KR20040004430A - Pant-like Disposable Absorbent Articles - Google Patents

Abstract

The panty refastenable disposable absorbent article includes an absorbent chassis, a pair of opposing side panels, a pair of refastenable couplings, and a pair of proportional fasteners. The absorption chassis defines a pair of lateral edges that face in the lateral direction and a pair of waist edges that face in the longitudinal direction. The lateral panel extends between the lateral edges of the absorbent chassis to connect the lateral edges to define a waist opening and a pair of leg openings of the panty-shaped disposable absorbent article. Each opposing lateral panel defines a first lateral margin that is permanently attached to the lateral edge of the absorbent chassis in one waist region of the absorbent article to provide a front permanent bond. The opposing lateral panel also defines a second lateral margin that is permanently attached to the lateral edges of the absorbent chassis in the other waist region of the absorbent article to provide a rear permanent engagement. The proportional fastener is located adjacent to the removable coupling and configured to be smaller in the longitudinal direction than the removable coupling. The fastener is used to refasten the second lateral margin of the side panel to the opposite waist region of the absorbent article.

Description

Panty-type Disposable Absorbent Articles}

Absorbent articles such as diapers, training panties or incontinence garments are desired to provide a snug and comfortable fit around the wearer and to contain body secretions. In addition, it is desirable that such absorbent articles can be conveniently and cleanly removed from the wearer after being soiled without undesirably soiling the surrounding area, such as the caregiver or wearer's clothing. In some cases, it is also desirable that such absorbent articles can be pulled up and down the wearer's hips so that the wearer or caregiver can easily pull on and remove the absorbent article if it is not soiled. In this case, it may also be desirable for the caregiver or wearer to be able to apply the absorbent article to a wearer who is lying down similar to a conventional diaper. For example, such absorbent articles can assist in training a child's potty.

Conventional diapers are not provided pre-fastened, but are typically detachably connected around the wearer's hips in use by conventional fasteners such as adhesive tape fasteners or hook and loop fasteners. Waist and rear waist. For example, conventional fasteners are complementary, such as taping panels, typically located on the outer surface of the outer cover of the diaper with adhesive tape tabs located at the outermost corner of the diaper in the rear waist region of the diaper and the front waist of the diaper. A pair of fasteners, such as fasteners, was included. In this form, the diaper is secured around the wearer's waist by placing the diaper between the wearer's legs while the wearer is lying down and attaching the adhesive tape tab to the taping panel to secure the back waist of the diaper to the front waist. . Such conventional diapers are easy to fasten around the wearer and to be removed from the wearer after use without undesirably contaminating the caregiver. However, these conventional diapers are not provided in a panty-shaped pre-tightened form and are therefore not configured to be pulled up and down the wearer's hips when the fastener is attached.

Several attempts have been made to provide absorbent articles that contain body secretions effectively, which can be pulled up and down the wearer's hips and provide ease of cleaning and removal after being soiled. For example, some conventional absorbent articles, such as conventional training pants, included integral side panels that connect the front waist and back waist of the absorbent article. This side panel has a longitudinal seam that provides a complete bottom and sheath of the lower body to provide a panty shape. The side panels were also made to be stretchable to allow the waist opening of the absorbent article to stretch if needed so that the absorbent article could be pulled up and down the hips of the wearer. In addition, such side panels have been designed so that the training pant can be torn to remove it from the wearer after it becomes dirty.

However, many of these attempts have not been completely satisfactory. For example, an absorbent article, such as a training pant, may stretch enough to be pulled up and down the wearer's hips, but may not necessarily achieve a compliant fit that fits the wearer. Often, such training pant loosely fits the wearer's waist, which can lead to undesirable consequences of leakage. Thus, many of these absorbent articles did not contain body secretions as effectively as conventional diaper-like articles that could be adjusted to achieve a more compliant fit to the wearer. In addition, an absorbent article having an integral side panel, such as a conventional training pant, was not necessarily completely satisfactory to inspect it for dirt and to remove the soiled absorbent article. For example, the lateral panels were difficult to tear when attempting to remove the absorbent article from the wearer's waist instead of pulling the absorbent article down the wearer's hips.

Thus, despite attempts to develop improved absorbent articles, there is still a need for absorbent articles that can effectively provide the benefits of both conventional training panties and conventional diapers. That is, it adapts to the wearer to effectively contain body secretions, can be pulled up and down the wearer's hips and hips without loosening, easily adheres to the wearer, is conveniently and cleanly removed from the wearer, and is easy for the caregiver to inspect so You need an absorbent article to help you decide whether it is dirty or not. In addition, such panty-type disposable absorbent articles need to be able to provide the fit and comfort of conventional diapers.

Summary of the Invention

In response to the difficulties and problems discussed above, a novel panty-type disposable absorbent article has been developed. In one aspect, the present invention relates to a panty-shaped refastenable disposable absorbent article extending between the front waist region, the back waist region, the waist regions and defining the crotch region, longitudinal and transverse directions connecting them. The absorbent article includes an absorbent chassis that defines an outer surface, an inner surface opposite the outer surface, a pair of laterally opposed side edges and a pair of longitudinally opposite waist edges. The absorbent article also defines a waist opening and a pair of leg openings of the panty-shaped disposable absorbent article that extend outwardly from the lateral edges of the absorbent chassis in the front waist region and the back waist region of the absorbent article, between the lateral edges. It includes opposing lateral panels. Each opposing lateral panel is attached to the lateral edges of the absorbent chassis at the front waist region or the back waist region of the absorbent article and is permanently attached to the first side margin of the absorbent article and at the other waist region of the absorbent article. A second lateral margin is defined that provides a detachable attachment to the lateral edge and detachable attachment. The absorbent article also includes a fastener that is permanently attached to each second lateral margin of the side panel. The fastener defines the longitudinal length of the fastener edge, and the detachable engagement portion defines the longitudinal length of the detachable engagement portion, wherein the detachable engagement length is greater than the length of the fastener edge.

In another aspect, the present invention relates to a pant-shaped refastenable disposable absorbent article defining an anterior waist region, a posterior waist region, a crotch region extending between and connecting them, the longitudinal and transverse directions. The absorbent article includes an absorbent chassis, opposing pairs of rear panels and opposing pairs of front panels. The absorption chassis defines an outer surface, an inner surface opposite the outer surface, a pair of lateral edges facing in the transverse direction, and a waist edge facing in the longitudinal direction. The opposing rear panel provides a detachable attachment that is detachably attached to the lateral edge of the absorbent chassis in the front waist region of the absorbent article. The front and rear panels of each side edge of the absorbent chassis extend laterally outward from the absorbent chassis and are connected together along the lateral seams to define a waist opening and a pair of leg openings, and a panty-shaped refastenable disposable absorbent article. To provide. The absorbent article also includes a fastener permanently attached to each front panel adjacent the detachable engagement portion. The fastener defines the longitudinal shift of the fastener edge and the detachable engagement portion defines the longitudinal length of the detachable engagement portion, wherein the removable engagement length is greater than the length of the fastener edge.

