the first plurality of elastics. The plurality of
elastics disposed in the outer belt portion in the front waist
region is referred to hereinafter as the second plurality of
elastics. The plurality of elastics disposed in the inner belt
portion in the back waist region is referred to hereinafter as the
third plurality of elastics. The plurality of elastics disposed in
the outer belt portion in the back waist region is referred to
hereinafter as the fourth plurality of elastics.
[0082] In the embodiment of FIG. 2A, the back belt portion 269 is
configured in the same way as the front belt portion 261. However,
in various embodiments, the back belt portion 269 can have elastics
configured in a different way or can be configured with no
elastics.
[0083] FIG. 2B illustrates an exploded cross-sectional side view of
the front belt portion 261 of the article 200 of FIG. 2A, taken at
a first sectional line. FIG. 2B includes an inward direction 211
and an outward direction 219.
[0084] The front inner belt portion 262 includes an inner belt
layer 263, the plurality 295 of front shaping elastics 297, and an
outer belt layer 264. The inner belt layer 263 is the innermost
layer. The plurality 295 of front shaping elastics 297 is outward
219 from the inner belt layer 263. The outer belt layer 264 is
outward 219 from the plurality of shaping elastics 297. In various
embodiments, the plurality 295 of front shaping elastics 297 can be
joined to either or both of the inner belt layer 263 and the outer
belt layer 264.
[0085] The inner belt layer 263 and/or the outer belt layer 264 can
be a nonwoven, a film, a laminate that includes a nonwoven and a
film, or any other kind of material suitable for forming a layer of
material. In various alternative embodiments, the inner belt layer
263 or the outer belt layer 264 may be omitted. In various
alternative embodiments, the front inner belt portion 262 can also
include one or more additional materials or layers.
[0086] The front outer belt portion 265 includes an inner belt
layer 266, the anchoring system 230 formed from the plurality of
anchoring elastics 241, and an outer belt layer 267. The plurality
of anchoring elastics 241 is outward 219 from the inner belt layer
266. The outer belt layer 267 is outward 219 from the plurality of
anchoring elastics 241. The outer belt layer 267 is the outermost
layer. In various embodiments, the plurality of anchoring elastics
241 can be joined to either or both of the inner belt layer 266 and
the outer belt layer 267.
[0087] The inner belt layer 266 and/or the outer belt layer 267 can
be a nonwoven, a film, a laminate that includes a nonwoven and a
film, or any other kind of material suitable for forming a layer of
material. In various alternative embodiments, the inner belt layer
266 or the outer belt layer 267 may be omitted. In various
alternative embodiments, the front outer belt portion 265 can also
include one or more additional materials or layers.
[0088] The shaping elastics 297 and the anchoring elastics 241 are
separated into multiple layers. Since the shaping elastics are
separated from the anchoring elastics, they can function somewhat
independently of each other. The shaping elastics can at least
assist in providing conforming fit and distributing contact forces
over the wearer's skin while the anchoring elastics can at least
assist in holding the article in place on the wearer. As a result,
embodiments of the belt type disposable wearable absorbent article
200 can feel comfortable, look attractive, and perform well while
being worn.
[0089] In the embodiment of FIG. 2B, the center chassis 220 is
outward 219 from the front inner belt portion 262, and the front
outer belt portion 265 is outward 219 from the center chassis.
However, in an alternative embodiment, the front outer belt portion
265 can be disposed outward 219 from front inner belt portion 262
and inward 211 to the center chassis 220. In another alternative
embodiment, the front inner belt portion 262 can be disposed
outward 219 from the center chassis 220 and inward to the front
outer belt portion 265. In these alternative embodiments, the outer
belt layer 264 can be joined to the inner belt layer 266, or these
two layers of material can even be substituted with a single layer
of material.
[0090] FIG. 2C illustrates a plan view of a pant type disposable
wearable absorbent article 202, which includes the second
embodiment of elastics in multiple layers. The second embodiment of
elastics in the pant type article 202 of FIG. 2C is configured in
the same way as the second embodiment of elastics in the belt type
article 200 of FIG. 2A, except for differences in type of chassis.
The article 202 includes a pant type chassis 222. Since the pant
type disposable wearable absorbent article 202 has the second
embodiment of elastics, with shaping elastics and anchoring
elastics separated into multiple layers, these elastics can
function somewhat independently of each other, and the article 202
can feel comfortable, look attractive, and perform well while being
worn.
[0091] FIG. 2D illustrates a plan view of a front/side fastenable
disposable wearable absorbent article 201, which includes the
second embodiment of elastics in multiple layers. The second
embodiment of elastics in the front/side fastenable article 201 of
FIG. 2D is configured in the same way as the second embodiment of
elastics in the belt type article 200 of FIG. 2A, except for
differences in type of chassis. The article 201 includes a
front/side fastenable chassis 221. Since the front/side fastenable
disposable wearable absorbent article 201 has the second embodiment
of elastics, with shaping elastics and anchoring elastics separated
into multiple layers, these elastics can function somewhat
independently of each other, and the article 201 can feel
comfortable, look attractive, and perform well while being worn. In
certain embodiments the anchoring elastics can be positioned in
line with the fastener such that the fasteners provide a defined
connection between the front and back of the article thereby
linking the anchoring elastics in one waist region with the
anchoring elastics in the opposing waist region.
[0092] FIG. 3A illustrates a plan view of a belt type disposable
wearable absorbent article 300, which includes a third embodiment
of elastics in multiple layers. FIG. 3A illustrates a plan view of
a belt type disposable wearable absorbent article 300. The view of
FIG. 3A illustrates an inside (wearer-facing side) of the article
300.
[0093] In FIG. 3A, a longitudinal centerline 313 and a lateral
centerline 317 provide lines of reference for referring to relative
locations of parts of the article 300. FIG. 3A includes arrows
indicating relative directions for laterally inboard 312, laterally
outboard 314, longitudinally inboard 316, and longitudinally
outboard 318, with respect to the article 300.
[0094] The article 300 includes a front 324 and a back 326. The
article 300 includes a belt 360 and a center chassis 320. A front
belt portion 361 and a back belt portion 369 form the belt 360. The
article 300 includes an absorbent core 327 that extends from the
front belt portion 361 through the center chassis 320 to the back
belt portion 369. The center chassis 320 includes a topsheet 306
that is inward of the absorbent core 327 and a backsheet 307 that
is outward of the absorbent core 327.
[0095] The front 324 includes a front belt portion 361 with a front
waist area that is adjacent to a front waist edge 309 and is
one-third to one-quarter of the overall longitudinal length of the
article. The back 326 includes a back belt portion 369 with a back
waist area that is adjacent to a back waist edge 304 and is
one-third to one-quarter of the overall longitudinal length of the
article. The center chassis 320 includes a crotch region disposed
between the front waist region and the rear waist region, wherein
the crotch region includes the lateral centerline 317. The
absorbent core 327 extends from the front 324 into the back
326.
