KR20230034234A - absorbent article - Google Patents

Abstract

[PROBLEMS] To provide an absorbent article capable of improving tactile sensation while suppressing leakage of the body fluid from an end portion in the width direction, that is, sideways leakage, even when the amount of body fluid is large. In the absorbent article 1, in the width direction, the length of the auxiliary sheet 5 located between the topsheet 2 and the absorber 4 is greater than the length of the topsheet, and each of the both ends of the auxiliary sheet is a topsheet. It extends to the outside of each of both ends of the edge. The topsheet includes a center area CA located at the center in the width direction and a pair of end areas EA located at both ends in the width direction and adjacent to both outer sides of the center area in the width direction. The length in the thickness direction of each of the pair of end regions is greater than the length in the thickness direction of the central region.

Description

absorbent article

The present invention relates to an absorbent article.

Absorbent articles are known which make it difficult for excreted bodily fluids (eg, menstrual blood) to leak. For example, Patent Literature 1 discloses an absorbent article capable of improving retention of body fluids. This absorbent article has a liquid-permeable upper layer sheet on the skin-contacting surface side of the topsheet. The top layer sheet has, at the center portion in the width direction, a center region disposed along the longitudinal direction and including an excretory contact region. The absorbent article has an upper pressing portion in which the top sheet and the upper sheet are compressed in the thickness direction, and an absorber pressing portion in which the top sheet and the absorber are compressed in the thickness direction. The absorber crimping portion has a longitudinal crimping portion formed along the longitudinal direction outside the upper sheet in the width direction.

Patent Document 1: Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2012-239712

In the absorbent article of Patent Literature 1, both ends in the width direction of the top layer sheet are not bonded to the topsheet, and the thickness of both ends in the width direction of the top layer sheet is equal to or smaller than the thickness of the central portion. Therefore, the amount of body fluid that can be held in the voids between the constituent fibers of the top layer sheet is smaller at both ends in the width direction of the top layer sheet than at the center portion thereof. As a result, when the absorbent article is in use and the amount of bodily fluid is large, the bodily fluid that has spread from the central portion to the ends of the upper layer sheet in the width direction may not remain in the upper layer sheet and overflow from the ends. . In other words, since the length of the top layer sheet in the width direction is smaller than the length in the longitudinal direction, diffusion of the body fluid to the ends in the width direction proceeds before diffusion of the body fluid to both sides in the longitudinal direction sufficiently proceeds. There is a possibility that the body fluid leaks outward from the end portion in the width direction. In addition, since the upper layer sheet having high water retention is located closer to the skin than the top sheet, when the upper layer sheet retaining body fluids comes into contact with the excretory area, there is a risk that the touch may become unpleasant.

An object of the present invention is to provide an absorbent article capable of improving the tactile sensation while suppressing leakage of the body fluid from an end portion in the width direction, that is, sideways leakage, even when the amount of the body fluid is large.

The absorbent article of the present invention is as follows. (1) An absorbent article comprising a topsheet, an absorbent body, and an auxiliary sheet positioned between the topsheet and the absorbent body in a longitudinal direction, a width direction, and a thickness direction, wherein in the width direction, the auxiliary sheet The length is greater than the length of the topsheet, and each of both ends of the auxiliary sheet extends to the outside of each of both end edges of the topsheet, and the topsheet comprises a central region located at a central portion in the width direction; , A pair of end regions located at both ends in the width direction and adjacent to both outer sides of the central region in the width direction, wherein a length in the thickness direction at each of the pair of end regions is An absorbent article larger than the length in the thickness direction.

According to the present invention, even when the amount of body fluid is large, it is possible to provide an absorbent article capable of improving touch while suppressing leakage of the body fluid from the end portion in the width direction, that is, sideways leakage.

1 is a plan view showing a configuration example of an absorbent article according to an embodiment.
FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along line II-II of FIG. 1 .
Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view showing another configuration example of the absorbent article according to the embodiment.

This embodiment relates to the following aspect.

[Aspect 1]

An absorbent article comprising a topsheet, an absorbent body, and an auxiliary sheet positioned between the topsheet and the absorbent body in a longitudinal direction, a width direction, and a thickness direction, wherein the length of the auxiliary sheet in the width direction is as described above. It is longer than the length of the topsheet, each of both ends of the auxiliary sheet extends outwardly of each of both ends of the topsheet, and the topsheet comprises: a central region located at a central portion in the width direction; a pair of end regions located at both ends of the central region and adjacent to both outer sides of the central region in the width direction, wherein a length in each of the pair of end regions in the thickness direction is An absorbent article that is greater than the length of the

In this absorbent article, the topsheet is formed so that the thickness at each of the pair of end regions is greater than the thickness at the center region in the width direction. That is, in the topsheet, the thickness of both ends in the width direction is greater than the thickness of the central portion. Therefore, the both ends of the topsheet in the width direction have a larger amount of body fluid that can be held in the voids between the constituting fibers of the topsheet than the central portion, and can function like embankments protruding toward the skin side. As a result, when the absorbent article is in use, even when the amount of bodily fluid (for example, menstrual blood) is large, the bodily fluid diffused through the inside or surface of the topsheet from the center to the ends of the topsheet is transferred to the ends of the topsheet. It can be made easy to hold, and leakage to the outside from the end can be suppressed. Further, since both ends in the width direction of the topsheet are thick and the center portion is thin, the contact of the center portion to the excretory opening can be weakened, and the tactile sensation can be improved. In this way, in this absorbent article, side leakage of bodily fluid can be suppressed even when the amount of bodily fluid is large, and tactile sensation can be improved.

[Aspect 2]

The absorbent article according to aspect 1, wherein the fiber density in each of the pair of end regions is lower than the fiber density in the central region.

In this absorbent article, the topsheet is formed so that the fiber density in each of the pair of end regions is lower than the fiber density in the central region. That is, in the topsheet, the fiber density at both end portions in the width direction is lower than that at the center portion. Therefore, even if a large amount of bodily fluid flows into the inside of the topsheet in the width direction by capillary action, since the fiber density at the ends is relatively low, it is possible to make it difficult for the bodily fluid to spread to the ends. In addition, since the fiber density at both ends of the topsheet in the width direction is relatively low, a soft touch can be imparted. In this way, in the present absorbent article, side leakage of the body fluid can be further suppressed even when the amount of the body fluid is large, and the tactile sensation can be further improved.

[Aspect 3]

The absorbent article according to aspect 1 or 2, wherein the fiber density on the skin side in each of the pair of end regions is higher than the fiber density on the non-skin side.

In this absorbent article, the topsheet is formed so that the fiber density on the skin side in each of the pair of end regions is higher than the fiber density on the non-skin side. That is, in the topsheet, the fiber density on the skin side of both ends in the width direction is higher than the fiber density on the non-skin side. Therefore, it is possible to make it difficult for bodily fluids diffused from the center of the topsheet to the ends to move to the non-skin surface side of the ends and to the surface of the auxiliary sheet located below the thickness direction of the ends. This makes it difficult for bodily fluids that have reached the ends to remain at the ends and transfer in the width direction, and accordingly, allows other bodily fluids to easily transfer from the central portion to the lower side in the thickness direction, that is, to the absorber. In this way, in this absorbent article, movement of the body fluid in the width direction can be restricted even when the amount of body fluid is large, and side leakage can be further suppressed.

