KR20000005552A - Monofilament reinforced fastening system for absorbent articles and methodof manufacture - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE: An improved garment fastening system uses the elastic strap and a button fastening, and includes the monofilament strand which improve the end edges of curl, the side winding and the twist. CONSTITUTION: A fastening system for use with a garment incorporates elastomeric strap members (22) comprising an integral monofilament strand (80) for transverse reinforcement and stability. Especially, an integral monofilament strand(80) prevents the side winding of the strap by power line that is produced by extension of elastic strap, and reduces the tendency of the ends of the strap members to curl under during use. Buttons (50, 52) adapted for releasable attachment to the garment are bonded to the strap member. Substantially continous end seals (90) that are bontiguous with the end edges of each strap member have a width dimension at least as great as an effective monofilament strand width. Fabric strands of the strap members are bonded to one another in the end seals to substantially immobilize the monofilament strand.

Description

Monofilament reinforced fastening system for absorbent articles and manufacturing method thereof

The present invention relates to an improved fastening system for garments. More specifically, the present invention relates to an improved elastic strap fastening system with button fasteners incorporating monofilament reinforced strands to improve resistance to side curl and twist and end curling.

Garments, such as absorbent articles, have a variety of shapes due to the many different types of wearers and conditions of use. Each type of garment includes a specially designed suitable fastening system. As one example, a fastening system for an absorbent article may include adhesive tapes, garment adhesives, and body adhesives; Mechanical hook-and-loop fasteners; Button fasteners; Stretchable side panels and the like.

Many of these fastening systems have been the subject of intensive development efforts, and have improved in recent years. In contrast to this, however, elastic strap and button fastener fastening systems have received little attention to date after their initial use. This type of fastening system, which is particularly common in adult incontinence underwear, is the mainstay of the field, but equally has not improved as much as other product types. As absorbency, gasket properties, materials, and the like have been improved, elastic straps and button fastener fastening systems are now a major factor in wearer's dissatisfaction with the fit and comfort of the garment.

That is, what is lacking and necessary in the art is an improved garment fastening system that utilizes elastic straps and button fasteners and improves garment fit and wearer comfort.

Summary of the Invention

In accordance with the deficiencies discussed in the prior art, new fastening systems have been developed that include elastic straps and button fasteners. The fastening system is suitable for use in garments such as absorbent articles and improves product fit and wearer comfort.

Applicants evaluated the fastening system with elastic straps and found that the article was felt by a relatively wide elastic strap by reducing the deflection of the garment and increasing comfort, safety, and leakage protection compared to narrow elastic straps. It was found that the synthesis was improved. However, the Applicant has also recognized that when the elastic body is stretched, the extent to which the side edges of the strap are wound, twisted and roped by the increased strap width increases directly. This problem is due to the use of buttons or other point-attach fasteners, because the force line tends to be oriented towards the point of attachment when the elastic strap is stretched and straps around the axis defined by the force line. This is because the sides tend to overlap.

As can be appreciated, it can be very uncomfortable by elastic strap rotation and twisting lateral edges, and skin irritation can occur due to the local pressure of the strap. Moreover, the winding of the strap edges can be fatal to the fit of the garment and lead to sagging and destabilization. Applicants simply increase straps to improve fit and reduce sag because not only the tendency of the strap edges to wind and twist increases as the tension increases, but also the wearer's comfort is reduced by localized pressure on small areas. It has been found that increasing tension is not a desirable option.

That is, the Applicant recognizes the advantages obtained by the wider elastic strap, while the Applicant also increases production costs by using elastic straps and buttons, as well as obtains improved fit and comfort by the fastening system. We have learned performance characteristics that hinder us.

The above-mentioned obstacles are overcome by the fastening system of the present invention, and a wider elastic strap with a button or other point contact fastener can be used. The fastening system of the present invention includes an elastomeric strap member comprising integral monofilament strands, which is reinforced in the width direction thereby providing stability to the strap. In particular, the monolithic monofilament strand prevents the side edges of the strap from winding and twisting by the force lines generated by the stretching of the elastic strap. In addition, monofilament strands are included in the strap member in such a way that the tendency of the strap ends to curl down is reduced and the likelihood of skin irritation is minimized.

In one aspect, the invention relates to a fastening system for use in a garment. The fastening system includes a longitudinal axis and a transverse axis, opposing first and second longitudinal end edges, opposing side edges extending between the end edges, a first end region in contact with the first end edge, and a second contacting the second end edge An elastomeric strap member having a distal region. The elastomeric strap member is formed of a fabric fabric comprising a plurality of fabric strands and monofilaments laterally positioned within the fabric structure. A button detachably attached to the garment is coupled to the strap member at the first end region and the second end of the strap member is attached to the garment. The strap member also includes a terminal closure abutting the first terminal edge of the strap member. The terminal closure has a width dimension greater than the effective width of the monofilament strand and the terminal closure is substantially continuous across its width dimension direction. The fabric strands are joined to each other at the end sutures and the monofilament strands are substantially fixed at the end sutures.

In another aspect, the present invention relates to a fastening system having an elastomeric strap member and first and second buttons coupled to the strap member at each of the first and second distal regions. The elastomeric strap member is formed of a fabric structure comprising a plurality of fabric strands and monofilaments laterally laid within the fabric structure. The strap member also includes a terminal closure abutting each of the first and second terminal edges of the strap member. Each end closure has a width dimension greater than or equal to the effective width of the monofilament strand, and the end closure is continuous across its width dimension direction. Fabric strands are bonded to each other at each end closure, and monofilament strands are substantially fixed at each end closure.

Various forms of the present invention are believed to contribute to reducing the extent to which the strap member end curls down during use. For example, in certain aspects of the present invention, the terminal closure is spaced at intervals of about 10 mm or less, preferably 0 to about 6 mm, in the longitudinal direction from the point of attachment of the button. In other aspects, the length dimension of the terminal closure is greater than 3 mm, in particular about 10 mm or more. In addition, in certain embodiments the terminal closure has a deflection resistance value of about 200 g or more.

In another aspect, the present invention relates to an absorbent article comprising a garment having a first portion and a second waist region and an intermediate portion interconnecting the waist regions. The garment defining the plurality of button holes in the first and second waist regions is a liquid permeable moisture barrier, an absorbent assembly disposed over the moisture barrier, and a liquid coupled to the moisture barrier to sandwich the absorbent assembly between the bodyside liner and the moisture barrier. It is formed of a permeable bodyside liner. The absorbent article also includes a pair of elastomeric strap members. Each strap member includes a longitudinal axis and a transverse axis, opposing first and second longitudinal end edges, opposing side edges extending between the end edges, strap widths defined between the side edges, a first end region in contact with the first end edge, and A second terminal region bordering the two terminal edges, and a central region mediating and interconnecting the first and second terminal regions. Each elastomeric strap member is formed of a fabric structure comprising a plurality of fabric strands and monofilaments laterally laid within the fabric structure. First and second buttons detachably attached to the button holes are coupled to each strap member at each of the first and second end regions. Each strap member also includes a terminal closure abutting the first and second terminal edges. Each end closure has a width dimension greater than or equal to the effective width of the monofilament strand, and each end closure is substantially continuous across its width dimension direction. Fabric strands are bonded to each other at each end closure, and monofilament strands are substantially fixed at each end closure.

Applicants have found that the absorbent articles incorporating the present fastening system are held in place and more comfortable than current commercially available products. Stabilization of the elastic strand provided by the monofilament strand minimizes or even eliminates the tendency of the side edges of the strap to wind or twist between buttons. As a result, the straps tend to be very comfortable. The manner in which the monofilament strand is included in the strap member reduces the tendency for the ends of the strap to curl. In addition, the straps can be placed under greater tension without the tendency to rope or twist, with greater tension improving the fit and reducing sagging of the garment. Applicants have concluded that the comfort of the wearer is improved by using strap members having a width dimension of at least about 25 mm, in particular at least about 30 mm, for improved performance.

In another aspect, the present invention relates to a method of manufacturing a strap member. The method includes providing a continuous web of elastomeric strap material comprising a fabric structure and monofilament strands laterally laid in a sinusoidal form within the fabric structure;

Treating the discontinuous regions of the continuous web to form a plurality of bonding zones, in which the fabric structure joins itself to fix the monofilament strands, each bonding zone being at least 6 mm in length. );

Cutting the continuous web transversely throughout the joining zone to form a plurality of strap members, each strap member having opposite end edges with some joining zones defining end closures contacting each end edge, each The terminal sutures are at least 3 mm in length and have a deflection index of at least 200 g); And

Engaging a pair of buttons over each strap member.