In another aspect, the present invention relates to a panty-shaped refastenable disposable absorbent article extending between the front waist region, the back waist region, the waist regions and defining the crotch region, longitudinal and transverse directions connecting them. The absorbent article includes an absorbent chassis, opposing pairs of rear panels and opposing pairs of front panels. The absorbent chassis defines an outer surface, an inner surface on the opposite side of the outer surface, a pair of lateral edges facing in the transverse direction and a pair of waist edges facing in the longitudinal direction. The opposing rear panel is permanently attached to the lateral edge of the absorbent chassis in the posterior lumbar region of the absorbent article. The opposing front panel is permanently attached to the lateral edges of the absorbent chassis in the front waist region of the absorbent article. The absorbent article also defines a panty-type refastenable disposable absorbent article by defining a joining and waist opening and a pair of leg openings that can be detached from each other to allow the front and rear panels of each side of the absorbent chassis to be detached. And detachable lateral seams provided. The absorbent article also includes a fastener permanently attached to each rear panel adjacent to the detachable lateral seam. The fastener defines the longitudinal shift of the fastener edge and the detachable engagement portion defines the longitudinal length of the detachable engagement portion, wherein the removable engagement length is greater than the length of the fastener edge.

The present invention advantageously provides an article comprising a fastener of a type configured to be smaller in the longitudinal direction than a removable coupling and a removable coupling. As such, the proportional longitudinal length of the fastener is more compliant with the wearer's hips and legs, thereby providing improved fit and comfort when used in conventional diaper forms. In particular, the present invention provides a panty-type disposable absorbent article that can be reliably pulled up and down the wearer's hips to assist the wearer's stool training, similar to a conventional training pant. In addition, similar to conventional diapers, the panty-type disposable absorbent articles of the present invention are advantageously applied to the wearer and, after being soiled, can be removed from the wearer relatively easily and cleanly similar to conventional diapers. In addition, the panty-type disposable absorbent articles of the present invention allow the caregiver to easily inspect them to help determine whether the article is dirty or similar to conventional diapers. The panty-type disposable absorbent article also provides a combination of lateral seams and smaller and proportional fasteners. This combination makes the article safe to cover when used in panty form and provides greater flexibility and greater range of motion when used in conventional diaper form.

The present invention relates to disposable absorbent articles adapted to contain body secretions. More specifically, the present invention relates to a prefastened refastenable panty-type disposable absorbent article.

The invention will be more fully understood and further advantages will become apparent upon reference to the following description of the invention and the accompanying drawings in which like reference numerals designate like elements. The drawings are only representative and are not intended to limit the scope of the appended claims.

1 representatively illustrates a perspective view of one example of a panty-shaped refastenable disposable absorbent article of the present invention.

2 representatively illustrates a perspective view of one example of another embodiment of the panty-shaped refastenable disposable absorbent article of the present invention.

3 representatively illustrates a front view of the panty-shaped refastenable disposable absorbent article of FIG. 1.

4 representatively illustrates a front view of an example of a panty-shaped refastenable disposable absorbent article with refastenable engagement and fasteners located at lateral seams.

FIG. 5 representatively illustrates a top view of the disposable absorbent article of FIG. 1 with part of the article cut away to show the shape of the base, with the lateral permanent bond broken and unfolded so that the surface of the article in contact with the wearer's clothing faces the viewer; Represented by

The present invention relates to a panty-shaped refastenable disposable absorbent article and a method for making the same that are adapted to be worn adjacent to the wearer's body to absorb and contain various secretions released from the body. The panty-type absorbent article of the present invention is adapted to fit snugly to the wearer's body to effectively contain body secretions while being able to be pulled up and down the hips and hips of the wearer. In addition, the absorbent article of the present invention includes a pair of detachable couplings and a pair of refastenable fasteners, so that the absorbent article is easily attached to and removed directly from the wearer's waist, making it dirty during use. Can be easily examined to determine In addition, the refastenable fasteners are smaller in the longitudinal direction than the releasable joints, providing increased flexibility and wider range of motion when used in conventional diaper forms. This form can reduce irritation and erythema. As such, the panty-shaped refastenable disposable absorbent articles of the present invention may function in a manner similar to conventional defensive panties when in the form of pre-tightened panties, or may be combined with conventional diapers by not fastening before or during use. Can function in a similar refastenable manner. As used herein, "disposable" means an article intended to be discarded after limited use so that it is not laundered or otherwise restored for reuse.

The panty-type disposable absorbent article of the present invention will be described with a disposable panty-type diaper article adapted to be worn around the lower torso of an infant. In particular, the panty-type disposable absorbent article will be described with a panty-type refastenable disposable diaper having a pre-fastened lateral panel, one or more pairs of detachable joins and a refastenable fastener. It is to be understood that the absorbent articles and methods of the present invention may likewise be suitable for other types of absorbent articles, such as adult incontinence articles, training panties, feminine hygiene articles, other personal hygiene or healthcare garments, and the like.

1 representatively illustrates one example of a panty-type refastenable disposable diaper of the present invention, generally indicated at 20. 2 representatively illustrates another embodiment of the panty refastenable disposable diaper 20 of the present invention. 3 representatively illustrates a front view of the pre-fastened diaper of FIG. 1. 4 representatively illustrates a front view of another embodiment of a disposable diaper of the present invention wherein the detachable coupling and fastener are located at the lateral seam. FIG. 5 shows the part of the diaper partially cut away to show the underlying shape, with the permanent coupling 76 broken and unfolded so that the surface of the diaper applied to contact the wearer's clothing faces the observer and is flat. Pre-fastened diapers are representatively exemplified. As illustrated in FIG. 5, the diaper 20 extends between the front waist region 22, the back waist region 24, the front waist region 22 and the back waist region 24 and the crotch region connecting them. (26), the longitudinal direction 38 and the transverse direction 40 are defined.

The illustrated diaper 20 includes an absorbent chassis 28 and a pair of laterally opposite side panels 48. Absorption chassis 28 includes a pair of laterally opposite side edges 30, a longitudinally opposite pair of waist edges 32, an inner surface 34 configured to contact the wearer, and the wearer's clothes in use. Define an outer surface 36 opposite the inner surface 34 configured to contact. As representatively illustrated in FIG. 5, the absorbent chassis 28 has an outer cover 42, a bodyside liner 44 connected therewith in a superimposed relationship on the outer cover 42, and a bodyside with the outer cover 42. An absorbent core 46 positioned between the liner 44. The lateral panel 48 extends laterally outwardly and between each lateral edge from the opposing lateral edges 30 of the absorbent chassis 28 in the front waist region 22 and the back waist region 24.

The front waist region 22 includes a portion of the diaper 20 positioned in front of the wearer when worn, while the rear waist region 24 includes a portion of the diaper 20 positioned behind the wearer when worn. . The crotch region 26 of the diaper 20 includes a portion of the diaper 20 that, when worn, sits between the wearer's legs and covers the lower torso of the wearer. Lateral panel 48 includes a portion of a diaper that, when worn, is located in the lateral hip region of the wearer. The laterally opposite side edges 30 of the absorbent chassis 28 and the side panels 48 of the diaper 20 generally define leg openings, which can be curved. The waist edge 32 and the lateral panel 48 of the absorbent chassis of the diaper 20 are configured to surround the wearer's waist when worn and to provide a waist opening that defines the waist circumferential dimension when locked.

The illustrated diaper 20 further includes a pair of fasteners 62 and a pair of detachable engagement portions 78. The detachable engagement portion 78 is a panty-type pre-tightened absorbent article by detachably securing each side panel 48 of the diaper 20 with the opposing lateral edges 30 of the absorbent chassis 28. To provide. The fastener 62 located adjacent each detachable engagement portion 78 allows the rear waist region 24 to detach to the front waist region 22 when the detachable engagement portion 78 is broken. Can be used to engage with it. Detachable engagement portion 78 may consist of fastener 62 or removable engagement 64 or a suitable combination thereof. The diaper 20 may further include an attachment panel 66 located on the outer surface of the absorbent chassis 28 to which the fastener 62 is removable.

