CA1113651A - Re-usable adhesive tape tab for disposable diapers - Google Patents
Re-usable adhesive tape tab for disposable diapersInfo
- Publication number
- CA1113651A CA1113651A CA303,870A CA303870A CA1113651A CA 1113651 A CA1113651 A CA 1113651A CA 303870 A CA303870 A CA 303870A CA 1113651 A CA1113651 A CA 1113651A
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- adhesive
- segment
- diaper
- plastic film
- tape tab
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Expired
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Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61F—FILTERS IMPLANTABLE INTO BLOOD VESSELS; PROSTHESES; DEVICES PROVIDING PATENCY TO, OR PREVENTING COLLAPSING OF, TUBULAR STRUCTURES OF THE BODY, e.g. STENTS; ORTHOPAEDIC, NURSING OR CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICES; FOMENTATION; TREATMENT OR PROTECTION OF EYES OR EARS; BANDAGES, DRESSINGS OR ABSORBENT PADS; FIRST-AID KITS
- A61F13/00—Bandages or dressings; Absorbent pads
- A61F13/15—Absorbent pads, e.g. sanitary towels, swabs or tampons for external or internal application to the body; Supporting or fastening means therefor; Tampon applicators
- A61F13/56—Supporting or fastening means
- A61F13/58—Adhesive tab fastener elements
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- Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Epidemiology (AREA)
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Biomedical Technology (AREA)
- Heart & Thoracic Surgery (AREA)
- Vascular Medicine (AREA)
- Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Animal Behavior & Ethology (AREA)
- General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Public Health (AREA)
- Veterinary Medicine (AREA)
- Absorbent Articles And Supports Therefor (AREA)
Abstract
RE-USABLE ADHESIVE TAPE TAB FOR DISPOSABLE DIAPERS
Abstract Of The Disclosure A repositionable tape tab for a disposable diaper comprises a thin, flexible plastic film having a first segment affixed to the diaper and a second segment, a portion of which is coated with a repositionable adhesive for positioning on the diaper outer surface in forming a closure. The distal portion of the second segment being non-adhesive, thereby forming a pull tab. In a preferred embodiment, a portion of the second segment adjacent the first segment is non-adhesive.
Abstract Of The Disclosure A repositionable tape tab for a disposable diaper comprises a thin, flexible plastic film having a first segment affixed to the diaper and a second segment, a portion of which is coated with a repositionable adhesive for positioning on the diaper outer surface in forming a closure. The distal portion of the second segment being non-adhesive, thereby forming a pull tab. In a preferred embodiment, a portion of the second segment adjacent the first segment is non-adhesive.
Description
36~
Background 0~ The In~rention This invention relates to an improved adhesive tape tab for use on disposable diapers More particularly, this invention relates to an improved adhesive tape tab which permits a disposable diaper to ~e reopened after a closure has been made without tearing the plastic film outer surface of the diaper or the tape tab itself, and which tape tab can be reused for subsequent fastenings of the diaper.
.< It has become very common and practical to use adhesive tape tabs on disposable diapers. The practicality of tape tabs over pins for use with disposable diapers is sel~-evident, however, there are shortcomings involved in the use of adhesive tape tabs. For instance, when a child reaches the toilet training stage its diaper must be opened and could thereafter be used again provided another diaper closure could be made. The major shortcoming in the known ~; adhesive tape tabs is that an additional closure cannot be r .
made, and the diaper once opened, must be discarded. In '~ most instances, while attempting to separate the adhesive r tape tab from the outer surface of the diaper, usually a thin plastic film, the film is torn or the tape tab itself T ~ is torn. The torn tape tab or diaper outer surface makes refastening very cumbersome, if not practically impossible.
In some instances, pieces of the torn outer sur~ace may re-main attached to the adhesive tab, rendering it unusable.
In addition, the tearing of the outer surface may expose the absorbent material inside the diaper, pieces of which may drop out of the diaper. Usually, the consumer has to discard unsoiled diapers because the attempt to open the diaper has , , .
Background 0~ The In~rention This invention relates to an improved adhesive tape tab for use on disposable diapers More particularly, this invention relates to an improved adhesive tape tab which permits a disposable diaper to ~e reopened after a closure has been made without tearing the plastic film outer surface of the diaper or the tape tab itself, and which tape tab can be reused for subsequent fastenings of the diaper.