Many features and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the following description. In the following description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings that illustrate preferred embodiments of the invention. These aspects do not represent the full scope of the invention. Accordingly, reference should be made to the claims for interpretation of the full scope of the invention.

1 shows a schematic perspective view of an absorbent article according to the invention, with a portion removed for illustration.

FIG. 2 shows an enlarged schematic perspective view of one of the two strap members shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 shows an enlarged schematic cross-sectional view generally viewed from the plane of line 3-3 of FIG.

FIG. 4 shows a schematic front plan view of a test apparatus for measuring the deflection index for a specimen viewed from one of the two strap members shown in FIG. 1.

1 and 2, an absorbent article formed in accordance with the present invention is a disposable undergarment for adult urinary incontinence held in place around the wearer by a fastening system comprising a pair of strap members 22. Is shown. As used herein, the term "disposable" means discarded after use without being cleaned and reused. The underwear 20 with the strap member 22 only partially attached is shown in FIG. 1 in a loose or non-stretched state. The invention may also be embodied in other forms of garment, such as other disposable absorbent articles, reusable absorbent articles.

The illustrated underwear 20 has opposing front and back longitudinal end edges 24, 26, and a longitudinal side edge 28 extending between the longitudinal end edges. Underwear 20 includes a first or front waist region 30, a second or back waist region 32, and an intermediate west region 34 that interconnects the front and back waist regions. Although the edges may be arbitrarily curved and contoured, the outer edges of the undergarment 20 define an outer circumference 36 having generally distal end and side edges 24, 26, 28.

The front waist region 30 abuts and extends longitudinally inward toward the transverse centerline of the underwear 20 from the front end edge 24. The back waist region 32 abuts and extends longitudinally inward toward the transverse centerline therefrom. The waist regions 30 and 32 consist of the upper portions of the underwear 20 which, when worn, completely or partially wrap or surround the wearer's waist or lower middle body part. The middle west sea region 34 consists of a portion of the undergarment 20 which is located between the wearer's legs when worn and wraps around the lower body part of the wearer. That is, the West Sea region 34 is typically the area where urine enters in underwear or other disposable absorbent articles.

Underwear 20 includes a substantially liquid impermeable moisture barrier 40, an absorbent assembly 42 disposed over the moisture barrier, and a substantially liquid permeable bodyside liner 44 coupled to the moisture barrier so that the absorbent assembly is sandwiched therebetween. do. The moisture barrier 40 and bodyside liner 44 are preferably absorbed such that the outer periphery of the moisture barrier 40 and bodyside liner 44 are joined together using ultrasonic bonding, thermal bonding, adhesives, or other suitable means. Longer and wider than the assembly 42. The outer circumference of the moisture barrier 40 and bodyside liner 44 typically forms the lateral and distal edges of the underwear 20. Absorbent assembly 42 may be coupled directly to moisture barrier 40 and / or bodyside liner 44 by ultrasonic bonding, thermal bonding, adhesives, or other suitable means. As used herein, the term "bond" refers to the joining, adhering, connecting, attaching, etc. of two components. Two components are considered to be bonded together when they are bonded directly or indirectly to each other, such as when each is directly bonded to an intermediate component. “Arranged”, “disposed over”, “disposed with”, “disposed on”, “disposed near”, and variations thereof may include one component integrated with another component or one component incorporated into another component). It is intended to mean that each structure can be bonded or located with or near another component.

The moisture barrier 40 is preferably made of a material constructed or treated to be liquid impermeable. Alternatively, the moisture barrier 40 may comprise a liquid impermeable material, and other suitable means such as a liquid impermeable layer (not shown) coupled with the absorbent assembly 42 to inhibit movement of liquid from the absorbent assembly. This may be provided. The moisture barrier 40 may also be gas permeable, such that gas generated during use of the absorbent garment may pass through the material at normal use conditions or through the surface of the material, in whole or in part.

Moisture barrier 40 may comprise a single material layer or a laminate of two or more respective material layers. Suitable moisture barrier materials include films, fabrics, nonwovens; Laminates of films, fabrics, nonwovens, and the like. For example, the moisture barrier 40 may comprise a substantially liquid impermeable web or sheet of plastic film, such as polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride or similar materials. The moisture barrier material is transparent or opaque and has an embossed or matte surface. A particular material for the moisture barrier 40 is a polyethylene film that has a nominal thickness of about 0.025 mm, has a regular matt embossing pattern, and is corona treated on both sides. Other suitable moisture barrier materials are adhesive or thermal laminates comprising cast or blown films formed from polypropylene, polyethylene, and the like, and spunbond webs formed from polypropylene and polyethylene bicomponent fibers in a 50/50 side by side configuration.

Absorption assembly 42 includes a material suitable for absorbing and retaining liquid waste. The absorbent assembly 42 may comprise various absorbent materials, such as isoforms formed by air of cellulose fibers (ie, wood pulp fluff) or isoforms comprising a mixture of cellulose fibers and synthetic polymeric fibers. For example, polymer fibers may be mixed by the method described in US Pat. No. 5,227,107, issued July 13, 1993 to Dickenson et al. The absorbent assembly 42 also contains 0-95 weights of organic or inorganic superabsorbent material that can absorb at least about 15 times, preferably 25 times or more of its weight in a compound that increases its absorbency, for example, typically May contain%. Suitable superabsorbent materials are described in U.S. Patent No. 4,699,823, issued October 13, 1987 to Kellenberger et al. And U.S. Patent No. 5,147,343, issued September 15, 1992 to Kellenberger, which is incorporated herein by reference. It is. Superabsorbent materials are available from various commercial vendors such as Dow Chemical, Hoechst Celanese, and Allied Colloids. The absorbent assembly 42 may also include a tissue layer or an intake or distribution layer to help maintain the integrity of the fibrous absorbent or carrier liquid (not shown).

The bodyside liner 44 is formed of a liquid permeable material such that liquid waste, and possibly semisolid waste, is also passed through the liner and absorbed by the absorbent assembly 42. Suitable bodyside liner 44 is a spunbonded, meltblown or bonded carded comprising synthetic polymeric filaments or fibers such as nonwoven webs or sheets of wet rigid tissue paper, apertured films, polypropylene, polyethylene, polyester, and the like. Webs, or webs of natural polymer filaments or fibers, such as nylon or cotton. In addition, the bodyside liner 44 may be treated with a surfactant that is preferably inelastic and aids in liquid delivery. In certain aspects of the present invention, liner 44 comprises a nonwoven, spunbond polypropylene fabric comprising about 2.8-3. 2 denier fibers that are webs having a basis weight of about 22 gms and a density of about 0.06 gm / cc. The fabric is surface treated with about 0.28% by weight of surfactant marketed by Rohm and Haas under the trade name Triton X-102. The term "fabric" as used herein is used to refer to all of the woven, knitted and nonwoven fibrous webs. The term "nonwoven web" means a web of material that is formed without the aid of a textile weaving or knitting process.

Underwear 20 is illustrated as having a rectangular outer periphery 36, but may optionally be hourglass, I-shaped, T-shaped, or non-uniform. The general form of the absorbent assembly 42 may correspond to or be different from that of the underwear 20. For example, a US patent filed August 15, 1995, assigned to L. LeMahieu et al., And assigned to the assignee of the present application, "Absorbent article with improved waist region dryness and method of making the same." As described in Application 08 / 515,505 (Agent Case Management No. 12,248), the underwear 20 may include a relatively thin absorbent assembly and a separate liquid treatment layer in the waist region (not shown).

Preferably but not necessarily, the underwear 20 may also include a leg elastic member 46 that pulls and holds the side edges of the underwear 20 relative to the wearer's legs and together with the sutures. The elongated leg elastic member 46 is oriented longitudinally at each side edge (only one side is shown in FIG. 1) so as to extend toward the front and back terminal edges 24, 26. The leg elastic member 46 is positioned between the moisture barrier 40 and the bodyside liner 44 in the illustrated embodiment. Attach in straight or curved form to the moisture barrier 40, bodyside liner 44, or both with the leg elastic member 46 stretched using ultrasonic bonding, adhesives, thermal bonding, or other suitable means. do. Alternatively, the leg elastic member 46 may be attached to the gathering portion of the moisture barrier 40, the bodyside liner 44, or both in a relaxed state.

Leg elastic member 46 is this. It may be formed by dry-spun fused multifilament elastomers sold under the trademark LYCRA® from I, DuPont di Nemoir & Company. Alternatively, the elastic member is a pre-elastic elastic meltblown inner layer sandwiched between and bonded to other typical elastic materials used in underwear manufacturing techniques, such as thin ribbons of natural rubber, a pair of spunbond polypropylene nonwoven webs. It may be formed by a stretch-bonded laminate material and the like. Elasticity could be imparted to the absorbent article by extruding the hot melt elastic elastomer between the moisture barrier 40 and the liner 44. Other suitable elastic gathering means are disclosed in US Pat. No. 4,938,754 to Mesek and US Pat. No. 4,388,075 to Meseck et al.

