CA1154901A - Disposable diaper with wide elastic gathering means for improved comfort - Google Patents
Disposable diaper with wide elastic gathering means for improved comfortInfo
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- CA1154901A CA1154901A CA000343133A CA343133A CA1154901A CA 1154901 A CA1154901 A CA 1154901A CA 000343133 A CA000343133 A CA 000343133A CA 343133 A CA343133 A CA 343133A CA 1154901 A CA1154901 A CA 1154901A
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- gathering means
- backing
- facing
- disposable diaper
- layer
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Abstract
ABSTRACT
DISPOSABLE DIAPER WITH WIDE ELASTIC GATHERING
MEANS FOR IMPROVED COMFORT
A disposable diaper having a gathering means adjacent at least one edge of the absorbent panel is disclosed. In a preferred embodiment, the gathering means is defined by an elastic member having a width dimension of at least 3/8" and a width-to-thickness ratio of at least 100, which provides improved body conformity without undue application of pressure upon the skin of the wearer. The inventive concept in its broadest sense relates to the distribution of the force of gathering means over larger areas to minimize skin irritation. In certain embodiments of the present invention, our improved diaper may have a pleasing ruffled effect at the diaper edge.
DISPOSABLE DIAPER WITH WIDE ELASTIC GATHERING
MEANS FOR IMPROVED COMFORT
A disposable diaper having a gathering means adjacent at least one edge of the absorbent panel is disclosed. In a preferred embodiment, the gathering means is defined by an elastic member having a width dimension of at least 3/8" and a width-to-thickness ratio of at least 100, which provides improved body conformity without undue application of pressure upon the skin of the wearer. The inventive concept in its broadest sense relates to the distribution of the force of gathering means over larger areas to minimize skin irritation. In certain embodiments of the present invention, our improved diaper may have a pleasing ruffled effect at the diaper edge.
Description
l~lS4~1 ~1- JBP 120 DISPOSABLE DIAPER WITH ~IDE ELASTIC GATHERING
MEANS FOR IMPROVED COMFORT
Backeround of tha Invention The present invention relates to improvements in disposable diapers which enable the diaper to closely conform to the torso of the wearer without applying undue pressure upon the skin of the wearer.
Recently, disposable diapers have been introduced into the marketplace which have a narrow but relatively thick strip of elastic at each side thereof~ so as to gather the side margins of the diaper in a manner similar to that of conventional moisture-impermeable panties. Such diapers are made generally in accordance with the teachings of U.S.
~Patent No. 3,860,003. In order for the elastic members to be effective in such diapers, it is necessary that the elastic members be spaced relatively far from the 15~ side marginal edges of the absorbent panel of the diaper, and for the elastic members to be associated with thin, highly flexible facing and backing layersO
As a result, when such diapers are placed upon a baby~
the narrow but relatively thick elastic members cause a narrow band of the facing layer to bear against the baby's skin~ This results in a high degree of stress concentration that may cause pinching and irritation of the baby's skin.
', ~L154gO31
MEANS FOR IMPROVED COMFORT
Backeround of tha Invention The present invention relates to improvements in disposable diapers which enable the diaper to closely conform to the torso of the wearer without applying undue pressure upon the skin of the wearer.
Recently, disposable diapers have been introduced into the marketplace which have a narrow but relatively thick strip of elastic at each side thereof~ so as to gather the side margins of the diaper in a manner similar to that of conventional moisture-impermeable panties. Such diapers are made generally in accordance with the teachings of U.S.
~Patent No. 3,860,003. In order for the elastic members to be effective in such diapers, it is necessary that the elastic members be spaced relatively far from the 15~ side marginal edges of the absorbent panel of the diaper, and for the elastic members to be associated with thin, highly flexible facing and backing layersO
As a result, when such diapers are placed upon a baby~
the narrow but relatively thick elastic members cause a narrow band of the facing layer to bear against the baby's skin~ This results in a high degree of stress concentration that may cause pinching and irritation of the baby's skin.
', ~L154gO31
2- JBP 120 In U.S. Patent NoO 4,050,462, a disposable diaper is disclosed having elastically e~tendable means which longitudinally contract the crotch section of the diaper. The elastically extendable means are located suf~iciently close to the edge of the absorbent batt in the crotch region to form a plurality of gross rugosities along the length of the crotch region, meant to reduce the constriction force applied to the skinO
However, excessive pressure may be applied to the skin of the wearer due to the high modulus elastic necessary to gather the panel across the entire width of the crotch region.
The problems attributable to the unduly high compressive force caused by such narrow but relatively thick elastic strips of the prior art diapers mentioned above are particularly acute when the baby has voided and the diaper is wet. ~ecause the backing and facing laye~s are so highly flexible, when the diaper is wet and conditions are present tending to cause hydration of the baby's skin, the narrow elastic members often cause the facing layer to press agàinst the skin with suf~icient force to injure the skin.
Summary of the Invention The disposable diapers of the present invention include gathering means adjacent at least one edge of the absorbent panel of the diaper. In one embodiment, gathering means are located ad~acent the two side edges of the diaper. In addition, gathering means may be located ad~acent one or both end edges of the diaperO The gathering means o~ the present invention provide im-proved body conformity of the diaper without undue applica-tion of pressure upon the skin of the wearer.
Diapers constructed in accordance with the present invention have several unexpected advantages over the prior art and in particular, over the diapers 4gl~
of the type disclosed in U~S~ Patent No. 3,860,003~ By the use of the improved gathering means in accordance with the present invention, the force applied to gather the leg opening of the diaper, pressing against the skin of the wearer through the faciny layer, is distributed over a larger area, resulting in improved comfort for the wearer. In addition, because of the relatively large area of facing material engaging the wearer's skin, improved gasketing around the thighs of the wearer is achieved thereby minimizing fluid leakage from the diaper.
In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the gathering means have a width of at least about 3/8", preferably a width~of at least 1/2", and more preferably a width of from about 3/4" to about 1 1/4". The wi~th-to-thickness ratio should be at least ahout 100 and preferably about 500 to about 1000.
The elastic members may be secured to the facing layer and/or the backing layer, and may be secured ~y two or more spaced lines of attachment cooperating with one another to provide visibly distinct separate lines of simulated stitching, providing further improved gasketing about the leg of the weaxer, as well as a pleasing appearance.
The elastic members of the present invention also improve the ease of manufacture of the disposable diapers. The wider elastic members are easier to manipulate and control during the manufacturing process. In addition, alignment of the elastic securing means to the elastic member becomes less critical because of the increased width dimension of the elastic member and because the securing means may contact the elastic member at any location across its width.
According to a still further hroad aspect of the present invention there is provided a disposable diaper comprising a first outer layer in the form of a moisture-impervious backing.
An absorhent panel is positioned in superposed relationship with respect to the backing. The panel is smaller than the backing I
g9~1 and spaced inwardly from the sides and ends thereof. A second outer layer in the form of a moisture-pervious facing is positioned in superposed relationship with respect to the panel. The facing is larger than the panel and has marginal portions thereof secured to the backing. Gathering means is provided in the side margin of the diaper. Means is provided securing the gathering means to at least one of the layers~ The gathering means is defined by an elastic member having a width dimensioned in excess of 3/8" and having a width-to-thickness ratio of at least about 100, whereby the gathering means provides imposed body conformity without undue application of pressure upon the skin of the wearer.