[Aspect 4]

a pair of pressing portions formed by pressing the topsheet, the auxiliary sheet, and the absorber, extending along the longitudinal direction, and arranged at intervals in the width direction; The absorbent article according to any one of Aspects 1 to 3, wherein the outer edge in the width direction is located on the outer side in the width direction in each of the pair of compression sections.

In this absorbent article, the edge of the outer side in the width direction in each of the pair of end regions is located on the outer side in the width direction in each of the pair of compression sections. Thereby, at the time of use of the absorbent article, the portion outside the pair of compressed portions in the absorbent article is deformed toward the skin side from the pair of compressed portions as the starting point, and accordingly, the one pair outside the pair of compressed portions in the topsheet. A part of the end region is also deformed to the skin side in the same way. That is, both ends of the topsheet in the width direction are deformed toward the skin side. Therefore, both ends of the topsheet in the width direction can function like embankments protruding toward the skin side, whereby bodily fluids that have spread from the center to the ends of the topsheet can be easily retained at the ends of the topsheet. , leakage to the outside from the end can be suppressed.

[Aspect 5]

The absorbent article according to any one of aspects 1 to 4, wherein each of the pair of end regions is non-bonded to the auxiliary sheet.

In this absorbent article, the topsheet is formed so that each of the pair of end regions is not bonded to the auxiliary sheet. That is, in the topsheet, both ends in the width direction are not bonded to the auxiliary sheet. Therefore, it is possible to make it difficult for the bodily fluid diffused from the central portion to the end portion of the topsheet to transfer to the auxiliary sheet located outside the end portion in the width direction. Further, since both ends of the topsheet in the width direction are not bonded to other materials and have a high degree of freedom, followability to the skin surface at both ends can be improved. In this way, in the present absorbent article, side leakage of the body fluid can be further suppressed even when the amount of the body fluid is large, and the tactile sensation can be further improved.

[Aspect 6]

Aspect 5, wherein the length of the absorber in the width direction is smaller than the length of the topsheet in the width direction, and in a plan view, each of the pair of end regions is located on both outer sides of the absorber in the width direction. The absorbent article described in .

In this absorbent article, in the width direction, the length of the absorbent body is smaller than the length of the topsheet, and in a plan view, the pair of end regions are positioned on both outer sides of the absorbent body. Therefore, when the absorbent article is used, when the absorbent article is sandwiched between both thighs and a force directed inward in the width direction is applied to the absorber, the pair of non-bonded end regions located on the outer portion of the absorber face toward the skin side. It becomes easier to stand up. That is, both ends of the topsheet in the width direction can be raised relatively to the skin side. Thereby, the amount of bodily fluid directed to the end portion of the topsheet in the width direction can be reduced. Therefore, in this absorbent article, even when the amount of body fluid is large, side leakage of the body fluid can be more suppressed.

[Aspect 7]

The absorbent article according to aspect 5 or 6, further comprising a pair of end crimping portions formed by crimping the topsheet, the auxiliary sheet, and the absorbent body so as to span the outer end edges in the width direction in the pair of end regions. .

This absorbent article is provided with a pair of end crimping portions formed so as to span across the outer end edges in the width direction in each of the pair of end regions. That is, the edge crimping portion is formed so as to span the outer end edge in the width direction of the topsheet. Therefore, when the bodily fluid diffused from the central portion of the topsheet reaches the end portion during use of the absorbent article, a portion of the bodily fluid can be drawn into the absorbent body below the topsheet and the auxiliary sheet through the edge crimping portion. Thereby, it is possible to suppress the body fluid at the end portion of the topsheet in the width direction or the body fluid moving outward from the end portion from migrating further outward. Therefore, in this absorbent article, even when the amount of body fluid is large, side leakage of the body fluid can be more suppressed.

[Aspect 8]

The absorbent article according to any one of Aspects 1 to 7, further comprising a pair of auxiliary crimping portions formed by crimping only the auxiliary sheet outside the pair of end regions in the width direction in a plan view.

This absorbent article further includes a pair of auxiliary crimping portions for crimping only the auxiliary sheets outside the pair of end regions in the width direction. That is, in the width direction, the auxiliary crimping portion is formed on the auxiliary sheet outside the edge of the outer side of the topsheet. Therefore, when the absorbent article is in use, even if the bodily fluid diffused from the center portion of the topsheet leaks outward from the ends, the bodily fluid can be drawn into the absorbent body below the auxiliary sheet through the auxiliary crimping portion. Therefore, in this absorbent article, even when the amount of body fluid is large, side leakage of the body fluid can be more suppressed.

[Aspect 9]

The absorbent article according to any one of Aspects 1 to 8, wherein the topsheet has a mass density lower than that of the auxiliary sheet.

In this absorbent article, the mass density of the top sheet is lower than that of the auxiliary sheet. Therefore, when the absorbent article is used, even when the amount of body fluid is large, the body fluid can be easily transferred in the thickness direction from the topsheet having a low mass density to the auxiliary sheet having a high mass density. This makes it possible to reduce the amount of bodily fluid that migrates toward the end portion of the topsheet in the width direction. Therefore, in this absorbent article, even when the amount of body fluid is large, side leakage of the body fluid can be more suppressed.

[Aspect 10]

Aspects 1 to 9, in plan view, in the width direction, it is easier to confirm the color of the absorber when viewed through a portion outside the edge of the topsheet than when viewed through a central portion of the topsheet The absorbent article according to any one of

In this absorbent article, in a plan view, the color of the absorber (including the color of the absorber when bodily fluid is absorbed) is higher when viewed through the outer portion of the topsheet than through the central portion of the topsheet than when viewed through the central portion of the topsheet. It is made easy to check. That is, the color of the absorber viewed through the portion outside the topsheet (auxiliary sheet) is closer to the color of the actual absorber than the color of the absorber viewed through the central portion (surface sheet and supplementary sheet) of the topsheet. Here, in a planar view, the position of the end portion of the absorber in the width direction is substantially the same as the position of the portion outside the topsheet. Therefore, by confirming the color of the absorber visible from a portion outside the topsheet, it is possible to confirm whether or not the body fluid has been absorbed to the end portion of the absorber in the width direction. Thereby, it is possible to avoid a situation in which body fluid is absorbed up to the widthwise end of the absorber and the body fluid is not completely absorbed by the absorber and leaks to the side without noticing it even though the timing for replacing the absorbent article has arrived.

[Aspect 11]

further comprising a pair of side sheets bonded to both ends of the auxiliary sheet in the width direction and extending along the length direction, wherein in a plan view, between the central portion in the width direction and both ends in the width direction, rigidity is low. The absorbent article according to any one of Aspects 1 to 10, comprising a pair of low rigidity portions.

