AU9827798A - Process for making an absorbent article having inflected barrier leg cuff - Google Patents

Description

assio~ .22

AUSTRALIA

Patents Act 7 990

ORIGINAL

COMPLETE

SPECIFICATION

STANDARD-

PATENT

Application Nu rnber: St C

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Invention Title: PROCESS "O MAING AN ABSORBENT ARTICILE HAVING INFLECTED BARRIER LEG CUFF The following statement Is a fult' descriptlon of this Invention, Including the best me~thod of perlforming It known to us j -4- PROCESS FOR MAKING AN ABSORBENT ARTICLE kHA\ 1 NG INFLECTED BARRIER LEG CUFF Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a method for making absorbent articles such S as disposable diapers, and more particularly, to absorbent articles having barrier cuffs which improve the containment characteristics and fit of the absorbent article.

S to Backroun of the Invention The major function of absorbent articles such as disposable diapers and incontinent briefs or undergarments is to absorb and contain body exudates. Such articles are thus intended to prevent body exudates from soiling. weting, or otherwse coraminating clothing or other articles such as bedding, that come in contact with the wearer. The most common mode of failure for such products occurs when body exudates leak out of the gaps between the article and the wearer's leg or waist to adjacent clothig because they are not immediately absorbed within Sthe article and the absorbent article is not able to sustain a good fit on the wearer such that gaps are created allowing the exudates to leak out of the chassis of the absorbent article. For example. urine tends to be deposited onto the topsheet in gushes such that the urine migrates to the gaps in the chassis where it can come in :contact with clothing or other articles and be absorbed by these articles.

'A dditionally.loose fecal: terial that is not easily absorbed by the absorbent article Stends to "flot" on the liquid-receiving surface and work its way pa the gaps in the article in the gs or waist of the wearer.

Contemporary disposable diapers have a topsheet. a backsheet. an absorbent ore, and elasticized leg flaps generally formed from an elastic member being Senclosed in the continuous topsheet and backsheet which extend beyond the edges of the absorbent core. Theseialasticized leg flaps prove efficien generally to prevent Swicking and overflow from the fluid laden diaper to clothing contacting the edges of

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the diaper in that the lasticied leg flaps present a fluid impervious barrier between the edge of the diaper and the contacting clothing and in addition, provide a gaskeing action about the legs of the wearer to maintain a seal about the leg and inimze gapping. However. leakage along the perimeter of the diaper may still ocrcur. !he- diaper is ,warni to. longer jpexiods of lime. forces t. d to act on the diaper to degrade the inital fit on the wearer. Lamge gaps and sagging of the diaper in the leas ar'd waist a"!-formed by the dtqadation in fit, Thus. as liquids are deposited oiito the topsnett. some of th- hirwd is not imimediately absorbed throuah the topsheet and mizrI't tovwd the edees of ihe diaper where it can leak r~ough or past the gaps in the diaper and come inz'ttwith clothing or undergzarments where it can be absorbed by and wicked inzo such garments.

Disposable diapers may be provideri with barrier cuffs which inhibit loose fecal material or gushes of urine or liquids from soiling the wearer's clothing. Tihe io barrier'cufrs restrain the firee flow' of -this material and provide a structure to hold such material iiithin the diapr so that as.-such material freely floats or flows on the topsheet of the C*iaper. it'is contained %within the diaper. Depa the effectiveness of such structures- w containig Isuch mazterial, it has been found that liquids can leak beyond the barns cuffs, Pod soil the wearer's clothing because the diaper construction dian, not promote a sustained fit of the diaper on the wearer.

Additionally, the barri cuffs may not be properly applied to the wearer such that zood initial fit is not achieved and the sustained fit is often worse.

Summary of Lhe~nverip n This invention relates to an improVed method for making a disposable absorbable article having an inflected barier leg cuff. Tits garmnent consists of a chassis which includes a topsheet. a backsheet and an absorbent core between the topsheet and the backsheet. The article further has a first waist region, a second waist region and a crotch region located between the first and second wais~t regions.

2s In this method, barrier leg ouffs are attachedto the topsheet of the article, one an each side of a longitudinal centerline. To allow for cutting of leg notches without interference from the barvier leg cuffs, the barrier cuffs are folded inwardly toward th longitudinal centerline of the article. After the leg notchecs are cut. and removed.

tebarrier e3cufft are attached in tesecond waist region directed outwardly from, -the longitudinal centerline. NeMt the barrier leg cuffs are fblded inwardly toward the longitudinal centerline and joined to the chassis at the first waist region of the article.

Fnally, the article is folded and then separated far packang. Thsentire process can be carried out in one crlrhne direction thus elmntn h ~eor changing machine direction or refeeding the article ifito the assembly line.

4 In a second emnbodiment cf Ilis invtntion. the barrier Iti cuffs are firs, attached fb the topshtet on each side of the longitudinal menerline. Next. the barrier leg cuffs are secured to the topshett in the first waist, region of the article so that they are dirccted inwardly tow-,~ the lonzitudinal centerline. Then the ch.ssis is formed and telgnotches are cut formiung ear panels in. the first antd second waist regions.

Newt the ear panels in the second waist region are folded inwardly toward the.

1o 1 tu trieterline and over the barrier leg cuffs to which the er panels are -joined. Finally, the article is cut to prepare it for shipment.

In a third embodiment of this invention, th.- barrier leg cuffs are first attached to to the ECopsheeIt or, each side of the longitudinal cenrerline. They are then attached at the second w-aist region of the article: so that they are folded outwardly of the centerline. Next, the chassis is formed in any conventional manner. Once the chassis has bern forned, the leg notches are cut. Thmn a handing agent is applied to the interior side ofthe distal portion of the barrier leg cuffs in the firs waist region of the i) article. The article is folded and separated into separate articles. In a fourth embodiment of this invention. the barrier leg cuffs are first attached to the topsheez.

They are secured in the first and. second waist regions so that both leg cuffs are either directed outwardly of the centerline or inwardly toward the longitudinal center line.