Brief Description of the Drawinqs In the drawings, FIGURE 1 is a perspective view illustrating ~L~5490~!L `
a disposable diaper embodying the present invention with a portion broken away to show interior detail;
FIGURE 2 is an exploded perspectlve view showing relative positioning of diaper elements during manufacture o~ the diaper depicted in Fig. l;
FIGURE 3 is a perspective view of the diaper of Fig. 1 illustrating diaper configuration when applied about a baby;
FIGU~E ~ is a perspective view showing another embodiment of the disposable diaper of this in~ention;
FIGURE 5 is a plan view of yet another em-bodiment of a disposable diaper o~ this invention with a portion broken away to show interior detail;
FIGUR~ 6 is an enlarged partial cross-section ~ Fig. 5 taken along lines 6-6;
FIGURE 7 is a plan view of a still further embodiment o~ a disposable diaper o~ this invention with a portion broken away to show interior detail;
FIGURE 8 is a plan view o~ an additional embodiment of a disposable diaper of this invention with a portion broken away to show interior detail;
FIGURE 9 is a cross-sectional view of the diaper of Figo 8 taken along lines 9-9, in which the spacing o~ the backing layer, facing layer and panel have been exaggerated to clarify the illustration o~
the glue lines;
FIGURE 10 is a plan view of another embodiment of the disposable diaper of the present invention;
FIGUR~ 11 is an exploded perspecti~e view of the elements of the diaper illustrated in Fig. 10; and FIGURE 12 is an enlarged perspective view showing the embodiment of Fig. 8 and in the configuration it assumes when applied to a baby.
Descri tion of the Pre~erred Embodiments For a disposable diaper of the present inven-tion the gathering means is a readily stretchable, elastic,preferably thermoplastic member of substantial width that possesses a cer~lain m~nimum elastic recovery.
4~3~
The term 7'elastic", as used herein, re~ers to sheets, films, ribbons and the like which have a recovery of at least 90 percent, when elongated at least 10 percent of their yield point and measured in accor-5 dance with the ~ollowing formula:
Percent retraction - Le _ Lt X 100 where e _ Lo Lo ~ original length of sample Le ~ fully extended length Lt = length of sample measured
However, excessive pressure may be applied to the skin of the wearer due to the high modulus elastic necessary to gather the panel across the entire width of the crotch region.
The problems attributable to the unduly high compressive force caused by such narrow but relatively thick elastic strips of the prior art diapers mentioned above are particularly acute when the baby has voided and the diaper is wet. ~ecause the backing and facing laye~s are so highly flexible, when the diaper is wet and conditions are present tending to cause hydration of the baby's skin, the narrow elastic members often cause the facing layer to press agàinst the skin with suf~icient force to injure the skin.
Summary of the Invention The disposable diapers of the present invention include gathering means adjacent at least one edge of the absorbent panel of the diaper. In one embodiment, gathering means are located ad~acent the two side edges of the diaper. In addition, gathering means may be located ad~acent one or both end edges of the diaperO The gathering means o~ the present invention provide im-proved body conformity of the diaper without undue applica-tion of pressure upon the skin of the wearer.
Diapers constructed in accordance with the present invention have several unexpected advantages over the prior art and in particular, over the diapers 4gl~
of the type disclosed in U~S~ Patent No. 3,860,003~ By the use of the improved gathering means in accordance with the present invention, the force applied to gather the leg opening of the diaper, pressing against the skin of the wearer through the faciny layer, is distributed over a larger area, resulting in improved comfort for the wearer. In addition, because of the relatively large area of facing material engaging the wearer's skin, improved gasketing around the thighs of the wearer is achieved thereby minimizing fluid leakage from the diaper.
In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the gathering means have a width of at least about 3/8", preferably a width~of at least 1/2", and more preferably a width of from about 3/4" to about 1 1/4". The wi~th-to-thickness ratio should be at least ahout 100 and preferably about 500 to about 1000.
The elastic members may be secured to the facing layer and/or the backing layer, and may be secured ~y two or more spaced lines of attachment cooperating with one another to provide visibly distinct separate lines of simulated stitching, providing further improved gasketing about the leg of the weaxer, as well as a pleasing appearance.
The elastic members of the present invention also improve the ease of manufacture of the disposable diapers. The wider elastic members are easier to manipulate and control during the manufacturing process. In addition, alignment of the elastic securing means to the elastic member becomes less critical because of the increased width dimension of the elastic member and because the securing means may contact the elastic member at any location across its width.
According to a still further hroad aspect of the present invention there is provided a disposable diaper comprising a first outer layer in the form of a moisture-impervious backing.
An absorhent panel is positioned in superposed relationship with respect to the backing. The panel is smaller than the backing I
g9~1 and spaced inwardly from the sides and ends thereof. A second outer layer in the form of a moisture-pervious facing is positioned in superposed relationship with respect to the panel. The facing is larger than the panel and has marginal portions thereof secured to the backing. Gathering means is provided in the side margin of the diaper. Means is provided securing the gathering means to at least one of the layers~ The gathering means is defined by an elastic member having a width dimensioned in excess of 3/8" and having a width-to-thickness ratio of at least about 100, whereby the gathering means provides imposed body conformity without undue application of pressure upon the skin of the wearer.
Brief Description of the Drawinqs In the drawings, FIGURE 1 is a perspective view illustrating ~L~5490~!L `
a disposable diaper embodying the present invention with a portion broken away to show interior detail;
FIGURE 2 is an exploded perspectlve view showing relative positioning of diaper elements during manufacture o~ the diaper depicted in Fig. l;
FIGURE 3 is a perspective view of the diaper of Fig. 1 illustrating diaper configuration when applied about a baby;
FIGU~E ~ is a perspective view showing another embodiment of the disposable diaper of this in~ention;
FIGURE 5 is a plan view of yet another em-bodiment of a disposable diaper o~ this invention with a portion broken away to show interior detail;
FIGUR~ 6 is an enlarged partial cross-section ~ Fig. 5 taken along lines 6-6;
FIGURE 7 is a plan view of a still further embodiment o~ a disposable diaper o~ this invention with a portion broken away to show interior detail;
FIGURE 8 is a plan view o~ an additional embodiment of a disposable diaper of this invention with a portion broken away to show interior detail;
FIGURE 9 is a cross-sectional view of the diaper of Figo 8 taken along lines 9-9, in which the spacing o~ the backing layer, facing layer and panel have been exaggerated to clarify the illustration o~
the glue lines;
FIGURE 10 is a plan view of another embodiment of the disposable diaper of the present invention;
FIGUR~ 11 is an exploded perspecti~e view of the elements of the diaper illustrated in Fig. 10; and FIGURE 12 is an enlarged perspective view showing the embodiment of Fig. 8 and in the configuration it assumes when applied to a baby.
Descri tion of the Pre~erred Embodiments For a disposable diaper of the present inven-tion the gathering means is a readily stretchable, elastic,preferably thermoplastic member of substantial width that possesses a cer~lain m~nimum elastic recovery.