In the present absorbent article, in a plan view, a pair of low rigidity portions (auxiliary sheet and absorbent body) having low rigidity are disposed between a central portion in the width direction (top sheet, auxiliary sheet and absorber) and both end portions in the width direction (side sheet, auxiliary sheet and absorbent body). absorbers). Therefore, when the absorbent article is used, it is possible to easily deform the absorbent article into a substantially W-shape when viewed in the longitudinal direction, using the pair of low-rigidity portions as starting points. That is, both ends of the absorbent article in the width direction can be relatively erected on the skin side. Thereby, the amount of bodily fluid directed to the end portion of the topsheet in the width direction can be reduced. Therefore, in this absorbent article, even when the amount of body fluid is large, side leakage of the body fluid can be more suppressed.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the absorbent article of the present invention will be described.

The absorbent article according to the embodiment will be described by taking a sanitary napkin as an example. However, the types and uses of the absorbent article of the present invention are not limited to those examples, and can be applied to other absorbent articles as long as they do not deviate from the scope of the subject matter of the present invention. Other absorbent articles include, for example, panty liners, light incontinence pads, and disposable diapers.

1 and 2 are diagrams showing a configuration example of the absorbent article 1 according to the embodiment. Fig. 1 is a plan view showing an unfolded state of the absorbent article 1, and Fig. 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along line II-II in Fig. 1. As shown in Figs. The absorbent article 1 has a longitudinal direction (L), a width direction (W) and a thickness direction (T) orthogonal to each other. In the absorbent article 1 drawn in FIG. 1, the upper and lower sides in the drawing are the front and rear sides in the longitudinal direction L, respectively, and the left and right sides are respectively the left and right sides in the width direction W. The front side and the back side are the upper and lower sides of the thickness direction T, respectively. The absorbent article 1 includes a longitudinal center line C L (imaginary line) that passes through the center in the width direction W and extends in the longitudinal direction _L , and passes through the center in the longitudinal direction L and extends in the width direction. It has a widthwise centerline (C _W ) (imaginary line) extending in (W). The direction and the side toward the longitudinal centerline C _L are inward and inward, respectively, in the width direction W, and the direction and side away from it are respectively set to the outside and the outside in the width direction W. On the other hand, the direction and side toward the width direction centerline C _W are set to the inward and inner side of the longitudinal direction L, respectively, and the direction and side away from each other are set to the outer and outer side of the longitudinal direction L, respectively. Viewing the absorbent article 1 from above in the thickness direction T when placed on a plane including the longitudinal direction L and the width direction W is called a plan view, and a shape grasped in a plan view is called a plan view. Any direction in the plane including the longitudinal direction (L) and the width direction (W) is referred to as a planar direction. When the absorbent article 1 is worn by the wearer, the side closer to and farther from the wearer's skin surface in the thickness direction T is referred to as the skin side and the non-skin side, respectively. These definitions are also commonly used for each material of the absorbent article 1.

In this embodiment, the absorbent article 1 (excluding the wing portion) has a substantially rectangular shape long in the longitudinal direction L and short in the width direction W in plan view, and both ends in the longitudinal direction L are It has an approximately semicircular shape. Further, the shape of the absorbent article 1 is not particularly limited as long as it is long in the longitudinal direction L and short in the width direction W, and examples thereof include a rounded rectangle, an ellipse, a gourd shape, and an hourglass shape. The absorbent article 1 has a pair of wing portions 9 extending outwardly in the width direction W from a substantially rectangular portion. The wing portion 9 has a substantially trapezoidal shape. However, the shape may be, for example, semicircular or semielliptical.

The absorbent article 1 includes a topsheet 2, an auxiliary sheet 5, and an absorbent body 4, and further includes a backsheet 3 and a clothing fixing portion 7 in this embodiment. . The topsheet 2 is a liquid-permeable sheet, and constitutes the skin-side surface of the absorbent article 1 in this embodiment. The auxiliary sheet 5 is a liquid-permeable sheet and is laminated on the non-skin side of the topsheet 2 in this embodiment. The absorbent body 4 is a liquid-absorbing and liquid-retaining material, and is located between the top sheet 2 (and the auxiliary sheet 5) and the back sheet 3. The back sheet 3 is a liquid impervious sheet, and constitutes the surface of the absorbent article 1 on the non-skin side in this embodiment. The clothing fixing portion 7 is an adhesive that adheres the absorbent article 1 to the skin side of the undergarment, and is located on the non-skin side surface of the backsheet 3 in this embodiment. Therefore, in the absorbent article 1, the top sheet 2, the auxiliary sheet 5, the absorbent body 4, the back sheet 3, and the garment fixing portion 7 are laminated in this order in the thickness direction T. do. In addition, the absorbent article 1 may further include an exterior sheet on the non-skin side of the back sheet 3 .

In this embodiment, the absorbent article 1 further includes a pair of side sheets 6 and a pair of fastening portions 8 . The pair of side sheets 6 are hydrophilic or water repellent sheets, and are located on both sides of the auxiliary sheet 5 in the width direction W in the present embodiment. The pair of side sheets 6 include a pair of leak prevention walls 16 extending along the longitudinal direction L inside the width direction W. Each of the pair of leakage barrier walls 16 (FA) has an outer end in the width direction W as a fixed end 16E1 and is joined to the auxiliary sheet 5, and an inner end is a free end 16E2. so that it is not non-contact with the member. The leak prevention wall 16 may have an elastic member extending along the longitudinal direction L at the free end 16E2. In the width direction W, the edge 2E of the topsheet 2 in the width direction W has a fixed end 16E1 and a free end of the leak prevention wall 16 facing in the width direction W. 16E2, and therefore, in plan view, the auxiliary sheet 5 is exposed between the topsheet 2 and the pair of leakage barriers 16. The pair of clothing fixing parts 8 is an adhesive that bonds the pair of wing parts 9 to the non-skin side of the underwear, and in this embodiment, the back sheet 3 in the pair of wing parts 9 is attached to the non-skin side. located on the surface

In this embodiment, the topsheet 2 has a substantially rectangular shape that is long in the longitudinal direction L and short in the width direction W, and has a substantially semicircular shape at both ends in the longitudinal direction L. The topsheet 2 includes a first fibrous layer 2a containing water-retaining fibers and a second fibrous layer 2b containing water-retaining fibers and hydrophobic fibers. The skin-side surface of the first fiber layer 2a constitutes the skin-side surface of the topsheet 2, and the non-skin-side surface contacts the skin-side surface of the second fiber layer 2b. The non-skin side surface of the second fiber layer 2b constitutes the non-skin side surface of the topsheet 2. Also, the topsheet 2 may be one layer of either the first fiber layer 2a or the second fiber layer 2b, or may be three layers including other fiber layers. In addition, the type of constituent fibers of each of the first fibrous layer 2a and the second fibrous layer 2b is not limited to the above example as long as the topsheet 2 is a liquid-permeable sheet.

The auxiliary sheet 5 has a substantially rectangular shape that is long in the longitudinal direction L and short in the width direction W, and has substantially semicircular shapes at both ends in the longitudinal direction L. The auxiliary sheet 5 has a slightly larger shape in the width direction W compared to the topsheet 2 . Therefore, the length (width) of the auxiliary sheet 5 in the width direction W is greater than the length (width) of the topsheet 2 in the width direction W. In a planar view, each of the ends of the auxiliary sheet 5 in the width direction W extends outwardly from each of the opposite ends 2E of the topsheet 2 in the width direction W. Therefore, each of the opposite edge 5E of the auxiliary sheet 5 in the width direction W is located outside the opposite edge 2E of the topsheet 2 in the width direction W. In this embodiment, the length (width) of the auxiliary sheet 5 in the width direction W is substantially the same as the length (width) of the absorber 4 in the width direction W.

