U.S. patent application number 17/345000 was filed with the patent office on 2021-12-16 for absorbent article having fastening system.
The applicant listed for this patent is The Procter & Gamble Company. Invention is credited to Russell Andrew HAYDEN, Jeromy Thomas RAYCHECK.
Application Number | 20210386602 17/345000 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000005656988 |
Filed Date | 2021-12-16 |
United States Patent
Application |
20210386602 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
RAYCHECK; Jeromy Thomas ; et
al. |
December 16, 2021 |
ABSORBENT ARTICLE HAVING FASTENING SYSTEM
Abstract
An absorbent article has a first waist region, a second waist
region, a crotch region disposed between the first and second waist
regions. The article also includes a primary fastening system and
secondary fastening system. The primary fastening system has a
primary fastening component disposed in the second waist region and
a primary receiving component disposed in the first waist region
and operatively engageable with the primary fastening component.
The secondary fastening system includes a secondary fastening
component disposed in the first waist region and a secondary
receiving component disposed in the second waist region and
operatively engageable with the secondary fastening component. The
secondary fastening component has a periphery having a maximum
longitudinal dimension, L, a maximum lateral dimension, W, an
inboard-most extent and an outboard-most extent; and the maximum
longitudinal dimension, L, is disposed laterally outboard of the
inboard-most extent.
Inventors: |
RAYCHECK; Jeromy Thomas;
(South Lebanon, OH) ; HAYDEN; Russell Andrew; (New
Richmond, OH) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
The Procter & Gamble Company |
Cincinnati |
OH |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000005656988 |
Appl. No.: |
17/345000 |
Filed: |
June 11, 2021 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
63038292 |
Jun 12, 2020 |
|
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|
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61F 13/622 20130101;
A61F 2013/5683 20130101; A61F 13/5644 20130101; A61F 2013/8497
20130101 |
International
Class: |
A61F 13/56 20060101
A61F013/56; A61F 13/62 20060101 A61F013/62 |
Claims
1. An absorbent article comprising: a first waist region, a second
waist region, a crotch region disposed between the first and second
waist regions; a topsheet, a backsheet, and an absorbent core
disposed between the topsheet and backsheet; and a primary
fastening system and secondary fastening system, wherein the
primary fastening system comprises a primary fastening component
disposed in the second waist region and a primary receiving
component disposed in the first waist region and operatively
engageable with the primary fastening component; and wherein the
secondary fastening system comprises a secondary fastening
component disposed in the first waist region and a secondary
receiving component disposed in the second waist region and
operatively engageable with the secondary fastening component;
wherein: the secondary fastening component comprises a periphery
having a maximum longitudinal dimension, L, a maximum lateral
dimension, W, an inboard-most extent and an outboard-most extent;
and the maximum longitudinal dimension, L, is disposed laterally
outboard of the inboard-most extent.
2. The absorbent article of claim 1, wherein the maximum
longitudinal dimension, L, is disposed laterally outboard of a
inboard-most extent by a minimum separation distance D, wherein the
separation distance is a least 50% of the maximum lateral
dimension, W.
3. The absorbent article of claim 1, wherein the maximum
longitudinal dimension, L, is coincident with the outboard-most
extent.
4. The absorbent article of claim 1, wherein the periphery is
curvilinear.
5. The absorbent article of claim 1 further comprising an article
longitudinal foldline, wherein the inboard-most extent is disposed
inboard of the article longitudinal foldline.
6. The absorbent article of claim 1, wherein the secondary
fastening component comprises a varying length through at least 40%
of the maximum lateral dimension, W.
7. The absorbent article of claim 1, wherein the secondary
fastening component comprises a varying width through at least 40%
of the maximum longitudinal dimension, L.
8. An absorbent article comprising: a first waist region, a second
waist region, a crotch region disposed between the first and second
waist regions; a topsheet, a backsheet, and an absorbent core
disposed between the topsheet and backsheet; an article
longitudinal foldline; and a primary fastening system and secondary
fastening system, wherein the primary fastening system comprises a
primary fastening component disposed in the second waist region and
a primary receiving component disposed in the first waist region
and operatively engageable with the primary fastening component;
and wherein the secondary fastening system comprises a secondary
fastening component disposed in the first waist region and a
secondary receiving component disposed in the second waist region
and operatively engageable with the secondary fastening component;
wherein: the secondary fastening component comprises a nonuniform
length and an inboard-most extent that is coincident with or is
disposed laterally inboard of the article longitudinal
foldline.
9. The absorbent article of claim 8, wherein the inboard-most
extent is disposed laterally inboard of the article longitudinal
foldline by at least 2 mm.
10. The absorbent article of claim 8, wherein the secondary
fastening component comprises a fastening component area, and
wherein at least 50% of the fastening component area is disposed
outboard of the article longitudinal foldline.
11. The absorbent article of claim 8, wherein at least 75% of the
fastening component area is disposed outboard of the article
longitudinal foldline.
12. The absorbent article of claim 8, wherein the secondary
fastening component comprises a outboard plurality of fastening
elements disposed outboard of the article longitudinal foldline and
an inboard plurality of fastening elements disposed inboard of the
article longitudinal foldline, and wherein the outboard plurality
of fastening element comprises a greater number of fastening
elements than the inboard plurality of fastening elements.
13. An absorbent article comprising: a first waist region, a second
waist region, a crotch region disposed between the first and second
waist regions; a topsheet, a backsheet, and an absorbent core
disposed between the topsheet and backsheet; and a primary
fastening system and secondary fastening system, wherein the
primary fastening system comprises a primary fastening component
disposed in the second waist region and a primary receiving
component disposed in the first waist region and operatively
engageable with the primary fastening component; and wherein the
secondary fastening system comprises a secondary fastening
component disposed in the first waist region and a secondary
receiving component disposed in the second waist region and
operatively engageable with the secondary fastening component;
wherein: the primary fastening component comprises a primary
periphery, and the secondary fastening component comprises a
secondary periphery wherein in an engaged configuration, one of the
primary and secondary peripheries creates a pocket for the other of
the primary and secondary peripheries.
14. The absorbent article of claim 13, wherein in an engaged
configuration, a portion of the one of the primary and secondary
peripheries is disposed longitudinally outboard of the entire of
the other of the primary and secondary peripheries.
15. The absorbent article of claim 13, wherein in an engaged
configuration, an interior side of the primary periphery
complements an inboard side of the secondary periphery.
16. The absorbent article of claim 13, wherein an engaged
configuration, fastening elements in the primary fastening
component are disposed completely outside of the secondary
periphery.
17. The absorbent article of claim 13, wherein the secondary
fastening component is disposed on the primary receiving
component.
18. The absorbent article of claim 17, wherein the primary
receiving component comprises a receiving component area and the
secondary periphery comprises a secondary fastening component area,
and wherein the secondary fastening component area comprises no
more than 20% of the receiving component area.
19. The absorbent article of claim 13, wherein the primary
periphery comprises a primary shape and the secondary periphery
comprises a second shape, wherein the second shape differs from the
primary shape.
20. The absorbent article of claim 13, wherein the primary
periphery comprises a primary maximum longitudinal dimension and
the secondary periphery comprises a secondary maximum longitudinal
dimension, wherein the primary maximum longitudinal dimension is
greater than the secondary maximum longitudinal dimension.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Application No. 63/038,292, filed Jun. 12, 2020, the substances of
which are incorporated herein by reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present disclosure relates to absorbent articles having
fastening systems, in particular articles having multiple fastening
systems.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] It has long been known that absorbent articles such as
conventional absorbent articles (e.g., diapers, adult incontinence
articles, feminine hygiene pads) offer the benefit of receiving and
containing urine and/or other bodily exudates (e.g., feces, menses,
mixture of feces and urine, mixture of menses and urine, etc.). To
effectively contain bodily exudates, the article should provide a
snug fit around the waist and legs of a wearer. Fastening systems
have been used to ensure the article is secured about the wearer
and remains in place. One popular configuration of absorbent
article/fastening system includes an absorbent chassis having a
front waist region, crotch region and rear waist region, with a
pair of fastening members each extending respectively laterally
from left and right longitudinal edges of the chassis in the rear
waist region. In a typical configuration, each fastening member
includes a patch of material bearing hooks, affixed to the
wearer-facing side of the fastening member. A section of
cooperating loops material is typically disposed on the
garment-facing side of the front waist region. In this
configuration, the chassis may be wrapped through the wearer's
crotch area with the back waist region placed across the wearer's
lower back and buttocks and the front waist region placed across
the wearer's lower belly area. The left and right fastening members
may then be wrapped about the wearer's left and right hips,
respectively, and fastened to the front waist region via engagement
of the hooks with the loops material on the front waist region,
thereby securing the diaper on the wearer.
[0004] To further ensure fit and prolonged attachment about the
waist, a secondary fastening system may be included, which may
include hooks affixed to the garment-facing side of the front waist
region and cooperating hook receiving material (e.g., loops) on the
wearer-facing side of the back waist region. Because the secondary
fastening system provides additional areas of attachment and
anchoring, the front and back waist regions may better conform to
the wearer, reducing gaps and sagging both at application and
during use. The secondary fastening system also reduces potential
rotation of the waist regions and/or flipping of material at the
waist that often occurs when exudates weigh down the crotch region
of the article. However, while secondary fastening systems provide
benefits, known configurations have undesirable limitations. For
example, the secondary fastening component must be positioned to
effectuate suitable fastening while not interfering with the
primary fastening system. This may limit the size and location in
which the fasteners may be placed. Likewise, manufacturers desire
protect fastening components from engaging with materials before
use. Thus, secondary fasteners must be positioned in areas to avoid
such contact, for example inside of a folded article when packaged.
Such positional constraints may preclude fasteners from being
disposed in the best locations for ideal fastening.
[0005] Therefore, there remains a need for improved fastening
components that permit more targeted fastening and better fit.
Moreover, there is a need for fastening components that allow for
an absorbent article to fit a range of differently sized wearers.