Absorption chassis 28 is configured to contain and / or absorb body secretions released from the wearer. On the other hand, the combination of the side panel 48 and the removable coupling 78 and / or refastenable fastener 62 keep the diaper 20 around the wearer's waist to provide a panty-like appearance. It is composed. The diaper 20 may further include leg elastics 54, retention flaps 56, and waist elastics 58, as known to those skilled in the art. Individual parts of the diaper 20 may be optional depending on the intended use of the diaper 20.

The panty diaper 20 can have a variety of suitable shapes. For example, in the open form as illustrated in FIG. 5, the diaper may be generally rectangular, T-shaped or nearly hourglass-shaped. In the embodiment shown, the diaper 20 is generally I-shaped in an unfastened form. Examples of diaper forms suitable for use in connection with the present application and other diaper parts suitable for use in the diaper are described in US Pat. No. 4,798,603, filed Jan. 17, 1989 to Meyer et al., Incorporated herein by reference. ), US Patent 5,176,668 (Bernardin et al., Registered January 5, 1993), US Patent No. 5,176,672 (Brummer et al., Registered January 5, 1993), Proxmeyer (US Pat. No. 5,192,606, registered March 9, 1993) and Hanson et al., US Pat. No. 5,509,915, registered April 23, 1996. Various aspects and forms of the present invention can provide a unique combination of softness, body compliance, reduced erythema incidence on the wearer's skin, reduced skin hydration, improved body secretion content, and improved aesthetics.

The various parts of the diaper 20 are assembled to be integrated together using various types of suitable attachment means such as adhesives, sonic and thermal bonds or combinations thereof. In the embodiment shown, for example, the outer cover 42 and the bodyside liner 44 are assembled to each other and to the absorbent core 46 with an adhesive such as a hot melt pressure sensitive adhesive. The adhesive can be applied as a uniform continuous layer of adhesive, as a patterned layer of adhesive, as a sprayed pattern of adhesive, or as a separate line, spiral or dot in a line of adhesive. Alternatively, absorbent core 46 may be connected to outer cover 42 using conventional fasteners such as buttons, hook and loop fasteners, adhesive tape fasteners, and the like. Other parts of the diaper 20 can be connected together suitably using similar means. Likewise, other diaper parts, such as elastic members 54 and 58 and fastener 60, can be assembled to diaper 20 using the attachment mechanism. Preferably, most diaper parts are assembled together using ultrasonic bonding technology to reduce manufacturing costs.

As representatively illustrated in FIG. 5, the outer cover 42 of the absorbent chassis 28 of the panty diaper 20 may suitably be made of a material that is liquid permeable or liquid impermeable. The outer cover 42 is generally preferably formed from a material that is substantially liquid impermeable. Typical outer covers can be made from thin plastic films or other flexible liquid impermeable materials. For example, the outer cover 42 may be formed from a polyethylene film having a thickness of about 0.013 mm (0.5 mil) to about 0.051 mm (2.0 mil). If it is desired to provide a more cloth-like outer cover 42, the outer cover 42 may comprise a polyolefin film in which a nonwoven web, such as a spunbond web of polyolefin fibers, is laminated to the outer surface. For example, a spunbond web of polypropylene fiber may be thermally laminated to a stretch-thinned polypropylene film having a thickness of about 0.015 mm (0.6 mil). The polypropylene fiber has a thickness of about 1.5 to 2.5 denier per filament and its nonwoven web has a basis weight of about 17 grams per square meter (0.5 ounces per square yard). The outer cover 42 may further comprise bicomponent fibers such as polyethylene / polypropylene bicomponent fibers. Methods of forming such outer covers, such as fabrics, are known to those skilled in the art.

In addition, the outer cover 42 may be formed of a woven or nonwoven fibrous web layer that is fully or partially structured or treated to impart the desired level of liquid impermeability to selected areas adjacent or proximate to the absorbent core 46. . Also, the outer cover 42 may optionally be made of a microporous “breathable” material that prevents liquid secretion from passing through the outer cover 42 while allowing vapor to escape from the absorbent body 28. For example, the outer cover 42 can include a vapor permeable nonwoven surface layer laminated to the microporous film. The outer cover 42 may be embossed to provide an aesthetically pleasing appearance, or otherwise provided by a matte finish.

As representatively illustrated in FIG. 5, the bodyside liner 44 exhibits a body-facing surface that is suitably soft, soft and non-irritating to the wearer's skin. In addition, the bodyside liner 44 may be less hydrophilic than the absorbent core 46 to provide the wearer with a relatively dry surface, and sufficiently porous to allow liquid permeability to allow liquid to penetrate easily through its thickness. Can be. Suitable bodyside liners 44 include a wide selection of web materials, such as porous foams, reticulated foams, perforated plastic films, natural fibers (eg wool or cotton fibers), synthetic fibers (eg poly Ester or polypropylene fibers), or a combination of natural and synthetic fibers. Suitably, the bodyside liner 44 is used to help isolate the wearer's skin from the liquid retained in the absorbent core 46.

Various woven and nonwoven fabrics can be used for the bodyside liner 44. For example, the bodyside liner may consist of a meltblown or spunbonded web of polyolefin fibers. The bodyside liner may also be a bonded-carded web made of natural and / or synthetic fibers. The bodyside liner may be made of a material that is substantially hydrophobic, and the hydrophobic material may optionally be treated with a surfactant or otherwise processed to impart the desired level of wetting and hydrophilicity. In a particular embodiment of the invention, the bodyside liner 44 is a polypropylene spunbond consisting of about 2.8 to 3.2 denier fibers formed from a web having a basis weight of about 20 grams per square meter and a density of about 0.13 grams per cubic centimeter. Contains nonwovens. The fabric can be surface treated with about 0.3% by weight of a surfactant commercially available from Hodgson Textile Chemicals, Inc. under the brand name AHCOVEL Base N-62. The surfactant may also be applied by any conventional means such as spraying, printing, brush coating or the like. Surfactants may be applied to the entire bodyside liner 44 or may be selectively applied to provide greater wettability of the zone to a particular zone of the bodyside liner 44, such as a central zone along the longitudinal centerline of the diaper. have. The bodyside liner 44 may also include application of a lotion or treatment configured to treat or be delivered to the wearer's skin.

The absorbent core 46 of the panty diaper 20 representatively illustrated in FIG. 5 is suitably a matrix of hydrophilic fibers, such as a web of cellulose fluff, mixed with particles of a superabsorbent material, commonly known as a superabsorbent material. It may include. In a particular embodiment, the absorbent core 46 comprises a matrix of cellulose fluff, such as wood pulp fluff, and superabsorbent hydrogel forming particles. Wood pulp fluff can be replaced with synthetic polymer meltblown fibers or can be replaced with a combination of meltblown fibers and natural fibers. The superabsorbent particles may be mixed substantially homogeneously with the hydrophilic fibers, or may be mixed heterogeneously. In addition, the fluff and superabsorbent particles may optionally be placed in the desired zone of the absorbent core 46 to better contain and absorb body secretions. In addition, the concentration of superabsorbent particles may vary in the thickness direction of the absorbent core 46. Alternatively, the absorbent core 46 may include a stack of fibrous webs and other suitable means for retaining the superabsorbent material in localized areas.