After the barrier leg cuffs are secured, in the first and second waist regions. they are -0 partially secured in the crotch region to provide a stand up barrier in that region. The article is then folded and prepared for shipment- .4 30 Brief Description of the pmwhinu While the specification concludes with cia'zn particularly pointing out and distinctly claiming the subject miarter whiuch is regarded as forming the present invention, it is believed that the invetion will be better understood from the following descriptions which are -taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawin gs- in which like designations are used to designate substantially identical elements, and in which: FIG. l is a plan view of the diapernade by the process of this invention: FIG. 2 presents ,an iiutraw- of oeembodiment. of the process of Nhs.

trivenn FIG- 2A presets ctuuztiIst ato oF the process Presented in R&G 2: 4 4,

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FIG. S presents 1:1luia~o of a stcon'd e on: of the process of tE-s FIG..4 pre-szn:s an illus-tration of a third tmboOimtnt or- the proctss of t!Lis inavention: and FIG. 5 pre:senis an iflustration of a iourth embodiment of the process of this ,neto:and FIG. 6 prestrnts a diazz-vina-ic Iflustaiin of the basic process of this invention.

Detaile-d Dscjyi!2in of the Invention to The Product: As uscd herein. the trrr, 'absorbent article- refers to articles which absorb and contain body exudates and more spcifically refers to articles which are placed against or 'ti proximity to the body of the wearer to absor-b and contain the various revudatecs discharged from the body. Absorbent articles are typically differentiated by 1! whether they arc rcusAle or disposabkc. Disposa-ble absorbent articles; are those articles which are intended to be discarded afler a single use ;hey are not intended to be laundered or otherwise restored or reused). The absorbent articles orthe preent invention are preferably .disposable absorbent articles. The zbsorbtnt articles mpay be Fuirther defilned by whe ther they are -unitar' such that they do not require separate manipulative parts ot whther they comprise an element of a. diaptr system such as a se-parate holder and liner- The absorbent articles of the present invention are preferably unitary. A preferred embodiment of a unitary disposable .absorbent article of tht present invention, diaper 20. is shown in FIG. 1. As used h-,rein ihe .term 'dia-per' xreers to z garment generafly worn by infants and .1 incontinenrt persons that is worn about the lower ror of the wcarer. It should b-Z, understood however, tWa the presc-t invention Is also applicable to other disposable ~.absorbent irticles such as incortinence briefs or undergarments. disposable training pants, diaper holders, sanitary napkins, and the like.: 34 La As used herein, the terms coo.es. mt Ii~ ncudes" and -inclu.ding" are to be. taken to soecify thze presence of sla:ed features, in~tegers.

steps or components but dce-3 not oreciude the prese! ce cr addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, componenits or groups thereof.

FIG. 1 is a plan view of the diaper 20 of the Dresent invention in its fiat-out.

uncoritracled state withi all elastic induced contraction puiled out) with poaions of the structure being cut-away lo more dearly show the construction of the diaper 20 and with the portion of tile diaper 20 which con-acts the wearer facing the viewer. The diaoer 20 is shown in FIG. 1 to have a first waist region 22. a second waist region 24. a crotch region 26. and a periphery 28 which isdefined by the outer edges.

or mze d*Zaoe, 20 in whuch4 the lon-gitudinal ednets art Z:i.21td 30 anid I!,tz erid4cs are designated 32. Thte di autr 20 additi'onally has a lateral centerine which is designated 34 and alongirudinal centerline which is dtsienated 36.

The diaper 20 comprises a iiquid pervious topshect 3S. Che iiquid-recelvinz Ssurface of the diauer 20 being generally defined by the toosheet 3S and being desienated 40.- a liquid impervious backsheet 42:. an absorbent core 44 having a garment surface 46. a body -surface 48. and edges thai are desip-nated side ednzes and waist edges 52,- fastening means 34 for securing the diaper 20 on the wearer such as the pair, of tape tab fastener 56: a side flap 58 extending outw-ardly from each side edge 50 of the absorbent core 44 in at least the crotch region 26, ear flaps 100.

barrier cuffs 62 each, having a proximnal edge 64. a distal edge 66, a first end 72. and a.

second end 74: spacing means 7.6 such as elastic members 77 for spacing the distal edge 66 away fr-om the liquid-receiving surface 40, first closing means 73 for.

securing a portion of the distal edge 66 inboard of the proximal edge 64: and second is closing means 80 for securing a portion of the distal edge 66 outbeard of the proximal edge 64.

FIG- I shows an embodiment of the diaper 20 ini which the backsheet 42 has length and width dimensions generally larger than those of the absorbent core 44.

The, backsheet 42 extends beyond the edge-s of the absorbent core 44 to thereby form :o he. periphery 28 of the diaper 20. The periphery 2-8 defines tim outer perimeter or. in other words, the edges of the diaper 20. The periphery 28 comprises the longitudinal edges 30 and the end edge 32.. As shown in FIG. I' the tonsheet 38 is generaily *.coterutxinous with the backsheet 42 along at least the end edges 32 and precferably the lnidnledges The diaper 20 has a first wais region 22 and a second waist region 24 extending, respectively. fromn the end edges 32 of the diaper periphery 28 toward the *lateral centerline 34 of the diaper 20 a distance up to about preferably from about lfg to about 1/4. of the length of the diaper 20, The waist regions 22 and 24 generally comprise those portions of the diaper 20 which, when wor. encirde the 3a waist of the wearer. The crotch region 26 is that portion of the diaper 20 positioned.

between the first Waist region 22 and the second waist region 24. and comprises that portion of the- diaper 20 which. when wornk is positioned. between the legs of the wearer and covens the lower torso of the wearer.

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The ab:rb r 2 -oe 4 or ab c -and~hh s~ C e IY p~ k conxomabk nonIr~tt~ the wearer's skin. arid capableofasrilad retainuig liquids anid cc,,-2in body exudatCs A creeTre'd abs~oent cor a garmnt urfce 6 and -4 body surfa-ce 4S.

The absorbent co-re 44 M-ay be mannufacture iu.ahide va of SiSan Shapes (e rectangular. hour-ga. asymetc. tc) and fromawdeartyo liquid absorbent matermials c6rnmnt)nlY used in disposable diapers and other absorbent articles, such as coruninuted wood pulp which is Se .nerally referred to as air--felt e.'arrples of other suiable absorbent materials include aeped cellulose v-doinst.

ID absorbent foams. absortcent sPonigeS. super absorbent polymerS. absorbe.nt izelling miaterials. or any equivalLICt materials .Or combination of mnaterias The 1ttl absorbent capacity of the absorbent core 44 should. however. be cornpat~bl with the design exudate loading in the intended use of the diaper 20. The size: and absorbent capacity of the absorbent cote 44 may be varied to accormmodate wearers; ra911n9 from infants through adults.

The bajcksheet 42 is Lpositioned adjacenit the garment surfac-e 46 of the absorbent core 44 and is preferably secured thereby by core attachmnt means (not shown) such as thosewell known in the at. For exmple, the backshtet 42 may be secured to the absorbent core 44 by a uniuform 4coniiuOs layer. Of adhesive, a o patterned layer of adhesive. or an array of separate lines or spols of adhesive. The core nachirent means preerbly Comprises an open pattern network of filaments of adhesive.