In this embodiment, the top sheet 2 and the auxiliary sheet 5 are bonded to each other with an adhesive (not shown, eg: hot melt adhesive). The adhesive is applied to the top sheet 2 or auxiliary sheet 5 in a plurality of predetermined patterns extending along the longitudinal direction L and arranged in the width direction W (not shown). As the predetermined pattern, for example, a stripe shape, a repeating shape of an omega, a repeating shape of a wave, and the like are exemplified. The adhesive is applied to a region approximately axisymmetric with respect to the longitudinal center line C _L .

The topsheet 2 includes a central area CA located at the center in the width direction W and located at both ends in the width direction W and adjacent to both outer sides of the center area CA in the width direction W. It includes (is partitioned off) a pair of end regions EA. The range in the width direction W of the pair of end regions EA in the topsheet 2 is the remainder excluding the center region CA. In this embodiment, each of the center area CA and the pair of end areas EA is divided into each of a pair of virtual boundary lines 17 extending along the longitudinal direction L.

In this embodiment, the central area CA is an area where the adhesive is applied in the predetermined pattern, and the pair of end areas EA are adjacent to both outer sides of the central area CA in the width direction W. is an unapplied area. That is, the central area CA is an area bonded to the auxiliary sheet 5, and the pair of end areas EA are areas not bonded to the auxiliary sheet 5. Therefore, each of the pair of boundary lines 17 represents the outer edge of the area where the adhesive exists in the width direction W. At this time, each of the pair of end regions EA has an inner end edge in the width direction W connected to an end edge of the central area CA to become a fixed end, and an outer end in the width direction W. Edges (excluding both ends in the longitudinal direction L) are free ends that are not joined to any members. That is, since the free ends of each of the pair of end regions EA are movable relative to the auxiliary sheet 5 in the thickness direction T, a gap V may be formed between the auxiliary sheet 5 and the auxiliary sheet 5. It is a structure, and it is a structure which can stand up from the auxiliary seat 5. Further, the end region EA may be partially joined to the auxiliary sheet 5 or the side sheet 6 .

Further, the central region CA is a region where the first fiber layer 2a and the second fiber layer 2b are bonded to each other, and a pair of end regions EA is a region where the first fiber layer 2a and the second fiber layer 2b are bonded together. Areas that are not connected to each other may be used. In this case, each of the pair of end regions EA has a structure in which the first fiber layer 2a and the second fiber layer 2b are relatively mobile and can stand up from the auxiliary sheet 5 more easily. Further, in each of the pair of end regions EA, the first fiber layer 2a and the second fiber layer 2b may be bonded to each other.

In this embodiment, both the central area CA and the pair of end areas EA are line symmetric with respect to the longitudinal center line C _L . In the width direction W, the range of the central region CA of the topsheet 2 is, for example, 80 to 96% of the length of the topsheet 2. When it is less than 80%, the length of the width direction W of the end area|region EA becomes long, and there exists a possibility that it may roll up. In that case, it becomes easy for the wearer to feel a sense of incongruity in the rolled-up portion. In addition, a gap is formed between the topsheet 2 near the rolled-up portion and the wearer's skin surface, and body fluids easily leak through the wearer's skin surface. If it exceeds 96%, the joint between the center area CA and the auxiliary seat 5 makes the end area EA easily adhere to the auxiliary seat 5, making it difficult to move and standing up from the auxiliary seat 5. It gets difficult.

The length (thickness) d2 in the thickness direction T in each of the pair of end regions EA is larger than the length (thickness) d1 in the thickness direction T of the center region CA. Therefore, in each of the pair of end regions EA, the amount of body fluid that can be held in the voids between the constituent fibers of the topsheet 2 is larger than in the central region CA, and the thickness direction is toward the skin side. (T) can function like an overhanging weir.

In this embodiment, the central area CA is bonded by being pressed against the auxiliary sheet 5 in a state where the adhesive is applied and spread in the thickness direction T. Therefore, the thickness of center area|region CA became relatively thin compared with before bonding. On the other hand, each of the pair of end areas EA is disposed on the auxiliary sheet 5 in a state where no adhesive is applied. Therefore, the thickness of the end area EA is almost the same as before bonding. Thereby, the length (thickness) d2 of the thickness direction T of the end region EA can be made larger than the length (thickness) d1 of the thickness direction T of the center region CA. In another embodiment, the center area CA is formed from one layer of sheet member of the topsheet 2, and each of the pair of end areas EA has a sheet member of the face sheet 2 in the width direction ( It is formed by folding toward the inner side of W) to the skin side or non-skin side in the thickness direction T. Accordingly, the length (thickness) d1 of the central region CA in the thickness direction T is the thickness of one sheet member layer of the topsheet 2, and each of the pair of end regions EA in the thickness direction T ) length (thickness) d2 is the thickness of two layers of sheet members of the topsheet 2, and d1 < d2.

Similarly, in the central region CA, when an adhesive is applied between the first fiber layer 2a and the second fiber layer 2b and bonded to each other, the thickness of the central region CA is relative to that before bonding. thinned to On the other hand, in each of the pair of end regions EA, when the adhesive is not applied and laminated between the first fiber layer 2a and the second fiber layer 2b, the thickness of the end region EA is the same as before bonding. Almost unchanged. Therefore, in this case, the length (thickness) d2 of the end region EA in the thickness direction T can be made larger than the length (thickness) d1 of the central region CA in the thickness direction T.

Moreover, the method of making the length d2 of the thickness direction T of end area|region EA larger than the length d1 of the thickness direction T of center area|region CA is not limited to the said example. As the method, for example, a method of arranging a separate nonwoven fabric sheet between each of the pair of end regions EA and the auxiliary sheet 5, or a method of disposing the first fiber layer 2a in the pair of end regions EA and A method of arranging another nonwoven fabric sheet between the second fiber layers 2b and the like are exemplified.

In this absorbent article 1, the topsheet 2 is formed so that the thickness in each of the pair of end regions EA is greater than the thickness in the central region CA in the width direction W. . That is, in the topsheet 2, the thickness of both ends (end area EA) in the width direction W is greater than the thickness of the center portion (central area CA). Therefore, the both ends of the topsheet 2 in the width direction W have a larger amount of body fluid that can be held in the voids between the constituting fibers of the topsheet 2 than the central portion, and protrude toward the skin side. can function like a dam. As a result, when the absorbent article 1 is used, even when the amount of bodily fluid (for example, menstrual blood) is large, it diffuses from the center of the topsheet 2 to the ends through the inside or surface of the topsheet 2. It is possible to make it easy for the body fluid to stay on the ends of the topsheet 2, and it is possible to suppress leaking outward from the ends. Further, since both ends of the topsheet 2 in the width direction W are thick and the central part is thin, the contact with the excretory opening of the central part can be weakened and the tactile feeling can be improved. In this way, in the present absorbent article 1, side leakage of the body fluid can be suppressed even when the amount of the body fluid is large, and the tactile sensation can be improved.