4~3~
The term 7'elastic", as used herein, re~ers to sheets, films, ribbons and the like which have a recovery of at least 90 percent, when elongated at least 10 percent of their yield point and measured in accor-5 dance with the ~ollowing formula:
Percent retraction - Le _ Lt X 100 where e _ Lo Lo ~ original length of sample Le ~ fully extended length Lt = length of sample measured
3 seconds after released from extended lengthO
The thickness of the elastic members is generally 10 mils or less, and pref'erably about 0O5 to about 5 mlls. The elastic members have an extensibility to rupture of at least about 300 percent, preferably about 400 to about 1000 percent and a recovery at 50 percent elongation o~ at least about 75 percent, and preferably at least about 80 percentO For ease o~ 20 stretchability, the modulus of elasticity of the elastic member at 50 percent elongation should not exceed about 2000 pounds per s~uare inch~ and preferably is about 100 to about 200 pounds per s~uare inchO
Referring to Figure 1, disposable diaper 10 illustrating one embodiment of the present invention is provided with marginal longitudinal gathering means in opposite side margins 11 and 12 adapted to provide enhanced fit and ~asketi.ng about the baby's thighSo ~dditionally~ optional transverse gathering means are provided in end margins 13 and 14 for enhanced fit about the baby's waist. The gathering means in each side margin comprises an elastic member, such as elastic member 15 in side margin 11 having a width of 3/8" and a width-to-thickness ratio of at least 100. The optional transverse gathering means in the end margins of diaper 10 can be a similar elastic member such as ~54~
member 16 in end margin 14. Diaper 10 additionally includes first outer layer or backing 17 made o~ a moisture-impervious web, a generally rectangular absorbent panel 18 positioned in superposed relationship with respect to the backing, and second outer layer or ~acing 19 made o~ a moisture-pervious or permeable web and positioned in superposed relationship with respect to absorbent panel 180 For securement about a baby, diaper 10 is provided with pressure-sensitive adhesive tape tabs 20 and 21. The longitudinal gathering means are generally parallel to the longitudinal side margins o~ panel 18, and when the gathering means are in a relaxed state, diaper 10 assumes a boat-like con~iguration as shown in Figure 1, with side margins 11 and 12 having a reduced length.
The individual components of disposable diaper 10 are illustrated in Figure 2. Absorbent panel 18 is superposed over backing 17 and is secured thereto by a series o~ glue lines 23 deposited on backing 17.
~bsorbent panel 18 is o~ smaller area than backing 17, and, when substantially centered on backing 17, is spaced from longitudinal sides 24 and 25 as well as transverse sides or ends 26 and 27 and thereby de~ines the side and end marginal portions o~ diaper 10.
Absorbent panel 18 is flanked on all four sides thereo~
by elastic ~ilm members 15, 16, 21 and 22 which, in an extended state, are secured to backing 17 by means of an elastic or inelastic adhesive, heat seallng, sonic seal-ing described below, or in any other convenient manner.
3 Moisture-pervious facing 19 is superposed over absorbent panel 18, is larger in area than panel 18, and is secured to backing 1~, usually by means of the exposed end portions o~ glue lines 230 However, other secure-ment means can be utilized, if desired. Facing 19 may also be secured to elastic film members 15, 16, 21 and 22 i~ a manner similar to the securement thereo~ to backing 17.
~L~54~
As sta-ted above, the elastic ~ilm members may be conveniently secured in place ultrasonically, such as by the use of apparatus of the type that is commercially available from Branson Instruments~ Inc. of Stanford, Connecticut. Such apparatus conventionally includes an anvil and a horn that are positioned in ~uxtaposed relationship to one another, and the parts to be joined are inserted therebe~weenO The horn is energized to transmit vibrations in the ultrasonic ~requency range into the parts to be joinedO In the present instance, the elastic film members are elongated between backing layer 17 and facing layer l9, and the layers placed between a horn which coacts with an anvil which moves in registration with the product to provide a plurality f spaced rows of simuiated stitching. In this regard, the anvil of the ultrasonic sealing apparatus pre~erably is provided with a plurality of spaced land areas so that the stretch elastic film members are secured in place by a plurality of spaced securement zonesc Spaced secure-ment zones are also provided when the method of secu~ement is heat sealing or inelastic adhesive. When elastic - adhesive is used, lines of attachment may be continuousO
The configuration that disposable diaper 10 assu~es when applied to a baby is illustrated in Figc 3.
Partially-extended diaper side margins ll and 12 provide a comfortable yet positive seal about the baby's thighs that readily accommodates leg movements of the baby, whil~ optional elastic members in diaper end margins 13 and 14 assure good fit about the baby's waist~
Figure 4 shows disposable diaper 30 that is similar to disposable diaper lO but lacks the optional elastic member in diaper end margin 33. In the embodi-ment exe~lplified by Fig. ~ the elastic member in diaper end margin 34 is similar to elastic member 16 in Fig. l and per~orms in the same manner. The construction of diaper side ~argins 31 and 32 is substantially the same as in diaper side margins 11 and 12.
Xn the embodiment illustrated by Fig. 5, 90~1~
dîsposable diaper 60 is provided with absorbent panel 68 having curvilinear side cut-outs 71 and 72 and sandwiched between facing 69 and backing 67. Glue lines 65 serve to secure panel 68 and facing 69 to backing 67.
Elastic members 63 and 64 are si-tuated in generally rectilinear diaper side margins 62 and 610 Elastic members 63 and 64 extend substantially the entire length of diaper side margins 62 and 61, respectively, and are secured to backing 67 b~ spaced outer glue lines 77 and lo 78. Glue lines 77 are illustrated in cross-section in Figure 6. The glue lines 77 and 78 provide separate lines of attachment and gathering or simulated gathered stitching which in turn create separate lines of gasketing of the puckered facing against the legs of the wearer. Protruding ears 73, 7~, 75 and 76 of absorbent panel 68 overlap substantiall~ the entire width of the respective elastic members 63 and 64 and provide additional absorbent capacit~ which can be readily utilized by building into absorbe'nt panel 68 appropriate capillary transport means. Adhesive tape tab means 66 and 70 provide means for securing diaper 60 about a baby.
In the embodiment of Figure 7~ disposable diaper 80 is provided with substantially rectangular absorbent panel 88 having generaIly rectilinear sides, 25 sandwîched between backing 87 and facing 89, and together with backing 87 and facing 89 defining diaper side margins 81 and 82. Curvilinear cut-outs 97 and 98 are provided in the respective central portions of margins 81 and 82 for further fit e~hancementO Prestretched elastic members 83 and 84 are positioned in respective margins 82 and 81 and are secured to backing 87 and/or facing 89 along the longitudinal sides of absorbent panel 88. Glue lines 85 secure facing 89 and absorbent panel 88 to backing 87, and adhesive tape tabs 86 and 35 90 provide diaper securement means.
~5~9(~
Yet another embodiment of a disposable diaper according to the present invention is shown in Figs. 8 and 9 where disposable diaper 100 is provided with shaped absorbent panel 108 having cur~ilinear cut-outs 111 and 112 and centrally ~uxtaposed between backing 107 and facing 109. Both panel 108 and ~acing 109 are secured to backing 107 by a plurality of longi-tudinally extending glue lines 105~ Curvilinear cut-outs 117 and 118, similar in con~iguration but of maller size than cut-outs 111 and 112, are provided in the side portions of facing 109 and backing 107 that form diaper side marginal portions 101 and 102, respectively, so that margin cut~out 117 subtends panel cut-out 111 and margin cut-out 118 subtends panel cut-out 112. Elastic member 103 is positioned in diaper side marginal portions 102 between protruding ears 113 and 114 of absorbent panel 108 and is secured to facing 109 and backing 107. In a similar manner, elastic member 104 is positioned in diaper side marginal portion 101 between protruding ears 115 and 116 o~ absorbent panel 108 and is secured to facing 109 and backing 107 by spaced lines of attachment 119. Facing 109 and backing 107 are not secured to each other in the side marginal portion-between the gathering means and the longitudinal side edge of the diaper, creating a soft, ruffly side edge of the diaper, illustrat-ed in Fig. 12. Diaper securement means are provided by adhesive tape tabs 106 and llOo Diaper 100 is illustrated in Fig. 12 in the configuration it assumes when applied to a baby~ The elastic member 103, as well as the ~acing 109 and backing 107 layers, extend outboard of the lines of attachment and all three assume ~ gathered formations, creating the soft, ruffly side edges 154 and 155 of the diaper.