Absorbent core 46 can have any number of shapes. For example, the absorbent core can be rectangular, I-shaped or T-shaped. In general, the absorbent core 46 is preferably narrowed in the crotch region of the diaper 20. It has been found that the absorbent core 46 of the present invention is particularly useful when the width dimension in the crotch region 26 is from about 2.5 to about 12.7 cm (1.0 to about 5.0 inches), preferably about 7.6 cm (3.0 inches) or less. lost. The narrow crotch width dimension of the absorbent core 46 allows the absorbent chassis 28 to fit better between the wearer's legs. The size and absorbent capacity of the absorbent core 46 must be compatible with the liquid load imparted by the intended wearer's size and the intended use of the absorbent article.

Superabsorbent materials can be selected from natural, synthetic, and modified natural polymers and materials. The superabsorbent material may be an inorganic material such as silica gel, or an organic compound such as a crosslinked polymer. The term "crosslinked" means any means that can effectively make a material that is normally water soluble to be substantially water insoluble but water swellable. Such means can include, for example, physical entanglement, crystalline domains, covalent bonds, ion complexes and associations, hydrophilic associations such as hydrogen bonds, and hydrophobic associations or van der Waals forces.

Examples of superabsorbent synthetic polymer materials include alkali metal and ammonium salts of poly (acrylic acid) and poly (methacrylic acid), poly (acrylamide), poly (vinyl ether), maleic anhydride and copolymers of vinyl ether and alpha-olefins. , Poly (vinyl pyrrolidone), poly (vinyl morpholinone), poly (vinyl alcohol) and mixtures and copolymers thereof. Further polymers suitable for use in the absorbent core are natural and modified natural polymers such as hydrolyzed acrylonitrile-grafted starch, acrylic acid grafted starch, methyl cellulose, carboxymethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose And natural gums such as alginate, xanthan gum, locust bean gum and the like. In addition, mixtures of natural and fully or partially synthetic absorbent polymers may also be useful in the present invention. Such superabsorbent materials are well known to those skilled in the art and are widely commercially available. Examples of superabsorbent polymers suitable for use in the present invention include SANWET IM 3900 polymer (available from Hoechst Celanese, Pottsmouth, Va.) And DOW DRYTECH 2035LD. Polymer (available from Dow Chemical Co., Midland, Mich.).

The superabsorbent material may be of any of a wide variety of geometric shapes. In general, the superabsorbent material is preferably in the form of discrete particles. However, the superabsorbent material may also be fibrous, flake shaped, rod shaped, spherical shaped, needle shaped or the like. Generally, the superabsorbent material is present in the absorbent in an amount of about 5 to about 90 weight percent based on the total weight of the absorbent core 46.

Optionally, a substantially hydrophilic tissue wrapsheet (not illustrated) can be used to help maintain the integrity of the airlaid fiber structure of the absorbent core 46. Typically, the tissue-wrapsheet is placed around the absorbent core on at least two major facing faces of the absorbent body and consists of an absorbent cellulosic material such as creped wedding or high wet strength tissue. As an aspect of the present invention, the tissue wrapsheet may be configured to provide a wicking layer that aids in the rapid dispensing of liquid over the mass of absorbent fibers that make up the absorbent core. Wrapsheet material on one side of the absorbent fibrous mass may be bonded to a wrapsheet located on the opposite side of the fibrous mass to allow the absorbent core 46 to be effectively trapped.

As representatively illustrated in FIG. 1, the absorbent chassis 28 of the disposable diaper 20 may include a pair of retention flaps 56 configured to provide barriers to lateral flow of body secretions. Retention flap 56 may be located along the laterally opposite side edge 30 of absorbent chassis 28. Each retention flap 56 typically defines an unattached edge configured to maintain an upright vertical shape in at least the crotch region 26 of the diaper 20 to form a seal relative to the wearer's body. Retention flap 56 may be longitudinally along the entire length of absorbent chassis 28, or may be present only in part along the length of absorbent chassis 28. When the retention flap 56 is shorter in length than the absorbent chassis 28, the retaining flap 56 may be selectively positioned anywhere along the lateral edge 30 of the absorbent chassis 28. As a special aspect of the invention, the retention flap 56 is present along the entire length of the absorbent chassis 28 to better contain body secretions.

Such retention flaps 56 are generally well known to those skilled in the art. For example, suitable structures and arrangements of retention flap 56 are described in US Patent No. 4,704, 116 (registered November 3, 1987) to K. Enloe, which is incorporated herein by reference.

Various different-sided disposable panty diapers 20 of the present invention are elastic on the waist edge 32 and the lateral edge 30 of the absorbent chassis 28 to further prevent body secretion leakage and support the absorbent chassis 28. It may further include. For example, as representatively illustrated in FIGS. 1-3, the panty-shaped diaper 20 of the present invention has a transversely opposite side edge of the absorbent chassis 28 in the crotch region 26 of the diaper 20. 30 may include a pair of leg elastic members 54 connected to 30 and a pair of waist elastic members 58 connected to the longitudinally opposite waist edges 32 of the absorbent chassis 28 of the diaper 20. have. In general, leg elastics 54 and waist elastics 58 fit the wearer's leg and waist circumference during use to maintain an active contact with the wearer to effectively reduce or eliminate body secretion leakage from the diaper 20. Is adapted to

Materials suitable for use as leg elastics 54 and waist elastics 58 are well known to those skilled in the art. An example of such a material is that of an elastomeric material that is adhered to the outer cover 42 in an extended state or attached to the outer cover 42 with the outer cover corrugated so that an elastic shrinking force is imparted to the outer cover 42. Sheet or strand or ribbon. In addition, the leg elastics may include materials such as polyurethane, synthetic and natural rubber.

As representatively illustrated in FIGS. 1-3, the diaper 20 further includes a pair of lateral panels 48 opposite in the transverse direction. Each lateral panel 48 has a first lateral margin 50 bonded to the lateral edge 30 of the absorbent chassis 28 in the front waist region 22 and the lateral side of the absorbent chassis 28 in the rear waist region 24. A second lateral margin 52 is defined that is joined to the edge 30. The illustrated lateral panel 48 is permanently connected to the lateral edge 30 of the absorbent chassis 28 in one or more of the waist regions 22 and 24, and the side of the absorbent chassis 28 in the opposing waist region. It may be detachably attached to the edge 30.

For example, as representatively illustrated in FIGS. 1-5, the second lateral margin 52 of the lateral panel 48 of the diaper 20 may be the diaper 20 in the rear waist region 24 of the diaper 20. Can be permanently secured to and laterally extended to the lateral edges 30 of the < RTI ID = 0.0 >) < / RTI > The lateral panel 48 is permanently connected to the diaper 20 along the permanent bond 76 using attachment means known to those skilled in the art, such as adhesive, thermal or ultrasonic bonding. As discussed above, the side panels 48 are preferably permanently connected to the absorbent chassis 28 of the diaper 20 using ultrasonic bonding to improve manufacturing efficiency and lower material costs. In this form, each first lateral margin 50 of the lateral panel 48 is detachably attached to and detachable from the lateral edge 30 of the absorbent chassis 28 in the front waist region 22 of the diaper 20. Can be provided with an engaging portion 78. The detachable engagement portion 78 is in this form located in the wearer's anterior abdominal region for easy access to the caregiver.

Also, if the fastener is desired to be located behind the wearer, the lateral margin of the lateral panel 48 can be permanently connected to the lateral edge 30 of the absorbent chassis 28 in the anterior waist region 22, and the diaper It may be detachably attached to the lateral edge 30 of the absorbent chassis 28 at the rear waist region 24 of the 20. This form is desirable to prevent the wearer from unfastening the article too early. In addition, as discussed in more detail below, the lateral margins 50 and 52 of the lateral panel 48 are defined by the lateral edges of the absorbent chassis 28 in the front and rear waist regions 22 and 24. 30 can be permanently connected. In this form, the side panels 48 may include two or more separate panels that provide a coupling 78 that can be detached and connected together to be detachable along the lateral seam 74.