Further, there is a need to maintain maximum fastening area while
minimize negative interference with other article components; for
example, there is a need to maximum the area of a secondary
fastening component without negatively interfering with the primary
fastening component in the engaged configuration.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] The invention comprises the features of the independent
claims herein. An absorbent article comprises a first waist region,
a second waist region, a crotch region disposed between the first
and second waist regions; and a topsheet, a backsheet, and an
absorbent core disposed between the topsheet and backsheet. The
absorbent article also comprises a primary fastening system and
secondary fastening system, wherein the primary fastening system
comprises a primary fastening component disposed in the second
waist region and a primary receiving component disposed in the
first waist region and operatively engageable with the primary
fastening component. The secondary fastening system comprises a
secondary fastening component disposed in the first waist region
and a secondary receiving component disposed in the second waist
region and operatively engageable with the secondary fastening
component. The secondary fastening component comprises a periphery
having a maximum longitudinal dimension, L, a maximum lateral
dimension, W, an inboard-most extent and an outboard-most extent;
and the maximum longitudinal dimension, L, is disposed laterally
outboard of the inboard-most extent.
[0007] An absorbent article comprises a first waist region, a
second waist region, a crotch region disposed between the first and
second waist regions; and a topsheet, a backsheet, and an absorbent
core disposed between the topsheet and backsheet. The absorbent
article comprises an article longitudinal foldline; and a primary
fastening system and secondary fastening system. The primary
fastening system comprises a primary fastening component disposed
in the second waist region and a primary receiving component
disposed in the first waist region and operatively engageable with
the primary fastening component. The secondary fastening system
comprises a secondary fastening component disposed in the first
waist region and a secondary receiving component disposed in the
second waist region and operatively engageable with the secondary
fastening component. The secondary fastening component comprises a
nonuniform length and an inboard-most extent that is coincident
with or is disposed laterally inboard of the article longitudinal
foldline.
[0008] An absorbent article comprises a first waist region, a
second waist region, a crotch region disposed between the first and
second waist regions; and a topsheet, a backsheet, and an absorbent
core disposed between the topsheet and backsheet. The absorbent
article comprises a primary fastening system and secondary
fastening system, wherein the primary fastening system comprises a
primary fastening component disposed in the second waist region and
a primary receiving component disposed in the first waist region
and operatively engageable with the primary fastening component.
The secondary fastening system comprises a secondary fastening
component disposed in the first waist region and a secondary
receiving component disposed in the second waist region and
operatively engageable with the secondary fastening component. The
primary fastening component comprises a primary periphery, and the
secondary fastening component comprises a secondary periphery
wherein in an engaged configuration, one of the primary and
secondary peripheries creates a pocket for the other of the primary
and secondary peripheries.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0009] FIG. 1 is a schematic plan view of an exemplary absorbent
article according to one nonlimiting embodiment of the present
invention. The absorbent article is shown in a flat, uncontracted
state.
[0010] FIG. 2 is a schematic plan view of an exemplary absorbent
article according to a nonlimiting embodiment. The absorbent
article is shown in a folded state.
[0011] FIG. 3 is a schematic plan view of a portion of an exemplary
absorbent article according to a nonlimiting embodiment.
[0012] FIG. 4 is a schematic plan view of a portion of another
exemplary absorbent article according to a nonlimiting
embodiment.
[0013] FIG. 5 is a schematic plan view of a fastening component
according to a nonlimiting embodiment.
[0014] FIG. 6 is a schematic plan view of a substrate according to
a nonlimiting embodiment.
[0015] FIG. 7 is a schematic plan view of the substrate of FIG. 6
having a fastening component according to a nonlimiting
embodiment.
[0016] FIGS. 8-10 are schematic side elevation views of exemplary
hook configurations according to nonlimiting embodiments.
[0017] FIGS. 11-13 are schematic plan views of exemplary fastening
component perimeters according to nonlimiting embodiments.
[0018] FIG. 14 is a schematic plan view of an exemplary absorbent
article according to a nonlimiting embodiment. The absorbent
article is shown in a flat, uncontracted state with the
wearer-facing surface facing the viewer.
[0019] FIG. 15 is a schematic plan view of the absorbent article in
FIG. 14 wherein the ears are in a folded configuration.
[0020] FIG. 16 is a schematic plan view of an exemplary absorbent
article wherein the ears are in a folded configuration according to
a nonlimiting embodiment.
[0021] FIGS. 17-19 are schematic front plan views of exemplary
absorbent articles in folded configurations according to
nonlimiting embodiments.
[0022] FIG. 20 is a schematic plan view of a fastening component
according to a nonlimiting embodiment.
[0023] FIG. 21 is a schematic front plan view of an exemplary
absorbent article in a folded configuration according to a
nonlimiting embodiment.
[0024] FIGS. 22-23 are schematic plan views of the fastening
components of the absorbent article in FIG. 21.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Definitions
[0025] "Absorbent article" means a device that absorbs and contains
body exudates and, more specifically, devices that are placed
against or in proximity to the body of the wearer to absorb and
contain the various exudates discharged from the body. Exemplary
absorbent articles include diapers, training pants, pull-on
pant-type diapers (i.e., a diaper having a pre-formed waist opening
and leg openings such as illustrated in U.S. Pat. No. 6,120,487),
refastenable diapers or pant-type diapers, incontinence briefs and
undergarments, diaper holders and liners, feminine hygiene garments
such as panty liners, absorbent inserts, and the like.
[0026] "Disposable," in reference to articles, means that the
articles are generally not intended to be laundered or otherwise
restored or reused in the same capacity (i.e., they are intended to
be discarded after a single use and, preferably, to be recycled,
composted or otherwise discarded in an environmentally compatible
manner).
[0027] "Disposed" refers to an element being located in a
particular place or position. A feature that is disposed on a
surface or side of a component may be integral with said component
or may be joined to said component.
[0028] "Elastic" and "elastomeric" mean the ability of a material
to stretch by at least 50% without rupture or breakage at a given
load, and upon release of the load the elastic material or
component exhibits at least 70% recovery (i.e., has less than 30%
set) in one of the directions as per the Hysteresis Test described
herein. Stretch, sometimes referred to as strain, percent strain,
engineering strain, draw ratio, or elongation, along with recovery
and set may each be determined according to the Hysteresis Test
described in more detail below.
[0029] "Extensible" means the ability to stretch or elongate,
without rupture or breakage, by at least 50% as per step 6(a) in
the Hysteresis Test herein.
[0030] "Inboard," with respect to a first feature of an article and
its position relative a second feature or location on the article,
means that the first feature lies closer to a respective axis of
the article than the second feature or location, along a horizontal
x-y plane approximately occupied by the article when laid out flat,
extended to the full longitudinal and lateral dimensions of its
component web materials against any contraction induced by any
included pre-strained elastomeric material, on a horizontal
surface. Laterally inboard means the first feature is closer to the
longitudinal axis, and longitudinally inboard means the first
feature is closer to the lateral axis. Conversely, "outboard," with
respect to a first feature of an article and its position relative
a second feature or location on the article, means that the first
feature lies farther from the respective axis of the article than
the second feature or location.
[0031] "Integral" means configurations whereby an element is
created from or created by an article component, or portions
thereof, as opposed to being joined to the component. "Integrally
formed" means an element is created from an underlying material or
portion thereof, by for example molding, shaping and/or
reconstituting the material.
[0032] "Joined" means configurations whereby an element is directly
secured to another element by affixing the element directly to the
other element, and configurations whereby an element is indirectly
secured to another element by affixing the element to intermediate
member(s) that in turn are affixed to the other element.
[0033] "Longitudinal" means a direction lengthwise running parallel
to the maximum linear dimension in the x-y plane of the absorbent
article. In an absorbent article as described herein, the
longitudinal direction runs substantially perpendicular from a
waist end edge to an opposing waist end edge when the absorbent
article is in a flat out, uncontracted state, or from a waist end
edge to the bottom of the crotch in a bifolded article.
Longitudinal dimensions of article components are determined based
on the component's configuration on the final absorbent
article.
[0034] "Lateral" refers to a direction generally perpendicular to
the longitudinal direction. In the absorbent article described
herein, the lateral direction runs substantially parallel from a
side edge to an opposing side edge.
[0035] "Visible" means capable of being seen by the human eye
having 20/20 vision from at least 12 inches away along a line
perpendicular to the x-y plane of the article.
Overview
[0036] FIG. 1 is a plan view of an exemplary, nonlimiting
embodiment of an absorbent article 10 of the present invention in a
flat, uncontracted state in an unfolded configuration 650. The
article may be disposable. The body-facing surface 9 of the
absorbent article 10 is facing the viewer. The absorbent article 10
comprises a chassis 20. The absorbent article 10 and chassis 20 are
shown to have a first waist region 14, a second waist region 18
opposed to the first waist region 14, and a crotch region 16
located between the first waist region 14 and the second waist
region 18. The waist regions 14 and 18 generally comprise those
portions of the absorbent article which, when worn, encircle the
waist of the wearer. FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary absorbent
article in a folded configuration 660. As shown in FIG. 2, the
article may comprise a primary fastening system 100 and a secondary
fastening system 200 in the waist regions. The fastening systems
and surrounding areas are configured to distribute forces and
mitigate the effects of tension during wear better than known
articles. A fastening system comprises a fastening component (e.g.,
fastening component 210). The fastening component comprises a
periphery, having a maximum longitudinal dimension disposed
outboard of the periphery's inboard-most extent. Additionally, or
alternatively, the inboard-most extent of the fastening component
(in particular the second fastening component) may be disposed
laterally inboard of an article longitudinal foldline. These and
other features are described in more detail below.
Absorbent Article
[0037] Returning to FIG. 1, the absorbent article 10 includes a
longitudinal centerline 90 and a lateral centerline 95. The outer
periphery of the chassis 20 is defined by longitudinal edges 12 and
waist edges (first waist edge 13 in first waist region 14 and
second waist edge 19 in second waist region 18). The chassis 20 may
have opposing longitudinal edges 12 that are oriented generally
parallel to the longitudinal centerline 90. However, for better
fit, longitudinal edges 12 may be curved or angled to produce, for
example, an "hourglass" shape article when viewed in a plan view as
shown in FIG. 1. The chassis 20 may have opposing lateral edges 13,
19 (i.e., the first waist edge 13 and second waist edge 19) that
are oriented generally parallel to the lateral centerline 95.