The spaced lines of attachment of the elastic member to the facing layer create plural 9~
lines o~ sealing about the leg o~ the wearer aided by the puckering or gathering o~ the facing layer adjacent each line of attachment securing the elastic member to the ~acing layer, thereby providing improved li~uid containment at the leg opening~
Referring now to Figures 10 and 11, a still further embodiment of the invention is illustrated in its entirety at 120, and includes a first outer layer 121 in the form of a moisture-pervious facing, a second outer layer 122 in the form of a ~oisture-impervious backing, a third layer 123 in the form of an absorbent panel sandwiched therebetween, and adhesive tape tabs 140. Outer layers 121 and 122 have the same outer dimensions and are coterminous with one anotherO Panel 123 has an external configuration similar to layers 121 and 122, and is smaller than and centered relative to layers 121 and 122. Parallel glue lines 124 on backing 122 secure the panel to the backing, and the outermost glue lines (and the ends of the intermediate glue lines) secure the portions of layers 121 and 122 that extend beyond panel 123 to one another.
The end portions 125 and 126 of pa~el 123 are generally equal in width and are wider than the panel mid-portion 127~ For improved fit, the narrowest part 128 of the panel mid-portion is of~set toward panel end portion 126, the portion that is adapted to be placed in front o~ the infant. Panel portion 128 is o~ relatively short length and is ~ormed between parallel side edges 128a and 128b. Panel side edges 3 129, 130g 131 and 132 ~lare outwardly from ~he ends of edges 128a and 128b and terminate in end portion 129a parallel with end portion 131a and end portion 130a parallel with end portion 132a. In a most pre~erred embodiment of the invention, edges 129 and 131 are disposed at an angle o~ 25 and edges 130 and 132 are disposed at an angle of 35, so that the included ~5490~L
angle between edges 129 and 130 and edges 131 and 132 is 120o As with the previously described embodiments, diaper 120 includes gathering means 134 and 135 at opposite sides o~ the diaper, and optional gathering means 136 and 137 at opposite ends o~ the diaper. The illus-trated gathering means are in the ~orm of elongated elastic members that are secured in a stretched condition to layers 121 and/or 122. The securement means may take the ~orm of spaced lines of attac~ment 1380 Adhesive tape tabs 140 are provided to SeGUre the diaper 120 about the torso of a baby, Elastic film members suitable as gathering means ~or the diapers contemplated herein can be extruded to the desired thickness utilizing unvulcanized, thermo-plastic compositions which are made up of an elastomeric component and an optional compatible modifier which is a thermoplastic polymer of a relatively low molecular weight but solid at ambient temperature.
Illustrative of the elastomeric components suitable for present purposes are block copolymers which comprise terminal thermoplastic polymer blocks and at least one non-terminal or intermediate elastomeric polymer blockO Block copolymers of this general type may be prepared using a step-wise polymerization initiator~ eOgO, arl organolithium campound. Such block polymerization techniques are well known in the art.
The elastomeric component can be linear or radial Al-B-A2 block copolymers or mixtures thereo~ with simple Al-B block copolymers where Al and A2 can be alike or di~ferent and represent a thermoplastic polymer block, such as poly(vinyl arene) block, and B represents an elastomeric polymer block such as a conjugated diene or a lower (i.e~, Cl-C4) alkene. The modifier component is a low molecular weight thermoplastic polymer having an average molecular weight of about 500 to about 7,500 and is present in the composition in an amount o~ about zero to about 200 parts by weight per 100 parts by 0~
weight of the elastomeric componentq A preferred thermoplastic film composition for the elastic film members comprises an elastomeric component which contains, as a major constituent there-of, an unvulcanized linear block copolymer o~ the general configuration Al - B - A2 wherein Al, A2 and B have the same meaning as hereinabove. In these block copolymers the A-blocks are derived from styrene or styrene homologues, and the B-blocks are derived ~rom conjugated dienes or lower alkenes. The thermoplastic polymer modifier is compatible with the elastomeric component and associates`principally with the thermo-plastic terminal blocks of the aforesaid unvulcanized block copolymer. The thermoplastic polymer modifier preferably has an average molecular weight of about 1000 to about 3000, and is present in the ~ilm composi-tion in an amount of about 80 to about 200 parts by weight per 100 parts by weight of the elastomeric component.
The preferred Al B - A2 block copolymers have A-blocks derived, i.e., polymerized or copolymerized, from styrene or styrene homologues, and B-blocks derived from conjugated dienes, such as isoprene or butadiene, or from lower alkenes, such as ethylene and butylene.
Small proportions of other monomers also may enter into the block copolymers themselves. The individual A-blocks can have an average molecular weight of at least about 6,ooo, preferably in the range of about 8,ooo -30,000, and the A-blocks constitute about 5~50 percent, preferably about 10-30 percent, by weight of the block copolymer. The average molecular weight of the B-blocks for linear Al-B-A2 block copolymers preferably is in the range of about 45,000 - 180,000 and that of the linear copolymer itself, preferably is in the range of about 75,000 - 200,000. The average molecular weight of the radial Al-B-A2 block copolymers preferably ~lS9~0~
is in the range of about 125,000 - 400,0000 The term "linear block copolymer" (or copolymers) includes branched ~l~B-A2 copolymerS as well as unbranched Al-B-A2 c op olymers, The radial Al-B-A2 copolymers useful ~or manufacture of elastic members for diapers of this invention are of the type described in United States Letters Patent No. 3,281,383 to Zelinski et al and conform to the following general formula: (A-B-)nX, wherein ~ is a ther~oplastic block polymerized ~rom styrene or styrene homologues, B is an elastomeric block derived ~rom conjugated dienes or lower alkenes, as indicated abo~e, X is an organic or inorganic connecting molecule, with a ~unctionality of about 2 to 4 as described in Patent N~. 3,281,383, or possibly with a higher functionality as described in the article entitled "New Rubber is ~acked by Stars" appearing on Page 35 of the June 11, 1975 issue of Chemical ~eek.
As used hereinabove, "n~ has a value corresponding to the ~unctionality of X.
The pre~erred elastic film members are highly thermoplastic and, though elastomeric, are unlike rubber in that the film exhibits a relatively sharp melting point and is capable of being heat shaped.
Also, the elastic members can ~orm permanent heat seals to substrates such as non-woven ~abrics, or the like, at relatively low heat sealing peak temperatures, generally not above about 350F. The members are highly elastic and has a relatively low rubber modulus, i.e., they exhibit in at least one direction an elastic recovery from 50 percent stretch to at least 75 percent, preferably at least about 80 percent, and a 50 percent rubber modulus of not above about 2000 pounds per square inch, preferably not above 1000 pounds per square inch at 50 percent elongation. The film members also are very flexible, extensible and so~t and normally .
exhibits a Gurley stif~ness of about one or less at a film thickness of one mil, and an elongation to break of at least about 300 percent, preferably at least about 400 percent, in at least one direction at ambient temperatures.
Several dif~erent types of facing materials may be used for diaper facing. For example, the facing may be a non-woven web made up of a mixture of fibers consisting predominantly of inexpensive short cellulosic fibers such as wood pulp fibers or cotton linters, in amounts of about 75 percent to about 98 percent, the balance being textile length fibers such as rayon as described in U.S. Patent ~oO 3,633~348 to ~iloia et al~
Non-woven facing materials suitable ~or use in disposable diapers of this invention can have ~abric weights in the range of about .5 to 5 oz./yd.2 and densities of less than 0.15 g./cc., generally in the range of about 0.05 to about 0.1 g./cc. The dry strength of the facing sheet for a fabric having a weight of about 1.5 oz./ydO2 is at least 0.15 lbs./in. of width in the machine direction and at least 0.1 lbs./inO of width in the cross direction. Such ~abrics have un-usually good elongation, lo~t, softness, and drape characteristics.