Alternatively, the lateral panel 48 may be provided by a portion of the absorbent chassis 28 (not illustrated). For example, the side panel 48 may be provided by an outer cover 42, a bodyside liner 44 or a combination of the two. When the outer cover 42 provides the lateral panel 48, the outer cover 42 of the front and rear waist regions 22 and 24 is the lateral edge of the absorbent chassis 28 in the transverse direction 40 ( It will extend beyond 30 and will be detachably attached to the front or rear waist region 22 or 24 of the diaper 20. Thus, the removable attachment of the portion of the outer cover 42 which provides the lateral panel 48 to the front or rear waist regions 22 and 24 of the diaper 20 is removable 78 To provide.

The detachable engagement portion 78 of the present invention is defined by a detachably attached engagement portion comprising a removable engagement portion 78. That is, the detachable engagement portion 78 includes the entire intact seam, which may or may not extend from the waist opening to the leg opening of the diaper 20. Prior to opening the detachable engagement portion 78, the intact portion of the detachable engagement portion 78 may be an undamaged continuous seam, a discontinuous seam or any other partially undamaged seam. have. Thus, the detachable engagement portion 78 is not initially damaged in any way below the waist opening, regardless of any gaps that may be present in the removable but intact portion of the removable engagement portion 78. Extending in the longitudinal direction 38 from the undamaged portion to the last undamaged portion above the leg opening. Therefore, although the length of the detachable engagement portion 78 may not necessarily be equal to the total length of the seam from the leg opening to the waist opening, the detachable engagement portion that includes any gaps that may be present therein ( Same as the length of the undamaged part of 78).

For example, as representatively illustrated in FIGS. 1-5, the removable coupling 78 is defined by the fastener 62 and the removable coupling 64 as discussed in more detail below. Can be provided. As such, there may be a gap between the removable coupling 64 and the fastener 62. The removable bond 64 may also be configured to include gaps and / or interruptions between each bond. Thus, as described above, the detachable engagement portion 78 includes the entire intact portion provided by the fastener 62 and any gaps or interruptions and detachable engagements that may be present therein. 64).

Detachable bond 78 includes refastenable fastener 62 and / or any type of bond, such as adhesive, thermal, cohesive and ultrasonic bonds, as known to those skilled in the art. It may be provided by conventional fasteners. For example, the detachable engagement may include a detachable engagement 64 to improve the reliability of keeping the article in a pre-locked state, especially when the article is pulled up and down the wearer's hips. Absorbent articles comprising such detachable bonds and methods for making them are filed June 19, 1998 in the name of Elsberg, incorporated herein by reference, and assigned U.S. Application No. 09 / 100,574. United States patent application entitled "DISPOSABLE ABSORBENT ARTICLES HAVING PASSIVE SIDE BONDS AND ADJUSTABLE FASTENING SYSTEMS" and issued to McNichols on March 14, 2000, with a disposable lateral engagement and adjustable fastening system. US Pat. No. 6,036,805 entitled "Methods for Making Absorbent Articles with Pre-Sectioned Lateral Panels and Absorbent Articles Prepared by METHOD OF MAKING AN ABSORBENT ARTICLE WITH PREFASTENED SIDE PANELS AND ABSORBENT ARTICLES MADE BY THE SAME" Described.

For example, as exemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 1-3 and 5, the panty diaper 20 detaches to detachably connect the lateral panel 48 to the front waist region 22 of the diaper 20. And a salable bond 64. In this form, the detachable engagement 64 provides a removable engagement 78, and the fastener 62 pulls the diaper 20 when the diaper 20 is pulled up and down the wearer's hips. Helps to keep it pre-tightened. In addition, when the releasable engagement 64 provides a releasable engagement 78 and the fastener 62 is engaged, they can provide a lumbar region for improved fit and performance. Help prevent 22 and 24 and the side panel 48 from moving or moving relative to each other. Detachable bond 64 also provides an improved bottom covering of the lateral edges 30 and waist edges 32 of the absorbent chassis 28 of the pre-fastened diaper 20 when pulled over the wearer's hips. Prevents overturning or folding. Prevention of such flipping and folding can reduce the level of contact between fastener 62 and the wearer's skin, preferably reducing reduced skin irritation and erythema.

Detachable bond 64 may be a discontinuous point bond, a dotted line, a continuous line, a discontinuous line, or the like or a combination thereof. In addition, the bond can have any shape such as circular, square, triangular, or the like. Preferably, the removable bond 64 is an ultrasonic point bond for improved manufacturing efficiency. In this form, the ultrasonic coupling is broken when the detachable coupling 78 is first released.

The diaper 20 is provided in the form of a pant in which the detachable engagement portion 78 is not damaged. In such form, the diaper 20 may be pulled up and down the wearer's leg and hips. In addition, the detachable engagement portion 78 should have a relatively low peel strength so that it can be broken by the caregiver without tearing or severely damaging other portions of the diaper 20, if desired. As such, the detachable engagement portion 78 can be released to irradiate the diaper for possible dirt. When the diaper 20 becomes dirty during use, the removable coupling 78 allows the diaper 20 to be easily removed from the wearer's waist while reducing the risk of undesirably soiling the wearer's clothes or legs. Can be released. Finally, the detachable engagement portion 78 may be loosened to allow the user to choose to apply the panty diaper 20 in a conventional diaper form.

Each side panel 48 may comprise one or more individual pieces of separate material. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, each side panel 48 includes a front side panel 70 and a rear side panel 72. The illustrated front side panel 70 provides a detachable coupling 78 that is detachably attached to the lateral edge 30 of the absorbent chassis 28 in the front waist region 22 of the diaper 20. And a first lateral margin 50 that can be made. Rear side panel 72 is a second side that can be permanently connected to lateral edge 30 of absorbent chassis 28 in rear waist region 24 of diaper 20 to provide rear permanent engagement 76. Margin 52. In this form, as illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 4, the transversely outwardly facing edges of the front side panel 70 are connected to the laterally outwardly facing edges of the lateral rear panel 72 so that the lateral seams ( 74). Preferably, the transverse outwardly facing edges of the front and rear side panels 70 and 72 adhere to each other along the lateral seam 74 using ultrasonic coupling for improved production efficiency and reduced material cost. do. In an alternative form, each lateral panel 48 may comprise a single piece of material folded over a porcelain along a fold line located at a location similar to the lateral seam 74 at the time of manufacture.

Lateral seams 74 of the present invention may be arranged in many forms. For example, as representatively illustrated in FIGS. 1-4, the lateral seam 74 may be provided in the form of a flanged engagement. In the illustrated embodiment, the inner surface of the front panel 70 is attached in a form overlapping the inner surface of the rear panel 72 to provide a flanged lateral seam 74. Alternatively, the lateral seam 74 may be provided in a lap-type bond form. As such, the outer surface 36 of one of the front panel 70 and the rear panel 72 is coupled to the inner surface 34 of the front panel 70 or the rear panel 72 in an overlapping arrangement. For example, the lateral seam 74 may be provided in lap bond form (not illustrated). In a lap bonded form, this form may be desirable because the lateral seam 74 is primarily exposed to shear forces in use to provide improved seam strength.