The fastening system of the illustrated aspect includes a pair of strap members 22 detachably attached to the front and back waist regions 30, 32 to support the underwear 20 around the wearer's body. This general type of attachment system is disclosed in US Pat. No. B1 4,315,508 to Bolick, which is incorporated herein by reference. The present fastening system, which will be described in greater detail, is designed to prevent winding and twisting of the strap member 22 side during use and to prevent end curling of the stram member. These improvements allow for the use of relatively wide straps as needed, as well as improved garment comfort and fit.

Each strap member 22 of the illustrated aspect is provided with first and second buttons 50, 52 adapted to detachably attach to the buttonhole 53 provided in the undergarment 20. The button hole 53 is preferably formed in the moisture barrier 40 and the bodyside liner 44 and may further comprise a button hole reinforcing tape (not shown) as is known in the art. As used herein, the terms "detachably attached", "detachably used" and variations thereof are intended to keep the component connected while in use unless the wearer exerts a unique separation force on one or both of the components. It means that the two components are connected or connectable and can be separated without substantial permanent deformation or ruin.

Strap member 22 is generally a rectangular strip of material that generally defines longitudinal axis 54 and vertical transverse axis 55 (FIG. 2). Each strap member 22 has opposing, longitudinally spaced first and second end edges 56, 58, and opposing side edges 60, 62 extending between the end edges. The size of the strap member 22 will vary depending on the type of garment to which it is attached and the dimensions of the intended wearer. The distance between the distal edges 56, 58 defines the strap length and is suitably about 15 to about 40 cm. The distance between the side edges 60, 62 defines the strap width and is preferably at least about 25 mm, in particular at least about 30 mm, for improved performance. In one particular aspect, each strap member 22 is 28.6 cm in length dimension and 38 mm in width dimension.

For the purposes of the present invention, the strap member 22 extends into a central region 68 located between the first end region 64, the second end region 66 and the first and second end regions and interconnecting them. It is considered to be separated in the direction. The first end region 64 abuts and extends inwardly into the central region 68. The second end region 66 abuts and extends inwardly into the central region 68.

FIG. 3 shows an enlarged sectional view generally viewed from the plane of lines 3-3 of FIG. 2, with the center portion slightly removed to illustrate the attachment of the buttons 50, 52. Buttons 50 and 52 are coupled to respective first and second distal regions 64 and 66 of each strap member 22 at attachment point 70 (FIG. 3). Attachment area 70 is defined by the point at which seal 72 or other suitable means couples button 50 or 52 to strap member 22. Thread 72 is illustrated as passing through sewing hole 74 and through strap member 22 at buttons 50 and 52.

In the illustrated aspect, the buttons 50, 52 have an upper contour surface 76 and a generally flat bottom surface 78 opposite. Buttons 50 and 52 suitable for use in the present invention may be formed of polypropylene and are 22 mm in diameter, for example commercially available from Engineering Industries of Verona, WI, and painted. Some are recognized as just buttons. In the illustrated aspect, both distal regions 64, 66 of each strap member 22 may be attached to the underwear 20 by buttons 50, 52. However, alternatively, one end of each strap member 22 could be formed integrally with the undergarment 20 or could be coupled thereto by other suitable means (not shown).

The term "button" is used herein to refer to a group of fasteners that can be attached to strap member 22 at one point or in a region relatively small relative to the width dimension of the strap member. Examples of these fasteners are buttons, snaps, hook buttons, and the like. More specifically, these fasteners have attachment points that make up less than about 40 of the width dimension of the strap member 22, in particular less than about 30 of the width dimension of the strap member.

Applicant of the present invention is a strap member oriented with an inclined angle longitudinally outward or transversely inward toward the attachment point 70 of the fastener from the side edges 60, 62 of the strap when the elastic strap member 22 is stretched It has been confirmed that these fasteners share a common problem of forming force lines within them. Essentially, the strap member 22 is "neck down" near the attachment point 70. When the strap member 22 is disposed relative to the wearer's body, the side edges 60, 62 of the strap member tend to fold around an axis defined by the force line. As mentioned earlier, the folded side can irritate the wearer and also negatively affect the fit of the underwear because the strap force is limited to a smaller area. The present invention is directed to recognizing this problem and incorporating an integrating reinforcing material into the strap member 22 to provide an improved elastic strap member having a button fastener.

Strap member 22 is formed of an elastomeric material suitable for providing relatively high elasticity in longitudinal direction 54 and relatively high dimensional stability in transverse direction 55. As used herein, the terms "elastic" and "elasticization" refer to the properties of a material that tends to restore its original dimensions and shape after removing the forces causing deformation. The term "elastomer" refers to a material or hybrid that can stretch at least 25% of its relaxed length and recover at least 10% of the stretched length when removing the applied force. Generally preferably, the elastomeric material may be stretched at least 100%, more preferably 150-350% of its relaxed length, and at least 50% of the stretched length may be recovered when removing the applied force. The term "force" refers to the physical influence exerted on one body part by another, resulting in the promotion of freely moving body parts and deformation of the freely moving body parts.

In order to provide desirable dimensional stability in the transverse direction 55, each strap member 22 includes one or more relatively rigid monofilament strands 80 disposed within the peripheral fabric structure 82 of elastic material. Monofilament strand 80 is located in fabric structure 82 in the form of a sinusoidal curve between adjacent courses from which the fabric is made. The length of a portion of the monofilament strand 80 is shown in FIG. 2. Here, it is to be understood that the strand 80 extends over the entire length of the strap member 22 and forms an integral component of the elastomeric strap material.

The monofilament strand 80 suitably has greater relative stiffness compared to the strands of the remaining fabric structure 82. In certain aspects, monofilament strand 80 is comprised of nylon yarns, but in other cases may comprise any synthetic or natural strand that provides relatively greater rigidity than the rest of the fabric structure 82. Strap member 22 may include one or a plurality of monofilament strands 80. For example, in one aspect, strap member 22 includes one nylon monofilament strand of about 80 deniers and one nylon monofilament strand of about 330 deniers. Suitable monofilament strands 80 are commercially available from Shakespeare Monofilament, Columbia, South Carolina under the tradename SHAKESPEARE®. The monofilament strand 80 provides lateral stability of the strap member 22 over the entire strap length, thereby preventing the straps from twisting and twisting between the buttons 50 and 52 when stretched during use. do.

In one aspect of the invention, the monofilament strand 80 does not extend across the entire strap width. Rather, the monofilament strand 80 changes direction at the reversal point 84 disposed laterally inwardly at the side edges 60, 62 of the strap member 22. That is, monofilament strand 80 has an effective width between opposite inversion points 84 that are less than the strap width. In FIG. 2, the effective width of the monofilament strand 80 is indicated by arrow 86. That is, the buffer zone 88 of the strap member 22 is provided between the inversion point 84 of the monofilament strand 80 and the corresponding side edges 60, 62 (FIGS. 2 and 3). The buffer zone 88 provides a relatively more flexible portion of the strap member 22 that is generally more comfortable for the wearer's body. Examples of fabrics containing inverted monofilament yarns are disclosed in US Patent Nos. 4,244,199 and Sommers, issued January 13, 1981 to Rhode, which is incorporated herein by reference 30 December 1986 1, US Pat. No. 4,631,932. The effective width 86 is suitably about 50 to 100% of the width dimension of the strap member 22, in particular about 70 to 95, so that the buffer zone 88 has a width of about 2 to about 10 mm. %to be.

Strap member 22 may include any suitable fabric structure 82 to contain monofilament strand 80. Strap member 22 may include, for example, woven, knitted, crochet knitted, or other suitable surrounding fabric structure. Suitable fabric structure 82 may include relatively inelastic yarns, relatively elastic yarns, relatively rigid monofilament yarns 80, and covering yarns. Relatively inelastic yarns and covering yarns are typically formed of polyester, nylon or other flexible synthetic or natural yarn materials. Resilient yarns are typically formed from rubber, neoprene or spandex materials.