Facings may also be made of an apertured, non-woven fabric which is formed, for example, in accordance with the teachings of commonly assigned U.S.
Patent Nos. 2,862,251; 3,081,514 and 3,081,515. Brie~ly, such ~abrics are foraminous structures wherein groups or groupings of ~ibers have been rearranged from a ~ibrous non-woven starting web into positions surrounding less dense fabric portions by passage of a fluid through -the starting materialO The ~ibers within the groupings are mechanically interlocked~ and may be arranged into various patterns, as is well known by those skilled in the art. A suitable binder may be utilized to help ~490~
retain the ~ibers in their rearranged locations, as is also well known by those skilled in the art. The fabric can be made of naturally occurring fibers~ synthetic ~ibers, or blends thereof. Typical facing sheets made of'a ~ibrous polyester type material can have a weight of about 0.75 oz./yd.2.
In addition, facings can be formed of a non-apertured material, such as a non-woven isotropic web, or of an apertured polyole~in or polyester film having the desired moisture permeability. In all o~ the aforementioned facings the material should be relatively hydrophobic so as to retard wicking within the f'acing.
The moisture-absorbent batt or panel of a desired shape but smaller than the facing and the backing, can be formed in accordance with the teachings o~ U.S. Patent No. 3g612,055 to Mesek et al.
A suitable backing material for the diapers em~odying the present invention can be an opaque polyolefin, e.g.,'polyethylene, web about 0.001 inch thick. Another suitable material for this purpose is a polyethylene terephthalate web having a thickness of about 0.0005 inch.
In use, the disposable diaper is applied to the baby by laying out the diaper on a suitable flat surface and placing the baby thereon so that the waist-underlying end of the diaper is that having the fastener means. The other end of the diaper then extends down-wardly between the infant's legs. ~ext~ the downwardly extending end of the diaper is brought up between the baby~s legs to a position covering the perineum and con-tiguous with the front portion of the baby's waist. The diaper is therea~ter secured to the baby by placing the corners o~ the waist portion o~ the abdomen-covering end as far around the baby's waist as they will go and by bringing the corners of the underlying end of the diaper into an overlapping relationship with the aforementioned .
5~9 0~
_16- JBP 120 corners so that the diaper snugly encircles the baby's waist and provides a custom fit. The adhesive tab fasteners are then prepared for use and the diaper is secured in the desired position by simply urging the pressure-sensitive adhesive surface of the tape tab in contact with the ad~acent outer surface of the opposite corner of the diaper. The applied diaper assumes a configuration such as shown in Figure 3, The foregoing description and the drawings are illustrative and are not to be taken as limiting.
Still other variations and modifications are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.
The thickness of the elastic members is generally 10 mils or less, and pref'erably about 0O5 to about 5 mlls. The elastic members have an extensibility to rupture of at least about 300 percent, preferably about 400 to about 1000 percent and a recovery at 50 percent elongation o~ at least about 75 percent, and preferably at least about 80 percentO For ease o~ 20 stretchability, the modulus of elasticity of the elastic member at 50 percent elongation should not exceed about 2000 pounds per s~uare inch~ and preferably is about 100 to about 200 pounds per s~uare inchO
Referring to Figure 1, disposable diaper 10 illustrating one embodiment of the present invention is provided with marginal longitudinal gathering means in opposite side margins 11 and 12 adapted to provide enhanced fit and ~asketi.ng about the baby's thighSo ~dditionally~ optional transverse gathering means are provided in end margins 13 and 14 for enhanced fit about the baby's waist. The gathering means in each side margin comprises an elastic member, such as elastic member 15 in side margin 11 having a width of 3/8" and a width-to-thickness ratio of at least 100. The optional transverse gathering means in the end margins of diaper 10 can be a similar elastic member such as ~54~
member 16 in end margin 14. Diaper 10 additionally includes first outer layer or backing 17 made o~ a moisture-impervious web, a generally rectangular absorbent panel 18 positioned in superposed relationship with respect to the backing, and second outer layer or ~acing 19 made o~ a moisture-pervious or permeable web and positioned in superposed relationship with respect to absorbent panel 180 For securement about a baby, diaper 10 is provided with pressure-sensitive adhesive tape tabs 20 and 21. The longitudinal gathering means are generally parallel to the longitudinal side margins o~ panel 18, and when the gathering means are in a relaxed state, diaper 10 assumes a boat-like con~iguration as shown in Figure 1, with side margins 11 and 12 having a reduced length.
The individual components of disposable diaper 10 are illustrated in Figure 2. Absorbent panel 18 is superposed over backing 17 and is secured thereto by a series o~ glue lines 23 deposited on backing 17.
~bsorbent panel 18 is o~ smaller area than backing 17, and, when substantially centered on backing 17, is spaced from longitudinal sides 24 and 25 as well as transverse sides or ends 26 and 27 and thereby de~ines the side and end marginal portions o~ diaper 10.
Absorbent panel 18 is flanked on all four sides thereo~
by elastic ~ilm members 15, 16, 21 and 22 which, in an extended state, are secured to backing 17 by means of an elastic or inelastic adhesive, heat seallng, sonic seal-ing described below, or in any other convenient manner.
3 Moisture-pervious facing 19 is superposed over absorbent panel 18, is larger in area than panel 18, and is secured to backing 1~, usually by means of the exposed end portions o~ glue lines 230 However, other secure-ment means can be utilized, if desired. Facing 19 may also be secured to elastic film members 15, 16, 21 and 22 i~ a manner similar to the securement thereo~ to backing 17.
~L~54~
As sta-ted above, the elastic ~ilm members may be conveniently secured in place ultrasonically, such as by the use of apparatus of the type that is commercially available from Branson Instruments~ Inc. of Stanford, Connecticut. Such apparatus conventionally includes an anvil and a horn that are positioned in ~uxtaposed relationship to one another, and the parts to be joined are inserted therebe~weenO The horn is energized to transmit vibrations in the ultrasonic ~requency range into the parts to be joinedO In the present instance, the elastic film members are elongated between backing layer 17 and facing layer l9, and the layers placed between a horn which coacts with an anvil which moves in registration with the product to provide a plurality f spaced rows of simuiated stitching. In this regard, the anvil of the ultrasonic sealing apparatus pre~erably is provided with a plurality of spaced land areas so that the stretch elastic film members are secured in place by a plurality of spaced securement zonesc Spaced secure-ment zones are also provided when the method of secu~ement is heat sealing or inelastic adhesive. When elastic - adhesive is used, lines of attachment may be continuousO
The configuration that disposable diaper 10 assu~es when applied to a baby is illustrated in Figc 3.
Partially-extended diaper side margins ll and 12 provide a comfortable yet positive seal about the baby's thighs that readily accommodates leg movements of the baby, whil~ optional elastic members in diaper end margins 13 and 14 assure good fit about the baby's waist~
Figure 4 shows disposable diaper 30 that is similar to disposable diaper lO but lacks the optional elastic member in diaper end margin 33. In the embodi-ment exe~lplified by Fig. ~ the elastic member in diaper end margin 34 is similar to elastic member 16 in Fig. l and per~orms in the same manner. The construction of diaper side ~argins 31 and 32 is substantially the same as in diaper side margins 11 and 12.
Xn the embodiment illustrated by Fig. 5, 90~1~
dîsposable diaper 60 is provided with absorbent panel 68 having curvilinear side cut-outs 71 and 72 and sandwiched between facing 69 and backing 67. Glue lines 65 serve to secure panel 68 and facing 69 to backing 67.