In this absorbent article 1, the topsheet 2 is formed so that each of the pair of end regions EA is non-bonded to the auxiliary sheet 5. That is, in the topsheet 2, both ends (end area EA) in the width direction W are not bonded to the auxiliary sheet 5. Therefore, it is possible to make it difficult for the bodily fluid diffused from the central portion (central area CA) of the topsheet 2 to the end portion to the auxiliary sheet 5 located outside the end portion in the width direction W. . Further, at both ends of the topsheet 2 in the width direction W, the amount of body fluid that can be retained in the gaps between the constituent fibers can be relatively increased. Further, since both ends of the topsheet 2 in the width direction W are not bonded to other materials and have a high degree of freedom, followability to the skin surface at both ends can be improved. In this way, in the present absorbent article 1, side leakage of the body fluid can be further suppressed even when the amount of the body fluid is large, and the tactile sensation can be further improved.

In this embodiment, the fiber density in each of the pair of end areas EA is lower than the fiber density in the center area CA. Therefore, the bodily fluid diffused in the width direction W from the central area CA to the end area EA can be prevented from diffusing before the end area EA. In this embodiment, the end area EA and the center area CA are the same end and center portion of the topsheet 2, and the length (thickness) d2 of the end area EA is defined as the length (thickness) of the center area CA. ) greater than d1. Therefore, the fiber density of the end area EA can be made lower than the fiber density of the central area CA.

Thus, in the absorbent article 1, in the topsheet 2, the fiber density at both ends (end area EA) in the width direction W is greater than the fiber density at the central portion (central area CA). low. Therefore, even if a large amount of bodily fluid flows through the inside of the topsheet 2 in the width direction W by capillarity, diffusion of the bodily fluid to the ends can be made difficult because the fiber density at the ends is relatively low. In addition, since the fiber density at both ends of the topsheet 2 in the width direction W is relatively low, resilience can be imparted to both ends, and thus a soft touch can be imparted. In this way, in the present absorbent article 1, side leakage of the body fluid can be further suppressed even when the amount of the body fluid is large, and the tactile sensation can be further improved.

In this embodiment, the fiber density on the skin side in each of the pair of end regions EA is higher than the fiber density on the non-skin side. Therefore, it is possible to make it difficult for the bodily fluid diffused from the central area CA to the end area EA to transfer to the non-skin surface side of the end area EA. In this embodiment, the fiber density of the first fibrous layer 2a on the skin side of the first fibrous layer 2a and the second fibrous layer 2b constituting the topsheet 2 is defined as the second fibrous layer 2b on the non-skin side. ) was made higher than the fiber density of Therefore, the fiber density on the skin side of the edge region EA can be made higher than the fiber density on the non-skin side. Further, in the case where the topsheet 2 is a single layer, when the topsheet 2 is manufactured by depositing fibers on a strip-shaped net, the fiber density on the side in contact with the net is higher than the fiber density on the side not in contact with the net. By utilizing the elevation, the surface of the topsheet 2 on the skin side can be made the surface in contact with the net.

Thus, in the absorbent article 1, in the topsheet 2, the fiber density on the skin side of both ends (end area EA) in the width direction W is higher than the fiber density on the non-skin side. Therefore, in the width direction W, it is possible to make it difficult for the bodily fluid diffused from the central portion (central area CA) to the end portion of the topsheet 2 to migrate to the non-skin surface side of the end portion, and the thickness of the end portion It is possible to make it difficult to move to the surface of the auxiliary sheet 5 located on the lower side in the direction T. Thereby, the bodily fluid that has reached the end portion remains at the end portion, making it difficult to transfer in the width direction W, and thus other bodily fluids migrate from the central portion to the lower side in the thickness direction T, that is, to the absorber 4. can be done easily In this way, in the present absorbent article 1, transfer of the body fluid in the width direction W can be restricted even when the amount of the body fluid is large, and side leakage can be further suppressed.

In this embodiment, the mass density of the topsheet 2 is lower than that of the auxiliary sheet 5. Therefore, when the absorbent article is in use, most of the bodily fluid excreted in the central area CA moves from the topsheet 2 having a low mass density to the end area EA in the width direction W. It is possible to easily transfer in the thickness direction T toward the auxiliary sheet 5 having a high . This makes it possible to reduce the amount of bodily fluid that migrates toward the end (end area EA) of the topsheet 2 in the width direction W. Therefore, in the present absorbent article 1, even when the amount of body fluid is large, side leakage of the body fluid can be more suppressed.

In this embodiment, the absorber 4 has a substantially rectangular shape elongated in the longitudinal direction L in plan view, and both ends in the longitudinal direction L have a substantially semicircular shape. The absorbent body 4 includes an absorbent core 4a and a core wrap 4b covering the absorbent core 4a. The length (width) of the absorber 4 in the width direction W is greater than the length (width) of the topsheet 2 in the width direction W. Therefore, in a plan view, each of the pair of end regions EA is located inside the both ends of the absorber 4 in the width direction W. As a result, even if the body fluid leaks sideways in the width direction W from each of the pair of end regions EA, the absorber 4 can absorb it, so that the side leak can finally be suppressed.

In this embodiment, the non-skin side of the auxiliary sheet 5 and the pair of side sheets 6 that face the absorber 4 and the skin side surface of the absorber 4 are bonded to each other with a predetermined pattern of adhesive (example : hot melt adhesive). The part of the auxiliary sheet 5, the pair of side sheets 6, and the absorber 4 facing the back sheet 3 on the non-skin side is attached to the back sheet 3 with a predetermined pattern of adhesive (eg, hot melt adhesive). ) or heat seal.

In the absorbent article 1, the excretory contact area XA is set at the center of the width direction W near the center slightly forward of the length direction L in plan view. The excretion port contact area XA is an area that faces or contacts the user's excretion port when the absorbent article 1 is in use. The excretory contact area XA is appropriately set according to the type or use of the absorbent article. The excretory contact area XA is, for example, near the center slightly forward of the absorber 4 in the longitudinal direction L, about 1/10 to 1/2 of the total length of the absorber 4, in the width direction. As (W), it is set to the width of about 1/3 - 1/2 of the full width of the absorber 4 in the approximate center of the absorber 4.

In this embodiment, the absorbent article 1 has, in the longitudinal direction L, a longitudinal front region A _F , a longitudinal center region A _C , and a longitudinal rear region _AB . The longitudinal central area A _C includes an excretory contact area XA. The longitudinal front region A _F is adjacent to the front of the longitudinal center region A _C in the longitudinal direction L, and includes the front end of the excretory contact region XA in the longitudinal direction L. The longitudinal rear region _AB is adjacent to the rear of the longitudinal center region A _C in the longitudinal direction L, and includes the rear end of the excretory contact region XA in the longitudinal direction L.