[0096] The front belt portion 361 has a front inner belt portion
362 and a front outer belt portion 365, as illustrated in FIGS. 3B
and 3C. The front inner belt portion 362 includes a plurality 395
of front shaping elastics 398. The plurality 395 is configured in
the same way as the plurality 695 of the embodiment of FIG. 6A. The
front outer belt portion 365 includes an anchoring system 330, with
anchoring elastics 341. The anchoring elastics 341 of the anchoring
system 330 are configured in the same way as the plurality of
shaping elastics 695 of the embodiment of FIG. 6A, except that the
elastics are anchoring elastics, which work together in the form of
a CAM, similar to the front CAM 1141 of the embodiment of FIG. 11B.
Together, the plurality 395 of front shaping elastics 398 and the
plurality of anchoring elastics 341 form the third embodiment of
elastics in multiple layers.
[0097] In the embodiment of FIG. 3A, the back belt portion 369 also
has elastics. The back belt portion 369 has a plurality of front
shaping elastics configured in the same way as the plurality 591 of
the embodiment of FIG. 5A, and an anchoring system, with anchoring
elastics configured in the same way as the plurality of shaping
elastics 591 of the embodiment of FIG. 5A, except that the elastics
are anchoring elastics, which work together in the form of a CAM,
similar to the front CAM 1141 of the embodiment of FIG. 11B.
Together, the plurality of front shaping elastics and the plurality
of anchoring elastics in the back belt portion form an embodiment
of elastics in multiple layers. In various embodiments, the back
belt portion 369 can be configured in the same way as the front
belt portion 361, or the back belt portion 369 can have elastics
configured in a different way, or the back belt portion 369 can be
configured without elastics.
[0098] FIG. 3A illustrates an embodiment that has elastics in the
front belt portion that are convex to the lateral centerline on the
center chassis, and elastics in the back belt portion that are
concave to the lateral centerline on the center chassis. When these
elastics are integrated together in an absorbent article, such
absorbent article (when donned on a wearer) has a sustained dynamic
fit to improve containment of body exudates and wearer
comfort/mobility. The elastics form a continuum of anchoring that
extends from the small of users back, to below the nave at the
belly crease, and back to the small of the back. Thus, this elastic
continuum follows the minimum circumference of the anatomy and
provides the greatest level of anchoring.
[0099] FIG. 3B illustrates an exploded cross-sectional side view of
the front belt portion 361 of the article 300 of FIG. 3A, taken at
a first sectional line. FIG. 3B includes an inward direction 311
and an outward direction 319.
[0100] The front inner belt portion 362 includes an inner belt
layer 363, the plurality 395 of front shaping elastics 398, and an
outer belt layer 364. The inner belt layer 363 is the innermost
layer. The plurality 395 of front shaping elastics 398 is outward
319 from the inner belt layer 363. The outer belt layer 364 is
outward 319 from the plurality of shaping elastics 398. In various
embodiments, the plurality 395 of front shaping elastics 398 can be
joined to either or both of the inner belt layer 363 and the outer
belt layer 364.
[0101] The inner belt layer 363 and/or the outer belt layer 364 can
be a nonwoven, a film, a laminate that includes a nonwoven and a
film, or any other kind of material suitable for forming a layer of
material. In various alternative embodiments, the inner belt layer
363 or the outer belt layer 364 may be omitted. In various
alternative embodiments, the front inner belt portion 362 can also
include one or more additional materials or layers.
[0102] The front outer belt portion 365 includes an inner belt
layer 366, the anchoring system 330 formed from the plurality of
anchoring elastics 341, and an outer belt layer 367. The plurality
of anchoring elastics 341 is outward 319 from the inner belt layer
366. The outer belt layer 367 is outward 319 from the plurality of
anchoring elastics 341. The outer belt layer 367 is the outermost
layer. In various embodiments, the plurality of anchoring elastics
341 can be joined to either or both of the inner belt layer 366 and
the outer belt layer 367.
[0103] The inner belt layer 366 and/or the outer belt layer 367 can
be a nonwoven, a film, a laminate that includes a nonwoven and a
film, or any other kind of material suitable for forming a layer of
material. In various alternative embodiments, the inner belt layer
366 or the outer belt layer 367 may be omitted. In various
alternative embodiments, the front outer belt portion 365 can also
include one or more additional materials or layers.
[0104] The shaping elastics 398 and the anchoring elastics 341 are
separated into multiple layers. Since the shaping elastics are
separated from the anchoring elastics, they can function somewhat
independently of each other. The shaping elastics can at least
assist in providing conforming fit and distributing contact forces
over the wearer's skin while the anchoring elastics can at least
assist in holding the article in place on the wearer. As a result,
embodiments of the belt type disposable wearable absorbent article
300 can feel comfortable, look attractive, and perform well while
being worn.
[0105] In the embodiment of FIG. 3B, the center chassis 320 is
outward 319 from the front inner belt portion 362, and the front
outer belt portion 365 is outward 319 from the center chassis.
However, in an alternative embodiment, the front outer belt portion
365 can be disposed outward 319 from front inner belt portion 362
and inward 311 to the center chassis 320. In another alternative
embodiment, the front inner belt portion 362 can be disposed
outward 319 from the center chassis 320 and inward to the front
outer belt portion 365. In these alternative embodiments, the outer
belt layer 364 can be joined to the inner belt layer 366, or these
two layers of material can even be substituted with a single layer
of material.
[0106] FIG. 3C illustrates an exploded cross-sectional view of the
front belt portion 361 of the article 300 of FIG. 3A, taken at a
second sectional line.
[0107] FIG. 3D illustrates a plan view of a pant type disposable
wearable absorbent article 302, which includes the third embodiment
of elastics in multiple layers. The third embodiment of elastics in
the pant type article 302 of FIG. 3D is configured in the same way
as the third embodiment of elastics in the belt type article 300 of
FIG. 3A, except for differences in type of chassis. The article 302
includes a pant type chassis 322. Since the pant type disposable
wearable absorbent article 302 has the third embodiment of
elastics, with shaping elastics and anchoring elastics separated
into multiple layers, these elastics can function somewhat
independently of each other, and the article 302 can feel
comfortable, look attractive, and perform well while being
worn.
[0108] FIG. 3E illustrates a plan view of a front/side fastenable
disposable wearable absorbent article 301, which includes the third
embodiment of elastics in multiple layers. The third embodiment of
elastics in the front/side fastenable article 301 of FIG. 3E is
configured in the same way as the third embodiment of elastics in
the belt type article 300 of FIG. 3A, except for differences in
type of chassis. Since the front/side fastenable disposable
wearable absorbent article 301 has the third embodiment of
elastics, with shaping elastics and anchoring elastics separated
into multiple layers, these elastics can function somewhat
independently of each other, and the article 301 can feel
comfortable, look attractive, and perform well while being
worn.