Elastic members 63 and 64 are si-tuated in generally rectilinear diaper side margins 62 and 610 Elastic members 63 and 64 extend substantially the entire length of diaper side margins 62 and 61, respectively, and are secured to backing 67 b~ spaced outer glue lines 77 and lo 78. Glue lines 77 are illustrated in cross-section in Figure 6. The glue lines 77 and 78 provide separate lines of attachment and gathering or simulated gathered stitching which in turn create separate lines of gasketing of the puckered facing against the legs of the wearer. Protruding ears 73, 7~, 75 and 76 of absorbent panel 68 overlap substantiall~ the entire width of the respective elastic members 63 and 64 and provide additional absorbent capacit~ which can be readily utilized by building into absorbe'nt panel 68 appropriate capillary transport means. Adhesive tape tab means 66 and 70 provide means for securing diaper 60 about a baby.
In the embodiment of Figure 7~ disposable diaper 80 is provided with substantially rectangular absorbent panel 88 having generaIly rectilinear sides, 25 sandwîched between backing 87 and facing 89, and together with backing 87 and facing 89 defining diaper side margins 81 and 82. Curvilinear cut-outs 97 and 98 are provided in the respective central portions of margins 81 and 82 for further fit e~hancementO Prestretched elastic members 83 and 84 are positioned in respective margins 82 and 81 and are secured to backing 87 and/or facing 89 along the longitudinal sides of absorbent panel 88. Glue lines 85 secure facing 89 and absorbent panel 88 to backing 87, and adhesive tape tabs 86 and 35 90 provide diaper securement means.
~5~9(~
Yet another embodiment of a disposable diaper according to the present invention is shown in Figs. 8 and 9 where disposable diaper 100 is provided with shaped absorbent panel 108 having cur~ilinear cut-outs 111 and 112 and centrally ~uxtaposed between backing 107 and facing 109. Both panel 108 and ~acing 109 are secured to backing 107 by a plurality of longi-tudinally extending glue lines 105~ Curvilinear cut-outs 117 and 118, similar in con~iguration but of maller size than cut-outs 111 and 112, are provided in the side portions of facing 109 and backing 107 that form diaper side marginal portions 101 and 102, respectively, so that margin cut~out 117 subtends panel cut-out 111 and margin cut-out 118 subtends panel cut-out 112. Elastic member 103 is positioned in diaper side marginal portions 102 between protruding ears 113 and 114 of absorbent panel 108 and is secured to facing 109 and backing 107. In a similar manner, elastic member 104 is positioned in diaper side marginal portion 101 between protruding ears 115 and 116 o~ absorbent panel 108 and is secured to facing 109 and backing 107 by spaced lines of attachment 119. Facing 109 and backing 107 are not secured to each other in the side marginal portion-between the gathering means and the longitudinal side edge of the diaper, creating a soft, ruffly side edge of the diaper, illustrat-ed in Fig. 12. Diaper securement means are provided by adhesive tape tabs 106 and llOo Diaper 100 is illustrated in Fig. 12 in the configuration it assumes when applied to a baby~ The elastic member 103, as well as the ~acing 109 and backing 107 layers, extend outboard of the lines of attachment and all three assume ~ gathered formations, creating the soft, ruffly side edges 154 and 155 of the diaper.
The spaced lines of attachment of the elastic member to the facing layer create plural 9~
lines o~ sealing about the leg o~ the wearer aided by the puckering or gathering o~ the facing layer adjacent each line of attachment securing the elastic member to the ~acing layer, thereby providing improved li~uid containment at the leg opening~
Referring now to Figures 10 and 11, a still further embodiment of the invention is illustrated in its entirety at 120, and includes a first outer layer 121 in the form of a moisture-pervious facing, a second outer layer 122 in the form of a ~oisture-impervious backing, a third layer 123 in the form of an absorbent panel sandwiched therebetween, and adhesive tape tabs 140. Outer layers 121 and 122 have the same outer dimensions and are coterminous with one anotherO Panel 123 has an external configuration similar to layers 121 and 122, and is smaller than and centered relative to layers 121 and 122. Parallel glue lines 124 on backing 122 secure the panel to the backing, and the outermost glue lines (and the ends of the intermediate glue lines) secure the portions of layers 121 and 122 that extend beyond panel 123 to one another.
The end portions 125 and 126 of pa~el 123 are generally equal in width and are wider than the panel mid-portion 127~ For improved fit, the narrowest part 128 of the panel mid-portion is of~set toward panel end portion 126, the portion that is adapted to be placed in front o~ the infant. Panel portion 128 is o~ relatively short length and is ~ormed between parallel side edges 128a and 128b. Panel side edges 3 129, 130g 131 and 132 ~lare outwardly from ~he ends of edges 128a and 128b and terminate in end portion 129a parallel with end portion 131a and end portion 130a parallel with end portion 132a. In a most pre~erred embodiment of the invention, edges 129 and 131 are disposed at an angle o~ 25 and edges 130 and 132 are disposed at an angle of 35, so that the included ~5490~L
angle between edges 129 and 130 and edges 131 and 132 is 120o As with the previously described embodiments, diaper 120 includes gathering means 134 and 135 at opposite sides o~ the diaper, and optional gathering means 136 and 137 at opposite ends o~ the diaper. The illus-trated gathering means are in the ~orm of elongated elastic members that are secured in a stretched condition to layers 121 and/or 122. The securement means may take the ~orm of spaced lines of attac~ment 1380 Adhesive tape tabs 140 are provided to SeGUre the diaper 120 about the torso of a baby, Elastic film members suitable as gathering means ~or the diapers contemplated herein can be extruded to the desired thickness utilizing unvulcanized, thermo-plastic compositions which are made up of an elastomeric component and an optional compatible modifier which is a thermoplastic polymer of a relatively low molecular weight but solid at ambient temperature.
Illustrative of the elastomeric components suitable for present purposes are block copolymers which comprise terminal thermoplastic polymer blocks and at least one non-terminal or intermediate elastomeric polymer blockO Block copolymers of this general type may be prepared using a step-wise polymerization initiator~ eOgO, arl organolithium campound. Such block polymerization techniques are well known in the art.
The elastomeric component can be linear or radial Al-B-A2 block copolymers or mixtures thereo~ with simple Al-B block copolymers where Al and A2 can be alike or di~ferent and represent a thermoplastic polymer block, such as poly(vinyl arene) block, and B represents an elastomeric polymer block such as a conjugated diene or a lower (i.e~, Cl-C4) alkene. The modifier component is a low molecular weight thermoplastic polymer having an average molecular weight of about 500 to about 7,500 and is present in the composition in an amount o~ about zero to about 200 parts by weight per 100 parts by 0~
weight of the elastomeric componentq A preferred thermoplastic film composition for the elastic film members comprises an elastomeric component which contains, as a major constituent there-of, an unvulcanized linear block copolymer o~ the general configuration Al - B - A2 wherein Al, A2 and B have the same meaning as hereinabove. In these block copolymers the A-blocks are derived from styrene or styrene homologues, and the B-blocks are derived ~rom conjugated dienes or lower alkenes. The thermoplastic polymer modifier is compatible with the elastomeric component and associates`principally with the thermo-plastic terminal blocks of the aforesaid unvulcanized block copolymer. The thermoplastic polymer modifier preferably has an average molecular weight of about 1000 to about 3000, and is present in the ~ilm composi-tion in an amount of about 80 to about 200 parts by weight per 100 parts by weight of the elastomeric component.