In certain aspects, strap member 22 may comprise 150 denier polyester weft, warp and lock knit single strands; Neoprene elastic strand of 50 gauge (3311 denier); White nylon cover strand consisting of four 70 denier yarns; And lock knit fabric formed from monofilament strand 80. The nylon cover strand is disposed towards the body side of the strap member 22 opposite the buttons 50, 52 so that a plush surface is provided. Strap material is about 73.3 grains per yard polyester fiber in weft; About 153.6 grains per yard collectively in warp and rock knit; It contains about 67.8 grains per yard of neoprene elastomer. The strap member 22 of the type described above is manufactured under the trade name KCM2 by Shelby Elastics, Selby, North Carolina. Other suitable materials for the strap member 22 may include the aforementioned materials in different amounts, may include other optional materials, or may be formed by other manufacturing methods.

Applicants have found that the ends of the elastomeric strap member 22 outwardly in the longitudinal direction of the button attachment point 70 tend to curl during use. As a result, the distal edges 56 and 58 are trapped between the wearer's body and the rest of the strap member 22. Inserting the monofilament strand 80 into the strap member 22 may exacerbate the problem due to the cut end of the hard monofilament strand protruding from the ends 56 and 58 of the strap member and stabbing the skin, This did not correspond to the applicant's following solution.

In one aspect, the present invention relates to the use of end closures 90 to substantially secure monofilament strand 80. Terminal sutures 90, shown as regions owed in FIGS. 1-3, are present at both ends of strap member 22 in contact with each terminal edge 56, 58. As shown by the edges in FIG. 2, the distal end portion 90 has a width dimension indicated by an arrow 92 parallel to the transverse axis 55 of the strap member 22 and an arrow parallel to the longitudinal axis 56 of the strap member ( 94) (also shown in FIG. 3). The width dimension 92 of each end closure 90 is suitably greater than or equal to the effective width 86 of the monofilament strand 80 (FIG. 2). In addition, but not necessarily, the width dimension 92 is less than the strap width.

To effectively contain the monofilament strand 80, the distal suture 90 is substantially continuous over its entire width dimension 92 such that the strand 80 may be attached to the strap member 22 regardless of where the strap member is cut. Is fixed to the terminal edges 56 and 58 of. The term "substantially continuous" as used herein for the distal edge 90 means that there are no gaps or interruptions at the distal sutures that preferably cause the monofilament strand to protrude from the distal edges 56, 58, preferably optionally It means that there are no gaps or interruptions beyond the diameter of the monofilament strand measured at the edges 56, 58 at the terminal closure.

End closure 90 may be formed by ultrasonic bonding, adhesive injection, thermal bonding, ultrasonic cutting, laser cutting, or other suitable means. One important feature of the end closure 90 is that the fabric structure 82 surrounding the monofilament strand 80 is bonded to itself to substantially limit or prevent movement of the monofilament strand. By doing so, the monofilament strand 80 protrudes through the terminal edges 56 and 58 cut during use and cannot stab the wearer. Monofilament strand 80 may also be coupled to fabric structure 82 within end closure 90 such that strand 80 is further secured.

In one aspect, the terminal closure 90 is formed by ultrasonically coupling a portion of the strap member 22 that forms the terminal edge 90. The fabric bonding 82 is melt bonded to itself by an ultrasonic bonding process. As used herein, the term “melt adhesion” means that each fiber, including fabric structure 82, has been processed to its softening point and bonded directly to other fibers of the fabric structure. Alternatively, fabric structure 82 may be bonded to itself and / or to monofilament strand 80 by adhesive bonds, chemical bonds, mechanical bonds, thermal bonds, and the like, to secure monofilament strand 80.

Another aspect of the invention relates to the resistance of end closure 90 to resist curling during use. Applicants note that when the end closure 90 is adapted to have a flexural index of at least about 200 g, elasticity containing the monofilament strand 80, especially when combined with the end closure with a length dimension 94 of 3 mm or more It was confirmed that the ends of the strap 22 tended to resist curling. The bending resistance of the end closure 90 measures the degree of resistance to bending applied by the portion of the strap member 22 in contact with the terminal edges 56, 58. In this parameter, the distal end of the strap member 22 tends to lie flat on the wearer's body, thereby reducing the source of stimulation.

The index of warpage of the end closure 90 is particularly at least about 300 g, advantageously at least 400 g for improved performance. Flexural resistance of the end closure 90 changes the composition of the strap member 22, changes the number or weight of the monofilament strand 80, changes the width and length dimensions 92, 94 of the end closure, By controlling the degree of bonding of the fibers in the terminal sutures and the like. Suitable procedures for measuring flexural resistance are described in more detail below.

End closure 90 preferably abuts end edges 56, 58, is substantially continuous across width dimension 92, and length dimension 94 exceeds 3 mm. In certain aspects, terminal closure 90 has a length dimension of at least about 10 mm, such as from about 10 to about 16 mm, for improved performance. The close seal 90 is substantially continuous across the length dimension 94. Furthermore, the terminal closure 90 is preferably for the purpose of improving performance by the distance indicated by the arrow 96 of FIG. 2 from the attachment point 70 of the buttons 50, 52, ie about 10 mm or less, in particular About 6 mm or less, for example 0 to about 6 mm, spaced apart longitudinally. Applicants have found that the strap ends are more likely to curl as the size of the gap 96 increases.

The present end closure 90 is significantly different from that used in conventional elastic straps of commercial disposable absorbent underwear. First, it should be noted that since the applicant has not been able to identify disposable absorbent underwear containing monofilament strands until the present invention, the end closures used as commercially available products are different from the basic aspect of not including monofilament strands. Is thought to be. It is believed that conventional underwear straps do not combine the following characteristics: (1) the end closure abuts the terminal edge of the strap member; (2) the terminal closure is substantially continuous over the width of the terminal closure; And (3) the length of the terminal closure is at least about 3 mm. Moreover, it is believed that conventional underwear straps do not combine the following characteristics: (1) the end closure abuts the terminal edge of the strap member; (2) the terminal closure is substantially continuous over the width of the terminal closure; And (3) the terminal closure is about 10 mm or less from the point of attachment of the button. For comparison, straps from five commercial disposable absorbent underwear are tested and the results are described below.

The first underwear was assumed to be commercially available under the trade name DEPEND® by Kimberly-Clark Corporation, Nina, Wisconsin, around January 1996. The strap has a terminal closure abutting the terminal edge of the strap. Each terminal closure was about 9.5 mm in length and included a series of rod-shaped ultrasonic coupling zones. The terminal closure was located within 4.5 mm from the button attachment point. The strap fibers were melt bonded to each other in the bonding zone. Rather than being substantially continuous across the width of each terminal closure, the binding zone included only about 50 of each terminal closure width.

The second underwear tested was prepared by Pope & Talbot, Portland, Oregon and marketed by Osco Drug. The brand name, Osko Drag, was purchased in January 1995. The strap had a terminal closure abutting the terminal edge. The distal suture had a length of about 0.4 mm, continued across the entire width of the strap, and was located 15 mm from the butt attachment point. The strap fibers were found to not melt bond to each other.

The third underwear tested was manufactured by Inbrand of Marita, Georgia, and was marketed by Wal-Mart. Underwear was purchased in January 1996 under the trade name ASSURANCE ^™ . The strap had a terminal closure abutting the terminal edge. The terminal sutures had a length of about 0.4 to 0.8 mm, continued across the entire width of the strap, and was located 15 mm from the button attachment point. It was shown that the strap fibers do not melt adhere to each other.

The fourth underwear tested was prepared by ICD Industries, King of Prussia, Pennsylvania, and commercially available from the Walgreen Drug Store. Underwear was purchased in January 1996 under the trade name Walgreen Belted Undergarments ^™ . The strap had a terminal closure abutting the terminal edge. The terminal sutures had a length of about 0.4 to 0.8 mm, were continuous across the entire width of the strap, and were located 15 mm from the butt attachment point. It was shown that the strap fibers do not melt adhere to each other.

The fifth underwear tested was manufactured by Procter & Gamble, Cincinnati, Ohio, and was marketed by Acess Medical. Underwear was purchased in January 1996 under the trade name ATTENDS (registered trademark). The strap had a terminal closure abutting the terminal edge. The distal suture had a length of about 0.8 mm, continued across the entire width of the strap, and was located 15 mm from the button attachment point. It was shown that the strap fibers do not melt adhere to each other.

Applicants have incorporated the monofilament strand 80 into the strap member 22 such that the substantial force vector is inclined from the side edges 60, 62 by the angle of inclination toward the attachment point 70 of the buttons 50, 52. Prevent. By interfering the inwardly inclined force vectors, the tendency to twist and wind the side edges of the strap member 22 is greatly reduced or eliminated. Applicants also contact the end edges 56, 58 and the end suture 90, which is substantially continuous across the width dimension 92 of the effective width 86 of the monofilament 80, secures the monofilament strands. Or trapped to prevent it from protruding from the terminal edge and stabbing the wearer. Moreover, the Applicant has confirmed that the end of the strap member 22 resists curling when the end closure 90 in contact with the end edges 56, 58 has a length dimension 94 of 3 mm or more. In addition, the Applicant has confirmed that the distal end of the strap member 22 resists curling when the distal end portion 90 is spaced at an interval of about 10 mm or less from the attachment point 70 of the buttons 50 and 52. .