[0109] The embodiments of FIGS. 4A through 8B describe various
pluralities of shaping elastics for use in disposable wearable
absorbent articles. These pluralities can be configured in various
ways. Shaping elastics can be formed from various materials, such
as Lycra, rubber, Spandex, styrene ethylbutylene styrene, styrene
ethylene propylene styrene, styrene ethylene ethylene propylene
styrene, styrene butadiene styrene, styrene isoprene styrene,
polyolefin elastomers, elastomeric polyurethanes, rubbers, similar
materials, other elastic materials known in the art, and
combinations thereof. In some embodiments, shaping elastics can be
extruded strand elastics with any number of strands (or filaments).
Shaping elastics can have a decitex ranging from 50 to 500, or any
integer value for any decitex value in this range, or any range
formed by any of these integer values. In FIGS. 4A through 8B, for
the purpose of clarity, some underlying parts of the disposable
wearable absorbent articles are not shown with hidden lines, so as
not to obscure the elastics.
[0110] In FIGS. 4A through 8B, for ease of illustration, each
plurality of shaping elastics is shown with an exemplary number of
elastics. However, each of these pluralities can include any number
of elastics. In various alternate embodiments, any of these shaping
elastics can be configured in any manner described herein. Each of
the pluralities of shaping elastics, of FIGS. 4A through 8B can be
configured in a disposable wearable absorbent article to provide a
conforming fit and to distribute contact forces over the wearer's
skin.
[0111] The embodiments of FIGS. 9A through 11B describe various
anchoring systems for use in disposable wearable absorbent
articles. These anchoring systems can be configured with one or
more Circumferential Anchoring Members (CAMs), anchoring bands,
Load Distribution Elements (LDEs), spines, and/or other anchoring
pathways, in various ways, as described herein. In FIGS. 9A through
11B, for the purpose of clarity, some parts of the disposable
wearable absorbent articles are illustrated as transparent, to show
structures and features, which might otherwise be hidden by
overlying material.
[0112] The front of one or more of any of the articles of FIGS. 4A,
5A, 6A, 7A, 8A, 9A, 10A, and 11A when configured to represent a
front/side fastenable disposable wearable absorbent article
(including any alternative embodiments), can be combined with the
back of one or more of any of the articles of FIGS. 4A, 5A, 6A, 7A,
8A, 9A, 10A, and 11A when configured to represent a front/side
fastenable disposable wearable absorbent article (including any
alternative embodiments). In such combinations, the resulting
article can have elastics in multiple layers in the front, the back
or both. For front/side fastenable disposable wearable absorbent
articles, any front disclosed herein can be combined with any back
disclosed herein or known in the art (including any back without
elastics), to form further alternative embodiments.
[0113] The back of one or more of any of the articles of FIGS. 4A,
5A, 6A, 7A, 8A, 9A, 10A, and 11A when configured to represent a
front/side fastenable disposable wearable absorbent article
(including any alternative embodiments), can be combined with the
front of one or more of any of the articles of FIGS. 4A, 5A, 6A,
7A, 8A, 9A, 10A, and 11A when configured to represent a front/side
fastenable disposable wearable absorbent article (including any
alternative embodiments). In such combinations, the resulting
article can have elastics in multiple layers in the back, the front
or both. For front/side fastenable disposable wearable absorbent
articles, any back disclosed herein can be combined with any front
disclosed herein or known in the art (including any front without
elastics), to form further alternative embodiments. In various
alternate embodiments, any front/side fastenable disposable
wearable absorbent article disclosed herein can be modified to be a
belt type article, configured in any way disclosed herein or known
in the art.
[0114] The front of one or more of any of the articles of FIGS. 4B,
5B, 6B, 7B, 8B, 9B, 10B, and 11B when configured to represent a
pant type disposable wearable absorbent article (including any
alternative embodiments), can be combined with the back of one or
more of any of the articles of FIGS. 4B, 5B, 6B, 7B, 8B, 9B, 10B,
and 11B when configured to represent a pant type disposable
wearable absorbent article (including any alternative embodiments).
In such combinations, the resulting article can have elastics in
multiple layers in the front, the back or both. For pant type
disposable wearable absorbent articles, any front disclosed herein
can be combined with any back disclosed herein or known in the art
(including any back without elastics), to form further alternative
embodiments.
[0115] The back of one or more of any of the articles of FIGS. 4B,
5B, 6B, 7B, 8B, 9B, 10B, and 11B when configured to represent a
pant type disposable wearable absorbent article (including any
alternative embodiments), can be combined with the front of one or
more of any of the articles of FIGS. 4B, 5B, 6B, 7B, 8B, 9B, 10B,
and 11B when configured to represent a pant type disposable
wearable absorbent article (including any alternative embodiments).
In such combinations, the resulting article can have elastics in
multiple layers in the back, the front or both. For pant type
disposable wearable absorbent articles, any back disclosed herein
can be combined with any front disclosed herein or known in the art
(including any front without elastics), to form further alternative
embodiments. In various alternate embodiments, any pant type
disposable wearable absorbent article disclosed herein can be
modified to be a belt type article, configured in any way disclosed
herein or known in the art.
[0116] FIG. 4A illustrates a plan view of a front/side fastenable
disposable wearable absorbent article 401, which includes shaping
elastics 490, 495. Each of the general elements of the embodiment
of FIG. 4A is configured in the same way as the like-numbered
element of the embodiment of FIG. 1A. The view of FIG. 4A
illustrates an inside (wearer-facing side) of the article 401 and
the chassis 421.
[0117] In the article 401, a plurality 495 of front shaping
elastics 497 is disposed in the front 423. In the embodiment of
FIG. 4A, each of the front shaping elastics 497 is straight and
parallel with the front waist edge 409 and extends laterally across
the chassis of the article 401. The front shaping elastics 497 are
parallel to each other and spaced apart from each other. In the
article 401, a plurality 490 of back shaping elastics 492 is
disposed in the back 425. In the embodiment of FIG. 4A, each of the
back shaping elastics 492 is straight and parallel with the back
waist edge 404 and extends laterally across the chassis of the
article 401. The back shaping elastics 492 are parallel to each
other and spaced apart from each other.
[0118] FIG. 4B illustrates a plan view of a pant type disposable
wearable absorbent article 402, which includes pluralities of
shaping elastics 490, 495. Each of the general elements of the
embodiment of FIG. 4B is configured in the same way as the
like-numbered element of the embodiment of FIG. 1D, and the
pluralities of shaping elastics 490, 495 are configured in the same
way as the like-numbered elements of the embodiment of FIG. 4A,
except for differences in type of chassis. In an alternate
embodiment, the pant type disposable wearable absorbent article 402
can be modified to be a belt type pant with a chassis configured in
the same way as in the embodiment of FIG. 1A.
[0119] FIG. 5A illustrates a plan view of a front fastenable
disposable wearable absorbent article 501, which includes
pluralities of shaping elastics 590, 595. Each of the general
elements of the embodiment of FIG. 5A is configured in the same way
as the like-numbered element of the embodiment of FIG. 1A. The view
of FIG. 5A illustrates an inside (wearer-facing side) of the
article 501 and the chassis 521.