[0038] The chassis 20 may comprise a liquid permeable topsheet 24,
a backsheet 26, and an absorbent core 28 between the topsheet 24
and the backsheet 26. The absorbent core may comprise absorbent
material, including for example superabsorbent particles and
absorbent gelling materials (AGM). The topsheet 24 may be joined to
the core 28 and/or the backsheet 26. The backsheet 26 may be joined
to the core 28 and/or the topsheet 24. It should be recognized that
other structures, elements, or substrates may be positioned between
the core 28 and the topsheet 24 and/or backsheet 26. In some
embodiments, an acquisition-distribution system 27 is disposed
between the topsheet 24 and the absorbent core 28.
[0039] In certain embodiments, the chassis 20 comprises the main
structure of the absorbent article 10 with other features added to
form the composite absorbent article structure. While the topsheet
24, the backsheet 26, and the absorbent core 28 may be assembled in
a variety of well-known configurations, absorbent article
configurations are described generally in U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,860,003;
5,151,092; 5,221,274; 5,554,145; 5,569,234; 5,580,411; and
6,004,306. One or more masking layers or materials may be provided
in the absorbent article. A masking layer may be a layer that
provides a cushiony feel when the absorbent article is touched from
the garment-facing surface or the wearer-facing surface. The
masking layer may "mask" a grainy feel potentially caused by the
absorbent material, such as superabsorbent polymers. The masking
layer may "mask" bodily exudates from being visible when viewing
the wearer-facing surface or the garment-facing surface of the
absorbent article. The masking layer may have a basis weight in the
range of about 15 gsm to about 50 gsm or about 15 gsm to about 40
gsm. The masking layer may comprise one or more nonwoven materials
(e.g., a hydroentangled nonwoven material), foams, pulp layers,
and/or other suitable materials. The masking layer may be the outer
cover material of the backsheet. The masking layer may be the layer
forming the garment-facing side or the wearer-facing side of the
core. The masking layer may be a separate material positioned
intermediate the garment-facing side of the core and the liquid
impermeable backsheet.
[0040] Components of the disposable absorbent article can at least
partially be comprised of bio-sourced content as described in U.S.
Pat. Pub. Nos. 2007/0219521 A1, 2011/0139658 A1, 2011/0139657 A1,
2011/0152812 A1, and 2011/0139659 A1. These components include, but
are not limited to, topsheets, backsheet films, backsheet
nonwovens, side panels, leg gasketing systems, superabsorbent,
acquisition layers, core wrap materials, adhesives, fastener
systems, and landing zones. In at least one embodiment, a
disposable absorbent article component comprises a bio-based
content value from about 10% to about 100%, or from about 25% to
about 75%, or from about 50% to about 60% using ASTM D6866-10,
method B. In order to apply the methodology of ASTM D6866-10 to
determine the bio-based content of any component, a representative
sample of the component must be obtained for testing. In at least
one embodiment, the disposable absorbent article component can be
ground into particulates less than about 20 mesh using known
grinding methods (e.g., WILEY.RTM. mill), and a representative
sample of suitable mass taken from the randomly mixed
particles.
[0041] Topsheet
[0042] The topsheet 24 is generally a portion of the absorbent
article 10 that may be positioned at least in partial contact or
close proximity to a wearer. Suitable topsheets 24 are generally
supple, soft feeling, and non-irritating to a wearer's skin.
Further, at least a portion of, or all of, the topsheet may be
liquid permeable, permitting liquid bodily exudates to readily
penetrate through its thickness. A suitable topsheet may be
manufactured from a wide range of materials, such as porous foams,
reticulated foams, apertured plastic films, woven materials,
nonwoven materials, woven or nonwoven materials of natural fibers
(e.g., wood or cotton fibers), synthetic fibers or filaments (e.g.,
polyester or polypropylene or bicomponent PE/PP fibers or mixtures
thereof), or a combination of natural and synthetic fibers. The
topsheet may have one or more layers. The topsheet may be
apertured, may have any suitable three-dimensional features, and/or
may have a plurality of embossments (e.g., a bond pattern). The
topsheet may be apertured by overbonding a material and then
rupturing the overbonds through ring rolling, such as disclosed in
U.S. Pat. No. 5,628,097, to Benson et al., issued on May 13, 1997
and disclosed in U.S. Pat. Appl. Publication No. US 2016/0136014 to
Arora et al. Any portion of the topsheet may be coated with a skin
care composition, an antibacterial agent, a surfactant, and/or
other beneficial agents. The topsheet may be hydrophilic or
hydrophobic or may have hydrophilic and/or hydrophobic portions or
layers. If the topsheet is hydrophobic, typically apertures will be
present so that bodily exudates may pass through the topsheet.
[0043] Absorbent Core
[0044] The absorbent core 28 may comprise a wide variety of
liquid-absorbent materials commonly used in disposable diapers and
other absorbent articles. Examples of suitable absorbent materials
include comminuted wood pulp, which is generally referred to as air
felt creped cellulose wadding; melt blown polymers, including
co-form; chemically stiffened, modified or cross-linked cellulosic
fibers; tissue, including tissue wraps and tissue laminates;
absorbent foams; absorbent sponges; superabsorbent polymers;
absorbent gelling materials (AGM); or any other known absorbent
material or combinations of materials. In certain embodiments, at
least a portion of the absorbent core is substantially cellulose
free and contains less than 10% by weight cellulosic fibers, less
than 5% cellulosic fibers, less than 1% cellulosic fibers, no more
than an immaterial amount of cellulosic fibers or no cellulosic
fibers. It should be understood that an immaterial amount of
cellulosic material does not materially affect at least one of the
thinness, flexibility, and absorbency of the portion of the
absorbent core that is substantially cellulose free. Among other
benefits, it is believed that when at least a portion of the
absorbent core is substantially cellulose free, this portion of the
absorbent core is significantly thinner and more flexible than a
similar absorbent core that includes more than 10% by weight of
cellulosic fibers. The amount of absorbent material, such as
absorbent particulate polymer material present in the absorbent
core may vary, but in certain embodiments, is present in the
absorbent core in an amount greater than about 80%, or greater than
about 85%, or greater than about 90%, or greater than about 95% by
weight of the core. In some embodiments, the absorbent core may
comprise one or more channels 29, wherein said channels are
substantially free of absorbent particulate polymer material. The
channels 29 may extend longitudinally or laterally. The absorbent
core may further comprise two or more channels. The channels may be
straight, curvilinear, angled or any workable combination thereof.
In nonlimiting examples, two channels are symmetrically disposed
about the longitudinal axis. Exemplary absorbent structures for use
as the absorbent core 28 are described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,610,678;
4,673,402; 4,834,735; 4,888,231; 5,137,537; 5,147,345; 5,342,338;
5,260,345; 5,387,207; 5,397,316, and U.S. patent application Ser.
Nos. 13/491,642 and 15/232,901.
[0045] Backsheet
[0046] The backsheet 26 is generally positioned such that it may be
at least a portion of the garment-facing surface 11 of the
absorbent article 10 as shown in FIG. 2. Backsheet 26 may be
designed to prevent the exudates absorbed by and contained within
the absorbent article 10 from soiling articles that may contact the
absorbent article 10, such as bed sheets and undergarments. In
certain embodiments, the backsheet 26 is substantially
water-impermeable. The backsheet may, for example, be or comprise a
thin plastic film, such as a thermoplastic film having a thickness
of about 0.012 mm to about 0.051 mm. Other suitable backsheet 26
materials may include breathable materials that permit vapors to
escape from the absorbent article 10 while still preventing
exudates from passing through the backsheet 26.
[0047] Backsheet 26 may also consist of more than one layer. The
backsheet 26 may comprise an outer cover and an inner layer. The
outer cover may be made of a soft, nonwoven material. The inner
layer may be made of a substantially liquid-impermeable film, such
as a polymeric film. The outer cover and an inner layer may be
joined together by adhesive or any other suitable material or
method. The outer cover material may comprise a bond pattern,
apertures, and/or three-dimensional features. The outer cover may
be a hydroentangled nonwoven material.
[0048] Extension Elements and Waist Features
[0049] The absorbent article 10 may include one or more lateral
extension elements 300 (i.e., an element that extends laterally
outboard of the longitudinal edge 12 of the chassis). The lateral
extension element 300 may be disposed in a waist region.
Nonlimiting examples of lateral extension elements include ears 30,
belts (which also cover a longitudinally central portion of a waist
region), fastener attachment arms 33 (see FIG. 1) and workable
combinations thereof.
[0050] In certain embodiments, the article 10 includes one or more
lateral extension elements in the form of an ear 30, including for
example front ears 32 disposed in the first waist region and/or
back ears 34 disposed in the second waist region. An ear 30 may be
integral with the chassis or a discrete element joined to the
chassis 20. An ear 30 may be extensible or elastic. An ear 30 may
be formed from one or more nonwoven webs, woven webs, knitted
fabrics, polymeric and elastomeric films, apertured films, sponges,
foams, scrims or combinations and/or laminates of any the
foregoing.
[0051] In some embodiments, an ear 30 may include elastomers, such
that the ear is stretchable. In certain embodiments, an ear 30 may
be formed of a stretch laminate such as a nonwoven/elastomeric
material laminate or a nonwoven/elastomeric material/nonwoven
laminate, which also results in the ear being stretchable. The ear
30 may be extensible in the lateral direction of the article. In
some embodiments, the ear is elastic in the lateral direction. In
further embodiments, the ear 30 may extend more in the lateral
direction than in the longitudinal direction. Alternatively, the
ear may extend more in the longitudinal direction than in the
lateral direction. In certain nonlimiting examples, the ear may
include one or more inelastic regions along with a separate elastic
region. In some embodiments, the area of the elastic region
comprises at least about 20%, or from about 30% to about 80%, of
the total area of the ear, reciting for said range every 5%
increment therein. An inelastic region may be disposed laterally
outboard of an elastic region. In nonlimiting examples, an elastic
region is disposed between two inelastic regions.
[0052] Any suitable nonwoven may be used in an ear 30. Suitable
nonwovens may comprise a basis weight of at least about 8 gsm, or
less than about 22 gsm, or about 17 gsm or less, or from about 10
gsm to about 20 gsm, reciting for said range every 1 increment
therein. Where the ear 30 comprises more than one nonwoven, the
nonwovens may comprise the same basis weight or different basis
weights. Likewise, the nonwovens may comprise the same layer
structure or different layer structures. Further, a nonwoven in the
ear may comprise the same or different features of nonwovens in the
backsheet, topsheet, leg gasketing system and/or waist feature.