.< It has become very common and practical to use adhesive tape tabs on disposable diapers. The practicality of tape tabs over pins for use with disposable diapers is sel~-evident, however, there are shortcomings involved in the use of adhesive tape tabs. For instance, when a child reaches the toilet training stage its diaper must be opened and could thereafter be used again provided another diaper closure could be made. The major shortcoming in the known ~; adhesive tape tabs is that an additional closure cannot be r .
made, and the diaper once opened, must be discarded. In '~ most instances, while attempting to separate the adhesive r tape tab from the outer surface of the diaper, usually a thin plastic film, the film is torn or the tape tab itself T ~ is torn. The torn tape tab or diaper outer surface makes refastening very cumbersome, if not practically impossible.
In some instances, pieces of the torn outer sur~ace may re-main attached to the adhesive tab, rendering it unusable.
In addition, the tearing of the outer surface may expose the absorbent material inside the diaper, pieces of which may drop out of the diaper. Usually, the consumer has to discard unsoiled diapers because the attempt to open the diaper has , , .
-2-, , ~~~ ~''~,'-'''~'"'' : , ,~ ,
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-torn the diaper outer surface. The same problem is confrontecl when one attempts to open a disposable diaper to check :~or soiling.
The inability to refasten the diaper due to the tearing of the outer surface arises from use of very thin plastic film as the ~luid impermeable outer sur~ace in nearly all disposable diapers. This thin plastic film is economical~
flexible and supple, and acts as a. barrier for retaining ~luids withi~ the diaper. While the known adhesive tape tabs make a rellable first fastening on the film, the peel strength of the tab is greater than the tear strength of the film, causing the film to tear when attempts are made to peel the tape from the film. Using a thicker plastic film would in-crease the cost of the disposable diaper and reduce the flexibility and sMppleness o~ the outside surface with no assurance that tearing will not occur under variable tape fastening conditions. Reducing the peel strength of the tape tab to less than the tearing strength of the film runs the risk that the holding strength of the adhesive tab will be reduced to the point of ineffectiveness in maintaining a diaper closure.
Recently there have been attempts to provide the disposable diapers with adhes~ive tape tabs which can be used more than once. In USP 3,848,596 the tape tab fastening means provides an arrangement which is essentially useful for only two fastenings, the original and one more. Use of multiple release sheets on the tape tab provides refastening ability. The multiple release sheets are, however, limiting elements in the refastening or repositioning ability of the tapes and add cost in the manufacture of the diapers.
l3~;51 In U.S. Patent Mo. ~,067,337, a conventional tape tab i9 made repositionable by applying a non-adhesive open mesh sheet material to the adhesive fasten:ing surface. The adhesive material is thereby lnterrupted and divided into segments each of which has an area such that the peel strength over each segmented area, between the tape and the the film, is less than the tearing strength of the film over the same segmented area. While such a tape tab is repositionable, it requires the use and expense of the non-adhesive open mesh sheet material.
The prior art also reveals the use o-f a plastic film as the support for the adhesive tape tab~ Adhesive, when applied to a plastic surface, rather than paper, tape lies in a thin, smooth layer, giving a uniform, continuous adhesive surface. The conformability of the thin, flexible plastic film tape tabs and the smooth adhesive layer thereon to the thin plastic film outer surface of the diaper gives excellent holding power to the tape tab. In addition, -the plastlc film tape tab requires considerably less adhesive than the conventional paper tape tabs, thereby yielding a cost savings.
The prior art also discloses tape tabs with a non-adhesive portion, or hinge, between the adhesive coated closure segment and the segment by which the tape tab is first affixed to the diaper. The hinge allows limited movement between these two segments of the tape tab in a diaper closure, providing comfort for the wearer.
Additional movement causes lifting, peeling forces to be applied to the adhesive closure segment by the hinge.
When the adhesive closure segment of the tape tab can be separated from the .
:::
. ~ . .
: . ~ ' ' . . ' ~3~ CHIC 595 diaper outer surface~ as in the present invention, the wearer may cause sufficient movement -to peel away enough of the segment to undo the closure. Use of the plastic film in forming the repositionable tape tab of the present lnvention yields a "limp" hinge which does not communicate lifting, peeling forces to the adhesive closure segment. In a pre~erred embodiment of ~he present invention, the plastic filrn of the tape tab is elastic providing even greater movement between the two tape closure segments, yielding greater com~ort to the wearer.
Summary Of The Invention An improved economical adhesive tape tab which may be fastened, opened and refastened a number of times to the plastic film outer surface on a conventional disposable diaper has now been discovered. The adhesive tape tab requires only one adhesively coated tape for utility, uses considerably less adhesive than a conventional diaper tape tab, may be fastened to the presently used thin plastic film diaper outer surfaces, and most importantly can be separated therefrom _ without tearing the diaper outer sur~ace or the tab itself.