L T'he backsheet 42 is L11per~iious to liqud ad is preferabl vanufactured from I thin plastic fihyt although other flexible liquid impervious materials MY also :t be txsed. The barkshed 42 pm-vents the exud&tes absorbed and Contained in the absorbent come 44 fromt wetting articles which contact the diaper 20 such as bedsbtets and andersartntnts- Preferably. the bac1ksheet 42 is a polyethylene filmn hvga thickness of fi-r about 0.012 fm (0.5 to about 0.051 cm (2.0 inlls).

although odthelexible., liquid irnpeImOuS materials. be usse&L As usd hterein, the trn 'flexible refers; to Materi&l whkch are compliant arid wfich will readlily confonh to the genral shape- and Contours of the humnan body. -The badkshWe 42 is preferably eamboLsed andlor matte fiviishtd to provide a Mo= dothike 4pptaraflCe Th backsbeet 4 2 may pcrmt Vapors to tscap from the absorbent _cmr 44 v4~ie still.

previr'tfl twudate: frr"m passing through the backsheet 41., The Size of the 5*

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-'4 backhee -2iS &tat~ oztre 5s12C o: zr srrer cor a tl es% des:=n stlected The topsheet! 3S is complianz. Wa~f;eig and non-i'niratiziz to the xearef s skin. The topsheet 38 is liquid ptnmious pemittig liquids to readily nert iuuh its thickness A suitable topsheet may be manuact=red ftom a widt -inie Of materials.,such as vorous foarms. reziculated foamns. apetrer plastic ilms natua fibers (cei.. wood or cottoft fibers), synthetic fibers (eg. polyester at polypropylente fibers) or from a combination of natural and synthetic fibers Preferably. it is made of a hydrophobic material to isolate the wearer's skin ftrm liquids in the absorbent core S44, If the topsheei 38 is made of a hydrophobic material, at least the upper surfatce.

of the topsheet 38 is treated to be hydrophilic so that liquids will transfer ihrough the topsheet more rapidly. This dimninishes the likelihood that bo dy exudates will flow off the toipsheet 39 rather than'being drawn through the topshtet 38 and. being absorbed by the absorbent care 44. The topsheet 3 8 can be rendered hydrophilic by Is treating it with a surfactant. Suitable methods for treating the topsheet 38 wAith a surfractarit include spraying the topsheetH3 mattrial with the ,surfactan anid inmersing, the material into the surfactant A more detailed discussion of such a tretment and hydrophilicity is contained in U.S. Patents 4,988,344 entitled -Absorbent Articles with Multiple Layer Absorbent Layffs" issued to Reising. et al on Januar 29 1991 and U.S, Patent 4,989,345 entitled 'Absimbeent Asticle$ %ith Ratpid Acquiring Absorbent Corte issujed to lReising on January 29. 199 1. eitch of *~,which is intcorportied by referce heei There are a numbper of manufacturing techiques which may be used to maufactute, the topsheet 38. For examplt, the topsheet 38 may be w-oe,t non- 2i woven. spunbanded. carded. or the like. A preferred topshee .38 is carded- and thermually bonded by mearis well known to those skilled in the fkbrics aa. Preferbly.

~~minimum dry tensile strength of at least about 400 Waspe= etiee in the machine direction and a wet tensile strength of at least abou 55 gra m per centimeter )o in the cros rpcedrection The side fis58 are that portion of the diaper 20 between the periphery 28.

and the side edges 50 of the absorbent core 44 Thus, in a prefeirred emboiment as shown in FIG. 1. the side flips 58 are formed fromn the ezrension of the battsheet 42

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caoren -Cor of zthe Ciiape-r 20 in at leasz tie CrotZh MeFicil 16 Thbe diaper: 20 Is pro~idta with a fasten'S zen 54- fom zo a Y,= closure in the diaper 20 Thus- the ditaper 20 is ftted! to the %At'radafrai h fimjst resion 22 aiid the second waist rez5,n 24 art ramaine ill an ovtfdapving *cot~gu'atiofl. when the diaper 20 is worn While the tkstmlnni means 54 may .compri!se a ny of a nuzmber of fasiernp sy-stems as are known ia the art such as belts or inrier fastertins. members, 'ai a p.-efered emnbodimnent th& fasiting means 3 conPises a tape tab 56 disposed adjacent each onuia de30 of the diaper preferabiy int the second w-aist regtion 24t Tape tab fastentrs 54art preferably appliecd to the second wais region 24 of the diaper SO to ptOvide a [astening means 54 to hod the diaper 20 to the wemrr although they may xlte nattvely be disposed itn the fl' waist region 22.- The tape tab fasteners 54 Wai be any of thosete tabs wel known. in the Art- The barrier leg cuffs 62 provide a stuct'ter to reszrim the freec flow of oo exudates aicrig the liquid-Tece"Ming Surface 40 aitd to hod and contain such exudates within the diaper 20 and to provide a gasketing action about the weaxer. £Sach barier~ cuff 62 is a flexible member having a proximal edg 64 and a distal edge 66, In addition. if the spacing qman 76 comprises one or movte elastic membet. 77- the re barrier cuffs 62 mustC be cttoiActle so tha the distal edges 66 may- be sufficsedyh spard-awvy from the liqtirceivi surface 40 to frm a channel and may prtovide a easketing Action ;b oet the buttocks of the weatr. Tue- barrier cufft 62 iny be manufactured from a wvide vzriety of watenials strch as polypropylene. plotyester.

rayon nylior, famn. prassc films.. farMed films, eastic larrirnates and elastic fobams ss A number of maLM&'fin9fll tejuucues my, be used tO mAnuhetutfe the barrier cuffs For eaample, dhe barrier Cuffs 62 may be woven. non VwQvmZ. spunbonded. carded, or the lRe, A particulry preferred barier cuff 62coprsesalanteo no woven po4~vropy~le =wteill secured to a liquid imp~rnble polyethylene tFrn The Materials m~ay be secured or larunated to each other by anty methods as is knowri ~oin thea&rt Trhe barrier cuff 62-. and more parjilarly. the proiml edge 64. is diposed adjacent to apreeay in oar f the longitudina edge 30 of the diaper 20. The tem 4nboard7 is defined as the direcion toward the. ceteine. (34. or 36.

Sespctively) of the: diaper 20 that is parallel to the rcsptctive edste of the diaper I *4 U. .4 444~~4 4.