[0053] Nonlimiting examples of suitable elastomeric materials
include film (e.g., polyurethane films, films derived from rubber
and/or other polymeric materials), an elastomeric coating applied
to another substrate (e.g., a hot melt elastomer, an elastomeric
adhesive, printed elastomer or elastomer co-extruded to another
substrate), elastomeric nonwovens, scrims, strands and the like.
Elastomeric materials can be formed from elastomeric polymers
including polymers comprising styrene derivatives, polyesters,
polyurethanes, polyether amides, polyolefins, combinations thereof
or any suitable known elastomers including but not limited to
co-extruded VISTAMAXX.RTM..
[0054] The ear may be activated by processes disclosed in U.S. Pat.
Pub. No. 2013/0082418, U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,167,897; 5,993,432;
5,156,793; 5,167,897; 7,062,983 and 6,843,134 for example.
Alternatively, the ear 30 comprises a gathered laminate, wherein
one of the layers is strained to a greater degree than a remaining
layer during lamination and/or bonding. In this way, the less
extensible layer (i.e., a nonwoven) will form gathers when the
laminate is in a relaxed state. Corrugations then form in the
nonwoven layer(s) when the subsequently formed laminate is in a
relaxed state. The ear may comprise an ultrasonically bonded
laminate as is disclosed for example in U.S. Pat. Pub. Nos.
2018/0042777, 2018/0042778; 2018/0271716; and 2018/0271717.
[0055] Where an article 10 comprises multiple ears 30, said ears 30
may be the same or may be different. By way of nonlimiting example,
a back ear 34 may comprise an elastic ear while a front ear 32 may
be inelastic. Additionally, or alternatively, layers of a front ear
may be joined by different means than layers of a back ear. For
example, the front ear layers may be joined by adhesive, and back
ear layers may be joined by ultrasonic bonds.
[0056] The absorbent article 10 may comprise a waist feature 40.
Waist features 40 may be disposed in the first waist region 14
and/or in the second waist region 18. In some nonlimiting examples,
one or both of the article's waist edges 13, 19 may be at least
partially defined by a waist feature as illustrated in FIG. 1. In
further nonlimiting examples, a waist feature may be disposed
inboard of the closest waist edge. A waist feature may be integral
with one or more layers of the chassis, cuffs and/or other elements
in the waist region, or may be discrete and joined to one or more
layers of the chassis, leg cuff structures and/or other elements
disposed in the waist region. The waist feature may be joined
between layers, on the outward-facing surface 11 of the article, or
on the wearer-facing surface 9 of the article. The waist feature
may be extensible or elastic. An elasticized waist feature 42 is
generally intended to expand and contract to dynamically fit the
wearer's waist. Elasticized waist features include waistbands,
waist cuffs having pockets formed from a portion of the waist
feature that is unattached from the chassis 20, and waist panels
and/or belts designed to fit securely about the abdomen of the
wearer in diaper, pants or other article configurations.
Nonlimiting examples of elasticized waist features are disclosed in
U.S. patent application Ser. Nos. 14/533,472; 15/074,675 and
62/855,001. Elasticized waist features may comprise one or more
nonwoven layers and one or more elastic elements 45. In nonlimiting
examples, the elasticized waist feature comprises elastic strands
joined to the nonwoven layer(s). In further nonlimiting examples,
the elasticized waist feature comprises a laminate of one or more
nonwoven layers and one or more films.
[0057] In alternative embodiments, the waist feature may be
inelastic. In such configurations, the waist feature may provide
additional anchoring about the waist of the wearer.
[0058] A waist feature can be used in conjunction with an ear 30 to
provide desirable stretch and flexibility, or otherwise enhance fit
of the article on the wearer.
[0059] In some embodiments, a lateral extension element may be in
the form of a belt such that it also constitutes a waist feature.
The lateral extension element 300 may comprise a combination belt
structure 46, formed from a web material 47, which extends through
the waist region and laterally outboard of the longitudinal edges
of the chassis as shown in waist region 14 in FIG. 1. By
combination belt structure 46, it is meant that the element is
configured to both (i) provide and/or support a receiving component
of a fastening system (discussed below) and (ii) form one or more
ears 30 that extend outboard of a longitudinal edge 12 of the
chassis. In the nonlimiting examples, the combination belt
structure 46 is configured to provide and/or support primary
receiving components 112 as well as secondary fastening components
210, each of which is discussed below.
[0060] Fasteners
[0061] Returning to FIG. 2, the absorbent article 10 includes one
or more fastening systems 100. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2,
the article comprises a primary fastening system 100 and a
secondary fastening system 200. When fastened, the primary
fastening system 100 interconnects the first waist region 14 and
the rear waist region 18 resulting in a waist circumference that
may encircle the wearer during wear of the absorbent article 10.
Likewise, when fastened the secondary fastening system 200
interconnects the waist regions.
[0062] One or more portions of the fastening system may be formed
from, or may be joined to, a lateral extension element 300.
Additionally, or alternatively, portions of the fastening system
may be formed from, or may be joined to, the chassis 20. In
embodiments where the portions of the fastening system are joined,
said portions may be joined to an exterior surface or between
layers. In embodiments where portions of the fastening system are
integral, said portions may be integral with any suitable
surface.
[0063] Each fastening system may comprise a fastening component and
a receiving component. The receiving component is operatively
engageable with the fastening component. Nonlimiting examples of
engageable fastening and receiving components include tape tabs,
hook and loop fastening components, interlocking fasteners such as
tabs & slots, buckles, buttons, snaps, and/or hermaphroditic
fastening components. Some 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. A fastening
component and/or receiving component may further include a release
tape or other material that protects the component from insult
prior to use. In nonlimiting examples, the fastening component
and/or the component to which it is joined is foldable and may be
folded prior to use such that the fastening component engages with
material that protects it from insult. While shown in the waist
region, it is also contemplated that a fastening and/or a receiving
component may be disposed in any portion of the diaper, which may
facilitate closing or wrapping the article during disposal,
securing the article to itself and/or securing the article to
another surface such as a garment.
[0064] A fastening component 110 comprises one or more fastening
elements 114 which cause the component to engage with another
surface, such as the receiving component. In various embodiments,
fastening elements comprise hooks. Receiving component 112
comprises material adapted to fastenably cooperate with fastening
elements, such as a section or patch adapted to serve as
cooperative loops material, to provide a hook-and-loop fastening
system combination. The fastening and/or receiving components may
be discrete from and joined to article components 150 or may be
integral with one or more article components 150. Article
components 150 may be selected from the chassis 20, topsheet 24,
backsheet 26, a lateral extension element 300, an ear 30, a landing
zone 152 (i.e., a substrate or portion of the chassis comprising a
receiving component), a fastener attachment arm 33, a waist feature
40, a combination belt structure 46 or combinations thereof. In
nonlimiting examples, material forming a portion of an article
component may comprise integral loops material. In further
nonlimiting examples, fastening components and receiving components
may be formed on the same patch of material.
[0065] In certain embodiments, a fastening component may be
longitudinally offset from a lateral edge of the article component
on which the fastening component is disposed. The fastening
component may be longitudinally offset from an outboard lateral
edge 155 of the component by at least 1 mm, or at least about 3 mm,
or at least about 5 mm, or from about 1 mm to about 10 mm, reciting
for said range every 0.5 mm increment therein. In nonlimiting
examples, a fastening component does not coincide with either the
inboard edge 156 or outboard edge 155 of the component on which it
is disposed. It may be desired, for example, that each secondary
fastening component 210 (discussed further below) is disposed with
its surface area and outer edges entirely within the surface area
and outer edges of the lateral extension element, or other article
component, on which it is disposed. Additionally, or alternatively,
a fastening component may be laterally offset from a longitudinal
edge of a component on which it is disposed. For instance, an
outboard edge 211 of a secondary fastening component 210 may be
laterally inboard of a longitudinal edge 153 by at least about 1
mm, or at least about 3 mm, or at least about 5 mm, or from about 1
mm to about 10 mm, reciting for said range every 0.5 mm increment
therein. In nonlimiting examples, the outboard edge 211 of the
secondary fastening component may be laterally inboard of a chassis
edge 12.
[0066] Still referring to FIG. 2, the primary fastening system 100
comprises a primary fastening component 110, such as hooks,
disposed in the second waist region 18. The primary fastening
component 110 may be discrete, such as a discrete patch of
fastening material joined to the chassis or joined to another
component in the second waist region. In nonlimiting examples, the
primary fastening component is joined to an ear 34 or a separate
layer joined to the ear. In another nonlimiting example, the
primary fastening component may be integral with an ear. In further
nonlimiting examples, the primary fastening component 110 may be
integral with the chassis and/or another component joined to the
chassis.
[0067] In some embodiments, the primary fastening component 110 may
be separately applied sections or patches of hooks material that
are bonded to a back ear or chassis by heat, compression, adhesive,
ultrasonic bonding or any combination thereof. In other examples, a
primary fastening component may be a patch of hooks that are formed
directly on a section of the ear, more particularly formed directly
on a section of a polymeric layer of nonwoven. For example, the
hooks may be produced via application of molten polymer resin onto
the layer, and subsequent formation of hooks in and from the
melted, applied resin via known methods. The primary fastening
components may be integrally formed from polymeric material by
heating and softening a portion of the material and pressing it
into hook-forming cavities, as is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.
8,784,722. The primary fastening components may be integrally
formed from the polymeric material through a single continuous
process as is disclosed in commonly assigned U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 16/545,425, under attorney docket 15308M.
[0068] Still referring to FIG. 2, the primary fastening system 100
may further comprise a primary receiving component 112, such as
loops, disposed in the first waist region 14. The primary receiving
component may be discrete, such as a discrete patch of receiving
material joined to the chassis or joined to another component in
the first waist region. In other embodiments, the primary receiving
component may be integral with the chassis or integral with another
component in the first waist region. In such embodiments, the
backsheet 26, a combination belt structure 46, an ear 30 or
combinations thereof may comprise material, such as loop material,
which may form the primary receiving component 112.