As representatively illustrated in FIG. 4, the lateral seam 74 may provide a detachable engagement portion 78. In this form, the first lateral margin 50 of the lateral panel 70 is permanently attached to the lateral edge 30 of the absorbent chassis 28 in the front waist region 22. Likewise, the second lateral margin 52 of the rear lateral panel 72 is permanently attached to the lateral edge 30 of the absorbent chassis 28 at the rear waist region 24. The detachable engagement portion 78 is created by the detachable attachment of the edges facing outwards in the lateral seam 74 of the front side panel 70 and the rear side panel 72.

Suitable materials for the side panels 48 of the diaper 20 are generally known in the art. For example, suitable materials for the side panels 48 are suitable for the outer cover 42 or bodyside liner 44 of the absorbent chassis 28 of the diaper 20, such as woven and nonwoven materials and stacks of these materials. And the aforementioned materials. Preferably, the lateral panel 48 is elastic or stretchable to provide improved fit to the wearer's perimeter. For example, the lateral panel 48 can include stretch-thermal laminate (STL), neck-bonded laminate (NBL) or stretch-bonded laminate (SBL) material. Methods for the preparation of such materials are well known to those skilled in the art and are described in US Pat. No. 4,663,220 to May 5, 1987 to Wisneski et al., Which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. US Pat. No. 5,226,992, registered July 13, 1993, and European Patent Application EP 0,217,021, published April 8, 1987 to Taylor, et al. . When the side panel 48 is made of an extensible or elastic material, it is preferably about 10 to about 400%, more preferably about 100% or more in the transverse direction 40 for improved fit and performance, Even more preferably about 100% to about 300%, even more preferably about 150% to about 250%. The stretchability of the side panels allows the side panels 48 to stretch over and around the wearer's hips when pulling on the panty diaper, while maintaining proper fit to the waist after the diaper is correctly placed on the wearer. .

Preferably, the side panel 48 is a neck-bonded laminate material because it has the ability to stretch in the cross machine direction for improved manufacturing. For example, in certain embodiments, the lateral panel 48 is from Shawmut Mills (office in West Bridgewater, Mass.) Inserted between two necked stretched spunbond layers. And neck-bonded laminate material comprising a urethane film having a basis weight of about 15 grams per square meter commercially available under the tradename SHAWMUT TX-1560. Each spunbond layer has a basis weight of about 16 grams per square meter and consists of 3.0 denier polypropylene fibers. The composite is laminated together with an additional amount of adhesive spray of about 0.3 grams per square meter. Suitable adhesives are available under the trade name FINDLEY 2525A from Findley Adhesive. Such neck-bonded laminate materials can generally be drawn about 185% in the cross machine direction.

The panty-type disposable diaper 20 of the other side of the present invention further includes a pair of fasteners 62 positioned adjacent the detachable engaging portion 78. The fastener 62 is configured to releasably engage one of the lateral panels 48 of the diaper 20 to one of the waist regions 22 or 24 of the diaper 20. The use of refastenable fasteners facilitates removal of the diaper 20 from the wearer's waist without sticking and undesirably soiling the wearer. In addition, the use of refastenable fasteners easily permits inspection of the interior of the diaper 20 to determine if the diaper is dirty due to its ability to refasten if the diaper is not dirty. When the fastener 62 and / or detachable engaging portion 78 are engaged, the side edge 30 of the absorbent chassis 28 and the edge of the side panel 48 are configured to surround the wearer's leg. The waist opening 32 of the side panel 48 and the waist edge 32 of the absorbent chassis 28 opposite the edges defining the leg openings and defining the leg openings defining the leg openings are configured to surround the wearer's waist. It defines.

Fastener 62 may consist of a single piece or multiple pieces of material. In addition, a portion of the diaper 20, such as a portion of the side panel 48, may provide the fastener 62. Fasteners 62 can be manufactured in a variety of shapes and sizes known to those skilled in the art. As representatively illustrated, for example, in FIGS. 1 and 3 to 5, the fastener 62 may be generally rectangular in shape. Alternatively, fastener 62 can have other shapes that are well known in the art. For example, as representatively illustrated in FIG. 2, the fastener extends laterally toward the longitudinal centerline 80 of the diaper 20 and the fastener ear (with the refastenable fastener attached thereto). ear) 68.

In this form, the fastener 62 and / or fastener ears 68 may be configured to be stretchable or elastic in the transverse direction 40. As such, the fasteners will provide the wearer with improved fit and comfort by providing greater flexibility and range in engagement with the outer surface 36 of the diaper 20 when the diaper is applied in a conventional form. For example, fastener 62 and / or fastener ears 68 may be made of materials well known in the art. Materials may include stretch-bond-laminate (SBL) materials, neck-bond-laminate (NBL) materials, elastomer films, elastomer foam materials, and the like, as suitable for the side panels 48.

The fastener 62 includes a refastenable fastener material that defines a distal edge 84 positioned transversely closest to the longitudinal centerline of the diaper 20. The longitudinal length of the fastener along the distal edge 84 of the fastener 62 is smaller than the length of the detachable coupling 78 in the longitudinal direction 38. For example, as representatively illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 5, the detachable engagement portion 78 has a length in the longitudinal direction 38 of the detachable engagement that is greater than the fastener edge length 94 ( 92) may be specified. In this form, the detachable engagement length 92 is sufficient to effectively provide the diaper in the form of a training pant with the required coverage and reliability. On the other hand, if the diaper 20 is refastened via the refastenable fastener 62 after the detachable engaging portion 78 is opened, the fastener 62 is the refastenable engaging portion 78. It is scaled to be relatively smaller in the longitudinal direction 38. As such, the likelihood of giving the wearer a feeling of erythema and discomfort to the wearer, which may occur when the fastener 62 is provided as large or nearly as large as the refastenable engagement 78 in the longitudinal direction 38, is preferably reduced. do. However, the fastener edge length 94 still provides a fastener that is sized to advantageously provide effective diaper fastening. In addition, the relatively shorter length of the distal edge 84 of the fastener 94 allows the wearer to move the hips and legs in a more sufficient range, further improving the fit and comfort of the diaper for the wearer.

In certain embodiments, the length 92 of the detachable coupling 78 in the longitudinal direction 38 is about 1 times and at least 1.5 times the length of the distal edge 84 of the fastener 94, preferably May be at least about 2 times, more preferably 3 times. For example, the length 94 in the longitudinal direction of the distal edge 84 of the fastener 62 was approximately 1.5 inches, and the length 92 of the detachable engagement portion 78 was then at least about 2.25 inches. , Preferably about 3 inches or more, more preferably about 4.5 inches or more. Preferably, to provide effective fastening, the length of fastener 62 in the longitudinal direction 38 may be from about 0.75 inches to about 3 inches.

Obtaining a proportional length 92 of the detachable engagement portion 78 relative to the length 94 of the fastener 62 can be performed as known to those skilled in the art. For example, as exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 5, the fastener 62 is distal to the distal edge of the fastener 62 from the inner edge 82 of the fastener 62 to preferably conform to the wearer's leg. 84) may have a curvilinear shape. The length of the inner edge 82 of the fastener 62 in the longitudinal direction 38 may generally correspond to the detachable engagement length 92. As such, the illustrated tapered fastener 62 preferably provides the wearer's hips and legs with a complete range of motion, thereby improving the fit and comfort of the wearer as described above. In addition, since this shape can allow the length of the inner edge 82 of the fastener 62 in the longitudinal direction 38 to be equal to the length 92 of the engaging portion 78 that is generally removable, The fastener 62 can effectively provide the locking fit and hip covering of conventional training panties without excessively reducing the range and flexibility of the wearer's movement in use. Alternatively, the fastener 62 may be tapered from the inner edge 82 to the distal edge 84 by other suitable means, such as linear taper, stepped taper, and the like.