The primary advantage o~ this new adhesive tape tab is the cost savings gained ~rom using disposable diapers many times, until soiled. When children are in the toilet training stage, the reusability ~eature is a signi~icant advantage. Besides the cost savings, the reuse o~ the same diaper is a convenience measure since an additional diaper does not have to be available every time the child ma~as an - attempt to learn the significance of the toilet.
. . .
--i . .
~ 5~ CEIC 595 Ano-ther advantage of this new adhesive tape tab is the flexibility of the plastic film tape material and its co~formability to the plastic ~ilm outer sur~ace o~ the ~iaper providing a tape tab that is aesthetically pleaslng to the touch and highly tear resistant, as well as requiring less adhesive than the conventional paperbacked diaper tape tab.
The plastic film tape material is strong and moisture repellont as ~ell as being ~lexible, giving improved strength at the junction of the tape and the outer edge of the diaper.
In accordance with the principles o~ this invention, an improved adhesive tape tab is provided ~or repositionable and reapplicable use on any o~ the well known disposable diapers having a thin plastic film outer surface.
The tape tab of the present invention is made of a strip o~
thin plastic film and has a first segment attached to the diaper, and a second segment, a portion o~ which is coated with a repositionable adhesive coating ~or ~astening on the outer surface of the diaper, the distal portion of the second segment being non-adhesive, serves as a pull tab. In a pre~erred embodiment, the portion of the second segment which lies ad~acent the first segment is non-adhesive and flexible and acts as a hinge between the two diaper fastening ends of the tape. Any flexible plastic film material such as polyester or polypropylene may be used to ~orm the tape tab, which should have a max.~mum thickness of 4 mils. The tape tab may, if desired, utilize a coated release sheet or be attached to release coated material on the diaper facing before use.
The adhesive disposes itself on the plastic film in-a smooth, uniform layer. It is believed that the smooth adhesive layer _~_ ..
- .
and the flexibility of the plastic tape backing contribute to the superiority of the fastening strength of the plas-tic backed tape tab over a similar:Ly constructed paperbaeked tape tab.
According to a fur-ther broad aspect of the present invention there is provided in combination a disposable diaper of the type having an inside surface for direction toward a wearer and a thin, plastic fil:m outer surface having an adhesive contacting surface, and a repositionable tape tab. The tape tab comprises a strip of thin, flexible plastic film having a first segment affixed to the diaper.
A second segment is provided for attachment to the diaper adhesive contacting surfaee of the diaper outer surfaee in forming the closure. A portion of the second segment is eoated with a pressure-sensitive adhesive coating that is repositionable with respect to the adhesive eontaeting surfaee and having a "quic~-s~iek" of about 7 oz. per ineh and a "peel adhesion" of substantially no more than 8.3 oz per ineh with respeet to the adhesive contacting surface. :~
The distal portion of the second segment is non-adhesive . .
and forms a pull tab.
Brief Deser_ption of the Drawin s These and other advantages, features and aspects of the invention will become apparent upon reading the following detailed description and upon referenee to the following drawings wherein:
FIGURE 1 is a plane view of the tape tab of the present invention affixed -to the outer surfaee of a dispos-able diaper and ready for fastening.
t~ 7 ~3~S~
FIGURE 2 is a pLane view of a por-tion of the preferred emhoclirnent of the tape tab of the present invention ex-tended beyond -the cl-iaper ready for fa.steniny, as viewed toward the insicle surface of a disposable diaper.
FIGURE 3 is a perspec-tive view of a disposable diaper fastening made with the preferred embodiment of the ~ tape tab of the present invention.
; Description of -the Invention In Figure 1, tape tab 10, made from a strip of a thin plastic film such as polyester or polypropylene, has a first segment 11, affixed to the d:iaper 12, and a second segment 13. A portion 14, of the second segment is coated with a repositionable pressure-sensitive adhesive, for example a styrene butadiene polymer tachified with natural resin esters. The distal portion 15, of the second : 1 - 7a -3~5~
segment 13~ ha~ no adhesive coating ancl serves as a pull tab for peeling portion 14, ~rom the p].astic film outer surface of the disposable diaper to undo a diaper closure.
; The pressure-sensitive adhesive coating for use in the tape tab of the present invention must possess reasonable ~Iquick-stick~ without developing sufficient peel adhesion as to rupture the plastic film diaper outer surface. The adhesive, applied to the tab in the amount of 400 - 800 grains per square meter, and must meet the following requirements of quick-stick peel adhesion.