[0069] The primary components 110, 112 may each be any suitable
shape or size. The primary components 110, 112 may be disposed on
opposite surfaces of the article. For instance, the primary
fastening component 110 may be disposed on the wearer-facing
surface 9 of the article and the primary receiving component may be
disposed on the garment-facing surface 11.
[0070] In various embodiments, the article also comprises a
secondary fastening system 200. The secondary fastening system 200
comprises a secondary fastening component 210 and a secondary
receiving component 212 that are operatively engageable to further
secure the article about the wearer. The secondary fastening
component 210 may be disposed in the first waist region, and the
secondary fastening receiving component 212 may be disposed in the
second waist region. Addition of a secondary fastening system can
provide a greater surface area for fastening, and thereby
de-concentrate lateral tensile forces communicated through the
fastening location(s) as the rear waist region is pulled toward the
front waist region, and vice versa, when the diaper is worn. In
addition, having two distinct fastening locations reduces the
tendency of the front portion of the article to pivot (i.e., pivot
around the single fastening location of the primary fastening
system). Further, the secondary system helps to create a line of
tension closer to the front waist edge, which may reduce the
likelihood of folding or flipping over of the front waist edge
during wear. Further still, the secondary system may create an
anchoring geodesic to direct forces from the crotch region to over
the hips in order to prevent sagging during wearer. The secondary
system may also help to secure the front ear or combination belt
structures in place during wear. Each of the foregoing can serve to
provide for more effective and durable fastening and less
longitudinal and/or lateral flexing, sagging and/or wrinkling of
the diaper materials about the fastening areas during wear.
[0071] The secondary components 210, 212 may be disposed on
opposite surfaces (e.g., the secondary fastening component may be
disposed on the garment-facing surface 11 and the secondary
receiving component may be disposed on the wearer-facing surface
9). The secondary fastening system may comprise any of the features
detailed above with respect to the primary fastening system. A
secondary component may be discrete from the chassis or another
feature in the respective waist region, or the secondary component
may be integral with the chassis or another feature joined to the
chassis of the respective waist region (e.g., landing zone) and may
form a portion of a surface of the chassis or said feature.
[0072] In a particular example, secondary fastening components 210
may be hooks, and secondary receiving components 212 may be
disposed on and/or formed from the wearer-facing sides of the back
ears 34 serving as the loops component of a hook-and-loop fastening
system. In one particular example, a wearer-facing layer forming a
portion of the rear waist region may include a nonwoven material
adapted to serve as a receiving component 212 and fastenably engage
with hooks constituting the secondary fastening components 210. As
described above with respect to the primary fastening component,
the secondary fastening component may be a separate patch of
material joined to the chassis or another component in the first
waist region. Alternatively, a portion of the secondary fastening
component may be integral with the chassis or said other component
(e.g., landing zone substrate) that is disposed in the first waist
region. As noted with the primary fastening component, the
secondary fastening component may be produced via application of
molten polymer resin onto the web material, and subsequent
formation of hooks in and from the melted, applied resin via known
methods. The secondary fastening components may be integrally
formed from polymeric material by heating and softening a portion
of the material and pressing it into hook-forming cavities, as is
disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 8,784,722. The secondary fastening
components may be integrally formed from the polymeric material
through a single continuous process as is disclosed in commonly
assigned U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/545,425, under
attorney docket 15308M.
[0073] Where integrally formed, the fastening elements may be
formed from one or more layers of the article component as is
disclosed in commonly assigned U.S. patent application Ser. No.
17/173,453. In some embodiments, two integral fastening elements in
the fastening component may be formed from different material
layers. Layers and materials from which integral fastening elements
may be formed may comprise a nonwoven, elastomer, film, polyolefin
(e.g., polypropylene, polyethlene), adhesive, ink, dye, tactile
modifier (e.g., silicone) and combinations thereof. A layer may be
applied in a liquid state or in at least a partially molten state
to the overlapping region. In various nonlimiting examples,
fastening elements are formed from resilient yet conformable
materials such as polypropylene and/or polyethylene. Such resilient
materials permit the fastening materials to return to their desired
configuration after use or other disruption.
[0074] By integrally forming fastening elements, the practical
constraints and/or costs presented by supply and application of
strips of pre-manufactured fastening material are eliminated, and
the areas of fastening elements may be provided in any desired
configuration. It can be appreciated that areas of fastening
elements may be configured in any desired size, shape, pattern,
directionality of fastening, number of elements, or orientation. An
orientation of an area of fastening elements is the angle of a line
passing through the maximum dimension of the area with respect to
the longitudinal axis of the article.
[0075] Further to the above, integral fastening components may be
formed with varying directionality to provide different benefits in
different sections of the component. For instance, hooks which are
asymmetric about their vertical centerline (such that create an
inverted J-shape or similar hook configuration) may be formed so
that the open portion is pointed in the direction of expected
engagement. In further nonlimiting examples, hooks in a front waist
region 14 may be imparted with directionality approaching or along
the lateral direction and extending toward the longitudinal axis of
the diaper. Such directionality provides mechanical structure
extending in a direction opposite the ordinary direction of shear
forces (directed away from the longitudinal axis in the front
region) that would be exerted on the hooks in that region while the
hooks are engaged during wear, providing for added fastening
strength and/or more secure attachment, as compared with
non-directional hooks of similar size, material utilization (shape
volume) and numerical density. Hooks in the rear waist region may
be imparted with directionality toward the longitudinal axis of the
diaper (when the fastening member is in the open position). Such
directionality would oppose the ordinary direction of shear forces
that would be exerted on the hooks in the front waist region when
the hooks are engaged (i.e., fastened) during wear, providing for
added fastening strength and/or more secure attachment, as compared
with non-directional hooks of similar size, material utilization
(shape volume) and numerical density.
[0076] In some embodiments, the primary and secondary fastening
components are disposed on opposite surfaces (e.g., the primary
fastening component is disposed on the wearer-facing surface and
the secondary fastening component is disposed on the garment-facing
surface). Likewise, the primary and secondary receiving components
may be disposed on opposite surfaces.
[0077] In nonlimiting examples, the web material comprising the
secondary fastening component (e.g., hooks) may also comprise the
primary receiving component (e.g., loops). Additionally, or
alternatively, the material comprising the primary fastening
component (e.g., hooks) may also comprise the secondary receiving
component (e.g., loops).
[0078] The primary and/or the secondary fastening component may
comprise one or more pluralities of fastening elements, such as
first plurality 301 and a second plurality 302 as shown in FIG. 2.
Where multiple pluralities of elements exist in a fastening
component, the pluralities may differ by: shapes of fastening
elements, number of fastening elements, directionality of fastening
elements, orientation of array, average spacing of fastening
elements, whether fastening elements are discrete or integral or
some combination, fastening element constituent materials, the
number and/or types of layers from which integral fastening
elements are formed, average size of fastening elements, aggregate
shape of the array, surface area, opacity, color and combinations
thereof. Each plurality may comprise fastening elements that are no
more than about 2 mm, or from about 0.1 mm to about 2 mm, or from
about 0.5 mm to about 1.5 mm apart from at least one of the other
fastening elements in the plurality, reciting for each range every
0.1 mm increment therein. Pluralities may be distinguished from one
another in that one plurality is at least about 2 mm or more, or
about 2.25 mm or more, or about 35 mm or less, or about 30 mm or
less, or about 25 mm or less, or about 15 mm or less, from about
2.25 mm to about 35 mm, or from about 3 mm to about 30 mm, or from
about 2.5 mm to about 25 mm, or from about 3 mm to about 20 mm, or
from about 4 mm to about 15 mm from a separate plurality, reciting
for each range every 1 mm increment therein. A void area 326
separates pluralities of fastening elements as shown in FIG. 2. It
is also contemplated that fastening elements in two different
pluralities may be made from different materials and/or different
fastening elements within the same plurality may be made from
different materials. For instance, one plurality may comprise
fastening elements comprising stiffer materials such as nylon,
polyolefins and biocomponent coextruded materials (e.g.,
polypropylene/polyethylene) and combinations thereof, while another
may comprise fastening elements formed from more flexible materials
such as polymers blended with low modulus additives (e.g., oils,
elastomers such as VISTAMAXX.RTM.).
[0079] In some embodiments, the article may comprise one or more
fastening area graphics 500, fastening area graphics being graphics
within 5 mm or less of a fastening component (e.g., the secondary
fastening component 210), including graphics that fully or
partially overlap the fastening component. Graphics may be formed
through printing, tinting, colored adhesives, bonding, and
combinations thereof. In nonlimiting examples, a fastening area
graphic 500 at least partially overlaps the secondary fastening
component. Turning to FIGS. 3-4, the fastening area graphic 500
comprises a graphic periphery 502. The fastening component
comprises a fastening component periphery 402, which may differ
from the graphic periphery by at least one of shape, size, area,
and continuity/discontinuity. The periphery is determined by
connecting, via imaginary lines, adjacent outward extents of
applicable fastening area graphic or fastening component, to draw a
boundary about the applicable graphic or fastening component. Where
the graphic is discontinuous, segments within 2 mm of each other
are assessed together when forming the periphery. Where the
fastening component is discontinuous (i.e., multiple pluralities of
fastening elements), pluralities within 10 mm of each other are
assessed together when drawing the periphery. For instance, in
FIGS. 3 and 4, the periphery is indicated as dotted line. In
various embodiments, the fastening component periphery comprises a
first shape 406 and the graphic periphery 502 comprises a second
shape 506 different from the first shape 406. For instance, in FIG.
2, the first shape 406 (on the right side of the diaper when facing
the viewer) is shown as an oval, and the second shape 506 is shown
as a star. In FIG. 3, the first shape is a rectangle, and the
second shape is an oval. In FIG. 4, the first shape is a rectangle
and the second shape comprises two ovals connected by a line. Any
suitable combination of shapes may be employed. In nonlimiting
examples, the fastening component comprises one or more curvilinear
segments. In further nonlimiting examples, the entire fastening
component periphery is curvilinear. Additionally, or alternatively,
the graphic periphery, or portions thereof, may be curvilinear.