The preferred Al B - A2 block copolymers have A-blocks derived, i.e., polymerized or copolymerized, from styrene or styrene homologues, and B-blocks derived from conjugated dienes, such as isoprene or butadiene, or from lower alkenes, such as ethylene and butylene.
Small proportions of other monomers also may enter into the block copolymers themselves. The individual A-blocks can have an average molecular weight of at least about 6,ooo, preferably in the range of about 8,ooo -30,000, and the A-blocks constitute about 5~50 percent, preferably about 10-30 percent, by weight of the block copolymer. The average molecular weight of the B-blocks for linear Al-B-A2 block copolymers preferably is in the range of about 45,000 - 180,000 and that of the linear copolymer itself, preferably is in the range of about 75,000 - 200,000. The average molecular weight of the radial Al-B-A2 block copolymers preferably ~lS9~0~
is in the range of about 125,000 - 400,0000 The term "linear block copolymer" (or copolymers) includes branched ~l~B-A2 copolymerS as well as unbranched Al-B-A2 c op olymers, The radial Al-B-A2 copolymers useful ~or manufacture of elastic members for diapers of this invention are of the type described in United States Letters Patent No. 3,281,383 to Zelinski et al and conform to the following general formula: (A-B-)nX, wherein ~ is a ther~oplastic block polymerized ~rom styrene or styrene homologues, B is an elastomeric block derived ~rom conjugated dienes or lower alkenes, as indicated abo~e, X is an organic or inorganic connecting molecule, with a ~unctionality of about 2 to 4 as described in Patent N~. 3,281,383, or possibly with a higher functionality as described in the article entitled "New Rubber is ~acked by Stars" appearing on Page 35 of the June 11, 1975 issue of Chemical ~eek.
As used hereinabove, "n~ has a value corresponding to the ~unctionality of X.
The pre~erred elastic film members are highly thermoplastic and, though elastomeric, are unlike rubber in that the film exhibits a relatively sharp melting point and is capable of being heat shaped.
Also, the elastic members can ~orm permanent heat seals to substrates such as non-woven ~abrics, or the like, at relatively low heat sealing peak temperatures, generally not above about 350F. The members are highly elastic and has a relatively low rubber modulus, i.e., they exhibit in at least one direction an elastic recovery from 50 percent stretch to at least 75 percent, preferably at least about 80 percent, and a 50 percent rubber modulus of not above about 2000 pounds per square inch, preferably not above 1000 pounds per square inch at 50 percent elongation. The film members also are very flexible, extensible and so~t and normally .
exhibits a Gurley stif~ness of about one or less at a film thickness of one mil, and an elongation to break of at least about 300 percent, preferably at least about 400 percent, in at least one direction at ambient temperatures.
Several dif~erent types of facing materials may be used for diaper facing. For example, the facing may be a non-woven web made up of a mixture of fibers consisting predominantly of inexpensive short cellulosic fibers such as wood pulp fibers or cotton linters, in amounts of about 75 percent to about 98 percent, the balance being textile length fibers such as rayon as described in U.S. Patent ~oO 3,633~348 to ~iloia et al~
Non-woven facing materials suitable ~or use in disposable diapers of this invention can have ~abric weights in the range of about .5 to 5 oz./yd.2 and densities of less than 0.15 g./cc., generally in the range of about 0.05 to about 0.1 g./cc. The dry strength of the facing sheet for a fabric having a weight of about 1.5 oz./ydO2 is at least 0.15 lbs./in. of width in the machine direction and at least 0.1 lbs./inO of width in the cross direction. Such ~abrics have un-usually good elongation, lo~t, softness, and drape characteristics.
Facings may also be made of an apertured, non-woven fabric which is formed, for example, in accordance with the teachings of commonly assigned U.S.
Patent Nos. 2,862,251; 3,081,514 and 3,081,515. Brie~ly, such ~abrics are foraminous structures wherein groups or groupings of ~ibers have been rearranged from a ~ibrous non-woven starting web into positions surrounding less dense fabric portions by passage of a fluid through -the starting materialO The ~ibers within the groupings are mechanically interlocked~ and may be arranged into various patterns, as is well known by those skilled in the art. A suitable binder may be utilized to help ~490~
retain the ~ibers in their rearranged locations, as is also well known by those skilled in the art. The fabric can be made of naturally occurring fibers~ synthetic ~ibers, or blends thereof. Typical facing sheets made of'a ~ibrous polyester type material can have a weight of about 0.75 oz./yd.2.
In addition, facings can be formed of a non-apertured material, such as a non-woven isotropic web, or of an apertured polyole~in or polyester film having the desired moisture permeability. In all o~ the aforementioned facings the material should be relatively hydrophobic so as to retard wicking within the f'acing.
The moisture-absorbent batt or panel of a desired shape but smaller than the facing and the backing, can be formed in accordance with the teachings o~ U.S. Patent No. 3g612,055 to Mesek et al.
A suitable backing material for the diapers em~odying the present invention can be an opaque polyolefin, e.g.,'polyethylene, web about 0.001 inch thick. Another suitable material for this purpose is a polyethylene terephthalate web having a thickness of about 0.0005 inch.
In use, the disposable diaper is applied to the baby by laying out the diaper on a suitable flat surface and placing the baby thereon so that the waist-underlying end of the diaper is that having the fastener means. The other end of the diaper then extends down-wardly between the infant's legs. ~ext~ the downwardly extending end of the diaper is brought up between the baby~s legs to a position covering the perineum and con-tiguous with the front portion of the baby's waist. The diaper is therea~ter secured to the baby by placing the corners o~ the waist portion o~ the abdomen-covering end as far around the baby's waist as they will go and by bringing the corners of the underlying end of the diaper into an overlapping relationship with the aforementioned .
5~9 0~
_16- JBP 120 corners so that the diaper snugly encircles the baby's waist and provides a custom fit. The adhesive tab fasteners are then prepared for use and the diaper is secured in the desired position by simply urging the pressure-sensitive adhesive surface of the tape tab in contact with the ad~acent outer surface of the opposite corner of the diaper. The applied diaper assumes a configuration such as shown in Figure 3, The foregoing description and the drawings are illustrative and are not to be taken as limiting.
Still other variations and modifications are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.
Claims (23)
1. A disposable diaper comprising: a moisture-permeable facing layer; an absorbent panel at one side of said facing layer, said absorbent panel being smaller than said facing layer so that marginal portions of the facing layer extend outwardly beyond the edges of said absorbent panel; a moisture-impervious backing layer at the side of said absorbent panel opposite said facing layer, said backing layer being larger than said absorbent panel so that marginal portions of the backing layer extend outwardly beyond the edges of said absorbent panel, means bonding said facing and backing layers to one another; gathering means adjacent to at least one edge of said absorbent panel, and means securing said gathering means to at least one of said layers, said gathering means being defined by an elastic member having a width dimension in excess of 3/8" and having a width-to-thickness ratio of at least about 100, whereby said gathering means provides improved body conformity without undue appli-cation of pressure upon the skin of the wearer.
2. A disposable diaper as in Claim 1 wherein said means securing said gathering means is provided by at least two spaced lines of attachment cooperating with one another to provide visibly distinct separate lines of simulated stitching.
3. A disposable diaper as in Claim 1 wherein the gathering means adjacent to at least one edge of the absorbent panel is disposed between the facing layer and the backing layer.
4. A disposable diaper as in Claim 3 wherein the gathering means disposed between the facing layer and backing layer is secured to both the facing layer and backing layer.
5. A disposable diaper as in Claim 1 wherein the gathering means is defined by an elastic member having a width dimension of at least 3/4" and a width-to-thickness ratio of at least about 100.
6. A disposable diaper as in Claim 5 wherein the gathering means is disposed between the facing layer and backing layer and is secured to both the facing layer and backing layer.