41 4. 4 .4 4 p Prefrtably dis~ee iniboard-of the lokitudinal edz-, 30 so thai excudates.e.A1 loose fecal material which, is not easily abso--bed and ztnds zc Boa; alcriie zh= 1--zil reeiin surace 40, %vill Contact the batrler Cuff 152 before :1can Contacr the z Sof the diaper- 20. Thus. the proidmai edge 64 is Pre.-er-abi disvos&% betvrta -hle lonsitudinaL- edze 30 and the loneitudinAl L-mierline .36 of the diaper 2-0 Mostz prefi~rably.- the proxitnal edge 64 is dispsed between the loagitudirial edge 30- anrd the side edge 50 of the- absorbent core 44 in at leas Ute cotch regica 2& of the diaper 20. (it should be noted that if the side Rlaps 58 are ellsficized by orte or more 12 flap elasic members to frn a Rasketing cuff adjacent each loagitudinal edge 30. as is known in the art, then the proutnal edge 64 is ptefertabty positioned betweecn the innermost flap elastic member and the side edge 50 of the absorbezu core 4W 0n At least the crotch region 26.) The proalmal edges 64 and the distal edges 66 are in a spaced relation to each .1 other and define the effective width of each of the barfier cuffi 62- The proxial edges 64 and the distal edges 66 may be in a paralLl nonipArall&L rectilinam- or cur~,irnear relationship. In addition. eac of the barrier cuffis 62 MY 'have a wety of diffrent cross-sectional arma including circular. viuvae. tectartgular. or any other.

shape- Preferably, the proximal edge 64 is spaced fron ihe distal edge 66 in a parallel and reciinear relatiooship.- The effective .width of the barzier cuff 6Z Is imiporut parmeter 41 reducing leakage of body enmUdae out of the diaper 20. If the effective width of the barier cuff 62 is too smal theni gap will be fanned I ~betwee the lkg of the weawe and the dusal edge 66 sucb tha liquids may flow over the isW dp64 to the periphery 28 of the diae 20. The eective width shmetibe ~r dinienionafijed as the size of the wearer increasets ot derases, Particularty with adult wearers.

The distal edge 66 of each barrier cuff 62 is preferably siot secured to any undrlyng lemntsof the diape 20 in at lIas te crotch regio 26 so that it wiay be spaced away from the liquid-receivin Ywface 40. The diWa ede 66 is preferably Sspaced away from the liquidrectiving swfeje 40 so that the barrier, cuff 62 my form a etmiutel to enhanc the conaait of the iszper 20. As ue heresn. -spacedincludes embodirme=t wherein the distal edgns 66 may assinve one or, more positos telajnve to the itidrci~Ssti~40 including t somte times awsu~ng a position adjacent the liquid-recetvg sura~ce *1 The distal edge 66 of each barrier cuff 52 is preferabvy disposed inboard of the proximal edge 64 in the first waist region 22 so as to present a more effective barrier against the flow of exudates. The distal edges 66 may also be disposed outboard of the of the proximal edge 64 in the first waist region 22. The distal edges 66 are maintained inboard of the proximal edges 64 in the first waist region 22 by the first closing means 78 so as to obviate their inversion. The first closing means 78 is located in a first closure zone 92 which is disposed inboard of the side flaps 58 and, in the same embodiment, or in another preferred embodiment, at least a portion of the first closing means 78 is positioned above at least a portion of the absorbent to core 44.

As shown in FIG. 1. the distal edges 66 are preferably laterally spaced apart from each other in the first waist region 22. However, the lateral spacing between the distal edges 66 can range from being crossed over each other to abutting each other to being laterally spaced apart up to the width of the proximal edges in the first t waist region 22. Thus, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the distal edges 66 may be laterally spaced apart from about -25 mm inch) (overlapping edges) up to about 150 mm (6 inches). Preferably, the distal edges 66 are spaced apart so that the barrier cuff62 will fit in the innermost leg crease of the wearer rather than ride along the wearer's outer thigh.

2o The distal edges 66 are also shown in FIG. I to be disposed parallel to each other and perpendicular to the end edge 32 of the diaper 20 in the first waist region 22. While this is a preferred embodiment, the distal edges 66 may alternatively be angled toward or away from each other, preferably toward each other, such that the distal edges 66 are disposed non-perpendicular to the end edges 32. Angling the :5 barrier cuffs relative to the end edge 32 may assist in allowing the barrier cuff to remain spaced from the liquid-receiving surface 40 in the crotch region 26 during use.

e The distal edges 66 are laterally spaced apart from each other in the crotch region 26, The lateral spacing of the distal edges 66 is especially important in the 0 crotch region 26 to prevent body exudates, especially urine, from leaking out of the diaper 20 in the leg regions of the wearer. Ifthe distal edges 66 ae laterally spaced too far from each other, then the barrier cuffs 62 have an increased tendency to "flip out' in the crotch region 26 such that urine can fow over the barrier cuffs 62. If the distal edges 66 are spaced too close to each other, then the barrier cuffs 62 provide a j

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-1 t "s 1 2 1 I1 reduced area for deposition of exudates such tha: exudates could be deposied directly onto the barrier cuffs 62 and flow to the edges of the diaper The distal edge 66 of each barrier cuff 62 is disposed outboard of each proximal edge 64 in the second waist region 24 of the diaper 20. The term "outboard" is defined as the direction away from the longitudinal centerline 36 of the diaper 20 that is parallel to the respective edge of the diaper 20 along which the barrier cuff62 is disposed. the direction opposite from the direction defined by the term "inboard"). Thus, the barrier cuff 62 is "flipped out" in the second waist region 24. The flipped out portion of the barrier cuff 62 promotes better to containment that is less sensitive to application variations and provides a contoured fit about the buttocks of the wearer. The distal edges 66 may be maintained outboard of the proximal edges 64 in the second waist region 24 by the second closing means 80. One skilled in the an will appreciate that the distal edges 66 may also be disposed inboard of the proximal edges 64 in the second waist region 24.

s As shown in FIG. 1, the distal edges 66 are laterally spaced apart from each other in the second waist region 24. However, the spacing between the distal edges 66 can range such that the distal edges 66 are angled relative to each other. The distal edges 66 are also shown in FIG. 1 to be disposed parallel to each other and perpendicular to the end edge 32 of the diaper 20. The distal edges 66 may alternatively be angled toward or away from each other, preferably away from each other, such that the distal edges 66 are disposed non-perpendicularly to the end edges *32 S"Because the distal edge 66 is disposed inboard of the proximal edge 64 in the first waist region 22 and outboard of the proximal edge 64 in the second waist region 2 24, the distal edge 66 is inflected ("flipped out") along its length. Thus. the article fits the contours of the wearer's body. This inflection transitions the barrier cuff 62 from snugly fitting about the buttocks (the flipped out portion) to fitting in the "no motion" zone of the legs for better containment (the stand-up portion; the distal edge 66 being disposed inboard of the proximal edge 64). The resultant inflected S0 barrier cuff62 is easier to apply to the wearer and ensures that the fit of the barrier S. :cuff 62 is in the "no motion" zone in the crotch relion 26 with a snug fit about the wearer's buttocks in at least the second waist region 24.