As noted above, fastener 62 may further include extensible or non-extension fastener ears 68 with fastener 62 thereon. As representatively illustrated in FIG. 2, the fastener 62 is located at the distal edge 84 of the fastener ear 68 provided by the curved taper of the fastener 62, and the detachable coupling portion. It provides a smaller fastener length 94 compared to the length 92. Alternatively, the fastener ears 68 may be generally rectangular in shape and extend straight in the transverse direction 40 toward the longitudinal centerline 80 of the diaper 20 and more than in comparison to its overall transverse length. Maintain a small fastener length 94. Accordingly, fastener 62 is similarly positioned at distal edge 84 of fastener ear 68. Similar to fastener 62, fastener ears 68 may be provided in a variety of shapes, such as known to those skilled in the art, including stepped, pointed, curved, rectangular, or a combination thereof. .

The fastener 62 of the present invention is provided in combination with a removable coupling 78. As such, after the detachable engaging portion 78 is released, the fastener 62 of the illustrated embodiment diapers the rear waist region 24 of the diaper 20 with the lateral panel 48 engaged. It is used to refastenly engage the anterior lumbar region 22 of (20). If the lateral panel 48 is stretchable or elastic, this arrangement advantageously increases the elongation from the lateral panel 48 while refastenably attaching the fastener 62 to the front waist region 22 of the diaper. Provide sex caregiver or wearer. Thus, the likelihood of a leak is reduced by providing the wearer with a closer fit and more conformable fit.

Alternatively, the removable coupling 78 and fastener 62 can be located in the back waist region 24 of the diaper 20. In this form, the fastener 62 will engage the lateral panel 48 with the rear waist region 24 to provide the diaper 20. This form is such that when it is desired that the detachable engagement portion 78 and the fastener 62 are positioned to face the wearer's back, preventing the wearer from loosening the article or fastener 62 too early. It is advantageous.

Alternatively, if a detachable engagement portion 78 is provided by the lateral seam 74, the fastener 62 makes it possible to refasten the front lateral panel 70 to the rear waist region 24. Can be configured to provide a diaper 20 by engaging or refasteningly engaging the rear lateral panel 72 to the front waist region 22. When the detachable engaging portion 78 is detached and the fastener 62 is used, the fastener 62 is not as long in the longitudinal direction as the lateral seam 74 of the diaper 20, so that the wearer has a leg and a torso. Increased comfort and flexibility in the combination of

The fastener 62 may be provided in any form known to those skilled in the art as a combination with the removable coupling 78. For example, the fastener 62 can be permanently attached to the diaper 20 adjacent to the engaging portion 78 that can be detached from the outer surface 36 of the diaper 20. This arrangement provides the advantages of easy manufacturing and easy access for caregivers or wearers. Alternatively, the fastener 62 may be permanently attached to the diaper 20 adjacent to the engaging portion 78 that can be detached from the inner surface 34 of the diaper 20. This configuration prevents the wearer from easily accessing the fastener 62 and is desirable to provide a neat diaper appearance.

In another aspect of the present invention, the fastener 62 is adapted to the removable portion 78 of the diaper 20 prior to being placed on the wearer to assist in the detachable engagement portion 78 in providing a pre-fastened refastenable panty-type disposable diaper. Refastenable engagement to outer surfaces of opposing waist regions 22 and 24. In this form, the panty-type refastenable diaper 20 can be pulled up and down the wearer's leg and hips. When the panty diaper 20 is soiled in use, the removable engagement portion 78 and fastener 62 may cause the diaper 20 to be worn by the wearer while reducing the risk of undesirably soiling the wearer's clothes or legs. It can be released for easy removal from the waist. Detachable engagement portion 78 and fastener 62 can also be easily removed to check for possible dirt or, if desired, to initially apply the product to the wearer. That is, the diaper 20 is configured to be pulled up and down the wearer's hips like a conventional training pant, and can be easily applied or removed by loosening the fasteners similar to conventional diaper articles. In addition, the fastener 62 can be repositioned to adjust the fit of the diaper to the wearer, if desired, after the previously fastened diaper 20 is pulled over the wearer's leg and hip. Alternatively, the diaper 20 may be provided with the fastener 62 with the detachable engagement portion 78 unfastened to provide a panty form. As such, the wearer or caregiver only needs to open the detachable engagement portion 78 to apply the diaper 20 in a conventional diaper form.

Preferably, the fastener 62 is configured to directly refastenably engage the outer surface of the outer cover 42 of the diaper 20 to provide improved fit and ease of fastening. Alternatively, an attachment panel 66 may be positioned above the outer cover 42 configured to refasten the fastener. As representatively illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 5, the disposable diaper 20 of the present invention is applied to the outer cover 42 at one of the waist regions 22 and 24 of the outer surface 36 of the absorbent chassis 28. It may include an attachment panel 66 located. In this form, the fastener 62 is configured to retain the diaper 20 near the waist of the wearer by removably engaging the attachment panel 66 after the detachable coupling is broken and the fastener is used. . Attachment panel 66 may include two separate panels located along opposite lateral edges 30 of diaper 20 in one of waist regions 22 and 24 of diaper 20. Alternatively, attachment panel 66 may comprise a single piece of material extending substantially throughout each waist region of diaper 20.

Suitable fasteners are well known to those skilled in the art and may include adhesive tape tab fasteners, hook and loop fasteners, mushroom fasteners, snaps, pins, belts, and the like, and combinations thereof. For example, fastener 62 may be a hook-type fastener and outer cover 42 or attachment panel 82 may be configured to function as a complementary looped fastener. Preferably, the fastener 62 is a hook-type fastener that can be reengaged with the outer cover 42 directly. This arrangement provides the ability to vary the size of the waist openings in small increments over a wide range to fit the wearer's waist.

Another aspect of the present invention advantageously provides a panty-shaped refastenable disposable absorbent article comprising a combination of a detachable coupling and a refastenable fastener. The lateral panel is pre-tightened to allow removal of the absorbent article to be pulled up and down the hips of the wearer like conventional training panties. In addition, after the article has been pulled and worn, fasteners may be used to refasten the front and rear waist portions of the absorbent article in a manner similar to conventional diapers to adjust the absorbent article to remain near the wearer's waist. In addition, the diaper is provided in the form of a pre-tightened form in panties using a long detachable coupling for improved effectiveness, while the distal edge of the fastener is adjusted to a similar length to improve mobility with less irritation and erythema Allow. The detachable engagement holds the article in a pre-tightened state when the article is pulled up and down the wearer's hips. Also in this form, the detachable coupling can prevent movement and movement of the waist portions relative to each other for improved productivity, fit and performance. The detachable bond also prevents flipping or folding of the lateral and lumbar edges of the pre-fastened absorbent article when the article is pulled over the wearer's hips.

Thus, the absorbent article of the present invention is designed to be reliably pulled up and down the hips of the wearer to aid in the wearer's practice of toilet. In addition, similar to conventional diapers, the absorbent articles of the present invention can be advantageously applied to the wearer and removed from the wearer relatively easily and cleanly. In addition, the detachable coupling and smaller fasteners in the longitudinal direction allow the present invention to be used as a panty absorbent article or conventional diaper while at the same time providing the wearer with improved fit and comfort.