In the standard quick-stick test, measuring the average force required to peel a 2" strip of tape from a stainless steel surf`ace, the adhesive tape tab of the present invention registered 18 oz./in. as compared to 56 oz./in. for a conventional diaper tape tab.
In a modified quick-stick test, the tapes were ~`- peeled ~rom an embossed matte plastic I'ilm manufactured by the Visqueen Division o~ the Ethyl Corporation. This film is one of the standard ~ilms used to form the outer surface of disposable diapers and is commonly referred to as having a matte type surface. When tested with reference to the matte ~inished surface, the tape tab o~ the present invention registered 7 oz./in. quick-stick value compared to 20.5 oz./
in. for the conventional tape tab. The tapes are, howeve~, also repositionable with respect to non matte-type film surfaces.
- While the quick-stick of the adhesive is low, contributing to the repositionability of the tape tab, the tape tab forms an adequate closure with the various plastic film diaper outer surfaces currently marketed, and in particular with the matte type embossed film manufactured ` -8-' .
.
..
~36~ C~IIC 595 by the Ethyl Corporation.
In a peel adhesion test conducted with respect to the matte type embossèd ~ilm and using a 2 pound wei~ht for 5 seconds to secure the tape, the tape ta~ o~ the present invention registered a low peel adh~sion of 8.3 oz./in., which is less than the tearing strength of the conventional, thin plastic ~ilms used on the outer surface of disposable diapers, allowing the tape to be separated from the film without tearing the film.
In the alternative construction shown in Figure 2, an end portion of segment 14, may be ~olded back on itself to create a pull tab 15. In the preferred embodiment shown in Figure 2, a non-adhesive portion 16, exists between the first segment 11~ and the adhesive portion 14, of the second segment 13, of the tape tab forming a h~nge.
- The hinge yields a discontinuity of forces along the tape between the two fastening ends o~ the tape, allowing movement between the two fastening ends and pre-venting the communication of lifting, peeling stresses to the two fastening ends. This is of signi~icance in the present invention wherein the peeling strength of the tape has been reduced to achieve repositionability. I~ the thin plastic film tape material is elastic, greater movement is allowed between the tape fastening ends, giving added comfort to the wearer.
In laboratory tests, a paperbacked tape utilizing the same adhesive as the present invention, and having a hinge, was compared to the plastic film backed tape with hinge of the preferred embodiment of the present invention.
~9_ ~ S ~ C~IC 595 The test devised was one ~elieved to approximate the "in use" stresses on a diaper tape tab that would offer a comparison of the holdi~g strength of various tape tabs.
As both tapes possess adequate shear strength, the holding strength of the tape closure during lateral movement of the front and back portions of the diaper was compared. In each instance, the diaper closure was made by applying to the tape a pressure o~ five pounds for five minutes. The tapes were then compared for their ability to maintain a diaper closure and their ability to be separated from the diaper without tearing the plastic film outer surface. Each tape was sub~ected to oscillations at a right angle to the length of the tape. The tape fastening ends were disposed at a maximum distance fr~m each other of l~" in both directions. The plastic backed tape closure was able to sustain over 400 oscillations while the paperbacked tape was able to sustain, at mostj 73 oscillations.
The flexibility of the plastic film of tape tab lO, and its conformability to the plastic film outer surface of the conventional disposable diaper provide a soft, smooth~ supple tab fasteni~g requiring considerably less adhesive than used in a conventional diaper tape tab.
Optionally, the tape tab lO, may be affixed to a release portion 17, of the inside surface of the diaper before use, or may be provided with a removable cover strip, as is known in the art.
Figure 3 illustrates a diaper fastening made with the tape tab of the preferred embodiment o~ this invention, when adhesive portion 14, of the second segment .
~3~5~ CHIC 5~5 13, is a-ttached to the thln plastic ou-ter surface 18, of disposable diaper 12. Figure 3 shows the hinge-ef~ect of non-adhesive portion 16, allowing movement between the - adhesive portion 14, of the second segment 13, and the first se~ment ll, and providing a discontinuity of lifting, peeling forces there between.
Another advanta~e of the new tape tab of this invention is realized a~ter the flnal opening of the diaper, when the diaper is ready to be discarded. The new tape tab allows the diaper to be opened cleanly, wlth no untidy tearing, while sufficient adheslve remains on the tape for one last function. ~fter the diaper is removed from the wearer, it may be folded or rolled and then sealed closed with the tape tabs so that the contents are contained securely within in order-to be discarded.