It has been found that the inflected barrier cuff 62 thus provides both a gasketing action about the buttocks ofthe wearer to provide a snug fit which reduces Ii-s -x 9 leakage of body exudates. especially runny bowel movement. and a stand-up barner cuff62 in the crotch region 26 and the first waist region 22 to constrain, contain and hold body exudates within the diaper 22 along the channel (not shown). However. it has been found that if the barrier cuff 62 is "flipped out" too far toward the first waist S region 22 along the length of the barrier cuff 62. then body exudates will tend to flow over the barrier cuffs. Thus. it is preferred that the inflected barrier cuffs 62. in use.

provide a gasketing action about the buttocks of the wearer to provide a snug fit the flipped out portion of the barrier cuffs is positioned) in less than about of the length of the diaper. more preferably less than about 40% of the length of the 1o diaper 20. and most preferably only in the second waist region 24. (The percent length of the flipped out portion is defined as that length of the diaper in which the barrier cuff is flipped out divided by the total length of the diaper times 100%).

Thus. the stand-up portion of the barrier cuff (distal edge 66 disposed inboard of the proximal edge 64) is provided, in use. in at least about 50% of the length of the is diaper, preferably at least about 60% of the length of the diaper, and most preferably from the first waist region 22 to and throughout the crotch region 26.

The flipped out portion of the barrier cuff 62 can be maintained in less than about 50%/ of the length of the diaper 20 in a number of different ways. For example, the second closure zone 94 is preferably longer than the first closure zone 2o 92. Alternatively, a closure atachment means may be positioned on the barrier cuff 62 toward or in the crotch region 26 of the diaper for securing the distal edge 66 inboard of the proximal edge 64 so that the flipped out portion is maintained in less than about 50% of the length.

A channel (not shown) is formed between the proximal edge 64 and the distal 2s edge 66 of the barrier cuff 62 in the crotch region 26 and the first waist region 22 The channel forms a barrier to the flow of exudates as they tend to move or float across the topsheet 38. The channel also contains and holds exudates within the diaper 20 until the diaper 20 can be removed.

In another embodiment of the diaper 20, the distal edges 66 of the barrier leg 3o cuffs 62 may be disposed outboard of the proximal edge 64 in both the first and second waist regions 22 and 24. The leg cuffs 62 are partially secured inward of the proximal edge 64 in the crotch region 26. In this embodiment, the lower half of the leg cuff62 is attached to the topsheet by those methods discussed above. The distal edge 66 in the crotch region 26 is then moved to a position approximately a a. a

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L

;rl perpendicular to the topsheet 38 by action of the elastic members 77 This embodiment provides a gasketing action in both the first and second waist regions 22 and 24 and a stand up barrier in the crotch region 26.

In another embodiment of the alternate embodiment, the distal edges 66 of Sthe barrier leg cuffs 62 may either be disposed inboard of the proximal edge 64 in both the first and second waist regions 22 and 24 or both disposed outboard of the proximal edge 64 in both waist regions 22 and 24. The leg cuffs 62 are partially secured inward of the proximal edge 64 in the crotch region 26. In this embodiment.

the lower half of the leg cuff 62 is attached to the topsheet in the crotch region 26 by to those methods discussed above. The distal edge 66 in the crotch region 26 is then moved to a position approximately perpendicular to the topsheet 38 by action of the elastic members 77. This embodiment provides a gasketing action in both the first and second waist regions 23 and 24 and a stand up barrier in the crotch region 26.

The barrier cuffs 62 are preferably liquid impermeable so as to prevent the i3 strikethrough of body exudates. A liquid impermeable barrier cuff 62 retards the movement of liquid through the barrier cuff 62. thereby making it more leakage resistant. The barrier cuffs 62 may be rendered liquid impermeable in any manner i well known a the art lectively treating the barrier cuffs or by choosing a, liquid impermeable material, such as a hydrophobic nonwoven material, for the 2o barrier cuffs 62.

The barrier cuffs 62 may additionally be provided with absorbcnt means secured to or within the barrier cuff 62. The absorbent means absorb and contain .2 exudates which contact the barrier cuff 62. The absorbent means may be any means which is capable of absorbing and retaining liquids and may have any size, shape.

2s configuration or absorbent capadity The absorbent means may be disposed in the barrier cuff 62 along the inboard surfaes of the barrier cuff 62 or within the barrier "cuff 62.

A spacing means 76 for spacing the distal edge 66 away from the liquidreceiving surface 40 is any member which gathers, contracts, stiffens, shortens or otherwise acts on the barrier cuff62 so as to cause the barrier cuffs 62 to stand up to provide a channel along the barrier cuff 62 that acts as a constraint against the Sleakage of exudates and a gasketing action about the buttocks of the wearer to provide a snug fit 'i sh shown in FIG 1, rhe spacin2R rrears 7 ef:bh copisselsi members 77 operativelv associated wiih each of the barrier cuffs 62 adjacent the distal edge 66. The elastic members 77 are preferably secured totebrie uf6 in an elastically contractible condition so that in a normally unrestrained confizuration. the elastic members 77 effectively contract or gather the distal edge 66 of the barrier cufF 62. The elastic members 77 can be secured to the barrier cuff 62 in an elastically contractible condition in at least two ways as is discussed in U.S. Pat.

No. 3.860,003 entitled "Contractible Side Portion For Disposable Diaper" which issued to Kenneth B. Buell on January 26. 1974. which is incorporated by reference herein. In addition. the length of the elastic member 77 in general is dictated by the diaper design. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, the elastic member 77 extends along essentiay thc- entire'length of the barrier cuff 62 in the crotch region 2,although other lengths are cognizable.