While the invention has been described in connection with specific aspects thereof, those skilled in the art can readily derive changes, modifications, and equivalents to these aspects when they understand the above. Accordingly, the scope of the invention should be assessed as that of the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims (31)

a) an absorbent chassis defining an outer surface, an inner surface opposite the outer surface, a pair of lateral edges facing in the transverse direction and a pair of waist edges facing in the longitudinal direction, b) extending outwardly and between the side edges of the absorbent chassis in the front waist region and the back waist region of the absorbent article to define a waist opening and a pair of leg openings of the panty-shaped disposable absorbent article. Pair of opposing side panels, c) fasteners permanently attached to each second lateral margin of the lateral panel, Each opposing pair of lateral panels opposes the first lateral margin and absorbent article to permanently attach to the lateral edge of the absorbent chassis in one of the front waist region and the rear waist region of the absorbent article to provide a permanent bond. Define a second lateral margin in the waist region, the second side margin providing a detachable engagement portion detachably attached to the lateral edge of the absorbent chassis, The fastener defines the longitudinal length of the fastener edge and the detachable coupling portion defines the longitudinal length of the detachable coupling portion, wherein the detachable coupling length is greater than the length of the fastener edge. large, A refastenable disposable absorbent article in the form of a panty extending between the front waist region, back waist region, waist regions to define the crotch region, longitudinal and transverse directions connecting them. The method of claim 1 wherein the absorption chassis is a) outer cover, b) a bodyside liner connected in a superimposed relationship to the outer cover, and c) an absorbent article comprising an absorbent core disposed between the outer cover and the bodyside liner. The absorbent article as in claim 1, wherein the fastener is configured to assist in providing the refastenable engagement by refastenably engaging the outer surface of the absorbent chassis in the opposite waist region. The absorbent article of claim 1 wherein the fastener is a hook and loop fastener. 4. The absorbent article of claim 3 further comprising one or more attachment panels located on the outer surface of the absorbent chassis, wherein the fastener is refastenably engaged to the attachment panel. 4. The absorbent article as in claim 3, wherein said absorbent chassis comprises an outer cover providing said outer surface of said absorbent chassis, said fastener being configured to refasten directly to said outer cover of said absorbent chassis. The absorbent article of claim 1 wherein the lateral panel is at least extensible in the transverse direction. The absorbent article of claim 1 wherein the detachable engagement length is at least about two times greater than the fastener edge length. The absorbent article of claim 1 wherein the detachable engagement length is at least about three times greater than the fastener edge length. The fastener of claim 1 further defining an article centerline in the longitudinal direction, wherein each fastener is attached to the second lateral margin of the panel and extends inwardly toward the article centerline in a prefastened form. An absorbent article comprising an ear. The absorbent article as in claim 10, wherein the fastener ears are at least extensible in the transverse direction. The second side margin as set forth in claim 1, wherein each detachable coupling portion detachably couples the second side margin of the side panel to the side edge of the absorbent chassis in the opposite waist region. And a detachable bond to help maintain the panty-type disposable absorbent article in a pre-tightened state. The absorbent article of claim 12 wherein said detachable bond is an ultrasonic bond. a) an absorbent chassis defining an outer surface, an inner surface opposite the outer surface, a pair of lateral edges facing in the lateral direction and a pair of waist edges facing in the longitudinal direction, b) a pair of opposing rear panels permanently attached to the lateral edges of the absorbent chassis in the rear waist region of the absorbent article, c) a pair of opposing front panels providing a pair of detachable engagement portions detachably attached to the lateral edges of the absorbent chassis in the front waist region of the absorbent article, and d) a fastener permanently attached to each front panel adjacent said detachable engagement portion and configured to refastenably engage said outer surface of said absorbent chassis in said front waist region, The front panel and the rear panel of each lateral edge of the absorbent chassis are connected together along a lateral seam to define a waist opening and a pair of leg openings to provide a panty-shaped refastenable disposable absorbent article, The fastener defines the longitudinal length of the fastener edge and the detachable coupling portion defines the longitudinal length of the detachable coupling portion, wherein the detachable coupling length is greater than the length of the fastener edge. large, A pant-shaped refastenable disposable absorbent article defining an anterior waist region, a posterior waist region, a crotch region extending between and connecting the waist regions, the longitudinal and the transverse directions. 15. The absorbent article as in claim 14, wherein said absorbent chassis comprises an outer cover providing said outer surface of said absorbent chassis, said fastener being configured to refasten directly to said outer cover of said absorbent chassis. 15. The absorbent article of claim 14 wherein the lateral panel is at least extensible in the lateral direction. 15. The absorbent article of claim 14 wherein the detachable engagement length is at least about two times greater than the fastener edge length. 15. The absorbent article of claim 14 wherein the detachable engagement length is at least about three times greater than the fastener edge length. 15. The fastening of claim 14 further defining an article centerline in the longitudinal direction, wherein the angular fastener is attached to the second lateral margin of the lateral panel and extends inwardly toward the article centerline in a prefastened form. An absorbent article comprising nine ears. 20. The absorbent article of claim 19 wherein each fastener ear is at least extensible in the transverse direction. 15. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein each detachable engagement portion is positioned at the second lateral margin for removably coupling the second lateral margin of the lateral panel to the lateral edge of the absorbent chassis in the opposite waist region. And a detachable bond to help maintain the panty-type disposable absorbent article in a pre-tightened state. The absorbent article of claim 21 wherein said detachable bond is an ultrasonic bond. a) an absorbent chassis defining an outer surface, an inner surface opposite the outer surface, a pair of lateral edges facing in the lateral direction and a pair of waist edges facing in the longitudinal direction, b) a pair of opposing rear panels permanently attached to the lateral edges of the absorbent chassis in the rear waist region of the absorbent article, c) a pair of opposing front panels permanently attached to the lateral edges of the absorbent chassis in the front waist region of the absorbent article, and d) a fastener permanently attached to each of the rear panels adjacent the lateral seams and configured to refastenably engage one of the front panel and the outer surface of the absorbent chassis in the front waist region; The front panel and the rear panel provide a detachable coupling that is detachably connected together along a lateral seam, defining a waist opening and a pair of leg openings to provide an absorbent article, The fastener defines the longitudinal length of the fastener edge and the detachable coupling portion defines the longitudinal length of the detachable coupling portion, wherein the detachable coupling length is greater than the length of the fastener edge. large, A pant-shaped refastenable disposable absorbent article defining an anterior waist region, a posterior waist region, a crotch region extending between and connecting the waist regions, the longitudinal and the transverse directions. 24. The absorbent article as in claim 23, wherein said absorbent chassis comprises an outer cover providing said outer surface of said absorbent chassis, said fastener being configured to refasten directly to said outer cover of said absorbent chassis. 24. The absorbent article of claim 23 wherein the lateral panel is at least extensible in the lateral direction. 24. The absorbent article of claim 23 wherein the detachable engagement length is at least about two times greater than the fastener edge length. 24. The absorbent article of claim 23 wherein the detachable engagement length is at least about three times greater than the fastener edge length. 24. The fastener of claim 23 further defining an article centerline in the longitudinal direction, wherein each fastener is attached to the second lateral margin of the side panel and extends inwardly toward the article centerline in a prefastened form. An absorbent article comprising sphere ears. 29. The absorbent article of claim 28 wherein the fastener ears are at least extensible in the transverse direction. 24. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein each detachable engagement portion is positioned at the second lateral margin to releasably couple the second lateral margin of the lateral panel to the lateral edge of the absorbent chassis in the opposite waist region. And a detachable bond to help maintain the panty-type disposable absorbent article in a pre-tightened state. 31. The absorbent article of claim 30 wherein said detachable bond is an ultrasonic bond.