Thus, it is apparent that there has been provided, in accordance with the invention, an improved, reusable adhesive tape tab for use on disposable diapers that fully satisfies the aims, advantages and aspects set forth above. While the invention has been described in conjunction with specific embodirnents thereof~ it is evident that many alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art in view of the foregoing description. Accordingly, the plenary in-vention is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications and variations as fall within the spirit and broad scope of the described invention.
'
-torn the diaper outer surface. The same problem is confrontecl when one attempts to open a disposable diaper to check :~or soiling.
The inability to refasten the diaper due to the tearing of the outer surface arises from use of very thin plastic film as the ~luid impermeable outer sur~ace in nearly all disposable diapers. This thin plastic film is economical~
flexible and supple, and acts as a. barrier for retaining ~luids withi~ the diaper. While the known adhesive tape tabs make a rellable first fastening on the film, the peel strength of the tab is greater than the tear strength of the film, causing the film to tear when attempts are made to peel the tape from the film. Using a thicker plastic film would in-crease the cost of the disposable diaper and reduce the flexibility and sMppleness o~ the outside surface with no assurance that tearing will not occur under variable tape fastening conditions. Reducing the peel strength of the tape tab to less than the tearing strength of the film runs the risk that the holding strength of the adhesive tab will be reduced to the point of ineffectiveness in maintaining a diaper closure.
Recently there have been attempts to provide the disposable diapers with adhes~ive tape tabs which can be used more than once. In USP 3,848,596 the tape tab fastening means provides an arrangement which is essentially useful for only two fastenings, the original and one more. Use of multiple release sheets on the tape tab provides refastening ability. The multiple release sheets are, however, limiting elements in the refastening or repositioning ability of the tapes and add cost in the manufacture of the diapers.
l3~;51 In U.S. Patent Mo. ~,067,337, a conventional tape tab i9 made repositionable by applying a non-adhesive open mesh sheet material to the adhesive fasten:ing surface. The adhesive material is thereby lnterrupted and divided into segments each of which has an area such that the peel strength over each segmented area, between the tape and the the film, is less than the tearing strength of the film over the same segmented area. While such a tape tab is repositionable, it requires the use and expense of the non-adhesive open mesh sheet material.
The prior art also reveals the use o-f a plastic film as the support for the adhesive tape tab~ Adhesive, when applied to a plastic surface, rather than paper, tape lies in a thin, smooth layer, giving a uniform, continuous adhesive surface. The conformability of the thin, flexible plastic film tape tabs and the smooth adhesive layer thereon to the thin plastic film outer surface of the diaper gives excellent holding power to the tape tab. In addition, -the plastlc film tape tab requires considerably less adhesive than the conventional paper tape tabs, thereby yielding a cost savings.
The prior art also discloses tape tabs with a non-adhesive portion, or hinge, between the adhesive coated closure segment and the segment by which the tape tab is first affixed to the diaper. The hinge allows limited movement between these two segments of the tape tab in a diaper closure, providing comfort for the wearer.
Additional movement causes lifting, peeling forces to be applied to the adhesive closure segment by the hinge.
When the adhesive closure segment of the tape tab can be separated from the .
:::
. ~ . .
: . ~ ' ' . . ' ~3~ CHIC 595 diaper outer surface~ as in the present invention, the wearer may cause sufficient movement -to peel away enough of the segment to undo the closure. Use of the plastic film in forming the repositionable tape tab of the present lnvention yields a "limp" hinge which does not communicate lifting, peeling forces to the adhesive closure segment. In a pre~erred embodiment of ~he present invention, the plastic filrn of the tape tab is elastic providing even greater movement between the two tape closure segments, yielding greater com~ort to the wearer.
Summary Of The Invention An improved economical adhesive tape tab which may be fastened, opened and refastened a number of times to the plastic film outer surface on a conventional disposable diaper has now been discovered. The adhesive tape tab requires only one adhesively coated tape for utility, uses considerably less adhesive than a conventional diaper tape tab, may be fastened to the presently used thin plastic film diaper outer surfaces, and most importantly can be separated therefrom _ without tearing the diaper outer sur~ace or the tab itself.
The primary advantage o~ this new adhesive tape tab is the cost savings gained ~rom using disposable diapers many times, until soiled. When children are in the toilet training stage, the reusability ~eature is a signi~icant advantage. Besides the cost savings, the reuse o~ the same diaper is a convenience measure since an additional diaper does not have to be available every time the child ma~as an - attempt to learn the significance of the toilet.
. . .
--i . .