7. A disposable diaper as in Claim 5 wherein said means securing said gathering means is provided by at least two spaced lines of attachment cooperating with one another to provide visibly distinct separate lines of simulated stitching.
8. A disposable diaper comprising: a first outer layer in the form of a moisture-impervious backing; an absorbent panel positioned in superposed relationship with respect to said backing, said panel being smaller than said backing and spaced inwardly from the sides and ends thereof, a second outer layer in the form of a moisture-pervious facing positioned in super-posed relationship with respect to said panel, said facing being larger than said panel and having marginal portions thereof secured to said backing, gathering means in each side margin of the diaper, and means securing the gathering means to at least one of said layers, said gathering means being defined by an elastic member having a width dimension in excess of 3/8" and having a width-to-thickness ratio of at least about 100, whereby said gathering means provides imposed body conformity without undue application of pressure upon the skin of the wearer.
A disposable diaper as in Claim 8 wherein the gathering means is defined by an elastic member having a width dimension of at least 3/4" and a width-to-thickness ratio of at least about 100.
10. A disposable diaper as in Claim 8 including gathering means disposed in at least one end margin of the diaper.
11. A disposable diaper as in claim 8 wherein the gathering means are disposed between the facing layer and the backing layer.
12. A disposable diaper as in Claim 11 wherein the gathering means disposed between the facing layer and the backing layer are secured to both layers.
13. A disposable diaper as in Claim 8 wherein the means securing each of said gathering means are provided by at least two spaced lines of attachment cooperating with one another to provide visibly distinct separate lines of simulated stitching.
14. A disposable diaper as in Claim 8 wherein the gathering means are defined by an elastic member having a width dimension of at least 3/4" and a width-to-thickness ratio of at least about 100, said gathering means are disposed between the backing layer and facing layer, and the means securing said gathering means are provided by at least two spaced lines of attachment bonding said gathering means to said facing layer and at least two spaced lines of attachment bonding said gathering means to said backing layer.
15. A disposable diaper comprising: a first outer layer in the form of a moisture-impervious backing, an absorbent panel positioned in superposed relationship with respect to said backing, said panel being smaller than said backing and spaced inwardly from the sides and ends thereof, a second outer layer in the form of a moisture-pervious facing positioned in superposed relationship with respect to said panel, said facing being larger than said panel and having marginal portions thereof secured to said backing, gathering means in each side margin of the diaper, and means securing the gathering means to the facing, said gathering means being defined by an elastic member having a width dimension in excess of 3/8" and having a width-to-thickness ratio of at least about 100, whereby said gathering means provides imposed body conformity without undue application of pressure upon the skin of the wearer, and provides improved liquid containment.
16. A disposable diaper comprising: a first outer layer in the form of a moisture-impervious backing, an absorbent panel pisitioned in superposed relationship with respect to said backing, said panel being smaller than said backing and spaced inwardly from the sides and ends thereof; a second outer layer in the form of a moisture-pervious facing positioned in super-posed relationship with respect to said panel, said facing being larger than said panel and having marginal portions thereof secured to said backing; gathering means in at least one end margin of the diaper and means securing said gathering means to at least one of said layers, said gathering means being defined by an elastic member having a width dimension in excess of 3/8"
and having a width-to-thickness ratio of at least about 100, whereby said gathering means provides imposed body conformity without undue application of pressure upon the skin of the wearer.
and having a width-to-thickness ratio of at least about 100, whereby said gathering means provides imposed body conformity without undue application of pressure upon the skin of the wearer.
17. A disposable diaper as in Claim 16 wherein the gathering means is defined by an elastic member having a width dimension of at least 3/4" and a width-to-thickness ratio of at least about 100.
18. A disposable diaper as in Claim 16 wherein said means securing said gathering means is provided by at least two spaced lines of attachment cooperating with one another to provide visibly distinct separate lines of simulated stitching.
19. A disposable diaper as in Claim 16 wherein the gathering means is defined by an elastic member having a width dimension of at least 3/4" and a width-to-thickness ratio of at least about 100, the gathering means is disposed between the backing layer and the facing layer, and the means securing said gathering means is provided by at least two spaced lines of attachment bonding said gathering means to said facing layer and at least two spaced lines of attachment bonding said gathering means to said backing layer.
20. A disposable diaper comprising: a first outer layer in the form of a moisture-impervious backing; an absorbent panel positioned in superposed relationship with respect to said backing, said panel being smaller than said backing so that side marginal portions of the backing extend outwardly beyond the side edges of said absorbent panel, a second outer layer in the form of a moisture-pervious facing in superposed relationship with respect to said panel, said facing being larger than said absorbent panel so that side marginal portions of the facing extend outwardly beyond the side edges of said absorbent panel, gathering means disposed in said side marginal portions between said facing and said backing and inwardly of the side edges of the diaper, said gathering means being defined by an elastic member having a width dimension in excess of 3/8" and having a width-to-thickness ratio of at least about 100, whereby said gathering means provides improved body conformity without undue application of pressure upon the skin of the wearer, said gathering means being secured to both said backing and said facing, and said backing and said facing being unsecured to each other in the side marginal portion between the gathering means and the longitudinal side edges of the diaper, whereby said gathering means provides aesthetically pleasing ruffles at the side edges of the diaper.
21. A disposable diaper according to Claim 20 wherein the gathering means are defined by an elastic member having a width dimension of at least 3/4" and a width-to-thickness ratio of at least about 100.
22 A disposable diaper according to Claim 20 wherein the gathering means is secured to the backing by at least two spaced lines of attachment and secured to the facing by at least two spaced lines of attachment and lines of attachment cooperating with one another to provide visibly distinct separate lines of simulated stitching.
23. A disposable diaper according to Claim 22 wherein the gathering means are defined by an elastic member having a width dimension of at least 3/4" and a width-to-thickness ratio of at least about 100.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA000419134A CA1181201A (en) | 1979-01-08 | 1983-01-07 | Disposable diaper with wide elastic gathering means for improved comfort |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US161679A | 1979-01-08 | 1979-01-08 | |
| US1,616 | 1979-01-08 |
Related Child Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA000419134A Division CA1181201A (en) | 1979-01-08 | 1983-01-07 | Disposable diaper with wide elastic gathering means for improved comfort |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA1154901A true CA1154901A (en) | 1983-10-11 |
Family
ID=21696996
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA000343133A Expired CA1154901A (en) | 1979-01-08 | 1980-01-07 | Disposable diaper with wide elastic gathering means for improved comfort |
Country Status (2)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| AU (1) | AU533635B2 (en) |
| CA (1) | CA1154901A (en) |
Cited By (2)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US5509915A (en) | 1991-09-11 | 1996-04-23 | Kimberly-Clark Corporation | Thin absorbent article having rapid uptake of liquid |
| US5836930A (en) * | 1993-05-03 | 1998-11-17 | Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc | Absorbent article having an umbilical protection feature and an abbreviated absorbent structure |
-
1980
- 1980-01-07 CA CA000343133A patent/CA1154901A/en not_active Expired
- 1980-01-07 AU AU54373/80A patent/AU533635B2/en not_active Expired
Cited By (2)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US5509915A (en) | 1991-09-11 | 1996-04-23 | Kimberly-Clark Corporation | Thin absorbent article having rapid uptake of liquid |
| US5836930A (en) * | 1993-05-03 | 1998-11-17 | Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc | Absorbent article having an umbilical protection feature and an abbreviated absorbent structure |
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| AU533635B2 (en) | 1983-12-01 |
| AU5437380A (en) | 1980-07-17 |
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| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| MKEX | Expiry |