In this embodiment, the absorbent article 1 has a plurality of holes in at least the excretory contact area XA of the central area CA. Examples of the plurality of hole portions include a plurality of dotted (circular) crimping portions 15 formed by pressing the top sheet 2, the auxiliary sheet 5, and the absorbent body 4 in the thickness direction T. . However, the hole portion is not limited to this example, and in other configurations, for example, when forming a hole (through hole) penetrating from the topsheet 2 to the absorber 4 or the topsheet 2 by interlacing fibers. Holes (void holes) due to fiber non-uniformity created intentionally are exemplified. Further, in the present embodiment, the shape of the crimping portion 15 in plan view is a circle, but other shapes such as a polygon, an ellipse, a star shape, and a line may be used.

In this embodiment, the absorbent article 1 includes a pair of crimping parts (compression grooves) 12, a pair of crimping parts (compression grooves) 13, and a pair of crimping parts (compression grooves) 11 and 14. provide more The pair of crimping portions 12 continuously or intermittently extend along the longitudinal direction L at intervals on both outer sides of the excretory contact area XA in the width direction W in plan view. The pair of crimping parts 13 are continuous along the longitudinal direction L along the rear part in the longitudinal direction L of the pair of crimping parts 12 at intervals in the width direction W in plan view. intermittently extended. The crimping parts 11 and 14 are respectively located in the front and rear of the excretory contact area XA in the longitudinal direction L in plan view. In the crimping portions 11 to 14, the topsheet 2, the auxiliary sheet 5, and the absorbent body 4 (the core wrap 4b and the absorbent core 4a on the skin side) are compressed in the thickness direction T. is formed The bottom portions of the crimping portions 11 to 14 in the thickness direction T are located within the absorbent core 4a, but may reach the core wrap 4b on the non-skin side. In the present embodiment, the shapes of the crimping portions 11 to 14 in plan view are linear, but may have other shapes, such as polygons, circles, ellipses, stars, characters, or a set of character strings. In addition, at least one of the crimping parts 11 to 14 may be absent.

In this embodiment, the outer end edges in the width direction W of each of the pair of end regions EA (ie, both outer end edges 2E of the topsheet 2) are a pair of crimping portions. It is located on the outer side in the width direction W in each of (12) or each of the pair of crimping parts 13. However, the compression portion 12a located at the end of the compression portion 12 in the longitudinal direction L and the compression portion 13a located at the end of the compression portion 13 in the longitudinal direction L are excluded. Thereby, when the absorbent article 1 is used, the outer portion in the width direction W of the pair of crimping portions 12 (excluding the compressed portion 12a) of the absorbent article 1 is pressed against the pair of crimped parts. It deforms toward the skin side from the portion 12 as a starting point, and accordingly, the portion of the pair of end regions EA outside the pair of crimping portions 12 in the width direction W of the topsheet 2 is similarly It can be deformed on the skin side. The same applies to the outer portion in the width direction W of the pair of compression portions 13 (excluding the compression portion 13a) of the absorbent article 1.

In this way, in the absorbent article 1, the portion of the pair of end regions EA outside the pair of crimping portions 12 (, 13) in the width direction W of the topsheet 2 faces the skin side. It can be deformed to stand up. Therefore, both ends in the width direction W of the topsheet 2 can function like embankments protruding toward the skin side. As a result, in the width direction W, the bodily fluid diffused from the central portion (central area CA) to the end portions of the topsheet 2 can be easily retained at the end portions of the topsheet 2, and the outer side than the end portions. leakage can be prevented.

In this embodiment, the compression portion 12a located at the end of the crimping portion 12 and the compressed portion 13a located at the end of the crimping portion 13 are the width direction W in the end region EA. ) is formed so as to span the outer edge 2E of the topsheet 2 (that is, the outer edge 2E of the topsheet 2). Therefore, the pair of compression parts 12a of the pair of compression parts 12 and the pair of compression parts 13a of the pair of compression parts 13 can be said to be a pair of end compression parts. When the body fluid diffused from the central region CA reaches the end region EA during use of the absorbent article 1, the compression portion 12a or the compression portion 13a transfers a part of the body fluid to the lower absorbent body. (4) can be drawn in quickly. However, the compression portion 12a or the compression portion 13a is not limited to the end of the compression portion 12 or the compression portion 13, and may be located in the middle of the compression portion 12 or compression portion 13, It may be separated from the crimping part 12 or the crimping part 13. In addition, the length of the compression portion 12a or the compression portion 13a in the extending direction is 1 to 20% of the length of the compression portion 12 or the compression portion 13 in the extension direction, 2 to 2 10% is preferred. When the length of the compressed portion 12a or the compressed portion 13a is short, it is difficult to produce the following effect, and when the length of the compressed portion 13a is long, it is difficult to produce the original effect of the end region EA.

In this way, when the absorbent article 1 is used, a part of the body fluid that has reached the end (end area EA) of the topsheet 2 in the width direction W is transferred to the compression portion ( 12a) or the compression part 13a, it can lead into the lower absorber 4. Thereby, in the width direction W, it is possible to suppress the body fluid at the ends of the topsheet 2 or the body fluids moving outward from the ends to move outward from the ends. Therefore, in the present absorbent article 1, even when the amount of body fluid is large, side leakage of the body fluid can be more suppressed.

In this embodiment, in a planar view, in the width direction W, viewing through a portion outside the end edge 2E of the topsheet 2 is better than viewing through the central portion of the topsheet 2. , the color of the absorber 4 (including the color of the absorber when bodily fluid is absorbed) is easily confirmed. Accordingly, by confirming the color of the absorber 4 visible from a portion outside the topsheet 2, it is possible to confirm whether or not the body fluid has been absorbed up to the end portion of the absorber 4 in the width direction W. In this embodiment, only the auxiliary sheet 5 exists in the portion outside the topsheet 2 in the thickness direction T. On the other hand, in the central portion (central area CA) of the topsheet 2, the topsheet 2 and the auxiliary sheet 5 exist in the thickness direction T. Therefore, since the thickness of the portion outside the edge 2E of the topsheet 2 can be made relatively thin, the portion outside the edge 2E of the topsheet 2 passes through the portion of the absorber 4. You can easily check the color.

In this way, in the absorbent article 1, the color of the absorber 4 seen through the portion outside the topsheet 2 (auxiliary sheet 5) in plan view is the center portion (the surface of the topsheet 2). It is closer to the color of the actual absorber 4 than the color of the absorber seen through the sheet 2 and the auxiliary sheet 5. Therefore, by confirming the color of the absorber 4 visible from a portion outside the topsheet 2, it is possible to confirm whether or not body fluid has been absorbed to the end of the absorber 4 in the width direction W. As a result, the body fluid is absorbed up to the end of the absorber 4 in the width direction W, and even though the timing for replacing the absorbent article 1 has arrived, it is not noticed and the body fluid is not completely absorbed into the absorber 4. It is possible to avoid the situation of leaking sideways.

In particular, the core wrap 4b may be colored. As a result, since the position of the end edge of the absorbent body 4 can be made clearer, even though the replacement timing of the absorbent article 1 has come, the body fluid is not completely absorbed into the absorbent body 4 because it is not noticed. It is possible to avoid the situation of leaking sideways. Further coloring makes it easier to see the difference in color between the topsheet 2 and the core wrap 4b, so it can be used as a guide for positioning in the width direction (W) and length direction (L) at the time of mounting. Specifically, the difference in color difference between the topsheet 2 and the core wrap 4b (viewed through the auxiliary sheet 5) may be ΔE of 3 or more.