[0120] In the article 501, a plurality 595 of front shaping
elastics 596 is disposed in the front 523. In the embodiment of
FIG. 5A, each of the front shaping elastics 596 is curved with an
overall convex shape with respect to the front waist edge 509 and
extends substantially laterally across the chassis 521 of the
article 501. The waist edge of one or both of the inner and outer
belt portions in either one or both of the front and back waist
regions may be curved either convexly with respect to the lateral
centerline or concavely with respect to the lateral centerline. In
such embodiments, one or more of the elastics may be curved to
extend along the waist edge of the respective belt portions. In
addition, the longitudinally opposing edge of the inner or outer
belt portions may be curved either convexly with respect to the
lateral centerline or concavely with respect to the lateral
centerline. And one or more of the elastics adjacent the
longitudinally opposing edge to the waist edge may be curved to
extend along the longitudinally opposing edge.
[0121] The front shaping elastics 596 may be substantially
concentric and spaced apart from each other. In the article 501, a
plurality 590 of back shaping elastics 591 is disposed in the back
525. In the embodiment of FIG. 5A, each of the back shaping
elastics 591 is curved with an overall convex shape with respect to
the back waist edge 504 and extends substantially laterally across
the chassis 521 of the article 501. The back shaping elastics 591
may be substantially concentric and spaced apart from each
other.
[0122] FIG. 5B illustrates a plan view of a pant type disposable
wearable absorbent article 502, which includes pluralities of
shaping elastics 590, 595. Each of the general elements of the
embodiment of FIG. 5B is configured in the same way as the
like-numbered element of the embodiment of FIG. 1D, and the
pluralities of shaping elastics 590, 595 are configured in the same
way as the like-numbered elements of the embodiment of FIG. 5A,
except for differences in type of chassis. In an alternate
embodiment, the pant type disposable wearable absorbent article 502
can be modified to be a belt type pant with a chassis configured in
the same way as in the embodiment of FIG. 1A.
[0123] FIG. 6A illustrates a plan view of a front fastenable
disposable wearable absorbent article 601, which includes
pluralities of shaping elastics 690, 695. Each of the general
elements of the embodiment of FIG. 6A is configured in the same way
as the like-numbered element of the embodiment of FIG. 1A. The view
of FIG. 6A illustrates an inside (wearer-facing side) of the
article 601 and the chassis 621.
[0124] In the article 601, a plurality 695 of front shaping
elastics 698 is disposed in the front 623. In the embodiment of
FIG. 6A, each of the front shaping elastics 698 is curved with an
overall concave shape with respect to the front waist edge 609 and
extends substantially laterally across the chassis 621 of the
article 601. The front shaping elastics 698 may be substantially
concentric and spaced apart from each other. In the article 601, a
plurality 690 of back shaping elastics 693 is disposed in the back
625. In the embodiment of FIG. 6A, each of the back shaping
elastics 693 is curved with an overall concave shape with respect
to the back waist edge 604 and extends substantially laterally
across the chassis 621 of the article 601. The back shaping
elastics 693 may be substantially concentric and spaced apart from
each other.
[0125] FIG. 6B illustrates a plan view of a pant type disposable
wearable absorbent article 602, which includes pluralities of
shaping elastics 690, 695. Each of the general elements of the
embodiment of FIG. 6B is configured in the same way as the
like-numbered element of the embodiment of FIG. 1D, and the
pluralities of shaping elastics 690, 695 are configured in the same
way as the like-numbered elements of the embodiment of FIG. 6A,
except for differences in type of chassis. In an alternate
embodiment, the pant type disposable wearable absorbent article 602
can be modified to be a belt type pant with a chassis configured in
the same way as in the embodiment of FIG. 1A.
[0126] FIG. 7A illustrates a plan view of a front/side fastenable
disposable wearable absorbent article 701, which includes
pluralities of shaping elastics 790, 795. Each of the general
elements of the embodiment of FIG. 7A is configured in the same way
as the like-numbered element of the embodiment of FIG. 1A. The view
of FIG. 7A illustrates an inside (wearer-facing side) of the
article 701 and the chassis 721.
[0127] In the article 701, a plurality 795 of front shaping
elastics 796, 797, and 798 is disposed in the front 723. The front
shaping elastics 796 are longitudinally outboard 718 from the front
shaping elastics 797, which are longitudinally outboard 718 from
the front shaping elastics 798. In the embodiment of FIG. 7A, each
of the front shaping elastics 796 is curved with an overall convex
shape with respect to the front waist edge 709 and extends
substantially laterally across the chassis 721 of the article 701,
each of the front shaping elastics 797 are straight and
substantially parallel with the front waist edge 709 and extends
laterally across the chassis 721 of the article 701, and each of
the front shaping elastics 798 is curved with an overall concave
shape with respect to the front waist edge 709 and extends
substantially laterally across the chassis 721 of the article 701.
The front shaping elastics 796 may be substantially concentric and
spaced apart from each other. The front shaping elastics 798 may be
also substantially concentric and spaced apart from each other.
[0128] In the article 701, a plurality 790 of back shaping elastics
791, 792, and 793 is disposed in the back 725. The back shaping
elastics 791 are longitudinally outboard 718 from the back shaping
elastics 792, which are longitudinally outboard 718 from the back
shaping elastics 793. In the embodiment of FIG. 7A, each of the
back shaping elastics 791 is curved with an overall convex shape
with respect to the back waist edge 704 and extends substantially
laterally across the chassis 721 of the article 701, each of the
back shaping elastics 792 is straight and substantially parallel
with the back waist edge 704 and extends laterally across the
chassis 721 of the article 701, and each of the back shaping
elastics 793 is curved with an overall concave shape with respect
to the back waist edge 709 and extends substantially laterally
across the chassis 721 of the article 701. The back shaping
elastics 791 may be substantially concentric and spaced apart from
each other. The back shaping elastics 793 may be also substantially
concentric, and spaced apart from each other.
[0129] FIG. 7B illustrates a plan view of a pant type disposable
wearable absorbent article 702, which includes pluralities of
shaping elastics 790, 795. Each of the general elements of the
embodiment of FIG. 7B is configured in the same way as the
like-numbered element of the embodiment of FIG. 1D, and the
pluralities of shaping elastics 790, 795 are configured in the same
way as the like-numbered elements of the embodiment of FIG. 7A,
except for differences in type of chassis. In an alternate
embodiment, the pant type disposable wearable absorbent article 702
can be modified to be a belt type pant with a chassis configured in
the same way as in the embodiment of FIG. 1A.
[0130] FIG. 8A illustrates a plan view of a front/side fastenable
disposable wearable absorbent article 801, which includes shaping
elastics 890, 895. Each of the general elements of the embodiment
of FIG. 8A is configured in the same way as the like-numbered
element of the embodiment of FIG. 1A. The view of FIG. 8A
illustrates an inside (wearer-facing side) of the article 801 and
the chassis 821.