[0080] The fastening component periphery 402 defines an fastening
component area, which is the mathematical two-dimensional area
within the periphery 402. Likewise, the graphic periphery 502
comprises a graphic area, which is the mathematical two-dimensional
area within the periphery 502. In various embodiments, the graphic
area is different than the fastening component area. The graphic
area may be greater than the fastening component area. The graphic
area may be greater than the fastening component area by at least
about 10%, or at least about 20%, or from about 10% to about 50%,
reciting for said range every 1% increment therein. Additionally,
or alternatively, the graphic 500 may overlap the fastening
component for at least about 20%, or at least about 35%, or at
least about 50%, or from about 20% to about 100% of the fastening
component area, reciting for said range every 5% increment
therein.
[0081] In various embodiments, the fastening component is not
visible. In other embodiments, the fastening component is visible
but not readily distinguishable from surrounding areas. For
instance, the fastening elements may be the same color as
surrounding materials. Further still, the fastening component, or
more particularly the fastening elements, may be relatively small.
Providing a fastening area graphic may help the user to locate the
fastening elements and/or position the components of the fastening
system.
[0082] As discussed, the fastening area graphic 500 may at least
partially overlap the fastening component. The graphic 500 may
comprise a first portion 510 which overlaps the fastening component
and a second portion 512 that is in non-overlapping relationship
with the fastening component. The first portion may differ from the
second portion by one of the following: color, color intensity,
transparency/opacity, saturation, reflection, size, shape, print
resolution and combinations thereof. For example, as shown in FIG.
5, the first portion 510 may be more transparent than the second
portion and thereby highlighting the area of the fastening
elements. In some nonlimiting examples, the opacity of the second
portion is about 15% greater, or about 25% greater, or about 30%
greater or about 50% greater, or from about 25% to about 100%
greater than the opacity of the first portion as determined by the
Opacity Test Method. Additionally, or alternatively, the first
portion may be more reflective than the second portion, reflecting
more light and/or appearing shinier than the second portion and
thereby highlighting the area of the fastening elements.
[0083] The first portion 510 may overlap the fastening component
for at least about 20%, or at least about 35%, or at least about
50%, or from about 20% to 100% of the fastening component area,
reciting for said range every 5% increment therein. In nonlimiting
examples, a portion of the fastening component may extend outside
of the graphic as shown for example in FIGS. 4-5.
[0084] A difference in the first and second portion may be achieved
through any suitable method. In certain embodiments, a method for
forming a fastening component (e.g., the secondary fastening
component 210, or the first fastening component 110) includes the
steps of providing a substrate 600 having a colored portion 601.
The colored portion is nominally divided into multiple portions,
including a first portion 610 and a second portion 612 as shown in
FIG. 6. The method further comprises overlapping a first plurality
614 of fastening elements with the first portion but not with the
second portion. The first plurality may comprise integrally formed
fastening elements. The step of overlapping the first plurality
with the first portion may comprise integrally forming the first
plurality from the substrate as illustrated in FIG. 8. The
fastening elements may be formed by any suitable means including
forming fastening elements by heating and softening a portion of
material and pressing it into element-forming cavities, as is
disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 8,784,722. Additionally, or
alternatively, the step of overlapping the first portion with the
first plurality may comprise integrally forming the first plurality
from a second substrate 602 and positioning the second substrate in
overlapping relationship with the first portion as shown in FIG. 9.
In nonlimiting examples, the second substrate comprises a color
which may be different than the color of the colored portion. In
this way, a third, blended color may be formed from the combination
of the substrates 600, 602. The substrates 600, 602 may be joined
by any suitable means. It is also contemplated that the fastening
elements may be formed from the substrate 600 and the second
substrate 602 as shown in FIG. 10.
[0085] The method may further comprises printing the substrate 600
to form the colored portion 601. Additionally, or alternatively,
the method may comprise tinting the substrate 600 to form the
colored portion.
[0086] In nonlimiting examples, the substrate 600 may comprise the
backsheet 26 of an absorbent article. In further nonlimiting
examples, the substrate 600 may be joined to a backsheet 26 by any
suitable means. It is also contemplated that the substrate may be
joined to the topsheet 24, an ear 30, a fastening arm 33 or any
other suitable portion of an absorbent article. The substrate may
be disposed in the first waist region 14. The substrate may be
disposed in the second waist region 18.
[0087] The method may further comprise forming a second plurality
of fastening elements 616, which may be integrally formed from the
second substrate 602 as illustrated in FIG. 10. The second
plurality of fastening elements may differ from the first plurality
by one of the following: shapes of fastening elements, number of
fastening elements, directionality of fastening elements,
orientation of array, average spacing of fastening elements,
whether fastening elements are discrete or integral or some
combination, fastening element constituent materials, the number
and/or types of layers from which integral fastening elements are
formed, average size of fastening elements, aggregate shape of the
array, surface area, opacity, color and combinations thereof.
[0088] As noted, the fastening and receiving components may
comprise any suitable shape or size. It may be desired to cut or
otherwise impart one or more edges of secondary fastening
components with rounded profiles, or profiles other than 90 degree
corners, rather than sharp corners as shown in FIGS. 11 and 12 for
example. This may be desirable for purposes of reducing chafing of
the wearer's skin that might otherwise occur, through localized
concentrations of pressure against the wearer's skin at sharp
corners of components 210.
[0089] As noted, the fastening component comprises a periphery 402.
As shown in FIG. 11, the fastening component periphery comprises an
inboard-most extent 403 and outboard-most extent 405. The
inboard-most extent 403 is the edge or point of the periphery that
is closest to the longitudinal centerline 90 in an unfolded
configuration 650. The outboard-most extent 405 is the edge or
point of the periphery that is furthest from the longitudinal
centerline 90 in an unfolded configuration 650. The fastening
component periphery comprises a maximum longitudinal dimension, L,
measured parallel to the longitudinal centerline and a maximum
lateral dimension, W, measured parallel to the lateral centerline.
In various embodiments, the fastening component periphery 402 is
asymmetric. In such embodiments, the fastening component periphery
may comprise a different longitudinal length at the inboard-most
extent than at the outboard-most extent. Additionally, or
alternatively, the fastening component periphery may comprise a
nonuniform length (i.e., the length is not constant throughout the
fastening component periphery's maximum width). The fastening
component periphery may comprise a varying length (i.e., changing
by, for example, sloping or curving) for a portion of the width, W.
The fastening component periphery 402 may comprise a varying length
throughout at least about 20%, or at least about 40%, or at least
about 50%, or from about 20% to about 100%, or from about 40% to
about 75% of the maximum width, W, reciting for each range every 5%
increment therein. Additionally, or alternatively, the fastening
component periphery may comprise a nonuniform width (i.e., the
width is not constant throughout the fastening component
periphery's maximum length). In nonlimiting examples, the fastening
component periphery may comprise a varying width for a portion of
the length, L. The fastening component periphery 402 may comprise a
varying width throughout at least about 20%, or at least about 40%,
or at least about 50%, or from about 20% to about 100%, or from
about 40% to about 75% of the maximum length, reciting for each
range every 5% increment therein.
[0090] In various embodiments, the maximum longitudinal dimension,
L, is disposed laterally outboard of the inboard-most extent 403 as
shown in FIGS. 11-14. The maximum longitudinal dimension, L, may be
laterally outboard of the inboard-most extent 403 by a minimum
separation distance D. The minimum separation distance, D, may be
at least about 1 mm, or at least about 5 mm, or at least about 10
mm, or from about 1 mm to about 15 mm, reciting for said range
every 1 mm increment therein. Additionally, or alternatively, the
minimum separation distance, D, may be at least about 5%, or at
least about 20%, or at least about 50%, or from about from about 5%
to about 100%, or from about 10% to about 90% of the maximum
lateral dimension, W, reciting for said ranges every 5% increment
therein. In nonlimiting examples, the maximum longitudinal
dimension may be coincident with the outboard-most extent 405 as
show for example in FIG. 12.
[0091] Turning to FIG. 14, where the maximum longitudinal dimension
is disposed outboard of the inboard-most extent 403, the
interaction between the primary and secondary fastening components
(and their respective elements) can be minimized in an engaged
configuration (i.e., when the fastening components are engaged with
their receiving components). For example, configuring the secondary
fastening component with the maximum longitudinal dimension
outboard of the inboard-extent reduces the likelihood of the
secondary fastening component interfering with the space available
for engagement of the primary fastening component in the first
waist region. Stated differently, the presence of a secondary
fastening component could reduce the amount of space available for
engagement of the primary fastening component. By shortening the
length of the secondary fastening component at its inboard extent,
more receiving area will be available for the primary fastening
component despite the presence of the secondary fastening
component. This configuration permits the article to fit a broader
range of users than articles with known secondary fasteners, which
limit the amount of receiving area. Further, it is believed that
varying the length and/or the width of the fastening component
periphery can provide for more precise targeting of fastening.
[0092] Still referring to FIG. 14, it may be desired to provide the
absorbent article in a folded configuration for packaging, for
example. As shown in FIG. 15, the waist regions may be folded
laterally back over along longitudinal foldlines 700, such that in
a folded configuration 660, the ears 30 are disposed laterally
inboard of longitudinal edges 12. The ears, and other portions of
the waist regions outboard of the foldline (in an unfolded
configuration), may be folded towards the wearer-facing surface in
an e-fold configuration as shown in FIG. 15. It is also
contemplated that the ears and other waist regions may be folded
towards the garment-facing surface.
[0093] It is generally desirable that absorbent articles of the
type contemplated herein be folded to a more compact configuration
for efficient packaging and shipping. Accordingly, in a first step,
left and right side margins 710 of the article may be folded
laterally inwardly, about left and right longitudinal article
folding lines 700 as indicated by the curving arrows in FIG. 14, to
bring the article to a first interim folded configuration depicted
in FIG. 15, with left and right longitudinal folded edges 714. FIG.
16 also depicts an article in an interim folded configuration with
an overlapping first waist region. Referring to FIG. 17, in a next
step, the article may be folded over on itself and approximately in
half lengthwise, wearer-facing surfaces in, about a lateral fold
line 713, to bring it into a folded article configuration as shown
in FIG. 17, which is a neat and compact configuration suitable for
efficient stacking of a plurality of absorbent articles, packaging
and shipment. FIGS. 18 and 19 also depict articles folded over
themselves approximately in half with different secondary fastening
peripheries.