However, the color difference is measured as follows.

(1) Prepare X-Rite eXact Standerd (measurement diameter: 1.5 mm) manufactured by X-Rite.

(2) The CIE L*a*b* coordinates of the part to be measured of the sample are measured at 10 points or more by changing the position, and the average value ([L1 ^* , a1 ^* , b1 ^* ]) is calculated.

(3) The L ^* a ^* b ^* coordinates of the part to be prepared for the sample are measured at 10 or more points by changing the position, and the average value ([L2 ^* , a2 ^* , b2 ^* ]) is calculated.

(4) Calculate the color difference ΔE by the following formula:

ΔE={(L1 ^* -L2 ^* ) ² +(a1 ^* -a2 ^* ) ² +(b1 ^* -b2 ^* ) ² } ^0.5

calculated by

In this embodiment, the absorbent article 1 has a pair of low rigidity portions between the center portion in the width direction W and both ends portions in the width direction W in plan view. Here, the central portion in the width direction W includes the topsheet 2, the auxiliary sheet 5, and the absorber 4 laminated in the thickness direction T. On the other hand, both ends in the width direction include the side sheet 6, the auxiliary sheet 5, and the absorber 4 laminated in the thickness direction T. A portion between the central portion and both ends in the width direction W includes the auxiliary sheet 5 and the absorber 4 laminated in the thickness direction T. Therefore, the portion between the central portion and the both ends in the width direction W has few layers laminated in the thickness direction T, and can be said to be a portion with low rigidity, that is, a pair of low rigidity portions. Therefore, when the absorbent article is used, it is possible to easily deform the absorbent article into a substantially W-shape when viewed in the longitudinal direction, using the pair of low-rigidity portions as starting points.

In this way, the absorbent article 1 is easily deformed into a substantially W-shape when viewed in the longitudinal direction, starting from the pair of low-rigidity portions. That is, the both ends (end area EA) in the width direction W of the absorbent article 1 can be raised relatively to the skin side. Thereby, the amount of bodily fluid directed to the end portion of the topsheet 2 in the width direction W can be reduced. Therefore, in the present absorbent article 1, even when the amount of body fluid is large, side leakage of the body fluid can be more suppressed.

In addition, the structure of the absorbent article 1 is not limited to the above example. 3 is a cross-sectional view showing another configuration example of the absorbent article 1 according to the embodiment. This figure is a sectional view taken along line II-II in FIG. 1 . In this constitutional example, the pair of side sheets 6 are not used, and the pair of side sheets 6 are replaced, and the auxiliary sheet 5 is further extended outward on both sides in the width direction W. there is. Even in this case, the above-mentioned effect can be exhibited.

However, the absorber 4 is not limited to the above examples. For example, as another embodiment, the absorbent article 1 is another absorbent body, and the length (width) of the absorbent body in the width direction W is greater than the length (width) of the topsheet 2 in the width direction W. Small is fine. In this case, in a plan view, each of the pair of end regions EA is positioned on both outer sides of the absorber in the width direction W of the absorber. Whereby, when the absorbent article 1 is used, when the absorbent article 1 is sandwiched between both thighs and a force directed inward in the width direction W is applied to the absorbent member, the non-bonded pair located on the outer portion of the absorbent member The end area EA of the is likely to stand up toward the skin side. That is, in the absorbent article 1 provided with such an absorbent body, both ends (end area EA) in the width direction W of the topsheet 2 can be easily erected toward the skin side. Thereby, the amount of bodily fluid directed to the end portion of the topsheet 2 in the width direction W can be reduced. Therefore, even in such a case, even when the amount of body fluid is large, it is possible to further suppress the leakage of the body fluid to the side.

However, the compression portion (compression groove) is not limited to the above example. For example, as another embodiment, the absorbent article 1, as another crimping portion (crimping groove), has an auxiliary sheet 5 outside the pair of end regions EA in the width direction W in a plan view. ) may be further provided with a pair of auxiliary crimping parts (not shown) formed by crimping only. That is, in a planar view, in the width direction W, the auxiliary crimping portion may be formed on the auxiliary sheet 5 outside the end edge 2E on the outer side of the topsheet 2. In that case, when the absorbent article 1 is used, each of the pair of auxiliary crimping portions transfers the bodily fluid to the lower absorbent body 4 even if the bodily fluid diffused from the central area CA leaks outward from the end area EA. can enter quickly. Therefore, in the present absorbent article 1, even when the amount of body fluid is large, side leakage of the body fluid can be more suppressed.

In this embodiment, the first fibrous layer 2a contains water-retaining fibers, thereby improving the feel of the topsheet 2. The water-retaining fiber is not particularly limited as long as it has a property of absorbing and retaining moisture (water-retaining property). Examples of water-retaining fibers include cellulose fibers. In this embodiment, the water-retaining fiber is cotton. The second fibrous layer 2b contains hydrophobic fibers and water-retaining fibers. The hydrophobic fiber is not particularly limited as long as it is a fiber having hydrophobicity. Examples of hydrophobic fibers include thermoplastic resin fibers. In this embodiment, the hydrophobic fiber is a PET/PE core-sheath type composite fiber. The water-retaining fibers are the same as the water-retaining fibers of the first fibrous layer 2a.

In the present embodiment, the auxiliary sheet 5 is not particularly limited as long as it is liquid-permeable. For example, a liquid-permeable nonwoven fabric, for example, a hydrophobic fiber nonwoven fabric is used. Among them, a thermoplastic resin fiber nonwoven fabric is preferably used. Further, when the topsheet 2 contains water-retaining fibers such as cotton, the auxiliary sheet 5 may also contain water-retaining fibers such as cotton correspondingly. In the absorbent article 1 having such a configuration, water-retaining fibers and the like having high liquid diffusivity communicate from the first fibrous layer 2a of the topsheet 2 to the auxiliary sheet 5 via the second fibrous layer 2b, there is. Therefore, by utilizing the liquid diffusion of bodily fluids by these fibers, bodily fluids can be more stably transferred from the topsheet 2 to the absorber 4 via the auxiliary sheet 5, and the tactile feel of the topsheet 2 can be improved. While making it good, it is possible to improve absorption performance.

In this embodiment, the absorbent core 4a of the absorbent body 4 is not particularly limited as long as it has liquid absorbent and liquid retaining properties. For example, a liquid retaining material containing absorbent fibers such as pulp fibers, a super absorbent polymer (SAP ) and absorbents such as The core wrap 4b is not particularly limited as long as the shape of the absorbent core 4a can be maintained. For example, a liquid-permeable sheet containing a hydrophilic nonwoven fabric such as tissue may be used.

The side sheet 6 is not particularly limited, and examples thereof include a water-repellent nonwoven fabric and a breathable synthetic resin film. Further, the back sheet 3 is not particularly limited, and examples thereof include liquid impervious nonwoven fabrics, synthetic resin films, and composite sheets thereof. In this embodiment, the wing part 9 is formed from the side sheet 6 and the back sheet 3.