In use, the underwear 20 is placed on the wearer's body and secured in place using a fastening system. The wearer can use one button 50, 52 of each strap member 22 with a buttonhole 53 in the back waist region 32. After stretching or loosening the strap member 22 to obtain the desired tension, the wearer then presses the facing button 50 of each strap member 22 with a corresponding buttonhole 53 in the front waist region 30. 52) can be used. During application and use of the strap member 22, the reverse stabilization of the strap member 22 provided by the monofilament strand 80 is such that a force vector in the strap member causes the attachment point 70 of the buttons 50, 52 to be fixed. It is prevented from being formed at a predetermined angle from the side edges 60 and 62. Thereby, the tendency to wind and twist of the side edges of the strap member 22 is reduced or eliminated. The end closure 90 according to the present invention has a monofilament strand 80 secured within the fabric structure 82 to eliminate potential sources of stimulation and also to reduce curling of the strap ends to remove other sources of stimulation. .

Each of the foregoing or similar aspects of the invention may be constructed by providing each component in the manner described above and combining them together. Strap member 22 is preferably formed in a manner disclosed by providing a continuous web of elastomeric strap material. This material comprises a fabric structure 82 and monofilament strands 80 laterally laid in the fabric structure in the form of a sinusoidal curve. The web runs intermittently to the end closure forming station for processing. Each region of the continuous web is treated at the forming station by ultrasonic bonding, heat, adhesive, or the like, such that the fabric structure 82 is bonded to itself and / or to the monofilament strand 80 to secure the monofilament strand 80. A plurality of joining zones is formed. Each joining zone preferably has a length of at least about 6 mm. Subsequently, the continuous web is cut laterally in engagement with the engagement zone to form a plurality of strap members 22. As a result of the cut, each cut in the engagement zone defines a terminal suture 90 that abuts each end edge 56, 58 of the strap member 22. Each end closure 90 is at least 3 mm long and has a whip resistance of at least 200 g. Each button 50, 52 is engaged in place to complete the manufacture of the strap member 22.

In one aspect, the method uses an ultrasonic coupling device for the formation of the terminal closure 90. One suitable ultrasonic thruster system is commercially available from the Ultrasonics Division, Dukane, St. Charles, Illinois. The unit is identified as a 2000 watt 220 DPC system called the Model 2200C220T with a titanium horn, a 2.0: 1 gain titanium booster mounted in part 25952. The horn has a working surface dimension of 28.5 x 41.1 mm and a very fine male knurl pattern over the entire working surface for improved welding time and quality. The thruster system is mounted to the frame so that the horn is spaced at an interval of 19.1 mm from the mating anvil upon contraction.

For ultrasonic bonding, the elastomeric strap material remains suitably stationary for a short period of time, for example up to about 790 milliseconds. Once the material is stopped, the thruster system is activated to direct the horn towards the anvil with a force of 45700 kg / m ² (65 psi) until the horn face contacts the elastomeric strap material. The horn continues until the material is subjected to 17578 kg / m ² (25 psi). At this point, the ultrasound is sufficiently activated for a sufficient time and with sufficient energy for the desired bonding region to be formed. The trust system then reverses the horn. Formation of suitable end closures 90 of the type described herein can include activation of ultrasound at intervals of about 375 to 550 milliseconds and application of welding energy of about 300 to 400 joules to the material. In the case of a strap material having a relatively flushed side, the flush surface is preferably disposed towards the softer side relative to the body.

In certain aspects, the ultrasonic thruster system is adapted to form a plurality of bonding zones within a continuous web of elastomeric strap material. The joining zone is about 25.4 mm in length dimension and the width dimension is equal to the strap width. Thereafter, the bonding zone is cut in half using a mechanical knife.

Cutting of the strap member 22 may be performed using various machines such as shear cutting, ultrasonic cutting, laser cutting, water cutting, and the like. In general, shear cuts are believed to produce straight terminal edges 56 and 58 compared to ultrasonic cuts, and straighter edges are believed to cause less skin irritation.

As such, the present invention and its preparation method have been described, and numerous examples have been prepared in order to understand the present invention in more detail. These examples and test methods for measuring them are listed below. Specific amounts, proportions, compositions and parameters are typical examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention specifically.

<Test method>

The bending resistance test measures the peak load when the test specimen taken from the strap member 22 is bent around an axis parallel to the longitudinal or length dimension of the strap member and positioned at the center of the width dimension. A Sintech material test system known as a tensile tester is used for the test. A suitable test system is Model 1 / S, available from MTS Systems, Eden Prairie, Minnesota. The material test system is equipped with a load cell of a suitable size, for example a 4.54 kgm (10 lb) load cell available from MTS Systems. The material test system is operated using a suitable control software, for example, the 3.03 version of TEST WORK ™, commercially available from MTS Systems.

With respect to FIG. 4, test specimen 120 is illustrated in place for testing within material testing system 122. Material test system 122 includes upper and lower air handles 124, 126 moving perpendicular to each other. The upper air handle 124 includes a pair of opposing rubber coated handle facings 130. The knob facing 130 is moved toward each other by the action of the air cylinder 132. As illustrated, the rigid metal plate 134 is held in place as a result of being pressed between the handle facings 130. The metal plate is 105 mm long, 80 mm wide and 1 mm thick. The metal plate 134 is positioned so that the width dimension of the plate is parallel to the direction of movement of the upper and lower air handles 124, 126.

Lower air handle 126 includes a pair of opposing rubber coated handle facings 140. The handle facing 130 of the lower air handle 126 is controlled by an air cylinder (not shown) held in the retracted position for this test. The spacing between the two half portions of the lower air handle 126 is illustrated by arrow 142 and maintained at 21 mm. The distance between the handle facing 140 of the lower air handle 126 is illustrated by arrow 144 and maintained at 11 mm.

The test specimen 120 is cut from the strap member 22 in the following manner using scissors or the like. The test specimen 120 has a width of 21 mm and is measured parallel to the width dimension of the strap member 22. That is, the 21 mm width of the test specimen 120 is cut from the center of the strap member 22 located in the center between the side edges 64, 66. The length dimension of the test specimen 120 is taken from the portion of the strap member 122 that abuts the distal edge. The length of the test specimen 120 is the length of the terminal closure. The buttons 50, 52 coupled to the test specimen 12 are removed with scissors or a knife before testing.

The bending resistance test is initiated by calibrating and manufacturing the device as specified by the manufacturer. The test specimen 120 was placed on the lower air handle 126 so that the non-body side of the test specimen 120 was placed toward the metal plate 134. The test specimen 120 was oriented so that the width dimension of 21 mm was perpendicular to the face of the metal plate 134. The edge of the test specimen 120 is leaned against the upper surface of the handle facing 140 of the lower air handle 126.

During the test, the lower air handle 126 is held stationary and the upper air handle 124 is moved perpendicular to it. The metal plate 134 is as square as possible in proportion to the test specimen 120 and lowered until the metal plate is almost in contact with the test specimen. At this moment, the adjustment software is started. In general, the upper air handle 124 is lowered to a distance of 2 cm at a speed of 5.08 cm / min, and then returned to its initial position. Record the highest load measured by the load cell, which indicates the bending resistance value for the test specimen 120. Reprint the control software program. For transparency, the unused Result Calculation line is omitted.

Master Name: Compress

Method name: strapcomp

Software Version: 3.03

Description of how to:

Standard for Compression Test

--------------

This standard contains the most common test results required for compression test applications. Among the ASTM tests that can be performed using this standard method are D695, E9, and C185.