[0094] A folded configuration may provide several advantages.
First, it provides for control over the ears 30 as the chassis
moves through any further downstream processing, folding and/or
packaging, reducing chances that ears 30 will snag in any
equipment, with possible resulting damage. Second, where secondary
fastening components 210 are included, folding the ears 32 (or
other portions of the waist region) over portions of one or more
secondary fastening components 210 will shield and protect the
secondary fastening components from unwanted contact and
interaction with other portions of the article prior to its use.
For example, where secondary fastening components 210 are patches
of hooks material, it may be undesirable to have large portions of
the fasteners exposed when, for example, the entire diaper is
folded for packaging because they may undesirably snag and/or
undesirably attach to other portions of the article in such folded
article configuration. All or a portion of a secondary fastening
component may be covered by, for example, overlapping one side of
the article over the other (e.g., overlapping the left side over
the right side) as shown in FIG. 16, or by folding one side over
itself in a z-fold configuration.
[0095] The inboard-most extent 403 of a secondary fastening
component may be coincident with or even disposed inboard of the
article foldline 700. The inboard-most extent 403 of the secondary
fastening component periphery may be disposed in overlapping
relationship with the foldline 700, or may be disposed at least
about 2 mm, or at least about 5 mm, or from about 0 mm to about 10
mm, or from about 2 mm to about 5 mm laterally inboard of the
article longitudinal foldline 700.
[0096] In embodiments where the fastening component periphery
comprises a nonuniform length as shown in FIGS. 14-15 for example,
the maximum longitudinal dimension may be disposed outboard of the
article foldline 700 while the inboard-most extent 403 may be
disposed inboard of the article foldline. Without being bound by
theory, it is believed that such configuration minimizes
undesirable effects from the fastening elements being disposed on
the front of the diaper in a folded, unengaged configuration as
shown in FIG. 17 while maintaining suitable fastening area for the
secondary fastening component as well as the primary fastening
component.
[0097] As noted, the fastening periphery comprises a fastening
component area (i.e., two-dimensional area). In various nonlimiting
examples, at least about 50%, or at least about 60%, or at least
about 75%, or from about 20% to about 100%, or from about 25% to
about 90%, or from about 30% to about 75% of the fastening
component area is disposed outboard of the article longitudinal
foldline, reciting for each range every 5% increment therein. In
various embodiments, a greater number of fastening elements is
disposed outboard of the article foldline than inboard of the
article foldline. For instance, as shown in FIG. 20, a fastening
component may comprise a plurality of fastening elements disposed
laterally inboard of the article longitudinal foldline (hereinafter
an inboard plurality 303) and a plurality of fastening elements
disposed outboard of the article longitudinal foldline 700
(hereinafter an outboard plurality 304). The outboard plurality may
comprise a greater number of fastening elements than the inboard
plurality.
[0098] Turning to FIG. 21, when the article 10 is positioned in an
engaged configuration 670, when the fastening components are
engaged with the receiving components as designed, the primary
fastening component periphery 402a may form a pocket 800a for the
secondary fastening component 210, and/or the secondary fastening
component periphery 402b may form a pocket 800b for the primary
fastening component 110. In such embodiments, the paired primary
and secondary fastening components are disposed on the same side of
the longitudinal centerline. As show in FIGS. 22-23, the pocket may
comprise one or more edges that are complementary (i.e., fits with)
edge(s) of the remaining fastening component. For instance, an
interior side 404 of a primary fastening component periphery 402a
may be complementary with inboard side 410 of the secondary
fastening component periphery 402b. Complementary sides may
comprise the same or similar curvature, angles, shapes and
combinations thereof. In embodiments having a primary pocket 800a,
a portion of the primary fastening component may be disposed
longitudinally outboard of the entire secondary fastening component
in the engaged configuration as shown in FIG. 22 (depicting the
left side of the article of FIG. 21). Likewise, in embodiments
comprising a secondary pocket 800b, a portion of the secondary
fastening component may be disposed longitudinally outboard of the
entire primary fastening component as shown in FIG. 23 (depicting
the right side of the article of FIG. 21). It is also contemplated
that a primary pocket may be formed such that a portion of the
primary fastening component may be disposed longitudinally inboard
of the entire secondary fastening component, and/or a secondary
pocket may be formed such that a portion of the secondary fastening
component may be disposed longitudinally inboard of the entire
primary fastening component. In the area of the pocket, the
fastening elements in the primary fastening component may be
completely outside of the secondary fastening periphery in an
engaged configuration.
[0099] The primary fastening component periphery 402a may comprise
a first shape 408a, and the secondary fastening component periphery
402b may comprise a second shape 408b as shown in FIGS. 21-23 for
example. The first and second shapes may differ. The primary
fastening component periphery may comprise different dimensions
than the secondary fastening component. For instance, the primary
fastening component may comprise a maximum longitudinal dimension,
L1, that is greater than the maximum longitudinal dimension of the
secondary fastening component, L2, or vice versa. The primary
fastening component may comprise a maximum lateral dimension, W1,
that is greater than the maximum lateral dimension of the secondary
fastening component, W2, or vice versa. Varying the dimensions can
aid in designing the fastening components to complement one
another.
[0100] As discussed above, a secondary fastening component 210 may
be disposed on a primary receiving component. The primary receiving
component comprises a receiving component area (i.e., the
two-dimensional area). The fastening component area of the
secondary fastening component may comprise about 20% or less, or
about 15% or less, or about 5% or less, or from about 2% to about
20%, or from about 5% to about 15% of the receiving component area,
reciting for said range every 1% increment therein. In this way,
there remains ample area for engaging the primary fastening
component, despite the presence of the secondary fastening
component.
[0101] Leg Gasketing Systems
[0102] Returning to FIG. 1, the absorbent article 10 may comprise a
leg gasketing system 70 attached to the chassis 20, which may
comprise one or more cuffs. The leg gasketing system may comprise a
pair of barrier leg cuffs 72. Each barrier leg cuff may be formed
by a piece of material which is bonded to the absorbent article so
it may extend upwards from a wearer-facing surface of the absorbent
article and provide improved containment of fluids and other body
exudates approximately at the junction of the torso and legs of the
wearer. The barrier leg cuffs are delimited by a proximal edge
joined directly or indirectly to the topsheet 24 and/or the
backsheet 26 and a free terminal edge 75, which is intended to
contact and form a seal with the wearer's skin. In some
embodiments, the free terminal edge 75 comprises a folded edge. The
barrier leg cuffs 72 extend at least partially between the front
waist edge 13 and the rear waist edge 19 of the absorbent article
on opposite sides of the longitudinal centerline 90 and are at
least present in the crotch region. The barrier leg cuffs may be
joined at the proximal edge with the chassis of the article by a
bond which may be made by gluing, fusion bonding, or a combination
of other suitable bonding processes.
[0103] The barrier leg cuffs may be integral with the topsheet 24
or the backsheet 26 or may be a separate material joined to the
article's chassis. Each barrier leg cuff 72 may comprise one, two
or more elastic elements 55 close to the free terminal edge 75 to
provide a better seal.
[0104] In addition to the barrier leg cuffs 72, the article may
comprise gasketing cuffs 76, which are joined to the chassis of the
absorbent article, in particular to the topsheet 24 and/or the
backsheet 26 and are placed externally relative to the barrier leg
cuffs 72. The gasketing cuffs 76 may provide a better seal around
the thighs of the wearer. A gasketing cuff may comprise a proximal
edge and a free terminal edge 77. The free terminal edge 77 may
comprise a folded edge. Each gasketing cuff may comprise one or
more elastic elements 55 in the chassis of the absorbent article
between the topsheet 24 and backsheet 26 in the area of the leg
openings. All, or a portion of, the barrier leg cuffs and/or
gasketing cuffs may be treated with a lotion or another skin care
composition.
[0105] In further embodiments, the leg gasketing system comprises
barrier leg cuffs that are integral with gasketing cuffs. Suitable
leg gasketing systems which may be part of the absorbent article
are disclosed in U.S. Pat. App. No. 62/134,622, Ser. No.
14/077,708; U.S. Pat. Nos. 8,939,957; 3,860,003; 7,435,243;
8,062,279.
[0106] Combinations [0107] A. An absorbent article comprising:
[0108] a first waist region, a second waist region, a crotch region
disposed between the first and second waist regions; [0109] a
topsheet, a backsheet, and an absorbent core disposed between the
topsheet and backsheet; and [0110] a primary fastening system and
secondary fastening system, wherein the primary fastening system
comprises a primary fastening component disposed in the second
waist region and a primary receiving component disposed in the
first waist region and operatively engageable with the primary
fastening component; and wherein the secondary fastening system
comprises a secondary fastening component disposed in the first
waist region and a secondary receiving component disposed in the
second waist region and operatively engageable with the secondary
fastening component; [0111] wherein: [0112] the secondary fastening
component comprises a periphery having a maximum longitudinal
dimension, L, a maximum lateral dimension, W, an inboard-most
extent and an outboard-most extent; and [0113] the maximum
longitudinal dimension, L, is disposed laterally outboard of the
inboard-most extent. [0114] B. The absorbent article of paragraph
A, wherein the maximum longitudinal dimension, L, is disposed
laterally outboard of a inboard-most extent by a minimum separation
distance D, wherein the separation distance is a least 50% of the
maximum lateral dimension, W. [0115] C. The absorbent article of
paragraphs A or B, wherein the maximum longitudinal dimension, L,
is coincident with the outboard-most extent. [0116] D. The
absorbent article of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the
periphery is curvilinear. [0117] E. The absorbent article of any of
the preceding paragraphs, wherein the secondary fastening component
comprises a varying length through at least 40% of the maximum
lateral dimension, W. [0118] F. The absorbent article of any of the
preceding paragraphs, wherein the secondary fastening component
comprises a varying width through at least 40% of the maximum
longitudinal dimension, L. [0119] G. The absorbent article of any
of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the secondary fastening
component comprises a nonuniform length. [0120] H. The absorbent
article of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the
inboard-most extent is coincident with or is disposed laterally
inboard of an article longitudinal foldline. [0121] I. The
absorbent article of paragraph H, wherein the inboard-most extent
is disposed laterally inboard of the article longitudinal foldline
by at least 2 mm. [0122] J. The absorbent article of any of the
preceding paragraphs, wherein the secondary fastening component
comprises a fastening component area, and wherein at least 50% of
the fastening component area is disposed outboard of an article
longitudinal foldline. [0123] K. The absorbent article of paragraph
J, wherein at least 75% of the fastening component area is disposed
outboard of the article longitudinal foldline. [0124] L. The
absorbent article of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the
secondary fastening component comprises a outboard plurality of
fastening elements disposed outboard of the article longitudinal
foldline and an inboard plurality of fastening elements disposed
inboard of the article longitudinal foldline, and wherein the
outboard plurality of fastening element comprises a greater number
of fastening elements than the inboard plurality of fastening
elements. [0125] M. The absorbent article of any of the preceding
paragraphs, wherein the primary fastening component comprises a
primary periphery, and the secondary fastening component comprises
a secondary periphery, wherein the primary and second peripheries
are different. [0126] N. The absorbent article of paragraph N,
wherein in an engaged configuration, one of the primary and
secondary peripheries creates a pocket for the other of the primary
and secondary peripheries. [0127] O. The absorbent article of
paragraphs M or N, wherein the primary periphery comprises a
primary shape and the secondary periphery comprises a second shape,
wherein the second shape differs from the primary shape. [0128] P.