~ 5~ CEIC 595 Ano-ther advantage of this new adhesive tape tab is the flexibility of the plastic film tape material and its co~formability to the plastic ~ilm outer sur~ace o~ the ~iaper providing a tape tab that is aesthetically pleaslng to the touch and highly tear resistant, as well as requiring less adhesive than the conventional paperbacked diaper tape tab.
The plastic film tape material is strong and moisture repellont as ~ell as being ~lexible, giving improved strength at the junction of the tape and the outer edge of the diaper.
In accordance with the principles o~ this invention, an improved adhesive tape tab is provided ~or repositionable and reapplicable use on any o~ the well known disposable diapers having a thin plastic film outer surface.
The tape tab of the present invention is made of a strip o~
thin plastic film and has a first segment attached to the diaper, and a second segment, a portion o~ which is coated with a repositionable adhesive coating ~or ~astening on the outer surface of the diaper, the distal portion of the second segment being non-adhesive, serves as a pull tab. In a pre~erred embodiment, the portion of the second segment which lies ad~acent the first segment is non-adhesive and flexible and acts as a hinge between the two diaper fastening ends of the tape. Any flexible plastic film material such as polyester or polypropylene may be used to ~orm the tape tab, which should have a max.~mum thickness of 4 mils. The tape tab may, if desired, utilize a coated release sheet or be attached to release coated material on the diaper facing before use.
The adhesive disposes itself on the plastic film in-a smooth, uniform layer. It is believed that the smooth adhesive layer _~_ ..
- .
and the flexibility of the plastic tape backing contribute to the superiority of the fastening strength of the plas-tic backed tape tab over a similar:Ly constructed paperbaeked tape tab.
According to a fur-ther broad aspect of the present invention there is provided in combination a disposable diaper of the type having an inside surface for direction toward a wearer and a thin, plastic fil:m outer surface having an adhesive contacting surface, and a repositionable tape tab. The tape tab comprises a strip of thin, flexible plastic film having a first segment affixed to the diaper.
A second segment is provided for attachment to the diaper adhesive contacting surfaee of the diaper outer surfaee in forming the closure. A portion of the second segment is eoated with a pressure-sensitive adhesive coating that is repositionable with respect to the adhesive eontaeting surfaee and having a "quic~-s~iek" of about 7 oz. per ineh and a "peel adhesion" of substantially no more than 8.3 oz per ineh with respeet to the adhesive contacting surface. :~
The distal portion of the second segment is non-adhesive . .
and forms a pull tab.
Brief Deser_ption of the Drawin s These and other advantages, features and aspects of the invention will become apparent upon reading the following detailed description and upon referenee to the following drawings wherein:
FIGURE 1 is a plane view of the tape tab of the present invention affixed -to the outer surfaee of a dispos-able diaper and ready for fastening.
t~ 7 ~3~S~
FIGURE 2 is a pLane view of a por-tion of the preferred emhoclirnent of the tape tab of the present invention ex-tended beyond -the cl-iaper ready for fa.steniny, as viewed toward the insicle surface of a disposable diaper.
FIGURE 3 is a perspec-tive view of a disposable diaper fastening made with the preferred embodiment of the ~ tape tab of the present invention.
; Description of -the Invention In Figure 1, tape tab 10, made from a strip of a thin plastic film such as polyester or polypropylene, has a first segment 11, affixed to the d:iaper 12, and a second segment 13. A portion 14, of the second segment is coated with a repositionable pressure-sensitive adhesive, for example a styrene butadiene polymer tachified with natural resin esters. The distal portion 15, of the second : 1 - 7a -3~5~
segment 13~ ha~ no adhesive coating ancl serves as a pull tab for peeling portion 14, ~rom the p].astic film outer surface of the disposable diaper to undo a diaper closure.
; The pressure-sensitive adhesive coating for use in the tape tab of the present invention must possess reasonable ~Iquick-stick~ without developing sufficient peel adhesion as to rupture the plastic film diaper outer surface. The adhesive, applied to the tab in the amount of 400 - 800 grains per square meter, and must meet the following requirements of quick-stick peel adhesion.
In the standard quick-stick test, measuring the average force required to peel a 2" strip of tape from a stainless steel surf`ace, the adhesive tape tab of the present invention registered 18 oz./in. as compared to 56 oz./in. for a conventional diaper tape tab.
In a modified quick-stick test, the tapes were ~`- peeled ~rom an embossed matte plastic I'ilm manufactured by the Visqueen Division o~ the Ethyl Corporation. This film is one of the standard ~ilms used to form the outer surface of disposable diapers and is commonly referred to as having a matte type surface. When tested with reference to the matte ~inished surface, the tape tab o~ the present invention registered 7 oz./in. quick-stick value compared to 20.5 oz./
in. for the conventional tape tab. The tapes are, howeve~, also repositionable with respect to non matte-type film surfaces.