[0131] In the article 801, a plurality 895 of front shaping
elastics 896, 897, and 898 is disposed in the front 823. The front
shaping elastics 898 are longitudinally outboard 818 from the front
shaping elastics 897, which are longitudinally outboard 818 from
the front shaping elastics 896. In the embodiment of FIG. 8A, each
of the front shaping elastics 896 is curved with an overall convex
shape with respect to the front waist edge 809 and extends
substantially laterally across the chassis 821 of the article 801,
each of the front shaping elastics 897 is straight and
substantially parallel with the front waist edge 809 and extends
laterally across the chassis 821 of the article 801, and each of
the front shaping elastics 898 is curved with an overall concave
shape with respect to the front waist edge 809 and extends
substantially laterally across the chassis 821 of the article 801.
The front shaping elastics 896 may be substantially concentric and
spaced apart from each other. The front shaping elastics 898 may be
substantially concentric and spaced apart from each other.
[0132] In the article 801, a plurality 890 of back shaping elastics
891, 892, and 893 is disposed in the back 825. The back shaping
elastics 893 are longitudinally outboard 818 from the back shaping
elastics 892, which are longitudinally outboard 818 from the back
shaping elastics 891. In the embodiment of FIG. 8A, each of the
back shaping elastics 891 is curved with an overall convex shape
with respect to the back waist edge 804 and extends substantially
laterally across the chassis 821 of the article 801, each of the
back shaping elastics 892 is straight and substantially parallel
with the back waist edge 809 and extends laterally across the
chassis 821 of the article 801, and each of the back shaping
elastics 893 is curved with an overall concave shape with respect
to the back waist edge 804 and extends substantially laterally
across the chassis 821 of the article 801. The back shaping
elastics 891 may be substantially concentric and spaced apart from
each other. The back shaping elastics 893 may be substantially
concentric and spaced apart from each other.
[0133] FIG. 8B illustrates a plan view of a pant type disposable
wearable absorbent article 802, which includes pluralities of
shaping elastics 890, 895. Each of the general elements of the
embodiment of FIG. 8B is configured in the same way as the
like-numbered element of the embodiment of FIG. 1D, and the
pluralities of shaping elastics 890, 895 are configured in the same
way as the like-numbered elements of the embodiment of FIG. 8A,
except for differences in type of chassis. In an alternate
embodiment, the pant type disposable wearable absorbent article 802
can be modified to be a belt type pant with a chassis configured in
the same way as in the embodiment of FIG. 1A.
[0134] The embodiments of FIGS. 9A through 11B describe various
anchoring systems for use in disposable wearable absorbent
articles. These anchoring systems can be configured with one or
more CAMs, anchoring bands, LDEs, spines, and/or other anchoring
pathways, in various ways, as described herein. In FIGS. 9A through
11B, for the purpose of clarity, some parts of the disposable
wearable absorbent articles are illustrated as transparent, to show
structures and features, which the overlying material might
otherwise hide.
[0135] With regard to anchoring, the present disclosure uses the
following terminology. The term "anchoring system" refers to one or
more anchoring pathways, wherein the anchoring system can at least
assist in holding a disposable wearable absorbent article in place
on a wearer's body, as described herein. The term "anchoring
pathway" refers to one or more anchoring elements, configured as a
tension-carrying pathway, which transfers a load from the portion
of the chassis comprising the absorbent core to an anchoring
location on the body of wearer of the article, as described
herein.
[0136] The term "anchoring elements" refers to one or more
separately identifiable structural elements, which form part of an
anchoring system. Some anchoring elements can be configured to
collect loads from the disposable wearable absorbent article, as
described herein. For example, anchoring elements can be joined to
the absorbent core and/or absorbent assembly. Some anchoring
elements can be configured to transfer loads in an anchoring
system, as described herein. For example, anchoring elements can be
configured to carry tension along an anchoring pathway. Anchoring
elastics can be anchoring elements. Some anchoring elements can be
configured to provide holding forces through contact with the body
of a wearer at one or more anchoring locations, as described
herein. The term "anchoring location" refers to a location on a
wearer's body, which is capable of supporting a load transferred
from an anchoring pathway, as described herein.
[0137] The term "anchored" refers to the use of an anchoring system
to hold a disposable wearable absorbent article in place on the
body of a wearer. When a disposable wearable absorbent article is
anchored to a portion of the body of a wearer, the anchoring system
is configured to at least reduce and/or prevent relative movement
between article and that portion of the body, while the wearer
wears the article. A disposable wearable absorbent article with an
anchoring system can be anchored to a body of a wearer with one or
more anchoring elements of the anchoring system configured to
directly and/or indirectly (e.g. through other layers of material)
overlie and/or contact one or more of various anchoring locations
on parts of a body of a wearer.
[0138] A part of the body with a relatively smaller radius of
curvature can, in some embodiments, act as an anchoring location
that provides relatively greater friction forces, since an
anchoring element can tend to wrap around such parts more tightly.
This is due to the physics of a flexible material that is wrapped
around a curved surface and placed under tension. In this scenario,
as a tensile force places the flexible material under tension, the
flexible material exerts a normal force perpendicular to and inward
on the curved surface. According to the basic Capstan formula, the
normal force is proportional to the tensile force divided by the
radius of the curved surface. Thus, at a given tensile force, as
the radius becomes smaller, the normal force becomes larger.
[0139] Also as an example, an anchoring system can be at least
partially anchored by setting one or more anchoring elements on,
around, and/or above one or more anchoring locations that protrude
from the body, thus creating friction and/or reaction forces. A
part of the body with a relatively larger horizontal protrusion
can, in some embodiments, provide greater reaction forces, since an
anchoring element can tend to hang and/or ride on or above such
parts more securely (i.e., there is an upward component to the
reaction force from the body that can support a load).
[0140] An anchoring pathway can be configured in various forms. An
anchoring pathway can be made from any material suitable for
carrying tensions in an anchoring system. Part, or parts, or
substantially all, or all of an anchoring pathway can include one
or more anchoring elements made of various suitable materials (such
as a plurality of anchoring elastics). An anchoring pathway can be
a unitary, continuous pathway, or can be formed by any number of
anchoring elements disposed (in series or in parallel) along a
pathway. Part, or parts, or substantially all, or all of an
anchoring pathway (and its anchoring elements) can be straight,
curved, angled, segmented, or other shapes, or combinations of any
of these shapes. In some embodiments, an anchoring pathway can
include one or more connecting elements, such as belts, seams,
and/or fasteners.
[0141] An anchoring element can be of any suitable size, shape, and
configuration. The size and/or shape of an anchoring element can be
substantially or completely uniform over one or more parts of the
anchoring element or over the entire length of the anchoring
element, or can vary over the length of the anchoring element.
[0142] In various embodiments, anchoring elastics can be used as
anchoring elements. Anchoring elastics can be formed from various
materials, such as the materials described herein for shaping
elastics. Anchoring elastics can have a decitex ranging from 250 to
2500, or any integer value for any decitex value in this range, or
any range formed by any of these integer values.
[0143] Part, or parts, or substantially all, or all of any
anchoring element can be separate from, and/or structurally
associated with, and/or joined to, and/or attached to, and/or
durably attached to, and/or refastenably attached to, and/or
embedded in, and/or integral with one or more other elements (such
as an outer cover and/or a waist cover and/or an absorbent core) of
a disposable wearable absorbent article. As used herein, the term
"joined" refers to configurations wherein an element is directly
secured to another element and to configurations wherein an element
is indirectly secured to another element by connecting the element
to one or more intermediate members, which are, in turn connected
to the other element.