The thickness of the sheet member is measured by the following method. A sheet member is cut out to a size of 10 mm x 10 mm and used as a sample. Next, an enlarged image of the cut surface parallel to the thickness direction T of the sample is taken from a direction perpendicular to the cut surface of the sheet member using a digital microscope (manufactured by Keyence Corporation: VHX-100). An enlarged image is an image in which the entire thickness direction T of the sheet member is enlarged at a magnification that can be captured, and the magnification is, for example, 20 to 50 times. In the 2D image converted from the obtained 3D image, the thickness of the sheet member is measured. For one sheet member, three separate cut surface thicknesses are measured, and the average value of the thicknesses measured from a total of 10 sheet members is taken as the thickness of the sheet member.

In particular, in the case where the sheet member is a continuous material in the longitudinal direction L (eg, the topsheet 2), the position of the cut surface for taking an image is as follows.

(1) Width direction (W)

Regarding the non-joined portion (eg: the portion placed on the auxiliary sheet 5 without application of adhesive) of the end area (eg: end area (EA)), the non-joined portion is divided into 3 parts in the width direction (W) and divided into 3 parts. When divided into pieces, count from the outside in the width direction W to be the position of the boundary between the first division and the second division.

· Regarding the center area (eg: center area CA), it is set as the position of the center part in the width direction W.

(2) Longitudinal direction (L)

· It is set as three positions of the front end, the center, and the rear end of the clothing fixing part 7 in the longitudinal direction L.

In addition, in the product without the clothing fixing part 7, the position of the root of the wing part 9 (two places at both ends in the longitudinal direction L) and the center of the wing part 9 in the longitudinal direction L do it with In a product without a clothing fixing part 7 or wing part 9, the center of the longitudinal direction L in each of the first area, second area, and third area obtained by dividing the product into three parts in the longitudinal direction L do it in position

As for sheet members intermittently arranged in the longitudinal direction L, each sheet member is divided into three parts in the longitudinal direction L, and the center of each longitudinal direction L is set (in each sheet member, 3 place).

However, in each of the above positions, in the place where the material is compressed, such as the emboss, hinge, or crimping part, the middle position between the emboss and the like, that is, the middle position between the place where the material is not compressed. . In addition, the position of the cut surface can be applied to the measurement of the following fiber density.

In addition, the fiber density of a sheet member is measured as follows. A sheet member is cut out to a size of 10 mm x 10 mm and used as a sample. Next, the cut surface parallel to the thickness direction T of the sample is magnified and observed using a scanning electron microscope (JCM-5100 manufactured by Nippon Electronics Co., Ltd.). An enlarged image is an image in which cross sections of 30 to 60 fibers are enlarged at a magnification that can be photographed, and the magnification is, for example, 150 to 500 times. In the 2D image converted from the obtained 3D image, the number of fiber cross sections is measured. That is, in a cut surface of a predetermined area, the number of cut fiber cross sections is counted. The obtained number of fiber sections is converted into the number of fiber sections per 1 mm 2 , and this is taken as the fiber density (piece/mm 2 ). The measurement is performed at three locations, and the average value of the measured values is taken as the fiber density of the sample. That is, the density of the number of fibers is used as the fiber density. In other words, as the fiber density, the number of fibers per unit area in a cross section parallel to the thickness direction (T) is used. Further, as the fiber density, the number of fibers per unit volume may be used. The number of fibers per unit volume can be determined by, for example, X-ray CT analysis. The fiber density per unit area and the fiber density per unit volume are different in numerical value, but they are the same in a relative comparison of fiber densities between fiber layers (for example, comparison of size).

In addition, the mass density of a sheet member is measured as follows. First, regarding the basis weight of the sheet, the sheet is cut into a size of 5 cm x 5 cm as a sample, and the mass is measured after drying in an atmosphere of 100°C or higher. Calculate the basis weight of the sample by dividing the measured mass by the area of the sample. A value obtained by averaging the basis weights of 10 samples is taken as the basis weight of the sheet. Next, with respect to the thickness of the sheet, each sample was measured under the condition of a measurement load of 3 g/cm 2 using a thickness meter (model FS-60DS manufactured by Daie Chemical Seiki Seisakusho Co., Ltd.) equipped with a 15 cm 2 gauge. measure the thickness of The thickness of three places is measured with one sample, and the average value of the thickness of the three places is taken as the thickness of each sample. Then, the mass density of the sheet is calculated by dividing the basis weight of each sample of the sheet obtained by the above method by the thickness of each sample of the sheet obtained by the above method.

The absorbent article of the present invention is not limited to each of the above-described embodiments, and can be appropriately combined or modified without departing from the purpose or spirit of the present invention.

1: absorbent article
2: surface sheet
4: absorber
5 : Auxiliary seat
CA: central region
EA: end area

Claims (11)

An absorbent article having a longitudinal direction, a width direction, and a thickness direction, and including a topsheet, an absorbent body, and an auxiliary sheet positioned between the topsheet and the absorbent body,
In the width direction, the length of the auxiliary sheet is greater than the length of the topsheet, and each of both ends of the auxiliary sheet extends outwardly from each of both end edges of the topsheet;
The surface sheet,
A central region located at the central portion in the width direction;
A pair of end regions located at both ends in the width direction and adjacent to both outer sides of the center region in the width direction
including,
The length in the thickness direction in each of the pair of end regions is greater than the length in the thickness direction of the center region,
absorbent article. According to claim 1,
The absorbent article of claim 1 , wherein a fiber density in each of the pair of end regions is lower than a fiber density in the central region. According to claim 1 or 2,
An absorbent article in which the fiber density on the skin side in each of the pair of end regions is higher than the fiber density on the non-skin side. According to claim 1 or 2,
a pair of compression portions formed by compressing the surface sheet, the auxiliary sheet, and the absorber, extending along the longitudinal direction, and arranged at intervals in the width direction;
The outer edge in the width direction in each of the pair of end regions is positioned on the outer side in the width direction in each of the pair of crimping portions. According to claim 1 or 2,
Each of the pair of end regions is non-bonded to the auxiliary sheet. According to claim 5,
The length of the absorber in the width direction is smaller than the length of the topsheet in the width direction;
In plan view, each of the pair of end regions is located on both outer sides of the absorber in the width direction. According to claim 5,
The absorbent article further includes a pair of end crimping portions formed to span the outer end edges in the width direction in the pair of end regions by crimping the topsheet, the auxiliary sheet, and the absorbent body. According to claim 1 or 2,
and a pair of auxiliary pressing portions formed by pressing only the auxiliary sheet outside the pair of end regions in the width direction in a plan view. According to claim 1 or 2,
The absorbent article according to claim 1 , wherein a mass density of the topsheet is lower than that of the auxiliary sheet. According to claim 1 or 2,
The absorbent article according to claim 1 , wherein the absorbent article is easier to confirm the color of the absorber when viewed through a portion outside the edge of the topsheet in the width direction in plan view than when viewed through a central portion of the topsheet. According to claim 1 or 2,
a pair of side sheets bonded to both ends of the auxiliary sheet in the width direction and extending along the longitudinal direction;
An absorbent article having a pair of low-stiffness portions having low rigidity between the central portion in the width direction and both end portions in the width direction in a plan view.

Images