The diaper 20 is preferably applied to a wea-rer by positioning the soecond is waist regi',n 24 behind the wearees back and drawing the remainder of the diaper between the wearer's leg so that the first waist region 22 is positioned across the .front of the wearer. The ends of the tape tab fasteners %6 are then secured preferably to outwardly facing areas of the diaper 20. In this mann~er, the stand-up position of the barrier cuffs 62 should be disposed in the "no motion zone of the wearer in the crotch region 26 and the flipped out portion be positioned in less thant about 50% of the length, of the diaper 20, prefeuubly so as to be disposed in only the. second waist region 24. so as to pvie a gasketing action about the buttocks of the wearer.

Having described te product in detail. the process of this invention by which zi %he product is manufactured shall be discussed.

In the, first emnbodiment, the barrier leg cuffs 62 are joined to a completed chassis. The topsheet 38, absorbent core 44 and backsheet 42 are assembled into a chassis in any conventional fashion. The topsheet 38 and the backsheet 42 are associated togeher. in 'any suitable manner as is well known in the diaper tuanfacurigan.As sedherein, the term 'associated" encompasses configurations whereby the topsheet 38 is directly joined to the backshwe 42 by affixing the topsheet 39 directly to the bickshee .42. and conffigurations whereby tit- topsheet 38 is indirectly joined to the backsheet 42 by affixing the zopsheet r3 8 to ,intermediate Smember Whirch in turn are affixed to the backsheet 42. The toosheet 38 avid the backsheet 4: car, be Join-ed directlY to e ch other ir zh diaper eripheYSb% l attachment means shown) such as an adhesive or any other attachment means as is known in the ar Thus. for example. a uniform continuous laver of adhesive. a patterned layer of adhesive, a n arrmy of separate lines or spots of adhesive, or a network of adhesive filaments may be used.

After the chassis has been formed. the barrier leg cuffs 62 are joined to the topsheet 38 of the completed chassis by their proximal edges 64 as shown in FIG. 2.

The term "joined" includes any means for securing the barrier cuff 62 to the diaper and includes embodiments wherein the barrier cuffs 62 are separate members i~directly or indirectly secured to the side Rlaps 58 integral barrie.r cuffs) or embodiments wherein the barrier cuffs 62 are constructed firom the same member or material as an element of the diaper 20 such as the side flap 58 so that the barrierA cuffs 62 are a continuous and undivided element of the side flap 58 unitary barrier cuffs). The barrier cuffs 62 may alternatively be joined to the backsheet 42.

*the topsheet 38. the absorbent core 44. or any combination of these or other elements of the diaper 20. The term 'joine includes any meants for securing the barrier cuff 62 to the diaper 20. and includes embodiments wherein the barrier cuffs 62 are separate members directly or indirectly scrdto the side flaps 59 integral barrier cuffi) or emibodiments wherein the barrier cuffs 62 are constructed from the o same member or material as an clement of the diaper 20 so that the barrier cuffs 62 are a continuous and undivided element of the diaper 20 Unitary barrier cuffs).

The proxWWa edges 64 and topsheet 38 are joined together in any suitable manner.

'-As used. herein, the term "joined" encompasses configurations whereby the proximal edges 64 are directly secured to the topsheet 38 by affixing the priml edges 64 ~sdirectly to the side flap 59 and configurations whereby the proitimal edges 64 are.

-indirectly secured to the topsheet 38 by affxing the proximal edges 64 to :**~'intermediate members -which in turn are affxed to the side flap 58. In the preferred other alesinthe crotch region 26 by the scal means (not shown).

of liquid emamaing firon the edges of the absorbent core 44 or wicking along the t. opsheet 38 may be enitazced by making the topsheet or the absorbent core not ,2 I 1 i extend beyond the proxmal edge 64 The seal means may be any means for seC:-'n the proximal edges 64 to the side flaps 58 such as adhesives, heatpressure seaing.

ultrasonic bonding. or any other means or methods as are known in the anr Exemplary adhesives are manufactured by Findley Adhesives. Inc. of Elmrove.

WI

S and marketed as Findley Adhesive 581 or by H.B Fuller Company of St. Paul. .N and marketed as IM-1258.

As illustrated in FIG 2. after the leg cuffs 62 are joined to the body of the diaper 20 along the cuffs' proximal edge 64. the cuffs 62 are positioned such that the elasticated (distal) edge 66 is oriented inwardly toward the longitudinal centerline 36 to of the diaper 20. Once the elasticated edge 66 has ben positioned inwardly toward the longitudinal centerline 36. leg notches (not shown) can be cut and removed without leg cuff interference.

Next, a bonding agent, as described above, is provided in the second waist region 24 and the cuffs 62 are atached outwardly of the longitudinal centerline and is anchored to the diaper 20. The seal means 82 may be any means for securing the proximal edges 64 to the side flaps 58 such as adhesives, heat/pressure sealing.

ultrasonic bonding. or any other means or methods as are known in the artn. The seal means may be applied to either the. side of the leg cuff 62 outboard of the longitudinal centerline 36 or to the side flaps 58. In either instance. once the cuffs 62 are folded outwardly. the cuffs 62 will become bonded to the diaper bond As shown in FIG. 2A. after the cufft 62 are folded outwardly, an intermittent bond is applied in the first waist region 22 of the diaper 20 either on the side of the barrier leg cuff 62 inboard of the longitudinal centerline 36 or to the body of the diaper 20 itself. The bond may be any means commonly used in the art such as adhesives, heat/pressure sealing ultrasonic bonding or any other means or method Spresently known. The method preferably used to bond the barrier leg cuff 62 to the first waist region22 ofthe dia 20 is an adhesive. Next. the diaper 20 is folded so t. amt he barrer eg cuffs 62 become attached inwardly toward the longitudinal.

that the br ier leg cuff 62 become centerline 36 in the first waist region 22. Finally, the diapers 20 are separated from :the web into individual articles and prepared for packaging. Typically. this is performed by cuings the diapers 20 transversely.

As shown in FG. 3. a second embodiment, the barrier leg cuffs 62 are joined to the topsheet 38 by a continuous bond as discssd previusly. he baier eg Sffs 62 ar joined to the topsheet 3 ith their respecve distal edges 66 directed inwardly toward 1he Ion= tudinal centerline 36 of zh d &aper 20 A bonding ZZen'. Is described above, is then provided in the first waist reeion of 7the diaper 20. While the disxal edizes 66 are directed inwardly toward the Ionzitudinkal centerline 36. the distal edges 66 ar achored in the first waist region22 of the diaptr 20.. This anchoring means Can be any conventional means known in the art such as adhesives.

heat.'pressure sealin&. u~ltrasonic bonding or any other means or rnethods knowvn in the irn, Aeain, the inchoring mneans may be applied to either the side of the legz cuff 62 inboa rd of the longitudinal centerline 36 or to the body of the diaper After zhe barrier kg cutfs 62 are bonded to the first Waist region 2 2 of the topshtet 38. the topsheet 38 is then associated with a backsheet 42 and an1 absor-bent core 44. in the mimner descnie above to fbrm a chassis.- Once the id-9e± bakhe 2ad -absorbent core 44 have been a-Sociated (not shown). leg notches are then cut forming ear panels 100 in at least the second waist region.