[0144] When an anchoring pathway is formed by one or more anchoring
elements embedded in or integral with one or more other elements,
the anchoring pathway forms a distinct and recognizable anchoring
pathway within that structure. For example, when anchoring elements
that are integral with an outer cover forms an anchoring pathway,
the anchoring elements can form an anchoring pathway with a
substantially higher modulus of elasticity than areas of the outer
cover surrounding the pathway.
[0145] Anchoring pathways disposed on surfaces within a disposable
wearable absorbent article are intended to align with anatomical
pathways defined on the external surfaces of a body of a wearer of
the disposable wearable absorbent article in which the anchoring
system is included. The shapes of the anatomical surfaces can
affect the shapes of the anchoring pathways. The shapes of the
anchoring pathways can, in turn, affect configurations of anchoring
elements.
[0146] One kind of anchoring pathway is an anchoring band. An
anchoring band can be configured to transfer tensile forces from
one end to the other and to have sufficient strength to carry such
tension in an anchoring system. In various embodiments, an
anchoring band can at least partially encircle a lower torso of the
body of the wearer, for example in the back portion of the
article.
[0147] Another kind of anchoring pathway is a load distribution
element (LDE). An LDE is a type of anchoring pathway that transfers
loads in an anchoring system of a disposable wearable absorbent
article. An LDE can receive at least some collected loads by being
joined to one or more other elements of the disposable wearable
absorbent article, such as an absorbent core. Also, an LDE can
transfer such loads to one or more anchoring locations or anchoring
pathways, such as a circumferential anchoring member (CAM) or
anchoring band. In various embodiments, LDEs can be configured to
transfer part, or parts, or substantially all, or all of loads from
an absorbent core absorbent assembly to other portions of a
disposable wearable absorbent article, for example the belt or side
panels, waist elastics or leg elastics of the absorbent
article.
[0148] Yet another kind of anchoring pathway is a spine. A spine is
a type of anchoring band that helps support a load in the absorbent
core in an anchoring system of a disposable wearable absorbent
article. A spine is oriented either substantially or completely
laterally or substantially or completely longitudinally. A
substantial portion of a spine passes through an area of an
absorbent core or absorbent assembly of a disposable wearable
absorbent article. In some embodiments, substantially all or all of
a spine can be contained within an area of an absorbent core.
[0149] A CAM is another kind of anchoring pathway that generally
follows a curved surface within a disposable wearable absorbent
article or on a body of a wearer. A CAM at least partially
encircles a lower torso of the body of the wearer. In some
embodiments, a CAM can substantially or completely encircle the
lower torso of the body of the wearer. While a CAM may follow a
curved pathway while a wearer is wearing the article, the CAM may
be substantially or completely linear when the article is laid out
flat.
[0150] Further, portions of the anchoring systems disclosed herein
may be formed from the same elastics. For example, portions of the
CAMs and LDEs may be formed from the same elastic. In other words,
an elastic can be fed along the waist from the edge inward towards
the longitudinal centerline and then diverted inward toward the
lateral centerline to form one of the LDEs and then diverted
outwardly towards the waist edge and then diverted again towards
the side edge of the belt.
[0151] In FIGS. 9A through 11B, for ease of illustration, each of
the anchoring pathways is shown as a unitary structure. However,
each of these anchoring pathways may formed by a plurality of
anchoring elements, which are anchoring elastics. In various
alternate embodiments, any of these anchoring pathways can be
configured in any manner described herein. Each of these anchoring
systems of FIGS. 9A through 11B can be configured in a disposable
wearable absorbent article to anchor an absorbent article and/or
absorbent core to a wearer. In various embodiments, each of these
anchoring systems can be configured in a disposable wearable
absorbent article to carry part, or parts, or substantially all, or
all of the loads from the absorbent core and exudates introduced
into the absorbent core by the wearer of the article.
[0152] FIG. 9A illustrates a plan view of a front/side fastenable
disposable wearable absorbent article 901, which includes an
anchoring system 930. Each of the general elements of the
embodiment of FIG. 9A is configured in the same way as the
like-numbered element of the embodiment of FIG. 1E. The view of
FIG. 9A illustrates an inside (wearer-facing side) of the article
901 and the chassis 921.
[0153] The anchoring system 930 includes a back CAM 931 disposed in
the back 925, back LDEs 933 disposed in the back 925, a front CAM
941 disposed in the front 923, front LDEs 943 disposed in the front
923, and a spine 935, 945. The spine 935, 945 includes a back
portion of the spine 935 disposed in the back 925 and a front
portion of the spine 945 disposed in the front 923. It should be
noted that the LDEs 933 might be an extension of the CAM 931. In
other words a portion of the CAM 931 may comprise elastic support
elements that are diverted from the CAM 931 inward along the LDE
933 then outward along the opposing LDE 933 and finally along the
CAM 931 on the opposing side of the product.
[0154] The back CAM 931 is disposed longitudinally inboard to and
offset from the back waist edge 904. The back CAM 931 is also
disposed longitudinally inboard to and offset from the
longitudinally outboard back edge of the absorbent core 927. The
back CAM 931 may be joined to one fastener 954 and extends
laterally from that one fastener 954, laterally through a first
portion of the back 925, laterally straight across, underlying, and
joined to a back portion of the absorbent core 927, laterally
through a second portion of the back 925, and extends laterally to
the other fastener 954, joining to that other fastener 954. The
back CAM 931 can be configured within the article 901 in any manner
described herein. The back CAM 931 is considered a CAM because,
when a wearer wears the article 901, the back CAM 931 at least
partially encircles the wearer.
[0155] In a first alternate embodiment, part, or parts, or
substantially all, or all of the back CAM 931 could be disposed
proximate to the longitudinally outboard back end of the absorbent
core 927. In a second alternate embodiment, part, or parts, or
substantially all, or all of the back CAM 931 could be disposed
longitudinally outboard from the longitudinally outboard back end
of the absorbent core 927. In a third alternate embodiment, part,
or parts, or substantially all, or all of the back CAM 931 could be
disposed proximate to the back waist edge 904. In a fourth
alternate embodiment, part or parts of the back CAM 931 could
follow one or more alternate pathways to either or both of the side
ears. In a fifth alternate embodiment, part or parts of the back
CAM 931 could connect to one or more additional anchoring pathways,
as described herein. In a sixth alternate embodiment, the back CAM
931 may not join to one or both of the fasteners 954. In a seventh
alternate embodiment, part, or parts, or substantially all, or all
of the back CAM 931 may extend through or overlie the absorbent
core 927. In an eighth alternate embodiment, part, or parts, or
substantially all, or all of the back CAM 931 may not be joined to
the absorbent core 927. In any of these alternate embodiments,
part, or parts, or substantially all, or all of the back CAM 931
could be omitted. Also, in any of these alternate embodiments, one
or more anchoring bands could be used along part, or parts, or
substantially all, or the entire pathway of the back CAM 931.