Exam start message:

Exam start message 1

Exam start message 2

Exam start message 3

Exam start message 4

Preliminary Sample Message:

Preliminary Exam Message # 1

Preliminary Exam Message # 2

Preliminary Exam Message # 3

Preliminary Psalm Message:

Preliminary Psalm Message # 1

Preliminary Psalm Message # 2

Preliminary Psalm Message # 3

Graphic window, Y-axis:

Y-axis scaling maximum manual

Y-Axis Scaling Minimum Manual

Y-axis label load

Y-axis unit Gm

Y-axis minimum 0.000000

Y axis max. 10000.000000

Desi 1

Graphics window, X-axis:

X-Axis Scaling Maximum manual

X-Axis Scaling Minimum Manual

X-axis label extension

X axis unit mm

X axis minimum value 0.000000

X-axis max. 20.000000

Desi 1

X offset 0.000000

Test flow:

Method access level [9]

Specimen Per Sample [999]

Speed increment [0.100000]

Display graph [Y]

Display result [Y]

Acquisition data at stop [N]

Auto Sample Increment [N]

Automatic Raw Data Storage [N]

Auto deny for limit [N]

Auto Sample Print [N]

Disposal on Rejection [Y]

Auto Rate [N]

Automatic Sample Upload [N]

Automatic crosshead return [N]

Remove Gauge [N]

Stop for gauge removal [N]

Reference designation:

Loaded Reference: None

shape:

Load direction downward

Extension direction downward

Acclimatization No

End of test operation (STOP)

Method type standard

Moving segment:

Type reset extension

Status is possible

No change in direction

Acquisition Inactivity

Data point 0

Terminal action continuous

message

Type tare variant 1

State impossible

No change in direction

Acquisition Inactivity

Data point 0

Terminal action continuous

message

Type Tare Variant 2

State impossible

No change in direction

Acquisition Inactivity

Data point 0

Terminal action continuous

message

Type proceeds with deformation at constant speed

State impossible

Down direction

Acquisition Activity

Data point 500

Terminal action continuous

Initial rate of message% strain point

Type proceeds with deformation at constant speed

State impossible

Down direction

Acquisition Activity

Data points 499

Terminal action continuous

Second rate corresponding to message% strain point

Sample input:

# label Default property 0 User input 1 User default 1 Random One User input 2 User default 2 Random 2 User input 3 User default 3 Random 3 User input 4 User default 4 Random 4 User input 5 User default 5 Random 5 User input 6 User default 6 Random 6 User input 7 User default 7 Random 7 User input 8 User default 8 Random 8 User input 9 User default 9 Random 9 User input 10 User default 10 Random

Sample naming format:

Alias Sample ID Length = 30

Alias length = 0

Alias length = 0

Alias length = 0

Alias length = 0

Channel mapping:

# label Unit classification condition system [0] extension size activation P0 (first-order strain) [One] time time activation P1 [2] Load Load activation P2 [3] Logical 3 size Inactive P3 (secondary variant) [4] Logical 4 Load Inactive P4

Report header:

Strap stiffness

Compressive load (g)

Built In Report:

Built-in report # 0 Built-in 1

Print header Y

Print Sample Information Y

Print individual specimen Y

Print Status N

Enter print calculation Y

Enter print test Y

Print rating N

Built-in report # 1 Built-in 2

Print header Y

Print Sample Information Y

Print individual specimen Y

Print Status Y

Enter print calculation Y

Enter print test Y

Print rating N

Display unit:

Load Lb

Extension In

Speed In / Min

Area In ²

transform %

Hour minute

Stress PSI

Enter specimen:

# label unit default property Panel input Reference 0 diameter In 0.500 Hidden N One Length In 0.125 Hidden N 2 Height In 2.00 Hidden N Results 10,21 3 area In ² 2.00 Hidden N 4 Mixed Input 1 (none) 1.00 Hidden N 5 Mixed Input 2 (none) 1.00 Hidden N 6 Mixed Input 3 (none) 1.00 Hidden N 7 Mixed Input 4 (none) 1.00 Hidden N

Enter calculation:

# label unit default property Panel input Reference 0 Gauge length In 2.00 display N Req. 2,2,3,9 One Combined gauge In / In 1.00 Random N 2 Remove point In 1.00 Random N 3 % Shred % 10.0 Random N Req. 3 4 Shred Drop Elongation In 0.001 Random N 5 Shredding Load Figures Lb 50.00 Random N 6 Output angle Degree 0.00 Random N 7 % Output Seglen % 10.00 Random N 8 Tilting device % 98.00 Random N 9 Slope% Seglen % 10.00 Random N 10 Inclined load Lb 0.00 Random N 11 Inclined load Lb 10000.00 Random N 12 Slope minimum stress PSI 0.00 Random N 13 Slope maximum stress PSI 1000.00 Random N 14 % Strain point 1 % 2.00 Random N Result 27,29,31,33,35 15 % Transformation point 2 % 5.00 Random N Results 28,30,32,34,36 16 Height point 1 In 0.10 Random N Result 23,25 17 Height point 2 In 0.10 Random N Results 24,26 18 Stress point1 PSI 100.0 Random N Results 37,39 19 Stress point 2 PSI 200.0 Random N Results 38,40 20 Output offset% 2 Random N Result 16,17,18,19,20,21 21 Slack preload Lb 5.00 Random N 22 % Strain point 3 % 5.00 Random N Results 46

Test input:

# label unit default property Panel input Reference value 0 Initial speed In / min 2.00 display N MSeg 3 One 2nd speed In / min 4.00 Random N MSeg 4 2 % Strain limit % 100.0 Random N MSeg 3 3 Strain limit % 200.0 Random N MSeg 4 4 Load cap Lb 25 display N 5 Load lower limit Lb -5000 Random N 6 Spill cap mm 20.0 display N 7 Outflow limit In -20.0 Random N 8 Strain limit % 3000000.1 Random N 9 Lower deformation limit % -300000.0 Random N 10 Stress upper limit PSI 2999999.9 Random N 11 Lower stress limit PSI -3000000 Random N 12 # cycle (none) 20.0 Random N 13 Time limit second 10000 Random N 14 Brk sensitivity % 75 Random N 15 Return point In 0.0 display N

Marker Required

# category code property One Shred point F Mobility 2 Output point Y Mobility 3 Modulus starting point B Mobility 4 Modulus endpoint M Mobility

Random marker

# category code Attribute way Input reference 5 At the midpoint 0 Hidden 6 In pip One Hidden 7 In pips 2 Hidden 8 In pips 3 Hidden 9 In pips 4 Hidden 10 freedom 5 Hidden @Exponent (load, max) 11 freedom 6 Hidden @Exponent (load, max) 12 freedom 7 Hidden @Exponent (load, max) 13 freedom 8 Hidden @Exponent (load, max) 14 freedom 9 Hidden @Exponent (load, max)

Calculation Required

# category step input 0 area Inactive One Stress 1 / area 2 Primary strain 1 / C00 C00 3 2nd variant 1 / C00 C03 4 Shred Inactive 5 Output point Inactive 6 1st slope Inactive 7 Slack compensation Inactive 8 Offset output Inactive 9 Gauge length adjustment Inactive C00

Result calculation

# label category system unit property 0 Peak load fixing Load Gm display

Upload and Sample Report:

Free Sample Report Fixed Report (1)

Free form load report <none>

Upload purpose COMM PORT

Upload file name DATA.TMP

Exam page window:

Indicator load meter Y

Indicator extension meter Y

Indicator deformation 1 meter N

Indicator deformation 2 meters N

Indication Machine Status N

Display test message N

Display Specimen Input N

Indication equipment N

Display panel N

Marking machine Y

Display multi-display N

Indicator handset Y

Mark Ruler N

Mark Peak N

Ruler default:

Maximum ruler rise 40.000000

Maximum ruler down -40.000000

Ruler control mode POSITION

Ruler unit ln

Ruler Gauge Length 1.000000

Ruler Gauge Length Unit ln

Ruler Desire Precision 1

Meter Default:

Load meter full scale 100.000000

Load meter unit Lb

Load meter desicc 1

Load Meter Type Digital

Extension meter full scale 1.000000

Extension Metric Unit In

Extended Meter Desire 1

Extension meter type digital

Deformation1 meter full scale 1.000000

1 meter units in

Variant 1 meter desicc 1

1 meter type analog

2 meters full scale 1.000000

2 meter units In

Deformation2 meters desicc 1

2 meter type analog

Peak Default:

Display load peak Y

Load unit Lb

Load desicc 1

Mark Extended Peak Y

Extension Unit In

Extended Desire 1

Display strain peak Y

Strain unit%

Variation Desire 1

Display stress peak Y

Transformation Unit PSI

Transformation Desire 1

Display cycle count Y

Panel End Action Default:

Load end action stop

Extended terminal action stop

Stop modifying end action

Stress end action stop

<Example>

In each of the examples below, a pair of strap members for use in disposable absorbent underwear was made. Each strap member was formed of elastomeric material including nylon, polyester and elastic materials by Shelby Elastics, Selby, North Carolina. A pair of buttons 22 mm in diameter from the engineering industries were sewn to opposite end regions of the strap member.