After the leg notches have been cut. a bondin agent is appieinteecd waist region 24 of the diaper 20. The bonding agent can be applied either to the sid e of the barrier leg cuff 62 outboard of the longitudinal centerine 36 or to the top*eet 38 of the diaper 20 near the outboard side of the barrier leg cuff 62. The car panels 100 are then folded inwardly toward the longitudinal centxerline 36 onto the batier lest cuffs 62. The bonding age-nt bonds the distal edge 66 to the ear panel 100 tin the second waist region 24 to the biarrier leg cuff 62. The diapers, 20 are then separated into individual articles and prepared for packaging.

As shown in FIG. 4. in a third embodiment, Xhe barrier leg cuffs 62 are first associated with the topsheei 38 A bonding agent is then provwided in the second :~waist region 24 and the barrier leg cuffs 62 are secured to. the topsheet 38 with their distal edges 66 direced outwardly from the ceinterline 36 in the second waist Threpion 2 4 of the diaper 20., The leq cuffs 62 ve secured in the second waist region 24 of the diaper 20 by: any coniventional means such as adhesives. heat/pressure7 sealinI. ultrasonic bonding or any other means or methods as are known in the an 3o The topshect 39 is then associated with the backsheet 42 and the absorbent core 44 to formt a chassis. Once thie chassis has been lnned. she leg notches. are cut. After4 *the leg notches have been cut, the bonduii4-agent is provided in the first waist region22of the diaper 2 0, nti mOini.tebo~ gti ple oed th ieof the barrier leg cuff 62 inboard oif the logtdnlcneiie36 or to the 7-F bodv of the i a vr ZO nza. the, inboard.idofe cu :hc firs; w aist, rcion of the diaper 20. Thus, when the diaper 20 is folded zhe fiont bond is secured The sequcnct of the third embodiment differs from that whiich is dcscribed in the second embodiment in that the bond in the second waist region 2 is completed first. After the diaper 20 has been folded. the diapers 20 are then separated and prepared for P ackaging.

In a fiburh embodiment. shown in FIG. 5. the leg cuffs 62 are attached to the topshee-t 38 with the distal edee '66 of each leg cuff 62 dircted outwardly from the centertine 36 of the article 20. As the cuffs are being attached.

the cuffs 62 are secured to the topsheet 38 outboard of the longitudinal centertine 36 in both the first and second waist regions 22 andi 24. In an alternate embodiment of this embodiment, the leg cuffs 62 can be attached to the topsheet 38 with the distal .edge 66 of each cuff 6? -directed intwardly toward the centerline 36. The topsheet 38.

absorbent core 44 and backsheet 4? are -hen assembled into. a chassis in any is conventional fashion, wi described above. After the diape 20 has been assembledthe leg notches are -thert cut. -Next, an adhesive is p.-oviided on the proximal half of the inboard side of the bartier leg cuff 6? in the crotch region 26C The diaper 20 is then folded and cut transversely to its proper length. In this embodiment. when the diaper 20 is opened-! by- the consumer. the leg cuffs 62 are. partially joined to the io rpsheet. 38 in the crotch region 26. Le.. they are secred, to the topshee from the proximal edge 64 to, approximately half their height, and joined w~ith their distal edges 66 directed outwardly of the longitudinal cetertine 36 in both the first aud second waist regions'22 and 24. _When the alternate embodiment is opened, the leg cuffis 62 are, diret inwardly toward the longtudinal centerlini in both the first and second wain regions 22antdl4.

Having deiscribed the processes* of this invention in detail, a general summary is provided in FIG. 6. FIG. 6 presents'a schematic ilustration of the process of fhis tim One skilled in the art should. note that slight variations occur in the/ aiosembodimets. so that certain ses ayor may not be inclued in each *3 a. so ebodirent The web 200 ran bt an assembled chassis, as Wumtrtedl in the Process, accompanying FIG. 2, a topsheet 38. as illustrated in the proces accomnpanying FIGS. 3-5,'or a back sheet 42. The web 12 of the leg cuffis 62 are attached to the web 200. Teeg cuffs 62can eatached either fom asiigleweb which is .subsequtntly spEit into two -separate webs-to create each of the lts aiml or each of te iez cut-.s Kcan be£~fe ~i ~e w: a-_-iLTh le c~s mnay be either elasici6z d or non elasticized znd atec preferably elasticized. Although described herein as being attached to tim! cyrnokmed chassis or to zhe topshett 3S.

one skillied in the ar will appreclae that tht lez cuffs 62 can also be attached to the back seet 4 his co"ir tebrIez e c-u-;s 62 art joined to the topsheet 38 by.

their proximal edzes 6. They can be attached by any coniventional means such as adhesives, htatipressure seiling. ultraslonic bonding. or any other means or methods.

as are known in the x Once the let cuffis 62 have been attached to the topsheet 38. a bonding agent is applied at station 220. The bondingv agent is appli ed in the first waist region 22 as illustrated in FIG., 3. .As illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 4. the bonding agent is applied at sain220 inthe-, aitrain2 o h diapr. In the embodiment descrbed in FIG. 5. the boam-4 agent is applied to both the first waist region 22 and the second waist ri-gi"o3 at station 220. As previotj-.ly described, this bonding agent 13 can be any bonding -agent commonyuenthar ildng, but not limited to.

adhesive tape, heat sealing, pressure sea'ling. ultrasonc banding or a spot adhesive and is, preferably. a 4spot adhesive.