- While the quick-stick of the adhesive is low, contributing to the repositionability of the tape tab, the tape tab forms an adequate closure with the various plastic film diaper outer surfaces currently marketed, and in particular with the matte type embossed film manufactured ` -8-' .
.
..
~36~ C~IIC 595 by the Ethyl Corporation.
In a peel adhesion test conducted with respect to the matte type embossèd ~ilm and using a 2 pound wei~ht for 5 seconds to secure the tape, the tape ta~ o~ the present invention registered a low peel adh~sion of 8.3 oz./in., which is less than the tearing strength of the conventional, thin plastic ~ilms used on the outer surface of disposable diapers, allowing the tape to be separated from the film without tearing the film.
In the alternative construction shown in Figure 2, an end portion of segment 14, may be ~olded back on itself to create a pull tab 15. In the preferred embodiment shown in Figure 2, a non-adhesive portion 16, exists between the first segment 11~ and the adhesive portion 14, of the second segment 13, of the tape tab forming a h~nge.
- The hinge yields a discontinuity of forces along the tape between the two fastening ends o~ the tape, allowing movement between the two fastening ends and pre-venting the communication of lifting, peeling stresses to the two fastening ends. This is of signi~icance in the present invention wherein the peeling strength of the tape has been reduced to achieve repositionability. I~ the thin plastic film tape material is elastic, greater movement is allowed between the tape fastening ends, giving added comfort to the wearer.
In laboratory tests, a paperbacked tape utilizing the same adhesive as the present invention, and having a hinge, was compared to the plastic film backed tape with hinge of the preferred embodiment of the present invention.
~9_ ~ S ~ C~IC 595 The test devised was one ~elieved to approximate the "in use" stresses on a diaper tape tab that would offer a comparison of the holdi~g strength of various tape tabs.
As both tapes possess adequate shear strength, the holding strength of the tape closure during lateral movement of the front and back portions of the diaper was compared. In each instance, the diaper closure was made by applying to the tape a pressure o~ five pounds for five minutes. The tapes were then compared for their ability to maintain a diaper closure and their ability to be separated from the diaper without tearing the plastic film outer surface. Each tape was sub~ected to oscillations at a right angle to the length of the tape. The tape fastening ends were disposed at a maximum distance fr~m each other of l~" in both directions. The plastic backed tape closure was able to sustain over 400 oscillations while the paperbacked tape was able to sustain, at mostj 73 oscillations.
The flexibility of the plastic film of tape tab lO, and its conformability to the plastic film outer surface of the conventional disposable diaper provide a soft, smooth~ supple tab fasteni~g requiring considerably less adhesive than used in a conventional diaper tape tab.
Optionally, the tape tab lO, may be affixed to a release portion 17, of the inside surface of the diaper before use, or may be provided with a removable cover strip, as is known in the art.
Figure 3 illustrates a diaper fastening made with the tape tab of the preferred embodiment o~ this invention, when adhesive portion 14, of the second segment .
~3~5~ CHIC 5~5 13, is a-ttached to the thln plastic ou-ter surface 18, of disposable diaper 12. Figure 3 shows the hinge-ef~ect of non-adhesive portion 16, allowing movement between the - adhesive portion 14, of the second segment 13, and the first se~ment ll, and providing a discontinuity of lifting, peeling forces there between.
Another advanta~e of the new tape tab of this invention is realized a~ter the flnal opening of the diaper, when the diaper is ready to be discarded. The new tape tab allows the diaper to be opened cleanly, wlth no untidy tearing, while sufficient adheslve remains on the tape for one last function. ~fter the diaper is removed from the wearer, it may be folded or rolled and then sealed closed with the tape tabs so that the contents are contained securely within in order-to be discarded.
Thus, it is apparent that there has been provided, in accordance with the invention, an improved, reusable adhesive tape tab for use on disposable diapers that fully satisfies the aims, advantages and aspects set forth above. While the invention has been described in conjunction with specific embodirnents thereof~ it is evident that many alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art in view of the foregoing description. Accordingly, the plenary in-vention is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications and variations as fall within the spirit and broad scope of the described invention.