Further, any of these alternate embodiments could be combined in
whole or in part to create additional alternate embodiments.
[0156] There are two back LDEs 933, one on each side of the
longitudinal centerline 913. For the back LDE 933 to the right of
the longitudinal centerline, one end of the back LDE 933 connects
to the back portion of the spine 935 at a location longitudinally
offset from the lateral centerline 917. A portion of that back LDE
933 may underlay a portion of the absorbent core 927, and may be
joined to that portion. That back LDE 933 extends straight from the
back portion of the spine 935, laterally and longitudinally
outward, and connects to the back CAM 931. The first back LDE 933
is considered an LDE because, when the article 901 is worn by a
wearer, the first back LDE 933 is configured to transfer at least
part of the load from the absorbent core 927 to the back CAM 931.
The back LDE 933 on the left is configured in the same way, though
mirrored by the longitudinal centerline 913. Each back LDE 933 can
be configured within the article 901 in any manner described
herein, including any of the alternative embodiments.
[0157] In a first alternate embodiment, a back LDE 933 could
connect to the back portion of the spine 935 at a location at or
proximate to the lateral centerline 917. In a second alternate
embodiment, a back LDE 933 may not connect to the back portion of
the spine 935, but may end at a location offset from the
longitudinal centerline 913, within the area of the back portion of
the absorbent core 927. In a third alternate, a back LDE 933 could
connect to the back CAM 931 at a location at or proximate to the
longitudinal centerline 913. In a fourth alternate, a back LDE 933
could connect to the back CAM 931 proximate to the fastener 954. In
a fifth alternate embodiment, part or parts of a back LDE 933 could
follow one or more alternate pathways. In a sixth alternate
embodiment, part or parts of a back LDE 933 could connect to one or
more additional anchoring pathways, as described herein. In a
seventh alternate embodiment, part, or parts, or substantially all,
or all of a back LDE 933 may extend through or overlie the
absorbent core 927. In an eighth alternate embodiment, part, or
parts, or substantially all, or all of a back CAM 933 may not be
joined to the absorbent core 927. In any of these alternate
embodiments, part, or parts, or substantially all, or all of either
or both back LDEs 933 could be omitted. Also, in any of these
alternate embodiments, one or more anchoring bands could be used
along part, or parts, or substantially all, or the entire pathway
of a back LDE 933. Further, any of these alternate embodiments
could be combined in whole or in part to create additional
alternate embodiments.
[0158] The front CAM 941 is disposed longitudinally inboard to and
offset from the front waist edge 909 of the chassis 921. The front
CAM 941 is also disposed longitudinally inboard to and offset from
the longitudinally outboard front edge of the absorbent core 927.
The front CAM 941 begins in one side, extends laterally from one
longitudinal side edge of the chassis 921, laterally through a
first portion of the front 923, laterally across, underlying, and
joined to a front portion of the absorbent core 927, laterally
through a second portion of the front 923, and ends in another side
at another longitudinal side edge of the chassis 921. The front CAM
941 can be configured within the article 901 in any manner
described herein. The front CAM 941 is considered a CAM because,
when a wearer wears the article 901, the front CAM 941 at least
partially encircles the wearer. When the article 901 is worn by a
wearer, the front CAM 941 and the back CAM 931, together, can be
considered a single CAM that completely encircles the wearer.
[0159] In a first alternate embodiment, part, or parts, or
substantially all, or all of the front CAM 941 could be disposed
proximate to the longitudinally outboard front end of the absorbent
core 927. In a second alternate embodiment, part, or parts, or
substantially all, or all of the front CAM 941 could be disposed
longitudinally outboard from the longitudinally outboard front end
of the absorbent core 927. In a third alternate embodiment, part,
or parts, or substantially all, or all of the front CAM 941 could
be disposed proximate to the front waist edge 909. In a fourth
alternate embodiment, part or parts of the front CAM 941 could
follow one or more alternate pathways proximate to either or both
of the longitudinal sides, similar to the embodiments described for
the back CAM 931. In a fifth alternate embodiment, part or parts of
the front CAM 941 could connect to one or more additional anchoring
pathways, as described herein. In a sixth alternate embodiment,
part, or parts, or substantially all, or all of the front CAM 941
may extend through or overlie the absorbent core 927. In a seventh
alternate embodiment, part, or parts, or substantially all, or all
of the front CAM 941 may not be joined to the absorbent core 927.
In any of these alternate embodiments, part, or parts, or
substantially all, or all of the front CAM 941 could be omitted.
Also, in any of these alternate embodiments, one or more anchoring
bands could be used along part, or parts, or substantially all, or
the entire pathway of the front CAM 941. Further, any of these
alternate embodiments could be combined in whole or in part to
create additional alternate embodiments.
[0160] There are two front LDEs 943, one on each side of the
longitudinal centerline 913. The front LDEs 943 are configured in
the same way as the back LDEs 933, though mirrored by the lateral
centerline 917, and except for the differences between a back and a
front of a front fastenable disposable wearable absorbent article.
Each front LDE 943 can be configured within the article 901 in any
manner described herein, including any of the alternative
embodiments.
[0161] The back portion of the spine 935 connects to the back LDEs
933 and to the front portion of the spine 945. The back portion of
the spine 935 is underlying and joined to a back portion of the
absorbent core 927. The front portion of the spine 945 connects to
the back portion of the spine 935 and to the front LDEs 943. The
front portion of the spine 945 is underlying and joined to a front
portion of the absorbent core 927. The spine 935, 945 is laterally
centered on the article 901. The spine 935, 945 can be configured
within the article 901 in any manner described herein.
[0162] In a first alternate embodiment, part, or parts, or
substantially all, or all of the back portion of the spine 935
and/or part, or parts, or substantially all, or all of the front
portion of the spine 945 could be disposed offset from the
longitudinal centerline 913 and/or proximate to a laterally
outboard side of the absorbent core 927. In a second alternate
embodiment, part, or parts, or substantially all, or all of the
back portion of the spine 935 and/or part, or parts, or
substantially all, or all of the front portion of the spine 945
could be disposed outside of the area of the absorbent core 927. In
a third alternate embodiment, part or parts of the back portion of
the spine 935 could connect to either or both of the back LDEs 933
at one or more additional and/or alternate locations, and/or part
or parts of the front portion of the spine 945 could connect to
either or both of the front LDEs 943 at one or more additional
and/or alternate locations. In a fourth alternate embodiment, part
or parts of the back portion of the spine 935 and/or part or parts
of the front portion of the spine 945 could connect to one or more
additional anchoring pathways, as described herein. In a fifth
alternate embodiment, the article 901 could include two or more
spines, with each spine configured in any way described herein. In
a sixth alternate embodiment, part, or parts, or substantially all,
or all of the back portion of the spine 935 and/or part, or parts,
or substantially all, or all of the front portion of the spine 945
may not be joined to the absorbent core 927. In any of these
alternate embodiments, part, or parts, or substantially all, or all
of the pathway of the back portion of the spine 935 and/or part, or
parts, or substantially all, or all of the pathway of the front
portion of the spine 945 could be omitted. In any of these
alternate embodiments, one or more anchoring bands could be used
along part, or parts, or substantially all, or all of the pathway
of the back portion of the spine 935 and/or the front portion of
the spine 945. Further, any of these alternate embodiments could be
combined in whole or in part to create additional alternate
embodiments.