The absorbent article of any of paragraphs M-O, wherein the primary
periphery comprises a primary maximum longitudinal dimension and
the secondary periphery comprises a secondary maximum longitudinal
dimension, wherein the primary maximum longitudinal dimension is
greater than the secondary maximum longitudinal dimension. [0129]
Q. The absorbent article of any of the preceding paragraphs,
wherein the secondary fastening component is disposed on the
primary receiving component. [0130] R. The absorbent article of
paragraph Q, wherein the primary receiving component comprises a
receiving component area and the secondary periphery comprises a
secondary fastening component area, and wherein the secondary
fastening component area comprises no more than 20% of the
receiving component area. [0131] S. An absorbent article
comprising: [0132] a first waist region, a second waist region, a
crotch region disposed between the first and second waist regions;
[0133] a topsheet, a backsheet, and an absorbent core disposed
between the topsheet and backsheet; and [0134] a primary fastening
system and secondary fastening system, wherein the primary
fastening system comprises a primary fastening component disposed
in the second waist region and a primary receiving component
disposed in the first waist region and operatively engageable with
the primary fastening component; and wherein the secondary
fastening system comprises a secondary fastening component disposed
in the first waist region and a secondary receiving component
disposed in the second waist region and operatively engageable with
the secondary fastening component; [0135] wherein: [0136] the
primary fastening component comprises a primary periphery, and the
secondary fastening component comprises a secondary periphery
wherein in an engaged configuration, one of the primary and
secondary peripheries creates a pocket for the other of the primary
and secondary peripheries. [0137] T. The absorbent article of
paragraph S, wherein in an engaged configuration, a portion of the
one of the primary and secondary peripheries is disposed
longitudinally outboard of the entire of the other of the primary
and secondary peripheries. [0138] U. The absorbent article of
paragraphs S or T, wherein in an engaged configuration, an interior
side of the primary periphery complements an inboard side of the
secondary periphery. [0139] V. The absorbent article of any of
paragraphs S-U, wherein an engaged configuration, fastening
elements in the primary fastening component are disposed completely
outside of the secondary periphery. [0140] W. The absorbent article
of any of paragraphs S-V, wherein the secondary fastening component
is disposed on the primary receiving component. [0141] X. The
absorbent article of paragraph W, wherein the primary receiving
component comprises a receiving component area and the secondary
periphery comprises a secondary fastening component area, and
wherein the secondary fastening component area comprises no more
than 20% of the receiving component area. [0142] Y. The absorbent
article of any of paragraphs S-X, wherein the primary periphery
comprises a primary shape and the secondary periphery comprises a
second shape, wherein the second shape differs from the primary
shape. [0143] Z. The absorbent article of any of paragraphs S-Y,
wherein the primary periphery comprises a primary maximum
longitudinal dimension and the secondary periphery comprises a
secondary maximum longitudinal dimension, wherein the primary
maximum longitudinal dimension is greater than the secondary
maximum longitudinal dimension.
Test Methods
[0144] Hysteresis Test
[0145] The following test method utilizes a commercial tensile
tester (e.g., from Instron Engineering Corp. (Canton, Mass.),
SINTECH-MTS Systems Corporation (Eden Prairie, Minn.) or
equivalent) interfaced with a computer. The computer is used to
control the test speed and other test parameters and for
collecting, calculating, and reporting the data. The tests are
performed under laboratory conditions of 23 deg. C.+-2 deg. C. and
relative humidity of 50%+-%.+-.2%. The samples are conditioned for
24 hours prior to testing.
[0146] 1. Select a 2.54 cm (width), 7.62 cm (length) sample of the
material for testing. In some cases, if it is not be possible to
get a 2.54 cm.times.7.62 cm sample, a smaller sample may be used,
but a gage length of 25 mm must still be used. If the sample is
activated or includes an activation portion, the length of the
sample is taken in the direction of activation.
[0147] 2. Select the appropriate jaws and load cell. The jaws must
have flat surfaces and must be wide enough to fit the sample (e.g.,
at least 2.54 cm wide). Also, the jaws should provide adequate
force to ensure that the sample does not slip during testing. The
load cell is selected so that the tensile response from the sample
tested is between 25% and 75% of the capacity of the load cell
used.
[0148] 3. Calibrate the tester according to the manufacturer's
instructions.
[0149] 4. Set the distance between the grips at 25 mm.
[0150] 5. Place the sample in the flat surface of the jaws such
that the longitudinal axis of the sample is substantially parallel
to the gauge length direction. Mount the sample with minimal slack.
Set the slack preload at 0.02 N/cm. This means that the data
collection starts when the slack is removed with a force of 0.02
N/cm. Strain is calculated based on the adjusted gauge length
(lini), which is the length of the sample in between the grips of
the tensile tester at a force of 0.02 N/cm. This adjusted gauge
length is taken as the initial sample length, and it corresponds to
a strain of 0%. Percent strain at any point in the test is defined
as the change in length divided by the adjusted gauge length times
100%.
[0151] 6(a) First cycle loading: Pull the sample to a strain of 50%
at a constant cross head speed of 254 mm/min.
[0152] 6(b) First cycle unloading: Hold the sample at 50% strain
for 30 seconds and then return the crosshead to its starting
position (0% strain) at a constant cross head speed of 254 mm/min.
Hold the sample in the unstrained state for 1 minute.
[0153] 6(c) Set from second cycle loading: Pull the sample at a
constant cross head speed of 254 mm/min, till it reaches a load of
0.05 N/25.4 mm (0.020 N/cm). Record the extended gauge length
(lext). Next, return the crosshead to its starting position (zero
strain) at a constant cross head speed of 254 mm/min. Set is
defined as the strain at a second cycle load of 0.05 N/25.4 mm
(0.020 N/cm). Calculate % set as indicated below.
[0154] 6(d) Second cycle unload: Next, return the crosshead to its
starting position (zero strain) at a constant cross head speed of
254 mm/min.
[0155] Percent Set is defined as the percent strain at a second
cycle load of 0.05 N/25.4 mm (0.020 N/cm). Calculate % set as
indicated below.
[0156] A computer data system records the force exerted on the
sample during the test as a function of applied strain. From the
resulting data generated, the following quantities are reported
(note that loads are reported as force divided by the width of the
sample and do not take into account the thickness of the
sample):
[0157] 1. Loads at 25% strain and 50% strain (N/cm)
[0158] 2. % set (Percent Strain measured at a second cycle load
force of 7 gram-force (l.sub.ext) to the nearest 0.001 mm.
[0159] iv. % Set, which is defined as
(l.sub.ext-l.sub.ini)/(l.sub.max-l.sub.ini)*100% to the nearest
0.01%. The testing is repeated for six separate samples and the
average and standard deviation reported.
Opacity Test Method
[0160] Opacity by contrast ratio measurements are made using a
0.degree./45.degree. spectrophotometer suitable for making standard
CIE L*a*b* color measurements (e.g. Hunterlab Labscan XE
spectrophotometer, Hunter Associates Laboratory Inc., Reston Va. or
equivalent). The diameter of the instrument's measurement port
should be chosen such that only the region of interest is included
within the measurement port. Analyses are performed in a room
controlled at about 23.degree. C..+-.2 C..degree. and 50%.+-.2%
relative humidity. Samples are conditioned at the same condition
for 2 hours before testing.
[0161] Calibrate the instrument per the vendor instructions using
the standard black and white tiles provided by the vendor. Set the
spectrophotometer to use the CIE XYZ color space, with a D65
standard illumination and 10.degree. observer. Using cryogenic
spray and scissors carefully excise the specimen from the article
for testing. Place the specimen flat against the instrument with
the outward facing surface toward the spectrophotometer's
measurement port and the region of interest within the port. Ensure
that no tears, holes or apertures are within the measurement port.
Place the white standard tile onto the opposing surface of the
specimen such that it completely covers the measurement port. Take
a reading for XYZ and record to 0.01 units. Without moving the
specimen, remove the white plate and replace it with the black
standard plate. Take a second reading for XYZ and record to 0.01
units. Repeat this procedure at a corresponding site for a total of
ten (10) replicate specimens.
[0162] Opacity is calculated by dividing the Y value measured using
the black tile as backing, divided by the Y value measured using
the white tile as backing. Record the opacity value to the nearest
0.001. Calculate opacity for the 10 replicates for the sample and
report the average opacity to the nearest 0.001.
[0163] The difference between an opacity of a first sample and a
second sample is calculated using the following equation:
% .times. Difference = average .times. .times. opacity .times.
.times. for .times. .times. sample .times. .times. 1 - average
.times. .times. opacity .times. .times. of .times. .times. sample
.times. .times. 2 average .times. .times. opacity .times. .times.
of .times. .times. sample .times. .times. 2 * 100 .times. %
##EQU00001##
wherein sample 2 is the sample having the lower of the two average
opacities.
[0164] 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."
[0165] Every document cited herein, including any cross referenced
or related patent or application and any patent application or
patent to which this application claims priority or benefit
thereof, 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 shall govern.
[0166] 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.
* * * * *