'
Claims (13)
1. In combination, a disposable diaper of the type having an inside surface for direction toward a wearer and a thin, plastic film outer surface having an adhesive con-tacting surface, and a repositionable tape tab comprising a strip of thin, flexible plastic film having a first segment affixed adjacent an edge of the diaper, a second segment ex-tending outwardly of said edge for attachment to the diaper adhesive contacting surface of the diaper outer surface in forming the closure, a portion of which second segment is coated with a pressure-sensitive adhesive coating that is repositionable with respect to the adhesive contacting sur-face of said plastic film outer surface and having a "quick-stick" of about 7 oz. per inch and a "peel adhesion" of sub-stantially no more than 8.3 oz. per inch with respect to the adhesive contacting surface, the distal portion of the second segment being non-adhesive, forming a pull tab.
2. The combination of claim 1, and a non-adhesive portion of the second segment lying adjacent the first segment.
3. The combination of claim 1, wherein the strip of thin, flexible plastic film is polypropylene.
4. The combination of claim 2, wherein the adhesive contacting surface is a matte type embossed film.
5. The combination of claim 2, wherein the adhesive coating is a styrene butadiene polymer tachified with natural resin esters.
6. The combination of claim 2, wherein the strip of thin, flexible plastic film is elastic.
7. The combination of claim 2, wherein the strip of thin, flexible plastic film has a thickness of 4 mils or less.
8. A repositionable tape tab for a disposable diaper of the type having an inside surface for direction toward a wearer and a thin, plastic film outer surface having an adhesive contacting surface, the tape tab comprising a strip of thin, flexible plastic film having a first segment affixed adjacent an edge of the diaper, a second segment ex-tending outwardly of said edge for attachment to the adhesive contacting surface of the diaper outer surface in forming a closure, a portion of which is coated with a pressure-sensitive adhesive that is repositionable with respect to the adhesive contacting surface of said plastic film outer surface and having a "quick-stick" of about 7 oz. per inch and a "peel adhesion" of substantially no more than 8.3 oz. per inch with respect to the adhesive contacting surface, and having the distal portion of the second segment being non-adhesive, forming a pull tab.
9. A repositionable tape tab for disposable diapers as in claim 8, wherein a portion of the second segment lying adjacent the first segment is non-adhesive.
10. A repositionable tape tab for disposable diapers as in claim 9, wherein the adhesive is a styrene butadiene polymer tachified with natural resin esters.
11. A repositionable tape tab for disposable diapers as in claim 9, wherein the strip of thin, flexible plastic film is elastic.
12. A repositionable tape tab for disposable diapers as in claim 9, wherein the strip of thin, flexible plastic film has a thickness of 4 mils or less.
13. A repositionable tape tab for a disposable diaper as in claim 8, wherein the strip of thin, flexible plastic film is polypropylene.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US80036977A | 1977-05-25 | 1977-05-25 | |
| US800,369 | 1977-05-25 |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA1113651A true CA1113651A (en) | 1981-12-08 |
Family
ID=25178220
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA303,870A Expired CA1113651A (en) | 1977-05-25 | 1978-05-23 | Re-usable adhesive tape tab for disposable diapers |
Country Status (3)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| AU (1) | AU517538B2 (en) |
| CA (1) | CA1113651A (en) |
| GB (1) | GB1597799A (en) |
Families Citing this family (6)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DE3110702A1 (en) * | 1981-03-19 | 1982-10-07 | Vereinigte Papierwerke Schickedanz & Co, 8500 Nürnberg | Adhesive closure for disposable diapers |
| US4655761A (en) * | 1984-08-06 | 1987-04-07 | Kimberly-Clark Corporation | Disposable diaper with refastenable tape system |
| US5399177A (en) * | 1991-10-25 | 1995-03-21 | The Procter & Gamble Company | Refastenable adhesive fastening systems for disposable absorbent articles |
| SG64910A1 (en) * | 1992-08-21 | 1999-05-25 | Procter & Gamble | Refastenable adhesive fastening systems for individually packaged disposable absorbent articles |
| US5704933A (en) * | 1996-04-18 | 1998-01-06 | Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc. | Elastic strap fastening system with button fasteners |
| US5669901A (en) * | 1996-04-18 | 1997-09-23 | Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc. | Absorbent article having an improved mechanical fastening system |
-
1978
- 1978-05-22 GB GB2107978A patent/GB1597799A/en not_active Expired
- 1978-05-23 AU AU36378/78A patent/AU517538B2/en not_active Expired
- 1978-05-23 CA CA303,870A patent/CA1113651A/en not_active Expired
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| GB1597799A (en) | 1981-09-09 |
| AU3637878A (en) | 1979-11-29 |
| AU517538B2 (en) | 1981-08-06 |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| MKEX | Expiry |