[0163] Additionally, any of the embodiments of the front 923 of the
article 901 could be combined with any of the embodiments of a back
of any of the front/side fastenable disposable wearable absorbent
articles, as disclosed herein or as known in the art (including a
back without an anchoring system), to create further alternate
embodiments. Further, any of the embodiments of the back 925 of the
article 901 could be combined with any of the embodiments of a
front of any of the front/side fastenable disposable wearable
absorbent articles, as disclosed herein or as known in the art
(including a front without an anchoring system), to create further
alternate embodiments.
[0164] FIG. 9B illustrates a plan view of a pant type disposable
wearable absorbent article 902, which includes an anchoring system
930. The view of FIG. 9B illustrates an inside (wearer-facing side)
of the article 902 and the chassis 922.
[0165] Each of the general elements of the embodiment of FIG. 9B is
configured in the same way as the like-numbered element of the
embodiment of FIG. 1D, and the elements of the anchoring system 930
are configured in the same way as the like-numbered elements of the
embodiment of FIG. 9A, except for differences in type of chassis.
In an alternate embodiment, the pant type disposable wearable
absorbent article 902 can be modified to be a belt type pant with a
chassis configured in the same way as in the embodiment of FIG.
1A.
[0166] FIG. 10A illustrates a plan view of a front/side fastenable
disposable wearable absorbent article 1001, which includes an
anchoring system 1030. Each of the general elements of the
embodiment of FIG. 10A is configured in the same way as the
like-numbered element of the embodiment of FIG. 1E. The view of
FIG. 10A illustrates an inside (wearer-facing side) of the article
1001 and the chassis 1021.
[0167] The anchoring system 1030 does not include an element
corresponding to the CAM 930 of FIG. 9A. Each of the back LDEs 1033
is not straight, but curved. In the embodiment of FIG. 10A, the
back LDEs 1033 are curved to be convex, with respect to the back
waist edge 1004, however in various embodiments, either or both of
the back LDEs can be curved to be concave, with respect to the back
waist edge 1004. Also, each of the back LDEs 1033 extends from the
absorbent core 1027 to a portion of the longitudinal edge in a side
ear. Each of the front LDEs 1043 is not straight, but curved. In
the embodiment of FIG. 10A, the front LDEs 1043 are curved to be
convex, with respect to the front waist edge 1009, however in
various embodiments, either or both of the front LDEs can be curved
to be concave, with respect to the front waist edge 1009. Also,
each of the front LDEs 1043 extends from the absorbent core 1027 to
a portion of the longitudinal edge in a side ear. The back LDEs
1033 and the front LDEs 1043 can be configured in any manner
described herein, including any of the alternate embodiments for
LDEs described in connection with FIG. 9A.
[0168] FIG. 10B illustrates a plan view of an inside of a pant type
disposable wearable absorbent article 1002, which includes an
anchoring system 1030. The view of FIG. 10B illustrates an inside
(wearer-facing side) of the article 1002 and the chassis 1022.
[0169] Each of the general elements of the embodiment of FIG. 10B
is configured in the same way as the like-numbered element of the
embodiment of FIG. 1D, and the elements of the anchoring system
1030 are configured in the same way as the like-numbered elements
of the embodiment of FIG. 10A, except for differences in type of
chassis. In an alternate embodiment, the pant type disposable
wearable absorbent article 1002 can be modified to be a belt type
pant with a chassis configured in the same way as in the embodiment
of FIG. 1A.
[0170] FIG. 11A illustrates a plan view of an inside of a
front/side fastenable disposable wearable absorbent article 1101,
which includes an anchoring system 1130. Each of the general
elements of the embodiment of FIG. 11A is configured in the same
way as the like-numbered element of the embodiment of FIG. 1E. The
view of FIG. 11A illustrates an inside (wearer-facing side) of the
article 1101 and the chassis.
[0171] The anchoring system 1130 is does not include elements
corresponding to the LDEs 933 and 943 of FIG. 9A. The anchoring
system 1130 does include a front CAM 1131 and a back CAM 1161, each
of which can be configured in any manner described herein for a
CAM, including any of the alternate embodiments for CAMs described
in connection with FIG. 9A.
[0172] FIG. 11B illustrates a plan view of an inside of a pant type
disposable wearable absorbent article 1102, which includes an
anchoring system 1130. The view of FIG. 11B illustrates an inside
(wearer-facing side) of the article 1102 and the chassis.
[0173] Each of the general elements of the embodiment of FIG. 11B
is configured in the same way as the like-numbered element of the
embodiment of FIG. 1D, and the elements of the anchoring system
1130 are configured in the same way as the like-numbered elements
of the embodiment of FIG. 11A, except for differences in type of
chassis. In an alternate embodiment, the pant type disposable
wearable absorbent article 1102 can be modified to be a belt type
pant with a chassis configured in the same way as in the embodiment
of FIG. 1A.
[0174] Embodiments of the present disclosure include disposable
wearable absorbent articles with different elastic structures that
work well together. The different elastic structures are separated
into multiple layers. For example, a disposable wearable absorbent
article can include shaping elastics and anchoring elastics, which
are separated from each other by a layer of material. Since the
shaping elastics are separated from the anchoring elastics, their
functions do not conflict. The shaping elastics can at least assist
in providing conforming fit and distributing contact forces over
the wearer's skin while the anchoring elastics can at least assist
in holding the article in place on the wearer. As a result,
disposable wearable absorbent articles of the present disclosure
can feel comfortable, look attractive, and perform well while
wearers wear them.
[0175] The dimensions and values disclosed herein are not to be
understood as being strictly limited to the exact numerical values
recited. Instead, unless otherwise specified, each such dimension
is intended to mean both the recited value and a functionally
equivalent range surrounding that value. For example, a dimension
disclosed as "40 mm" is intended to mean "about 40 mm."
[0176] Every document cited herein, including any cross-referenced
or related patent or application is hereby incorporated herein by
reference in its entirety unless expressly excluded or otherwise
limited. The citation of any document is not an admission that it
is prior art with respect to any invention disclosed or claimed
herein or that it alone, or in any combination with any other
reference or references, teaches, suggests or discloses any such
invention. Further, to the extent that any meaning or definition of
a term in this document conflicts with any meaning or definition of
the same term in a document incorporated by reference, the meaning
or definition assigned to that term in this document should
govern.
[0177] While particular embodiments of the present invention have
been illustrated and described, it would be obvious to those
skilled in the art that various other changes and modifications can
be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the
invention. It is therefore intended to cover in the appended claims
all such changes and modifications that are within the scope of
this invention.
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