Example A

Each strap of Example A included two nylon monofilament strands laterally laid in the circumferential fabric structure in a sinusoidal form over a 31.8 mm width. One monofilament strand was 180 denier and the other was 330 denier. The width of the strap material was 38.1 mm. Scissors were used to cut each strap member to a length of 26.7 cm, and each strap member had a terminal closure formed by ultrasound, in contact with each terminal edge. The length of the terminal closure was 3.2 mm and the width was 38.1 mm. The buttons were separated by 24.1 cm. The spacing between the terminal closure and the button attachment point was about 10 mm.

The flexural resistance of one test specimen from these strap members was measured and found to have a value of 19.4 g. The test specimens were 21 mm wide and 3.2 mm long.

Example B

Each strap of Example B included two nylon monofilament strands laterally laid in a circumferential fabric structure in a sinusoidal form over a 31.8 mm width. One monofilament strand was 80 denier and the other was 330 denier. The width of the strap material was 38.1 mm. Each strap member was cut into 26.7 cm in length by ultrasound, and each strap member had a terminal closure formed by ultrasound, in contact with each terminal edge. The length of the terminal closure was 3.2 mm and the width was 31.8 mm. The buttons were separated by 24.1 cm. The spacing between the terminal closure and the button attachment point was about 10 mm.

The bending resistance of one test specimen from these strap members was measured and found to have a value of 14.7 g. The test specimens were 21 mm wide and 3.2 mm long.

Example C

Each strap of Example C included one 80 denier nylon monofilament strand laterally laid in a circumferential fabric structure in a sinusoidal form over a 31.8 mm width. The width of the strap material was 38.1 mm. Each strap member was cut to 26.7 cm in length with scissors, and each strap member had a terminal closure formed by ultrasound, in contact with each terminal edge. The length of the terminal closure was 3.2 mm and the width was 38.1 mm. The buttons were separated by 24.1 cm. The spacing between the terminal closure and the button attachment point was about 10 mm.

The bending resistance of one test specimen from these strap members was measured and found to have a value of 14.7 g. The test specimens were 21 mm wide and 3.2 mm long.

Each strap member from Examples A-C was tested in combination with disposable absorbent underwear. The underwear included a liquid impermeable moisture barrier, a spunbond polypropylene bodyside liner bonded to the moisture barrier, and an absorbent assembly sandwiched between the moisture barrier and the bodyside liner. The moisture barrier included an adhesive laminate of polyethylene film inner layer and spunbond nonwoven outer layer. The bodyside liner, absorbent assembly and moisture barrier were bonded together using structural adhesives. The underwear also included a stable leg elastic member along the two side edges of the garment. Generally, buttonholes with reinforcing tape were provided at the four corners of the underwear.

A fit study was conducted using a female panelist with 30 excretion inhibitory capacities ranging from hip size 119.4 to 152.4 cm. Applicants have assumed that individuals with relatively large body sizes best stress the retention system and therefore can best distinguish strap functionality. Each panelist tested each strap member of Examples A-C. Each panelist was advised to wear underwear with the pair of strap members of the embodiment overnight and for the next day for at least 16 hours and returned the next day for photography and evaluation.

Qualitative analysis results obtained from the test indicate that the Example C strap members do not perform as well as the Example A and B strap members. In particular, the Example C strap member may have more severe twisting and winding of the side edges; Increased rubbing and friction near the buttons; More severe irritation during the day of use; And more scratching near the button. Applicants can see that the functionality improves as monofilament size and strand number increase.

Example D

Each strap of Example D included two nylon monofilament strands laterally laid in a circumferential fabric structure in a sinusoidal form over a 31.8 mm width. One monofilament strand was 80 denier and the other was 330 denier. The width of the strap material was 38.1 mm. Scissors cut each strap member to a length of 28.6 cm, each strap member having a terminal closure formed by ultrasound, in contact with each terminal edge. The length of the terminal closure was 3.2 mm and the width was 38.1 mm. The buttons were separated by 26 cm. The spacing between the terminal closure and the button attachment point was about 10 mm.

The flexural resistance of one test specimen from these strap members was measured and found to have a value of 107.6 g. The test specimens were 21 mm wide and 3.2 mm long.

Example E

Each strap of Example E included two nylon monofilament strands laterally laid in the circumferential fabric structure in a sinusoidal form over a 31.8 mm width. One monofilament strand was 180 denier and the other was 520 denier. The width of the strap material was 38.1 mm. Scissors cut each strap member to a length of 28.6 cm, each strap member having a terminal closure formed by ultrasound, in contact with each terminal edge. The length of the terminal closure was 3.2 mm and the width was 38.1 mm. The buttons were separated by 26 cm. The spacing between the terminal closure and the button attachment point was about 10 mm.

The bending resistance of one test specimen from these strap members was measured and found to have a value of 146.4 g. The test specimens were 21 mm wide and 3.2 mm long.

Example F

Each strap of Example F included two nylon monofilament strands laterally laid in a circumferential fabric structure in a sinusoidal form over a 31.8 mm width. One monofilament strand was 180 denier and the other was 520 denier. The width of the strap material was 38.1 mm. Each strap member was cut to 26.7 cm in length with scissors, and each strap member had a terminal closure formed by ultrasound, in contact with each terminal edge. The length of the terminal closure was 3.2 mm and the width was 38.1 mm. The buttons were separated by 24.1 cm. The spacing between the terminal closure and the button attachment point was about 10 mm.

The flexural resistance of the Example F strap member should be similar to the Example E strap member.

Each strap member of Examples D-F was tested in combination with a disposable absorbent undergarment described for the tests of Examples A-C. A fit study was conducted using 12 female panelists with excretion inhibiting ability, with hip size ranging from 106.7 to 152.4 cm. Each panelist tested each strap member of Examples D-F. Each panelist was advised to wear underwear with the pair of strap members of the embodiment overnight and for the next day for at least 16 hours and returned the next day for photography and evaluation.

The qualitative results obtained from the tests of Examples D and F taught that the increase in the size of the monofilament contributes to the reduction of twist and winding.

Control Example G

Each strap member of Control Example G was assumed to be commercially available under the trade name Defend® by Kimberly-Clark Corporation, Nina, Wisconsin, in January 1996. Each strap was 25.4 mm wide and cut to 26.0 cm long by scissors. The strap had a terminal closure abutting the terminal edge of the strap. Each terminal closure was about 9.5 mm in length and included a series of rod-shaped ultrasonic coupling zones. Strap fibers were melt bonded to each other at the bonding zone. Rather than being substantially continuous across the width of each terminal closure, the binding zone occupied only about 50% of the width of each terminal closure. The buttons were separated by 22.9 cm and the spacing between the terminal closure and the button attachment point was about 5 mm.

The bending resistance of one test specimen from these strap members was measured and found to have a value of 42.6 g. The test specimens were 21 mm wide and 9.5 mm long.

Example H

Each strap of Example H included two nylon monofilament strands laterally laid in the circumferential fabric structure in a sinusoidal form over a 31.8 mm width. One monofilament strand was 80 denier and the other was 330 denier. The width of the strap material was 38.1 mm. Scissors cut each strap member to a length of 28.6 cm, each strap member having a terminal closure formed by ultrasound, in contact with each terminal edge. The length of the terminal closure was 19.1 mm and the width was 38.1 mm. The buttons were separated by 25.4 cm and the entire terminal suture was joined so that there was no gap between the terminal suture and the button attachment point.

The flexural resistance of the five test specimens from these strap members was measured and found to have an average value of 1292 g with a standard deviation of 68.4 g. The test specimens were 21 mm wide and 19.1 mm long.

Example I

Each strap of Example I was similar to that of Example H, except that the length of the distal edge was 15.9 mm. The terminal closure is located essentially below the button without leaving a gap between the terminal closure and the button attachment point. The flexural resistance of the five test specimens from these strap members was measured and found to have an average value of 1117 g with a standard deviation of 116.7 g. The test specimens were 21 mm wide and 15.9 mm long.

Example J

Each strap of Example J was similar to that of Example H, except that the length of the distal edge was 12.7 mm. The spacing between the distal suture and the button attachment point was about 3 mm. The flexural resistance of the five test specimens from these strap members was measured and found to have an average value of 836 g with a standard deviation of 20.4 g. The test specimens were 21 mm wide and 12.7 mm long.

Example K

Each strap of Example K was similar to that of Example H except that the length of the terminal closure was 9.5 mm. The spacing between the terminal closure and the button attachment point was about 7 mm. The flexural resistance of the five test specimens from these strap members was measured and found to have an average value of 667 g with a standard deviation of 47.4 g. The test specimens were 21 mm wide and 9.5 mm long.