Once the ba-nding agerit has been applied to the diaper 20. at station 230 the.leg cumf 62 a mrr.ked 'to the t~op sheet -39 with the cuffs 62 either directed To o11Vrej> froma tbet 4-ngitudinal centerine 36 in the second waist region 24. as describe in FIGS. 2 Azn4 4 .sr'dizrected inw;ardly, of the longitudinal centerline 36 in t 6 ~thtt fir- st. t region Z2 as 4csribor; irFIG- 3 In the embodimnt depicted in FIG.

the leg, to~i hr o psheet 38--with th itlegs 6 dixectU? toward the ltngitiuia ctn-erliit, 36 in both the first waist region 22ante s secom wis region 24 or with- thadista edges- 64 of both leg cuffis '62 directly ouiaiy of the lonigitudinal centerlie3 nbt the firs waist region 22and the sec6Md w;Ais regioni 24.. One skled in the ?v will appreciate that if the bonding aget is heat sealn. pressure sealing- trrsorc bondin or a iiar method, that stijonr22 and 230 way. ei-her be combtttd into onie station at swiwied in their 3o order in e pmocss the chais .;his d at station 24K,, Ai point, the top sheet 38 is asvociated with the bsobentent 44 nd be ckltheet 42. as describcd above- Once assocated the topsheet 3..hkb t42 =nd absorbent cr 4frmacmltdcassTe thre ~eent. she:3S backshe and Cor4 are me a svauof 240 from setpazate webs of each or fi.om any combination o: the three Once the chassis has been assernbltd. i the notzhes are cu: at staiion 250 Havt~ ct te 13 ntchs. bodug agera is aipplied in the wast region ot the diaper :20. opposite to that regtion in which the bonding agent wv applied at staxion 220. at station 260. For the embodilment described in FIGS; 2 and 4. the bonding agent is applied in the first waist region 12 Of thle diape 20O. For the embodin~t described in FIG. 3. the bonding agent is applied In the second w2Cst region 24 of the diaper. Finally for the embodiment described in FIG. 5, the bondiftg AD agent is provided on the proxnal half of the inboard side of the barrier 1e3 cuff 62 in the crotch rexion 26. Again, this bonding agent can be any bonding agent commonly used in the art including, but not limnited to, adhesive tape. heat sealing. pressure sealing ultrasonic bonding or a spot adhesive and is. prefecrably. a spot adhesive.

After the bonding agent has been applied at station 260. the dlaperS are _oddaqttin20s ha h adn agent appLied at station 260 joins the leg c ffs to the topsheet 38 in the proper position. At station 270 thet diapers may ither be C-folded or Z-folded. with Z-foldirig being preferred. In the process described in FIGS. 2 and 4. when the diaper is folded, the bonding agent conmul~ the leg cuffs 62 in the first waist region 22 of the diaper 20 to secure, it to the topsheet 38S directed inwardly toward the longitudinal centerline, 36. As illustrated in FIG. 3. the diaper is folded so that the Ig cuffs 62 becom joined to the ropsheet 38 directed outwardly oftelongitudinal centerline 36 i th secon wais region 24ofthe diper 20 or the embodiment described in FIG. 5. the diaper 20 is folded so that the kg cuffs 62 becomnes secu-ei to -the diaper 20 int the crotch region 26 providing apartial standup barrier in crthe hregion 1 6 One. siledinthe ant will appreciate that -f the bonding -agent is heat sealing. pressuire sealinig. ultrasonic bospding or a simnilar rnetho&L station 260 and 270 may either be combined intto oft stamio or switched in their ordet in the Pirocss To avoid any cross mnachine direction complicatioms, the consoner technically completes the construction of the, diaper 20. When ready to use the diaper 20 after.

puchse th-osrifoestedao2 oapsto nhc h aze e cuffs 62 am. attached in the fist waist rTVio 22 of the diaper 20 with their diWa ed 66 direced inwardly toward the lortsitudinal centerline 36 and in which the6 distlede 6 x ir ce uwdyo h loctudinal centerline in the second 66 dreced OM-Wly o th reiO~ for tr d~oirtescMi e wbaciG te a 'ecrbed in FIG. 5. tv osmroeStCatil oapslf nwk ther ther lgcuffs 62 have ohi ditlegS6 ietde~e nady 1 wrdl the legiudfl cetrln 36i ohwitr~oS rd4 rdcted outwadl f !one lc tudna l c 1ce rl in 36 in b t ait r g Ons. 2 and 24. a d hc h diapr 2 ha a a~tal ymridup batrier in the crotch relziof 26.

d a se 20 h a a tp P t h w b 0 is cut t o individual diapers.

Whiarl& ST bdmel~ ofte rsnt inventionl have been illustrated and eStbditwould be obvious to those skilled inthr at.ht~l~u te changes ard modification-s can bremade ithout departing ftrm th~e spiri*' Ind scop of heinVfli t is therefore intended to cover in the appended claim all such chagesari moifiatins hatarewithin the scoPe of this inventiont.

cht-e nd..iiiiosta r

Claims (4)

1. A method for making a wearable, absorbent article having a longitudinal centerline wherein the method includes the steps of: providing a topsheet of indefinite length for an absorbent article, the topsheet having a first waist region and a second waist region and a crotch region located between the first and second waist regions; attaching a pair of longitudinally extending banier leg cuffs to the topsheet, each of the barrier leg cuffs having a proximal portion fixed to the topsheet-and a distal portion unsecured at least to a portion of the article, the barrier leg cult attached such that the distal portion of such barrier leg cuff is oriented inwardly toward the longitudinal centerline; providing a bonding agent in the first waist region of the article; attaching the barrier leg cuffs to the first waist region of the article, causing the distal portions of the leg cuffs to be attached inwardly toward the longitudinal centerline in the first waist region; associating the topsheet with a backsheet and a centrally Spositioned absorbent core to form a chassis; cutting. leg notches in the crotch region of the chassis thereby forming ear panels in at least the second waist region; providing a bonding agent in the second waist region of the article; folding the ear panels in the second waist region inwardly toward the longitudinal centerfine such that the distal portions of the leg cuffs become attached to the ear panels in the second waist region; and cutting the chassis transversely into individual articles.

2. The method according to claim 1 charactersed in that the bonding agent seaing. ultrasonic bonding and a spot adhesive. f ti eg oc seg of -he ch i s there fomn ea aesi tes hescn as ein (9 poidn abndn aen n h scndwirionofth ad I

3. The method according to laim I or 2 characterised in that the bonding agent is provided on a side, farthest from the longitudinal centerline, of the log cuff in the second Waist region of the article.

4. The method according to any one of claims I to 3 characterised in that the bonding agent is provided on a side, closest to the lonjitudinal centerline,. of the leg cuff in the first waist region of the article. A wearable, absorbent article havirg a longitudinal centerline made according to the method of any one of claims 1 to 4. DATED this 30th day of December, 1998 THAE PRCTER GAMBLE COMPANY. WATERMARK PATENT TRADEMARK ATTORNEYS 290 BURWOOD ROAD HAWTHORN. VICTORIA 31,22 AUSTRALIA