Each strap member from Control Example G and Examples H-K was tested in combination with disposable absorbent underwear as described for the tests of Examples A-C. Twelve patients with hip size ranging from 106.7 to 152.4 cm A compatibility study was conducted using a female panelist with excretion suppression ability. Each panelist tested each strap member of Examples G-K. Each panelist was advised to continue wearing at least 16 hours of underwear with a pair of strap members of the embodiment overnight and until the next day and returned the next day for photography and evaluation.

Qualitative analysis results from the tests of Control Examples G and Examples H-K teach that the rigid end closure itself and the spacing between the end closure and the button attachment point are important factors in performance. Applicants theorize that the greater the spacing between the button attachment point and the end closure, the greater the stimulus and end curling applied to the strap. In particular, when the spacing increases above about 6 mm, the strap ends begin to curl, resulting in significant reddening and scuffing / friction near the button. In addition, when the button attachment point is located throughout the end closure, i.e. when the gap is zero, the strap begins to feel scratching and again a marked reddening.

Example L

Each strap of Example L included two nylon monofilament strands laterally laid in the circumferential fabric structure in a sinusoidal form over a 31.8 mm width. One monofilament strand was 80 denier and the other was 330 denier. The width of the strap material was 38.1 mm. Scissors cut each strap member to a length of 28.6 cm, each strap member having a terminal closure formed by ultrasound, in contact with each terminal edge. The length of the terminal closure was 12.7 mm and the width was 38.1 mm. The buttons were separated by 25.4 cm and the spacing between the terminal sutures and the button attachment point was about 3 mm.

The bending resistance of the ten test specimens from these strap members was measured and found to have an average value of 439 g with a standard deviation of 85.9 g. The test specimens were 21 mm wide and 12.7 mm long.

Example M

Except for the flexural resistance of the strap members, each strap of Example M was similar to that of Example L. The bending resistance of the ten test specimens from the strap member of Example M was measured and found to have an average value of 227 g with a standard deviation of 44.2 g. The test specimens were 21 mm wide and 12.7 mm long.

Example N

Each strap of Example N was similar to that of Example L, except the flex resistance of the strap member. The bending resistance of the ten test specimens from the stram members of Example N was measured and found to have an average value of 617 g with a standard deviation of 125.1 g. The test specimens were 21 mm wide and 12.7 mm long.

Each strap member from Examples L-N was tested in combination with a disposable absorbent undergarment as described for the tests of Examples A-C. A fit study was conducted using 10 female panelists with excretion inhibiting ability whose hip size ranged from 109 to 152.4 cm. Each panelist tested each strap member of Examples L-N. Each panelist was advised to wear underwear with the pair of strap members of the embodiment overnight and for the next day for at least 16 hours and returned the next day for photography and evaluation.

The qualitative analysis results obtained from the tests of Examples L-N teach that end closure flexural resistance is an important property for the strap members tested. These results show that, as the end closure stiffness increases, the stimulus and strap end curling applied to the wearer decreases. When the terminal suture stiffness decreased below the stiffness of Example L, reddening spots, bend marks, and irritant conditions were observed. In addition, the terminal suture of Example N is significantly lower than that of Example L, measured by paying attention to whether the ends are not curled, curled at an angle of 45 degrees or less, or curled at an angle greater than 45 degrees. It was found to curl to a degree.

The foregoing detailed description is for illustrative purposes. That is, many modifications and variations can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. For example, alternative or any aspect described as part of one aspect can be used to provide another aspect. In addition, two designated components could represent parts of the same structure. Therefore, the present invention should not be limited to the specific embodiments described, but should be limited by the claims.

Claims (24)

Longitudinal, transverse, opposing first and second longitudinal end edges, opposing side edges extending between the end edges, a first end region in contact with the first end edge, and a second contacting the second end edge Has a terminal region, An elastomeric strap member comprising a fabric structure comprising a plurality of fabric strands and monofilament strands transversely disposed within said fabric structure and having an effective width; A button coupled to the strap member at the first end region and adapted to detachably attach to the garment; And Means for attaching a second end region to the garment, Wherein the strap member further comprises an end closure abutting the first end edge, the end closure having a width dimension greater than the effective width of the monofilament strand and being substantially continuous across its width dimension, wherein the fabric strands are Wherein the monofilament strands are joined to each other at the end closures and are substantially fixed at the end closures. The fastening system of claim 1, wherein the button is coupled to the strap member at the point of attachment, and the distal seal is spaced apart from the point of attachment in the longitudinal direction at about 10 mm or less. The fastening system of claim 2 wherein said spacing is between 0 and about 6 mm. The fastening system of claim 1 wherein the effective width of the monofilament strand is less than a strap width defined between side edges of the strap member. The fastening system of claim 4 wherein the width dimension of the distal suture is less than the strap width. The fastening system of claim 1, wherein the end dimension of the distal end is at least 3 mm. 7. A fastening system according to claim 6 wherein the length dimension of the end closure is at least 10 mm. 7. The fastening system of claim 6 wherein the deflection resistance value of the distal suture is at least about 200 g. The fastening system of claim 1, wherein the index of warpage of the terminal closure is at least about 200 g. The fastening system of claim 1, wherein the strap member comprises a plurality of monofilament strands. The fastening system of claim 1 wherein the strap member has a strap width of at least about 30 mm. The fastening system of claim 1, wherein the fabric strand is melt bonded to the monofilament strand. Longitudinal, transverse, opposing first and second longitudinal end edges, opposing side edges extending between the end edges, a first end region in contact with the first end edge, and a second contacting the second end edge Has a terminal region, An elastomeric strap member comprising a fabric structure comprising a plurality of fabric strands and monofilament strands transversely disposed within the fabric structure and having an effective width; And First and second buttons coupled to the strap member at the respective first and second distal regions; Wherein the strap member further comprises end closures abutting respective first and second end edges, each end closure having a width dimension greater than or equal to the effective width of the monofilament strand and being substantially continuous across its width dimension, And the fabric strands are joined to each other at each end closure and the monofilament strands are substantially fixed at each end closure. The fastening system of claim 13, wherein the buttons are coupled to the strap member at an attachment point, and the distal suture is spaced apart from the attachment point in a longitudinal direction by about 10 mm or less. The fastening system of claim 13, wherein the spacing is between 0 and about 6 mm. The fastening system of claim 13 wherein the effective width of said monofilament strand is less than a strap width defined between side edges of a strap member. The fastening system of claim 13, wherein the distal end has a length dimension of at least 3 mm. The fastening system of claim 13, wherein the distal end has a length dimension of at least about 10 mm. The fastening system of claim 13 wherein the index of warpage of the terminal closure is at least about 200 g. A liquid impermeable moisture barrier, absorbent disposed on the moisture barrier, having a first and a second waist region and an intermediate portion interconnecting the waist regions, defining a plurality of button holes in the first and second waist regions A garment comprising an assembly and a liquid permeable bodyside liner coupled to the moisture barrier, wherein the absorbent assembly is inserted between the bodyside liner and the moisture barrier; A longitudinal axis, a transverse axis, opposing first and second longitudinal end edges, opposing side edges extending between the end edges, a strap width defined between the side edges, a first end region in contact with the first end edge, the A second end region abutting a second terminal edge and a central region interconnecting the two regions in the middle of the first and second terminal regions, A pair of elastomeric strap members comprising a fabric structure comprising a plurality of fabric strands and monofilament strands transversely disposed within the fabric structure and having an effective width; And First and second buttons coupled to said respective strap members at said respective first and second distal regions and adapted to releasably attach to button holes, Wherein the strap member further comprises end closures abutting respective first and second end edges, each end closure having a width dimension greater than or equal to the effective width of the monofilament strand and being substantially continuous across its width dimension, Wherein the fabric strands are joined to each other at each end closure and the monofilament strand is substantially fixed at each end closure. 21. The absorbent article of claim 20 wherein the buttons are coupled to the strap member at an attachment point and the distal seal is spaced apart from the attachment point in the longitudinal direction at a distance of 0 to about 6. 21. The absorbent article of claim 20 wherein the distal end has a length dimension of at least 3 mm. 21. The absorbent article of claim 20 wherein the index of warpage of the terminal closure is at least about 200 g. Providing a continuous web of elastomeric strap material comprising a fabric structure and monofilament strands laterally laid in a sinusoidal form within the fabric structure; Treating the discontinuous regions of the continuous web to form a plurality of bonding zones, in which the fabric structure joins itself to fix the monofilament strands, each bonding zone being at least 6 mm in length. ); Cutting the continuous web transversely throughout the joining zone to form a plurality of strap members, each strap member having opposite end edges with some joining zones defining end closures contacting each end edge, each The terminal sutures are at least 3 mm in length and have a deflection index of at least 200 g); And Engaging a pair of buttons over each strap member Method for producing a strap member comprising a.